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Rockies to The Red Rocks: Rocky Mountaineer Train Colorado, Denver, Moab, and Utah

Rockies to the Red Rocks is a scenic luxury train journey operated by the Rocky Mountaineer train, travelling through the dramatic landscapes of Colorado and Utah. The “daylight-only” route connects Denver and Moab, passing through Glenwood Springs for an overnight stay. The experience is designed to showcase the natural beauty of the American Southwest, with panoramic views of desert canyons, red rock formations, and river valleys. The train travels alongside the Colorado River, crossing landmarks of Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield, and the Continental Divide via the Moffat Tunnel. The journey spans two days and covers approximately 370 miles, offering a relaxed pace and world-class hospitality throughout.

The Rockies to Red Rocks train route features SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus service levels, each offering assigned seating in glass-domed cars, gourmet meals served onboard, and complimentary beverages. SilverLeaf Plus includes access to a lounge car with a bar and a small outdoor viewing area. Hosts provide commentary on regional history, geology, and wildlife. The Rocky Mountaineer train Colorado journey highlights comfort and landscapes that are inaccessible by road. The route offers a refined alternative to traditional travel through the Southwest with its blend of luxury and natural wonder.

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Table of contents

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What is Rockies to the Red Rocks?
What is the Itinerary for the Rocky Mountaineer Denver to Moab Train?
How to Book the Rocky Mountaineer Train Rockies to The Red Rocks?
What is the Rocky Mountaineer Experience Like from Denver to Moab?
Where does the Rocky Mountaineer Train Colorado Depart From?

Rocky red rockes cascading over a rocky mountaineer train

What is Rockies to the Red Rocks?

The Rockies to the Red Rocks is a scenic rail trip run by Rocky Mountaineer, providing a two-day journey through the stunning landscapes of the American Southwest. The historic route connects Denver, Colorado, to Moab, Utah, with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, a town famous for its hot springs and mountain scenery. The train operates during daylight, giving passengers the chance to enjoy the breathtaking views through large windows. The trip showcases the natural wonders of expansive canyons, desert cliffs, impressive rock formations, and the winding Colorado River. Popular sights (Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield, and the Continental Divide) each offer unique geological and scenic features.
The route starts in Denver, departing from Union Station and heading into the Colorado Rockies and reaching Glenwood Springs for an overnight stay after crossing the Moffat Tunnel and the Continental Divide. The train continues west into Utah on the second day, crossing the border and ending in Moab, a gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. The trip highlights the contrast between alpine and desert landscapes, combining comfort, scenic views, and world-class service. The journey includes onboard meals, drinks, and personalized hosts, and is available in both directions, offering a unique way to experience the region’s natural beauty. To explore more mountains, passengers could look at Rocky Mountaineer’s Canadian routes which are included on Canadian Rockies Train trips

What is the Best Time to Take Rockies to the Red Rocks?

The best time to take the Rockies to the Red Rocks is spring and fall (April to May and September to October), which feature milder temperatures than summer's heat, making them ideal for travellers wanting comfort and scenic views. The trip brings higher temperatures, although summer is popular for its extended daylight, particularly in Utah’s desert areas. Snowmelt fills rivers and waterfalls in Spring, while wildflowers bloom across deserts and mountains. Fall showcases colourful foliage, cooler weather, and a peaceful vibe as winter approaches. Each season offers unique sights, like snow-covered peaks in April or golden aspen trees in October, creating memorable journeys along the route. Spring trips feature wildlife and rushing rivers, while fall trips display colourful foliage and cooler air. Travellers wanting fewer crowds and milder weather prefer trips in April, May, September, or October, which is considered the Best Time for Canadian Rockies as well as the American Southwest

What is the Itinerary for the Rocky Mountaineer Denver to Moab Train?

The itinerary for the Rocky Mountaineer from Denver to Moab train is listed below.

Day 1 (Denver to Glenwood Springs): The journey begins in Denver, Colorado, with panoramic views of the Front Range before climbing into the Rocky Mountains. Passengers travel through scenic canyons, mountain tunnels, and alongside the Colorado River before arriving in Glenwood Springs for an overnight hotel stay. The day offers a mix of urban departure, alpine scenery, and charming small-town arrival.
Day 2 (Glenwood Springs to Moab): The train departs Glenwood Springs in the morning, following the Colorado River through desert landscapes and towering sandstone cliffs. The scenery shifts from lush riverbanks to the striking red rock formations of Utah, culminating in arrival at the adventure hub of Moab. The route showcases the transition from mountain wilderness to iconic desert terrain.

How long is the Rocky Mountaineer Train Ride from Denver to Moab?

The Rocky Mountaineer Train ride from Denver to Moab is a 2-day journey. The train departs from Denver, Colorado, and travels westward through the Colorado Rockies, with an overnight stop in Glenwood Springs. The total duration of the Rocky Mountaineer Train Denver to Moab experience is approximately 48 hours, including the overnight hotel stay. Passengers experience alpine scenery (Continental Divide and Colorado River) on the first day, before arriving in Glenwood Springs for the night. The second day continues through desert landscapes and red rock formations, concluding in Moab, Utah.

The route in Rocky Mountaineer Denver to Moab is designed for scenic daytime travel, allowing uninterrupted views of natural landmarks (Ruby Canyon and Mount Garfield). The journey includes onboard meals and commentary from hosts who share historical and cultural insights. The trip offers a relaxed pace and a chance to appreciate the changing terrain, from mountain tunnels to desert cliffs, without travelling overnight on the train itself.

Is Moab the Only Utah Stop on the Rocky Mountaineer Train Itinerary?

Yes, Moab is the only Utah stop on the Rocky Mountaineer Train itinerary. The train travels with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, offering a blend of alpine and desert scenery along the way. The journey begins or ends in Moab, Utah, depending on the direction of travel, and does not include additional stops within the state. Moab is the gateway to national parks (Arches and Canyonlands), making it a strategic endpoint for travellers seeking access to the region’s iconic red rock landscapes. The train from Colorado to Utah crosses the state border near Ruby Canyon and continues through dramatic terrain before reaching Moab. The trip does not extend beyond Moab or include other towns or cities within the state. The decision to limit the Rocky Mountaineer Train Utah portion to a single stop allows the itinerary to focus on quality over quantity, emphasizing panoramic views and curated service rather than multiple boarding points. Moab’s closeness to natural sights and its status as an outdoor adventure hub make it a suitable endpoint for a trip that showcases the differences between the Rocky Mountains and the Southwest's red rock deserts.

How to Book the Rocky Mountaineer Train Rockies to The Red Rocks?

To book the Rocky Mountaineer Train Rockies to the Red Rocks, follow the seven steps listed below.

Browse the trip options by visiting the Canadian Rockies Trains website to explore available dates, itineraries, and package inclusions for the Rockies to the Red Rocks route.
Select a preferred package of Rocky Mountaineer Train Rockies to The Red Rocks package, and choose between standard train journeys or extended holiday packages that include hotel stays, sightseeing tours, and transfers.
Decide between a one-way trip or a round-trip journey that begins and ends in The Red Rocks.
Customise the experience and add extra nights, excursions, or upgraded service levels (SilverLeaf Plus) to match personal travel preferences.
Submit a booking request and fill out the online inquiry form, or contact the reservations team directly by calling 1-844-202-1320 to secure the selected trip.
Confirm and finalize the required payment, and receive the official booking confirmation.
Review the detailed travel itinerary before departure.

How much does the Rocky Mountaineer Colorado Trip Cost?

Rocky Mountaineer Colorado trip costs start at approximately CAD 2,400 per person for SilverLeaf service. The fare includes two days of daylight travel, gourmet breakfasts and lunches served onboard, and an overnight hotel stay in Glenwood Springs. Beverages (wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks) are part of the package. An upgrade to SilverLeaf Plus costs around CAD 830 per person. Access to a lounge car with a bar, premium seating, and an elevated dining experience with additional courses and premium drinks. The Rocky Mountaineer train cost from Denver to Moab varies depending on the time of year and service level chosen.

Seasonal demand and availability influence the Denver to Moab train cost, with higher prices during peak travel months of July and September. Packages that extend beyond the basic 2-day journey, such as 4-day or 6-day itineraries including hotel stays in Denver, Moab, or Salt Lake City, range approximately from CAD 3,000 to over CAD 5,500 per person. The extended options offered by the Rocky Mountain train ride Colorado added benefits such as guided tours, extra nights in scenic destinations, and curated activities. The structure of Rocky Mountaineer Prices reflects the luxury nature of the experience, combining panoramic views, personalized service, and regional cuisine into a memorable journey through the American Southwest.

How do GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf Services differ on the Rockies to the Red Rocks Route?

GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf services differ on the Rockies to the Red Rocks route by availability, seating area, dining experience, and outdoor viewing. Goldleaf is unavailable on the US route, but its seating area offers a bi-level dome coach with a separate dining room and panoramic windows, and fully reclining seats. A spiral staircase or lift links to the lower level, where a private dining room serves gourmet meals made onboard. It has multiple hosts who offer commentary, drinks, and personalized attention throughout the trip. GoldLeaf is available on the Canadian Rocky Mountaineer routes.

Rockies to the Red Rocks have SilverLeaf service, which offers a more streamlined experience in a single-level dome coach, with meals served at the seat. Guests enjoy meals served right at their seats, next to large windows with expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The seating is spacious and comfortable, with rotating chairs available for groups. The experience provides high-quality hospitality with complimentary drinks, snacks, and attentive service from onboard hosts, although SilverLeaf doesn't have a separate dining room or outdoor viewing platform. The main differences between GoldLeaf vs SilverLeaf make each option unique in atmosphere and amenities.

Does the Rocky Mountaineer Train Utah Offer SilverLeaf Plus Service?

Yes, the Rocky Mountaineer Train Utah route offers SilverLeaf Plus service as an upgraded option for travellers seeking additional comfort and amenities. SilverLeaf Plus takes the standard SilverLeaf experience to the next level by adding a separate lounge car with its own bar and premium seating. The exclusive space lets passengers unwind in a quieter environment, savour craft cocktails, and take in the views from a unique perspective. The lounge car features a small outdoor viewing area, providing another layer to the journey through Utah’s red rock landscapes and Colorado’s alpine terrain.

The SilverLeaf Plus service is available on the Rockies to the Red Rocks route, which travels between Denver and Moab. Meals are served at guests’ seats in the main car, but adding a lounge gives them a more social and roomy space. SilverLeaf Plus is a popular pick for travellers looking for a balance of luxury and simplicity on the Rocky Mountaineer train Utah, with premium drinks and more seating options.

What is the Rocky Mountaineer Experience Like from Denver to Moab?

The Rocky Mountaineer experience from Denver to Moab is a two-day journey through the most beautiful landscapes in the American Southwest. The train travels during daylight hours, providing uninterrupted views of the Colorado River, dramatic canyons, and towering red rock formations. Highlights along the route include Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield, and the engineering marvel of the Moffat Tunnel. The scenery shifts from alpine terrain near Denver to desert landscapes as the train approaches Moab, creating a vivid contrast in colour and texture. Each route showcases geological features that are inaccessible by road, making the train an ideal way to explore this region.

The onboard atmosphere reflects the luxury and comfort associated with the Rocky Mountaineer brand. Oversized windows offer wide-angle views from every seat. Hosts provide commentary on the history, geology, and culture of the areas passed, adding depth to the visual experience. Gourmet meals and beverages are served throughout the journey, and passengers in SilverLeaf Plus service gain access to a lounge car with a bar and outdoor viewing area. The overnight stop in Glenwood Springs includes accommodations at partner hotels, allowing time to relax before continuing toward Utah. The combination of curated hospitality and breathtaking scenery defines the journey as a refined and exciting travel experience.

What is Included in the Rocky Mountaineer Train Colorado Package?

The inclusions in the Rocky Mountaineer Train Colorado Package are listed below.

Two-Day Scenic Rail Journey: Travel from Denver, Colorado, to Moab, Utah, along a route filled with impressive mountain peaks, winding rivers, and expansive desert vistas. The trip includes a cosy overnight stay in Glenwood Springs to break up the drive and give you more time to enjoy the scenery.
Overnight Hotel Stay: Accommodation in Glenwood Springs is arranged in advance as part of the itinerary, offering convenience and a chance to rest between travel days. The stop allows time to explore the town’s natural hot springs and mountain scenery.
Chef-Prepared Meals: Freshly cooked breakfasts and lunches are served at your seat, offering uninterrupted views of the passing landscapes. A variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages is included to enhance the dining experience.
Expert Onboard Hosts: Hosts share engaging stories about the history, geology, and culture of the region, creating a stronger connection to the places along the route. Their knowledge improves the visual beauty outside the panoramic windows.
Luggage Handling Service: Checked baggage is handled throughout the trip, with transfers between the train and hotel managed by the Rocky Mountaineer team. The service lets passengers travel without the hassle of carrying heavy luggage.

Are Meals Included on the Rocky Mountaineer Denver to Moab Route?

Yes, meals are included on the Rocky Mountaineer Denver to Moab route. Guests experience gourmet breakfasts and lunches on board, crafted with local ingredients that highlight the breathtaking scenery. Each meal is thoughtfully designed to complement the elegant experience, featuring dishes such as baked French toast with wild berry syrup for breakfast and braised beef short rib for lunch. The menu includes beverages, from wine and craft beer to cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks, with morning and afternoon snacks served throughout the day. The dining experience changes depending on the service level. SilverLeaf passengers eat at their seats, while SilverLeaf Plus travellers get access to a separate lounge car with a bar and more room to sit. The onboard chefs prepare meals fresh every day, and the menu changes with the seasons to showcase local flavours. Having meals and drinks included helps create a laid-back atmosphere on the journey, letting passengers focus on the scenic views and stories told by the onboard hosts. The dining experience becomes part of the immersive journey through Colorado’s canyons and Utah’s red rock formations with daylight-only travel and oversized windows.

What are the differences between Rockies to the Red Rocks and Canadian Routes?

The difference between the “Rockies to the Red Rocks” and Canadian routes includes landscape, climate, and onboard experience. The U.S. route travels between Denver, Colorado, and Moab, Utah, passing through desert canyons, red rock formations, and river-carved valleys. The landmarks (Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield, and the Colorado River) dominate the scenery, offering a warm-toned palette of sandstone cliffs and arid terrain. The Canadian routes feature temperate rainforests, glacier-fed rivers, and snow-capped peaks. The destinations involve Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise, where turquoise lakes and alpine forests create a cooler, more rugged environment.

The onboard experience of Canadian Rockies train tours reflects regional differences. In addition to SilverLeaf service, most of the Canadian routes offer GoldLeaf service, which features bi-level glass-dome coaches, a lower-level dining room, and an outdoor viewing platform. GoldLeaf is unavailable on the U.S. route due to tunnel restrictions. The Rocky Mountaineer Utah experience offers SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus service with single-level dome cars and a lounge car with a bar. The Canadian Rocky Mountaineer Train Routes focus on dramatic mountain vistas and glacial landscapes, and journeys through Western Canada. The U.S. route highlights desert beauty and geological formations unique to the American Southwest, and offers distinct benefits depending on the desired scenery and travel style.

Are Rocky Mountaineer USA Tours Considered Luxury Travel?

Yes, Rocky Mountaineer USA tours are considered luxury travel. The “Rockies to the Red Rocks” route, which travels between Denver and Moab, showcases dramatic landscapes such as Ruby Canyon, the Colorado River, and towering red rock formations. Each journey is designed for daylight travel, allowing uninterrupted views through glass-domed cars. The service includes gourmet meals, locally sourced beverages, and overnight stays in handpicked hotels (options include The Crawford Hotel in Denver and Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs). The SilverLeaf service levels provide distinct amenities and exclusive outdoor viewing platforms.

Rocky Mountaineer USA tours embody luxury through onboard amenities and in the overall travel experience. The journey focuses on relaxation, storytelling, and cultural enrichment, with hosts providing insights into regional history and natural sights. Luggage handling is separate, and hotel check-ins are arranged in advance, ensuring added comfort and convenience. The expansion of the route into Salt Lake City via the Canyon Spirit brand highlights its dedication to luxury train rides. The tours offer a sophisticated alternative to standard transportation, meeting luxury travellers' expectations, featuring panoramic vistas, tailored service, and carefully designed itineraries.

Where does the Rocky Mountaineer Train Colorado Depart From?

The Rocky Mountaineer Train Colorado route departs from Denver Union Station at 9:00 AM Mountain Time, a central transportation hub located in the heart of downtown Denver. The train station marks the beginning of the “Rockies to the Red Rocks” journey, taking travellers west through Colorado’s mountainous landscape and into Utah's red rock formations. Denver Union Station offers several advantages as a departure location, such as proximity to major hotels, restaurants, and public transit, which makes it accessible for travellers arriving from various parts of the city. The train station features restored architecture and modern amenities, creating a welcoming environment before the journey begins. The train travels toward Glenwood Springs on the first day, followed by a second leg into Moab. The route showcases a variety of natural features, including canyons, rivers, and alpine forests, making the departure point in Denver a gateway to one of the most scenic rail experiences in the American Southwest.

How Far is the Red Rocks Train Station from Downtown Denver?

Red Rocks Train Station from downtown Denver is approximately 2 miles, a 10-minute drive. The Rocky Mountaineer Station in Denver serves as the departure point for the Rocky Mountaineer train on the Utah route and is located in the western part of the city. Denver is a good starting point for travellers with easy access to lodging, restaurants, and transport. The location is convenient, with nearby public transit and shuttle options for travellers taking the train. The route from Denver to Moab is full of scenic spots in Colorado and Utah, with Red Rocks serving as a gateway to the dramatic landscapes that come after.

Are there Luxury Train Rides in Colorado Like the Rocky Mountaineer?

Yes, there are Luxury Train Rides in Colorado, like the Rocky Mountaineer. The Rocky Mountaineer USA route (Rockies to the Red Rocks) runs between Denver and Moab and is a standard for luxury train travel. The train ride offers a multi-day trip emphasizing comfort and scenic views, featuring panoramic glass-dome cars, gourmet dining, and carefully curated hotel stays. The route highlights landmarks (Gore Canyon, Glenwood Springs, and Ruby Canyon), giving travellers sweeping vistas of Colorado’s rugged landscape. The experience includes onboard hosts, locally inspired cuisine, and storytelling that links guests to the region’s history and geology. Other scenic train rides in Colorado (Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad) provide stunning views of the San Juan Mountains and historic mining towns. The rides differ in focus and style. The Durango route features open-air cars and rugged mountain passes, highlighting adventure and heritage over luxury. The Rocky Mountaineer USA emphasizes relaxation, elegance, and curated hospitality, making it a leading example of luxury train travel in Colorado. The design appeals to travellers looking for a slow, captivating journey through landscapes that are inaccessible by road.

Is the Rocky Mountaineer Train Ride Colorado Available Year Round?

No, the Rocky Mountaineer Train ride in Colorado is not available year-round. The train ride operates seasonally from mid-April to November, with no service from December to March. The Rocky Mountaineer train ride offers daytime journeys with scenic views of the Rockies and Utah’s red rocks, including an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, which makes a comfortable, multi-day experience. The luxury train ride's seasonal schedule highlights its focus on panoramic views and curated hospitality. Spring and fall trips enjoy milder weather, while summer offers warm weather, vibrant desert scenery, and longer daylight hours. The break in winter service keeps the journey centred on visual enjoyment and prevents weather-related disruptions that could impact travel quality. Travellers aiming for a refined rail experience through Colorado’s dramatic landscape book well in advance to secure preferred dates, as many departures sell out months ahead due to limited availability and high demand.

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