Experience the American Southwest on our newest route, Rockies to the Red Rocks which travels between Denver, Colorado, and Moab, Utah, with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
Like our three Canadian rail routes, our two-day Rockies to the Red Rocks route is steeped in history and full of opportunities to explore the ever-changing scenery and iconic destinations of the region. Breathtaking plains, mountain vistas and chromatic deserts are just the beginning. The train winds alongside towering canyons that have been carved away by the Colorado River as it travels between the mile-high city of Denver and the red sandstone mountains of Moab.
The Route
Rockies to the Red Rocks is filled with highlights best seen by train, including Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield, and Moffat Tunnel. While we’ve described the journey on this route heading west from Denver to Moab, you can also travel east from Moab to Denver.
Day 1: Denver to Glenwood Springs
Your journey starts in Denver. As you hear the whistle blow, board the train, take your seat, and get ready to start your journey alongside the Colorado River through a series of canyons and rugged landscapes. As you enjoy breakfast and a beverage, take in the scenic views of the Gross Reservoir dam. Built in 1954, it has a surface area of 440 acres with a spillway that sits at 7,225 feet in elevation.
The route slowly gains elevation before reaching the Continental Divide. Here you’ll pass through the historic Moffat Tunnel and emerge on the western side of the Continental Divide. This railway tunnel opened in 1928 and cuts through 6.3 miles of mountainous terrain.
Enjoy a three-course, regionally inspired lunch as our onboard Hosts share stories about the region we travel through. Make sure you keep your camera near by as we travel along the Colorado River through a series of captivating canyons, including Byers Canyon and Gore Canyon. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as these canyons are the perfect place to spot pronghorns, deer, and eagles.
Today's journey ends in the historic town of Glenwood Springs. Enjoy your evening at your own leisure in this true Wild West town, before relaxing in your cozy hotel and look forward to tomorrow’s adventure.
Day 2: Glenwood Springs to Moab
In the morning, you'll board the train for another day of incredible scenery as we head south west past mountain vistas, desert cliffs, and vibrant sandstone mountains. Enjoy a two-course hot breakfast as we pass by Parachute Creek and Mount Logan towards De Beque Canyon, a 15-mile long narrow canyon with stair-step cliffs of sedimentary rock layers.
As we continue west, look out for Mount Garfield. At 6,765 feet, it’s the highest point of the Book Cliffs so it should be easy to spot! These sandstone mountains stretch nearly 200 miles from west to east – another great excuse to get your camera out!
The route continues to follow the Colorado River as we approach one of the most majestic and colourful canyons along our journey. Admire the stunning red sandstone cliffs of Ruby Canyon, accessible only by train or from the river. This canyon is 25 miles long and is appropriately named after the vibrant ruby-toned cliffs that line the canyon walls.
After crossing over the Colorado-Utah state line, look out for Mount Peale. It’s the highest point of the La Sal Mountains at 12,726 feet. Due to it’s immense height, these mountains are usually snow-capped until early summer.
As we reach Moab, you’ll be greeted by the brilliant sandstone mountains that the American Southwest is so famous for. You’ll also get your first glimpse of the iconic Arches National Park; a 73,234-acre wonderland of geological marvels. Depart the train and travel to downtown Moab via a motorcoach transfer. Welcome to the scarlet city!
The Onboard Experience
Like our three Canadian rail routes, the train only travels during the day and features oversized windows, so you won’t miss a moment of the ever-changing landscapes.
Enjoy our SilverLeaf Service as we journey between Colorado and Utah. Onboard Rocky Mountaineer, everything is choreographed to make your journey feel special, effortless, and unforgettable. From the expansive glass-dome coaches that put you right in the heart of the stunning Southwest, to the impeccable service and storytelling from engaging Onboard Hosts, to the regionally-inspired cuisine, this will no doubt be a journey of a lifetime.
You can also choose to enhance your onboard experience with SilverLeaf Plus, which includes exclusive and unlimited access to our newly renovated lounge car. Featuring a mixologist who will carefully craft signature cocktails, the lounge car offers additional space indoors to relax and soak in the scenery as it passes you by, as well as a small outdoor viewing area. You will also enjoy an elevated onboard dining experience with SilverLeaf Plus.
