Day 1 - Depart Los Angeles aboard Amtrak's Southwest Chief
Board Amtrak's Southwest Chief and prepare for your journey to Flagstaff, Arizona. Watch the sunset from your onboard accommodations or, for more dramatic views, from the train's Sightseer Lounge with its floor-to-ceiling windows. Spend the evening relaxing aboard the train and getting acquainted with your fellow travelers. Overnight train. (D Sleeping Car passengers only)
Day 2 - Early morning arrival in Flagstaff, Arizona
The Southwest Chief pulls into Flagstaff early this morning. You'll be transferred to the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, where you will have time for a few more hours of sleep before freshening up and grabbing a hearty breakfast at the Fred Harvey Restaurant. Board the Grand Canyon Railway train for a 9:30 am departure to the South Rim of the Canyon. This historic train was built more than a century ago to transport ore in the Wild West. Upon arrival you will be met by tour buses waiting to take you on a Freedom Tour* of the Grand Canyon, offering an impressive overview of this breathtaking natural wonder. Overnight Maswik Lodge. (B)
Day 3 - Grand Canyon at Leisure
Spend the morning exploring the South Rim on your own or take another guided tour. There are several historical buildings worth visiting including Buckey O'Neill's Cabin, the longest continually standing structure in the South Rim, or Desert View Watchtower with one of the few views of the bottom of the Canyon and the Colorado River. Board the Grand Canyon Railway southbound to Williams at 3:30 pm. Dinner this evening is at the Fred Harvey Restaurant. Overnight Williams. (D)
Day 4 - Grand Canyon Railway Hotel
Spend the day at leisure and enjoy the luxury of a bygone era at the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel. The hotel is just a block away from downtown Williams and historic Route 66. Spend time relaxing at indoor pool and hot tub, or get outdoors and enjoy the horseshoe pit, volleyball court & basketball court.
Relax at the hotel for a bit before your transfer to the Flagstaff station, where you will catch the Southwest Chief bound for Los Angeles. Overnight train. (B)
Day 5 - Arrival in Los Angeles' Historic Union Station
When you awake this morning, you will be nearing Los Angeles. Prepare for arrival at Union Station, where your Rails to the Rim adventure comes to a close. (B Sleeping Car passengers only)