Western Frontiers End Rapid City

Embark on an epic encounter with the American Frontier. This evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception and then soar 550 feet above the center of the Las Vegas Strip on the High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel. With sweeping 360-degree views of the Las Vegas Valley and The Strip you'll take in all the glitz and glamour.

We leave the shimmering Sin City skyline behind as we journey to the canyons and towering cliffs of Zion National Park, following the footsteps of brave pioneers and first nation settlers. Then it's onward to the enchanting landscapes of Bryce Canyon. Admire its rusty red limestone spires that rise up surreally from the desert floor to meet Utah’s skies.

Travel north to Utah’s capital to see its Mormon center – Temple Square in Salt Lake City. Learn about the basic beliefs and history of the Mormon pioneers which brought about the building of the temple and the Tabernacle, home of the Tabernacle Choir. Explore the city on your own to find local cuisine all surrounded by picturesque mountains.

Take in the sites today as we journey out of Salt Lake City. Head north to Jackson, which stands in the shadows of the Teton Range. You’ll have time this afternoon to settle in and explore this mountain town, which has an Old West look with a modern twist.

Journey through the alpine terrain of Grand Teton National Park en route to the UNESCO-listed Yellowstone National Park. We spend two nights in the world’s oldest national park at one of its cozy lodges, each with their own unique setting and atmosphere. (When the south entrance to Yellowstone National Park is closed due to weather conditions, the itinerary will travel west from Jackson via Idaho and enter the park through the west entrance.)

Explore the rusting walls of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, keeping a keen eye out for bison and elk, before joining your Travel Director for an exploration of the park’s bubbling hot springs and mud paint pots. Old Faithful puts on an spectacular show as its water arcs impressively up into the air. And there amidst the geothermal wonderland, we enjoy a relaxed evening under the canopy of Yellowstone’s stars.

Tip your Stetson in tribute to "Buffalo Bill" whose hometown of Cody is our next stop on this pioneer sightseeing trail. Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West museum complex to gain a deeper understanding of the "Spirit of the American West." Then it's on to Big Sky Country where we'll enjoy a Be My Guest dinner at the historic Billings Depot. Built in 1903 and visited by presidents, governors, Hollywood celebrities and even royalty, you’ll reflect on the past while hearing local tales from a historian and enjoying a delicious three-course meal prepared by local chef.  Chef Jordan has created a menu featuring four unique entree choices along with a decadent dessert to finish off the evening.

Our day begins with a visit to Little Bighorn, the infamous battlefield of Sioux and Cheyenne warriors. Venture into the Black Hills of South Dakota as you make your way to the base of Crazy Horse Memorial. Admire the colossal carved face of the famed Lakota war chief and learn about preserving Native American Culture before continuing to Rapid City.

Visit Mount Rushmore to view the faces of former American presidents etched into the granite rock-face, then choose to venture into Badlands National Park. This evening Dive Into Culture with Stephen Yellowhawk who will regale you with stories of his tribe’s history during a festive Farewell dinner.

Our foray through the American Frontier at its end, we say farewell to newfound friends and make your way to the Rapid City Regional Airport to return home. Guests have the option to end the tour in Rapid City or Denver at time of booking.