This tour will take you through a diverse and scenic journey of the American West while visiting Utah, Wyoming, and Colorado. Along the way, travelers will witness the grandeur of downtown Salt Lake City, the natural beauty carved by the Green River, dinosaur bones documenting prehistoric times, alluring views of Aspen country, and the magnificent Rocky Mountain National Park. This tour will be an unforgettable experience that encapsulates the essence of the Western landscape.
DAY 1—WELCOME TO COLORADO!
Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers in Salt Lake City for a welcome dinner. D
DAY 2—SALT LAKE CITY/OLYMPIC PARK
Today will begin with a guided tour of Salt Lake City. Highlights will include Capitol Hill and Temple Square, home to the world renowned Mormon Tabernacle with one of the largest pipe organs in the world. Next, travel to Park City for a gold medal experience at Utah Olympic Park, one of the sites of the 2002 Winter Olympics and confirmed host of the 2034 Winter Olympics. Enjoy free time in downtown Park City with lunch on your own before progressing to Green River, Wyoming. B, D
DAY 3—FLAMING GORGE SCENIC DRIVE/UINTAH HERITAGE MUSEUM/ STARGAZING
We will drive the iconic Flaming Gorge Scenic Byway with stops along the way at various viewpoints. You will have a chance to marvel at views of the high desert plains, lush forests, and canyons beautifully carved by the Green River. Have lunch together at a local eatery in Vernal before a visit to the Uintah Heritage Museum to learn about the local history. End the night amongst countless stars with a Dark Sky Stargazing experience that will be out of this world. B, L
DAY 4—DINOSAUR NATIONAL MONUMENT/WYMAN LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
Today, view the geological wonders, agricultural traditions, and authentic stories of the American West. Start with a visit to Dinosaur National Monument (rumored to be the next National Park) and witness fossils embedded in rock layers documenting prehistoric times. Continue to Meeker, Colorado — a city known as the home of the Meeker Classic Sheepdog Championship — for lunch and a chance to learn about the agricultural influence on the community. The last stop of the day will be at Wyman Living History Museum to view a personal collection that Lou Wyman began building back in 1949. B, L, D
DAY 5—STEAMBOAT SPRINGS/ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
Start this day with a historic walking tour of downtown Steamboat Springs, a charming town situated in the heart of the mountains. After, we will venture to Grand Lake to see the largest natural lake in Colorado before heading through the gateway of Rocky Mountain National Park for a guided tour. We will be joined by Dave Lively, a local historian who works closely with Rocky Mountaineer Park Rangers for volunteer and training programs. Dave will guide us along the national designated All American Trail Ridge Road. This is an astounding scenic highway that winds through the park offering sweeping views of alpine landscape and a plethora of wildlife. B
DAY 6—BUFFALO BILL GRAVE/HIDEE GOLD MINE/COLORADO RAILROAD MUSEUM
Begin at the Buffalo Bill Grave and Museum, where the legendary Wild West showman’s final resting place overlooks the grand plains of Golden, CO. Explore artifacts and exhibits that chronicle Buffalo Bill Cody’s life and legacy. Next, delve into the state’s mining heritage with a Hidee Gold Mine tour and panning experience. Descend into the depths of a historic gold mine and experience the thrill of prospecting firsthand. Finally, travel back in time to the Colorado Railroad Museum, where vintage locomotives and restored railcars showcase the significance of rail transportation in the West. B, L
DAY 7—FAREWELL BRUNCH/CELESTIAL SEASONINGS
Gather for a farewell brunch at a spot nestled at the foot of the famous Flatirons rock formations before heading to Celestial Seasonings, a tea company that produces 1.6 billion cups of tea per year. Next, head home out of Denver, taking with you extraordinary experiences from the West. B
Quality Accommodations
Night 1: Holiday Inn & Suites Salt Lake City Airport, UT
Night 2: Hampton Inn & Suites Green River, WY
Night 3: Springhill Suites Vernal, UT
Night 4: Holiday Inn Steamboat Springs, CO
Nights 5-6: Embassy Suites Boulder, CO
Dates:
Sep 18-24, 2025
Price Per Person:
Double $2,597
Single $3,325
Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
$188/night
Depart/Return:
Depart: Salt Lake City, UT
Return: Denver, CO
Inclusions:
Free airport shuttle or hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, Holiday Inn & Suites Salt Lake City Airport, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive at the Salt Lake City International Airport by 4:00 p.m. on Day 1.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart the Denver International Airport any time after 2:30 p.m. on Day 7.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service from the Salt Lake City Airport. If you are driving to the starting location, they also offer complimentary parking for the duration of the tour. You will need to take a flight from Denver back to Salt Lake City to retrieve your vehicle.
Walking Distance
Moderate walking is required to fully enjoy this tour. Some walking will also be on uneven paths. While walking canes are allowed, we are unable to accommodate travelers using other mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
High of 80°, low of 40°
Time Zone
Mountain
Hotel Amenities
Most hotels have a fitness center, pool, hair dryer, iron, ironing boards, and a coffee maker.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual. Closed toe shoes that you’re comfortable walking in are highly recommended. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat will add to your enjoyment of this tour.
Elevations
Green River, WY – 6,115 feet
Steamboat Springs, CO – 6,867 feet
Trail Ridge Road, Rocky Mountain NP – 12,183 feet
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
