See the Unseen West! Be the first to travel Rocky Mountaineer's newest rail route, Rockies to the Red Rocks, showcasing the breathtaking views of the southwest United States. This epic two-day rail route travels between Moab (Utah) and Denver (Colorado) with the option to start the journey in either destination. Traveling east or west, you will pass stunning lush mountain vistas, beautiful plains, and striking desert scenery of Utah and Colorado. Vast canyons, inspiring deserts, natural archways and enchanting hoodoos are just a start. Available in SilverLeaf Service, this Rocky Mountaineer rail route is filled with highlights best seen by train, including Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield and crossing the Continental Divide.
Photo credit: Rocky Mountaineer
The Rail Journey
Day 1: Moab to Glenwood Springs
If traveling west from Moab, Utah's Scarlet City, Rocky Mountaineer will begin the journey by Arches National Park, showcasing 73,234-acres of vibrant red desert and famous geological features. Traveling alongside the Colorado River, some of the most extraordinary, colorful canyons will be seen with one aptly named Ruby Canyon, only accessible by train or from the river. Come the afternoon; the train will ascend through a spectacular 15-mile-long narrow canyon called De Beque Canyon towards its final destination of the day, Glenwood Springs.
Day 2: Glenwood Springs to Denver
Excitement brews for another rail day in the lap of luxury. Steeped in captivating canyons and pristine waterways, you will want cameras in hand to snap photos through iconic Byers Canyon and Gore Canyon, known for epic views and native wildlife. With a slow descent through the historic Moffat Tunnel, built in 1928, the train will emerge from 6.3 miles of mountainous terrain onto the eastern side of the continental divide towards more lush Colorado scenery. With the final whistle blow in Denver, the two-day journey filled with history, sights, and camaraderie will come to a close.
Experience the new Rockies to the Red Rocks Classics with our favourite rail itineraries: 6 Days Rockies to the Red Rocks Excursion (Salt Lake City to Denver or Reverse), 5 Days Rockies to the Red Rocks Classic Las Vegas with Flightseeing (Las Vegas to Denver Or Reverse) or our shorter 4 Days Rockies to the Red Rocks Classic (Moab to Denver or Reverse).
Photo credit: Rocky Mountaineer
The Onboard Experience
The Rockies To Red Rocks route offers two service levels:
SilverLeaf Service
Enjoy a complete experience onboard SilverLeaf Service, including onboard storytelling, premium cuisine, compelling scenery, and social atmosphere in a custom-designed glass-dome coach. The onboard culinary experience will feature cuisine and ingredients local to the Southwestern U.S., which will be complemented with beverage service, and served in the comfort of your seats, so you can enjoy the scenery as you dine. For more information on the SilverLeaf Service, check out our blog on How To Choose Your Rail Service Level.
SilverLeaf Plus
An exclusive service only available on the Rockies to Red Rocks rail route. SilverLeaf Plus Service includes all the benefits available on SilverLeaf Service and more. Enhance your onboard experience with exclusive access to the newly-renovated lounge car. It offers additional indoor space to relax and soak in the scenery, an exclusive mixologist as well as a small outdoor viewing area. Enjoy an elevated dining experience of premium alcoholic beverages and signature cocktails.
Photo credit: Shuttershock
The Destinations
Glenwood Springs
From its early days as a rowdy mining settlement to becoming a hot springs hotspot for gangsters and celebrities, Glenwood Springs has a past fitting for a true Wild West town. History buffs can explore the town as part of Rocky Mountaineer Train’s rail route, Rockies to the Red Rocks, with an overnight stop in Glenwood Springs. Explore the unseen West for a little longer, with new departure dates added this fall.
Denver
End your journey in the Mile High City and explore the city’s greatest spots. From panoramic mountain vistas, to show-stopping live music and a blossoming foodie scene, it’s easy to see why Denver should be at the top of every traveller’s list. Nicknamed the Mile High City for its elevation one mile above sea level, Denver’s diverse attractions offer unforgettable experiences, from a thriving arts and culture scene to sports and recreation and endless outdoor activities.
Moab
Home to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Moab is surrounded by some of the world’s most incredible natural red sandstone landscapes and offers charming small-town hospitality. Extend your stay in Moab with Best Things To Do in Moab.
Want to book other adventures with the train? Explore our guide to the Three Different Rail Routes Into The Canadian Rockies in both eastbound and westbound directions, add on extra nights in the various regions—make this next vacation a trip of a lifetime!
