Experience the luxury of Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks, a breathtaking train journey from Denver to Moab. Explore stunning canyons, red rock landscapes, and scenic rivers on this unforgettable rail adventure. Learn about routes, costs, onboard services, and the best time to travel. Book your Rocky Mountaineer train trip today! 🚆✨
“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu
A Luxury Train Journey Like No Other
Imagine a journey where every mile brings a new breathtaking view—rugged mountains, deep canyons, winding rivers, and vast desert landscapes. The Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route offers travelers an unforgettable rail experience between Denver, Colorado, and Moab, Utah. This exclusive daylight train journey combines luxury, adventure, and scenic beauty, making it one of the most sought-after train trips in North America.
Why Choose Rockies to the Red Rocks?
🚆 A Premium Rail Experience
Unlike traditional train rides, this journey is entirely daylight travel, ensuring you never miss a single moment of the spectacular scenery. With oversized glass-dome windows, comfortable seating, and five-star hospitality, this train ride offers unparalleled comfort.
🌄 Breathtaking Landscapes
Travelers will witness Colorado’s towering mountains, lush forests, and dramatic canyons before transitioning into Utah’s famous red rock formations and desert landscapes. Some of the highlights the route include:
- The Colorado River, winding through breathtaking valleys
- Gore Canyon & Ruby Canyon, showcasing dramatic geological formations
- Mount Garfield, a towering landmark signaling the transition into Utah
- The mesmerizing Arches National Park near Moab.
🍽️ Luxury Dining & First-Class Service
This premium train journey includes gourmet meals prepared by top chefs, featuring locally inspired cuisine. Passengers enjoy complimentary beverages, snacks, and attentive onboard service, ensuring a relaxing and indulgent experience.
A Journey of Comfort & Exploration
From the moment you step aboard, the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks train promises an experience of pure luxury. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique way to explore the American Southwest, this rail journey is an unmissable adventure.
Stay tuned as we explore the day-by-day itinerary, luxury service options, and pricing details in the following sections! 🚆✨
Route Overview & Key Destinations
The Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route takes travelers on a mesmerizing two-day rail journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the American Southwest. From the towering peaks of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains to the striking red rock formations of Utah, this trip is a seamless blend of luxury and adventure.
Day 1: Denver → Glenwood Springs
Your journey begins in Denver, Colorado, where the train departs in the morning, setting off on an incredible scenic adventure. As you leave the city, the landscape quickly transforms into majestic mountain ranges, deep canyons, and winding rivers.
Highlights of the Day
🚆 Big Ten Curve – A masterful engineering marvel, offering panoramic views of Denver and the surrounding foothills.
🚆 Gore Canyon – One of the most dramatic canyons along the route, with sheer rock walls towering over the Colorado River.
🚆 Byers Canyon – A breathtaking stretch of rugged terrain where the train hugs the cliffside, providing unparalleled views.
The first day concludes in Glenwood Springs, a charming resort town known for its natural hot springs and relaxing atmosphere. Guests enjoy an overnight stay, allowing them to explore the area’s soothing geothermal pools and picturesque surroundings.
Day 2: Glenwood Springs → Moab
On the second day, the train continues its journey westward, following the Colorado River into Utah’s red rock country. As the terrain transitions from lush green forests to stunning desert landscapes, the scenery becomes even more captivating.
Highlights of the Day
🚆 Mount Garfield – A striking geological formation marking the gateway to Utah’s rugged terrain.
🚆 Ruby Canyon – Named for its brilliant red sandstone cliffs, this canyon is one of the most breathtaking sights on the route.
🚆 Colorado River Views – The train runs parallel to the Colorado River, providing unmatched views of the winding waters cutting through canyons.
By afternoon, you’ll arrive in Moab, Utah, the adventure capital of the Southwest. Known for its iconic Arches & Canyonlands National Parks, Moab offers countless opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities.
A Journey Through Breathtaking Landscapes
With each passing mile, the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route delivers unforgettable views and world-class service. Whether you’re admiring Colorado’s towering mountains or Utah’s desert wonders, this luxury train journey is an experience like no other.
Stay tuned for more details on onboard services, dining experiences, and vacation packages! 🚆✨
What Makes This Route Special?
The Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route is unlike any other train journey in North America. With stunning landscapes, world-class luxury, and an unparalleled travel experience, this route offers a perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Here’s what makes it truly special:
🌄 Unparalleled Scenic Beauty
From Colorado’s majestic mountains to Utah’s striking red rock formations, this train journey offers some of the most diverse and breathtaking scenery in the world. Passengers can witness:
🚆 Towering Rocky Mountains – Snow-capped peaks, alpine forests, and crystal-clear rivers.
🚆 Rushing Colorado River – The train follows the river through deep canyons and winding valleys.
🚆 Ruby Canyon’s Red Rock Walls – Named for its stunning crimson sandstone cliffs.
🚆 Utah’s Desert Landscapes – The scenery transitions into natural arches, hoodoos, and dramatic rock formations.
Each moment of the journey brings new landscapes, making it a photographer’s dream and a nature lover’s paradise.
🍽️ Exclusive SilverLeaf & SilverLeaf Plus Service
Passengers experience unmatched luxury and comfort with Rocky Mountaineer’s premium service levels:
🔹 SilverLeaf Service – Enjoy spacious seating, oversized panoramic windows, and regionally inspired gourmet meals served at your seat. Complimentary wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages are available throughout the trip.
🔹 SilverLeaf Plus Service – Includes all the benefits of SilverLeaf plus exclusive access to a lounge car, premium beverages, and an enhanced dining experience with signature cocktails and wine pairings.
This all-daylight train journey ensures you never miss a single scenic highlight while indulging in five-star hospitality.
🛏️ A Journey Focused on Comfort
Unlike other long-distance train rides, Rockies to the Red Rocks ensures a comfortable and restful travel experience:
✅ No overnight stays on the train – Enjoy luxury hotel accommodations in Glenwood Springs, providing a relaxing break between travel days.
✅ Plush seating with ample legroom – Designed for ultimate comfort throughout the journey.
✅ Outdoor viewing areas – Step outside and experience the fresh air and stunning landscapes up close.
This thoughtfully designed itinerary ensures that guests can fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the route without the hassle of overnight travel on the train.
✨ Experience the Journey of a Lifetime
From majestic mountains to breathtaking red rock formations, the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route delivers a truly unforgettable adventure. With luxury service, breathtaking views, and a seamless travel experience, this is the ultimate way to explore the American Southwest.
Stay tuned for more details on itineraries, packages, and booking options! 🚆✨
Luxury Onboard Experience: SilverLeaf vs. SilverLeaf Plus
The Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks journey is not just about the breathtaking scenery—it’s about experiencing true luxury while traveling through some of North America’s most stunning landscapes. With two exceptional service levels, SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus, passengers enjoy a seamless, premium travel experience unlike any other.
🚆 SilverLeaf Service: Premium Comfort & Dining
Passengers in SilverLeaf Service enjoy an elevated level of comfort designed to enhance every aspect of the journey:
🔹 Single-Level Dome Cars – Features oversized panoramic windows, ensuring uninterrupted views of the changing landscapes.
🔹 Locally Inspired Gourmet Meals – Delicious, chef-prepared meals served directly to your seat, highlighting regional flavors from Colorado and Utah.
🔹 Complimentary Beverages – Unlimited wine, beer, spirits, coffee, tea, and soft drinks, available throughout the journey.
🔹 Spacious, Reclining Seats – Designed for ultimate relaxation, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenic beauty in complete comfort.
This all-inclusive service ensures that every traveler experiences first-class hospitality while soaking in the unparalleled scenery of the Rockies to the Red Rocks route.
🌟 SilverLeaf Plus Service: Ultimate Indulgence
For those seeking an extra level of exclusivity, SilverLeaf Plus offers additional perks and premium experiences:
✨ Access to the Exclusive Lounge Car – Passengers can unwind in an elegant, spacious lounge area, providing extra room to relax, socialize, and enjoy the journey.
✨ Signature Cocktails & Wine Pairings – Enjoy a curated selection of premium beverages, including hand-crafted cocktails and fine wines that perfectly complement the dining experience.
✨ Outdoor Viewing Platform – Step outside to a dedicated outdoor viewing area, offering stunning, unobstructed views of the Colorado River, Ruby Canyon, and towering red rock formations.
✨ Enhanced Gourmet Dining – Indulge in exclusive menu items available only to SilverLeaf Plus guests, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
These exclusive perks make SilverLeaf Plus the perfect choice for travelers seeking an ultra-luxurious rail experience.
🌄 A Journey of Unmatched Comfort & Style
Both SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus services provide an exceptional level of luxury, ensuring passengers can sit back, relax, and fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the journey. Whether enjoying the majestic mountain views through oversized windows or sipping a hand-crafted cocktail in the Lounge Car, every moment aboard the Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks is designed to be unforgettable.
🚆 No matter which service you choose, one thing is certain—you’ll experience one of the most scenic and luxurious train rides in North America! 🚆
Available Vacation Packages: Discover the Rockies to the Red Rocks Experience
Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks offers a selection of scenic rail vacation packages designed to provide luxury, adventure, and breathtaking views. Whether you prefer a quick getaway or an extended exploration, these carefully curated itineraries cater to every traveler’s dream.
🏔 2-Day Rail Journey: Denver to Moab
Perfect for those seeking a short yet unforgettable train journey through the heart of the Rockies and Red Rocks.
Day 1: Denver → Glenwood Springs (Rocky Mountaineer Train)
🚆 Board the Rocky Mountaineer in Denver, enjoying stunning views of:
✅ Big Ten Curve – An engineering marvel offering panoramic mountain views.
✅ Byers & Gore Canyons – Towering cliffs and rushing river landscapes.
✅ Colorado River – Follow its scenic route through lush valleys.
🌙 Overnight Stay in Glenwood Springs, known for its hot springs and charming downtown.
Day 2: Glenwood Springs → Moab (Rocky Mountaineer Train)
🚆 Continue through the Rocky Mountains, crossing:
✅ Mount Garfield & Ruby Canyon – Spectacular red rock landscapes and towering formations.
✅ Colorado-Utah Border – A transition from lush valleys to desert beauty.
🏜 Arrive in Moab, Utah – Gateway to Arches & Canyonlands National Parks.
🛤 8-Day Round Trip: Denver to Moab & Back
A complete rail experience featuring two luxury train rides, guided sightseeing, and extended stays in Colorado and Utah.
Day 1: Arrival in Denver
🛬 Arrive in Denver, check into your hotel, and explore the city’s vibrant culture.
Day 2: Denver → Glenwood Springs (Rocky Mountaineer Train)
🚆 Travel westward on Rocky Mountaineer, passing Big Ten Curve, Gore Canyon, and Byers Canyon.
🌙 Overnight stay in Glenwood Springs.
Day 3: Glenwood Springs → Moab (Rocky Mountaineer Train)
🚆 Continue your rail adventure, admiring Ruby Canyon and Mount Garfield.
🏜 Arrive in Moab, enjoy Arches National Park at sunset.
Day 4 & 5: Exploring Moab
🌄 Explore Arches & Canyonlands National Parks and go on optional excursions like:
✅ Jeep safaris.
✅ Rafting on the Colorado River.
✅ Stargazing in the Utah desert.
Day 6: Moab → Glenwood Springs (Rocky Mountaineer Train)
🚆 Return eastward, crossing the stunning red rock landscapes.
🌙 Overnight in Glenwood Springs.
Day 7: Glenwood Springs → Denver (Rocky Mountaineer Train)
🚆 Experience the Rockies in reverse, arriving back in Denver.
Day 8: Departure from Denver
🛫 After breakfast, head to Denver International Airport or continue exploring.
🌵 7-Day Extended Tour via Las Vegas
An adventurous journey combining rail travel with guided tours of Utah’s stunning national parks.
Day 1: Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon (Guided Tour)
🚐 Drive through Zion National Park and stop at Bryce Canyon, known for its hoodoo formations.
🌙 Overnight in Bryce Canyon.
Day 2: Bryce Canyon → Moab (Scenic Highway 12 Drive)
🚘 Travel via Scenic Highway 12, stopping at Capitol Reef National Park.
🏜 Arrive in Moab for an overnight stay.
Day 3 & 4: Moab & Arches National Park
🌄 Explore Arches National Park and go on optional adventures like hiking and rafting.
Day 5: Moab → Glenwood Springs (Rocky Mountaineer Train)
🚆 Enjoy the Rockies to the Red Rocks train ride, crossing Ruby Canyon.
🌙 Stay overnight in Glenwood Springs.
Day 6: Glenwood Springs → Denver (Rocky Mountaineer Train)
🚆 Scenic train ride through the Rocky Mountains.
🌙 Stay overnight in Denver.
Day 7: Departure from Denver
🛫 Transfer to the airport for departure.
🏜 7-Day Salt Lake City Excursion
Explore the beauty of Salt Lake City, Moab, and Denver with Rocky Mountaineer’s luxury train service.
Day 1: Arrival in Salt Lake City
🛬 Arrive and explore Temple Square and the Great Salt Lake.
🌙 Overnight in Salt Lake City.
Day 2: Salt Lake City → Moab (Motorcoach Transfer)
🚐 Drive past Utah’s scenic landscapes, arriving in Moab.
🌙 Overnight in Moab.
Day 3 & 4: Exploring Moab
🌄 Visit Arches & Canyonlands National Parks, enjoy jeep tours & hiking.
Day 5: Moab → Glenwood Springs (Rocky Mountaineer Train)
🚆 Travel past Ruby Canyon and the Colorado River.
🌙 Overnight in Glenwood Springs.
Day 6: Glenwood Springs → Denver (Rocky Mountaineer Train)
🚆 Journey back through Byers Canyon & Gore Canyon.
🌙 Overnight in Denver.
Day 7: Departure from Denver
🛫 End of your Rockies to the Red Rocks adventure.
🌟 Why Choose These Packages?
✅ Daylight-Only Train Travel – Enjoy the views without missing a single moment.
✅ Luxury Service & Dining – SilverLeaf & SilverLeaf Plus options for premium comfort.
✅ Multiple Destinations – Explore Denver, Moab, Salt Lake City, Bryce Canyon, and more.
✅ Exclusive Guided Excursions – National park tours, hiking, and adventure activities.
🚆 Book your unforgettable journey today and experience the Rockies to the Red Rocks like never before! 🚆
Best Time to Experience the Rockies to the Red Rocks
Timing your journey on Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route can enhance your experience significantly. Each season brings unique beauty, weather conditions, and scenic highlights.
🌿 Spring (April–June): This season offers lush greenery, blooming wildflowers, and pleasant temperatures. The Colorado River flows with full energy, while Byers Canyon and Gore Canyon are surrounded by fresh foliage. Wildlife sightings are common, and the snow-capped peaks of the Rockies create a breathtaking backdrop. With fewer crowds, spring is perfect for a peaceful and picturesque journey.
☀️ Summer (July–August): The longest daylight hours make summer ideal for sightseeing and photography. The red rock formations of Ruby Canyon and the rugged peaks of Mount Peale shine under the clear blue skies. The contrast between Colorado’s alpine beauty and Utah’s desert landscapes is most vivid. Expect warm temperatures but a comfortable onboard experience with panoramic windows and air-conditioned coaches.
🍂 Fall (September–October): A stunning mix of golden aspens and deep red canyons makes autumn a dream season for this journey. The Continental Divide’s mountain peaks are often dusted with early snow, contrasting beautifully with the fall foliage. Cooler temperatures and fewer travelers make this the most tranquil and immersive time to travel.
🌟 When to Go? Spring for fresh landscapes, summer for vivid contrasts, and fall for stunning autumn colors. No matter the season, this luxury train journey promises unforgettable views and first-class comfort. 🚆✨
How to Book & Plan Your Trip
Planning your journey on Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route ensures a smooth and luxurious travel experience. From booking options to essential packing tips, here’s everything you need to know.
Step 1: Booking Your Journey
There are several ways to book your Rockies to the Red Rocks train journey:
✔ Online Reservations: Visit the official website or book through travel platforms for the latest deals.
✔ Travel Agents: Work with experienced travel agents to customize your itinerary and include hotel stays and excursions.
✔ Elite Rail Journeys: Book through Elite Rail Journeys for exclusive packages, best-price guarantees, and expert assistance.
Step 2: Planning Your Itinerary
🗓 Day 1 – Departure from Denver
- Arrive at Denver’s Union Station early for check-in.
- Board the Rocky Mountaineer luxury train, settle into your SilverLeaf or SilverLeaf Plus seat.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of Big Ten Curve, Byers Canyon, and Gore Canyon.
- Arrive in Glenwood Springs and stay overnight.
🗓 Day 2 – Glenwood Springs to Moab
- Board the train and travel through Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield, and the Utah desert landscape.
- Arrive in Moab, gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.
Step 3: Packing Essentials
🎒 Must-Have Travel Items
📸 Camera: Capture the stunning landscapes, canyons, and rivers.
🧥 Layered Clothing: Weather varies from cool mornings in Denver to warm afternoons in Moab.
🕶️ Sunglasses & Sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun, especially during outdoor excursions.
Final Tips
- Book early for the best rates and preferred travel dates.
- Consider extending your trip with guided Moab or Denver sightseeing tours.
- Pack light, as luggage handling is included in the service.
Start planning today for an unforgettable journey through the Rockies and Red Rocks! 🚆✨
Why Choose Elite Rail Journeys for Your Trip?
When booking your Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks train journey, choosing the right travel partner makes all the difference. Elite Rail Journeys offers exceptional service, exclusive benefits, and seamless travel planning to ensure an unforgettable experience.
1️⃣ Best Price Guarantee
Elite Rail Journeys ensures you get the lowest available rates for your luxury train adventure. By booking with us, you gain access to:
✔ Exclusive early bird discounts and special seasonal promotions.
✔ Price match assurance – if you find a lower price elsewhere, we’ll match it.
✔ No hidden fees, ensuring full transparency on all bookings.
2️⃣ Flexible Booking & Customizable Packages
We understand that every traveler has unique preferences. That’s why we provide customizable packages, allowing you to:
📌 Choose your ideal itinerary – opt for a 2-day scenic rail journey or an extended 8-day round trip with guided excursions.
📌 Upgrade your onboard experience – enjoy SilverLeaf or SilverLeaf Plus Service with exclusive lounge access.
📌 Add hotel stays, activities & extra excursions to enhance your trip.
3️⃣ 24/7 Personalized Travel Assistance
From the moment you inquire about your trip until you return home, our dedicated travel experts are here to assist you. Our services include:
✔ Pre-trip consultation – get expert advice on the best routes and packages.
✔ 24/7 customer support during your journey.
✔ Rail transfers & logistics management for a stress-free experience.
4️⃣ Exclusive Offers & Early Bird Discounts
Booking with Elite Rail Journeys means unlocking:
🌟 Early access to Rocky Mountaineer’s seasonal promotions.
🌟 Limited-time discounts on extended tours, including Denver to Moab & Las Vegas excursions.
🌟 VIP access to priority seating and premium upgrades.
For a hassle-free, premium travel experience, choose Elite Rail Journeys and embark on an extraordinary journey through the Rockies to the Red Rocks! 🚆✨
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks
How much does it cost to ride on the Rocky Mountaineer train?
The Rockies to the Red Rocks route starts at $1,725 USD per person for SilverLeaf service. Prices vary based on season, package, and upgrades.
How long is the Rocky Mountaineer train ride?
The Rockies to the Red Rocks journey is a 2-day rail trip with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs.
What is the route of the Rocky Mountaineer train?
The route travels from Denver, Colorado to Moab, Utah, passing through Glenwood Springs, canyons, and along the Colorado River.
Is there a cheaper alternative to the Rocky Mountaineer?
There is no direct alternative with the same luxury experience, but Amtrak’s California Zephyr runs a scenic route through Colorado at a lower cost.
What is the best month to take the Rocky Mountaineer?
The best time is April–June (spring scenery and wildlife) or September–October (fall foliage and fewer crowds).
How far apart are Banff and Lake Louise?
Banff and Lake Louise are approximately 40 miles (64 km) apart, about a 40-minute drive.
Do you sleep on the Rocky Mountaineer?
No. The train only runs during daylight hours, and passengers stay overnight in hotels arranged in the package.
Are drinks free on Rocky Mountaineer?
Yes. Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available in SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus service.
Is Rocky Mountaineer a round trip?
No. The standard package is one-way, but round-trip packages are available with extra nights and guided tours.
Does Rocky Mountaineer go to the Grand Canyon?
No. The Rocky Mountaineer operates in Canada and the U.S. but does not go to the Grand Canyon.
What is the most popular Rocky Mountaineer route?
The First Passage to the West (Vancouver to Banff) is the most popular Canadian route, while Rockies to the Red Rocks (Denver to Moab) is the top U.S. route.
Does the Rocky Mountaineer go to Denver?
Yes. The Rockies to the Red Rocks train starts in Denver, Colorado and travels west to Moab, Utah.
How long is the Rocky Mountaineer ride?
For the Rockies to the Red Rocks route, the train journey takes 1.5 days, including an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs.
What side is best to sit on Rocky Mountaineer?
For the Denver to Moab route, the left side offers better canyon views, while the right side has better mountain scenery.
What is the best month to visit Banff?
The best time is June–September for hiking and sightseeing or December–March for skiing and winter activities.
How many passengers are on Rocky Mountaineer?
Each train can carry up to 500 passengers, depending on the season and route.
Is there a dress code on the Rocky Mountaineer?
Casual, comfortable clothing is recommended. Layers are ideal as temperatures vary throughout the journey.
Do you tip on the Rocky Mountaineer?
Tipping is not required but appreciated. Gratuities for onboard hosts and hotel staff are included in SilverLeaf Plus.
How many bathrooms are on the Rocky Mountaineer train?
There are multiple restrooms in each coach, cleaned regularly for passenger comfort.
What kind of food is served on the Rocky Mountaineer?
The menu includes locally inspired gourmet meals, such as Alberta beef, Pacific salmon, and fresh vegetarian options.
Where does the toilet go on a train?
Rocky Mountaineer trains have modern, eco-friendly waste systems that safely dispose of waste at designated facilities.
What is the cheapest way to see the Canadian Rockies?
Budget options include self-driving, taking public buses, or booking Amtrak/Via Rail tickets instead of luxury trains.
What is the best train trip across Canada?
The most scenic and luxurious is The Canadian (Toronto to Vancouver), while Rocky Mountaineer offers shorter but premium experiences.
