February 1, 2024 / 6 mins read / ADVENTURE

Rocky Mountaineer – Rockies to the Red Rocks Route

Get an inside view of the Rocky Mountaineer trip from Colorado to Utah!

Train Travel is a great way to explore new places and let someone else do the driving while you can take in all the spectacular scenery around you. Don’t wait for your chance to experience the Rocky Mountains up close and personal and a region that is steeped in the history of the Wild, Wild West!

Experience the American Southwest on their newest route, Rockies to the Red Rocks which travels between Denver, Colorado and Moab, Utah with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.

This 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. This trip is a photographer’s dream with so many opportunities to capture amazing shots along the route.

The Rockies to the Red Rocks Route

Rockies to the Red Rocks is filled with highlights best seen by train, including Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield, and Moffat Tunnel. Guests also can do this journey in reverse by travelling east from Moab to Denver. Whichever direction you choose, ask your travel professional about pre or post stays in Denver, Colorado or Moab, Utah to further explore these beautiful regions.

The Rockies to the Red Rocks Route - with Rocky Mountaineer

On day one, leave Denver behind as you travel towards Glenwood Springs. While traveling through Byers Canyon, there will be a chance to spot a variety of wildlife including bighorn sheep, coyotes, and mountain lions (of course from the safety of the train). At the end of your first day aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, you will spend the night in the historic town of Glenwood Springs. Enjoy your evening at your leisure in this true Wild West town, before a relaxing night of sleep in your cozy hotel. Did you know that Glenwood Springs is famous for its hot springs?

Get ready for another day of incredible scenery after an amazing two-course hot breakfast on board. Now that you’re fueled up, get ready to view mountain vistas, desert cliffs, and vibrant sandstone mountains. As you continue further west, keep an eye out for Mount Garfield, at 6,765 feet, it’s the highest point of the Book Cliffs and will be easy to spot for a photo op. Today’s route will take us along the Colorado River and the stunning Ruby Canyon which is only accessible by train or from the river. Admire the stunning red sandstone cliffs along this 25-mile-long canyon. As you approach your destination of Moab, you’ll get your first glimpse of the iconic Arches National Park; a 73,234-acre wonderland of geological marvels.

The Rocky Mountaineer Experience

The train only travels during the day and features oversized windows, so you won’t miss a moment of the ever-changing landscapes.

Enjoy SilverLeaf Service as you 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 enhance your onboard experience with SilverLeaf Plus, which includes exclusive access to a lounge car with its own small outdoor viewing platform. The lounge car offers additional indoor space to relax and soak in the scenery as it passes you by while enjoying carefully hand-crafted signature cocktails. You will also enjoy an elevated onboard dining experience with SilverLeaf Plus.

Experience the SilverLeaf Service onboard the Rocky Mountaineer, The Rockies to the Red Rocks

Ready to climb aboard for an adventure like no other in 2024?

For more information about the Rocky Mountaineer, visit our dedicated page. Many of our travel professionals have been guests on board this beautiful train and can share first-hand knowledge of their trips. Just click on one of our dedicated Rocky Mountaineer certified travel professionals to book a date and time that works for your schedule.

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