Amtrak Vacations · Independent Rail Vacation

Mountains, Arches, and Canyons by Rail

Six-day independent rail trip from San Francisco to Denver via Moab

Mountains, Arches, and Canyons by Rail, a rail journey with Amtrak Vacations

Amtrak Vacations runs this 6-day, 5-night independent rail vacation on the California Zephyr, from San Francisco to Denver by way of Moab, Utah. Day 1 is an overnight ride aboard the train through the Sierra Nevada, desert landscapes, and along the Colorado River to Grand Junction, where a transfer carries the trip to Moab for two nights. Day 3 is a guided day among the sandstone arches, spires, and canyons of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. From Moab, the train picks back up along the Colorado River through the Rockies to Denver, where a small-group day trip visits Rocky Mountain National Park's alpine meadows and wildlife. The pace favors two-night stops in Moab and Denver bookended by train travel. This suits independent travelers who want an overnight train experience combined with national park time, without a heavily escorted schedule.

What to know before you look closer

  • Final hotel choice depends on the tier and city you pick; Amtrak Vacations lists 18 accommodation options across San Francisco and Moab.
  • No meals are listed as included in this package; plan to cover all meals along the way.

Day by day

  1. Day 1railovernight: Amtrak (onboard)

    Your Journey Begins in San Francisco

    Make your way to the station this morning and board Amtrak's California Zephyr® for your journey to Grand Junction. Considered one of the most beautiful train routes in North America, this route offers views of the Sierra Nevada, desert landscapes, and the Colorado River.

  2. Day 2overnight: Moab

    Moab

    Arrive in Grand Junction and meet your transfer to Moab, gateway to Utah's most famous national parks. After checking in to your hotel, take the evening to explore the charming downtown or relax under the wide desert skies.

  3. Day 3overnight: Moab

    Arches and Canyonlands National Park

    Today brings the natural splendour of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Marvel at the natural sandstone arches, towering spires, and deep canyons that define these awe-inspiring landscapes. With plenty of photo opportunities and insightful commentary, it's a day of unforgettable desert adventure.

  4. Day 4railovernight: Denver

    Denver

    Enjoy a relaxing morning before meeting your return transfer back to Grand Junction. Depart on the train for a scenic ride along the Colorado River and through the Rockies to Denver.

  5. Day 5overnight: Denver

    Rocky Mountain National Park

    Today, enjoy a small-group day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park. Journey through alpine meadows, towering peaks, and serene lakes while keeping an eye out for local wildlife such as elk and bighorn sheep. The fresh mountain air and panoramic views will leave a lasting impression.

  6. Day 6

    Your Journey Ends in Denver

    Check out of your hotel and continue your travels.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 1The California Zephyr from San Francisco to Grand Junction passes the Sierra Nevada, desert landscapes, and the Colorado River, with an overnight onboard the train.
  • Day 3A guided day in Arches and Canyonlands National Parks visits natural sandstone arches, towering spires, and deep canyons.
  • Day 4The train from Grand Junction to Denver follows the Colorado River through the Rockies.
  • Day 5A small-group day trip to Rocky Mountain National Park takes in alpine meadows, towering peaks, and wildlife like elk and bighorn sheep.

Included

  • One-way Amtrak® in Coach accommodations from San Francisco to Grand Junction, Grand Junction to Denver on the California Zephyr®
  • Roundtrip transfers from Grand Junction to Moab
  • 4 nights' hotel accommodations

Questions travellers ask

Do I sleep on the train?
Yes, day 1 from San Francisco to Grand Junction on the California Zephyr is an overnight journey onboard the train.
Are meals included?
No meals are listed as included in this package.
Is the Rocky Mountain National Park visit guided?
Yes, it's described as a small-group day trip.
Which hotels are used?
Amtrak Vacations lists 18 accommodation options across San Francisco and Moab; the final choice depends on the tier you pick.
Where does the trip start and end?
It starts in San Francisco and ends in Denver, with a stop in Moab.
How do I get from Grand Junction to Moab?
By roundtrip transfer, included in the package.

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