img0 img1img2img3img4
Left Arrow
Right Arrow
img1
img2
img3
img4
Rating Star

5 (96)

Location Icon Denver

Denver to Moab Train Ride: Rockies to Red Rocks - SilverLeaf Plus

Clock

2880

Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo Rockies to the Red Rocks Train - Denver to Moab - SilverLeaf Plus offers a breathtaking two-day rail journey through the American West. This unique adventure travels from Denver, Colorado, to Moab, Utah, showcasing landscapes inaccessible by car. Passengers will witness vast canyons, stunning deserts, natural sandstone arches, and unique hoodoos.

The journey includes an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, a town known for its spa. The train route passes iconic landmarks like the River North Art District (RiNo) in Denver, the Big 10 Curve, Boulder, and the impressive Gross Reservoir Dam. Travelers will also experience the Moffat Tunnel, Winter Park, and the scenic Colorado River. The route continues through Byers Canyon, Gore Canyon, and the Upper Colorado River Canyon before arriving in Glenwood Springs. On the second day, the train continues past New Castle, De Beque Canyon, Palisade, Grand Junction, Fruita, and Ruby Canyon. Crossing into Utah, it passes Cisco and Thompson Springs before reaching Arches National Park and Moab.

Included in the experience are luggage handling, delicious onboard meals (breakfast and lunch), engaging storytelling from onboard hosts, gratuities, and restroom facilities. With SilverLeaf Plus service, guests enjoy exclusive access to a lounge car with extra space and an outdoor viewing area, along with premium alcoholic beverages and signature cocktails. This tour excludes pre- and post-trip lodging, onboard Wi-Fi, and airfare or connecting transportation. Quotes Logo

Highlights

Highlight Icon

Unmatched Views: See stunning canyons, deserts, and rock formations only accessible by train.

Highlight Icon

SilverLeaf Plus Perks: Enjoy premium drinks, a lounge car, and an outdoor viewing area.

Highlight Icon

Delicious Meals Included: Savor tasty breakfasts and lunches served right at the passenger's seat.

Highlight Icon

Expert Hosts: Learn about the scenery and history from engaging onboard hosts.

Sentiment Analysis

Quotes Logo

Customers generally had a wonderful experience, praising the scenery, service, and food. Some mentioned minor issues with the hotel and Wi-Fi. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers loved the amazing views of the canyons and rock formations.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many enjoyed the comfortable seating and spaciousness on the train.

    Positive Highlight Icon Travelers appreciated the friendly and helpful staff on board.

    Positive Highlight Icon Guests were impressed by the delicious food and drink options.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some found the overnight hotel in Glenwood Springs basic.

    Negative Highlight Icon A few guests wished for better Wi-Fi access during the trip.

The Journey

1

Denver, Colorado

Begin your Rocky Mountaineer adventure in Denver, Colorado's vibrant capital city. Known as the 'Mile High City,' Denver boasts a thriving cultural scene, craft breweries, and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Enjoy a locally-inspired breakfast and lunch onboard the train as you depart this dynamic urban center.

2

River North Art District (RiNo)

Pass through Denver's River North Art District, or 'RiNo,' a haven for creative businesses and street art. Marvel at the colorful murals that adorn the buildings and alleys, reflecting the neighborhood's energetic spirit. Keep an eye out for the playful rhino motifs throughout the district, a nod to its artistic identity.

3

Big 10 Curve

Experience an engineering marvel as the train navigates the Big 10 Curve. These tight, 10-degree radius curves were ingeniously designed to maintain a gentle 2% grade, allowing trains to safely ascend steep inclines. Appreciate the ingenuity and skill involved in creating this vital link in America's railway network.

4

Boulder, Colorado

Catch a glimpse of Boulder, a city where the Rocky Mountains meet the Great Plains. Known for its breweries, culinary scene, and outdoor pursuits, Boulder offers a tempting blend of urban and natural attractions. Don't miss the iconic Flatirons, remnants of the ancient Ancestral Rocky Mountains, that define the city's skyline.

5

Gross Reservoir Dam

Take in the views of the Gross Reservoir Dam as the train ascends. This impressive reservoir provides crucial water resources for the city of Denver and the agricultural heartland of the Great Plains. Observe this vital infrastructure and the role it plays in sustaining life in the region.

6

Moffat Tunnel & Winter Park

Pass through the Moffat Tunnel, a 6.2-mile engineering feat that cuts through the Continental Divide. Emerge into the scenic mountain resort town of Winter Park, Denver's premier winter playground since 1940. With over 300 inches of annual snowfall and 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, Winter Park offers an unforgettable alpine experience.

7

Colorado River

Follow the course of the legendary Colorado River, renowned for its dramatic canyons and thrilling whitewater rapids. Watch for rafters navigating the river's currents, and appreciate the raw beauty of this iconic waterway that has shaped the landscape for millennia.

8

Byers Canyon

Admire the picturesque Byers Canyon as the train winds along the Colorado River. This rugged landscape offers stunning views and potential wildlife sightings. Keep your eyes peeled for native animals that call these canyons home, adding an element of surprise to your journey.

9

Gore Canyon

Peer into Gore Canyon, the most dramatic canyon along the route, with cliffs rising over 1,000 feet above the Colorado River. Known for its challenging Class 4 and 5 rapids, including Fisherman's Nightmare and Applesauce, Gore Canyon is a mecca for experienced rafters seeking an adrenaline rush.

10

Upper Colorado River Canyon

Marvel at the scale of this rugged canyon, the largest in the Upper Colorado region, considered one of the most scenic natural features in the United States. The sheer cliffs and untouched wilderness create a breathtaking backdrop, showcasing the raw power of nature.

11

Glenwood Springs, Colorado

Arrive in the historic resort town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado, a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Unwind in the comfort of your hotel or soak in the renowned Glenwood Hot Springs Pool, one of the world's largest mineral hot springs. Enjoy the town's charming atmosphere and prepare for another day of scenic exploration.

12

Glenwood Springs Departure

Begin your second day onboard the Rocky Mountaineer with a delicious breakfast featuring locally-sourced ingredients as you depart Glenwood Springs. The journey continues southwest, revealing more mountain vistas and desert landscapes.

13

New Castle, Colorado

Pass through the town of New Castle, nestled along the banks of the Colorado River. A popular spot for trout fishing, rafting, and kayaking, New Castle offers a glimpse into Colorado's outdoor lifestyle. Keep an eye out for deer, elk, bears, and mountain lions that inhabit the surrounding mountainous terrain.

14

De Beque Canyon & Palisade

Witness the impressive landscapes of De Beque Canyon, a 15-mile narrow canyon with stair-step cliffs of sedimentary rock. Continue to Palisade, famed for its juicy Palisade peaches and as Colorado's first wine region. Towering above the town is Mount Garfield, the highest point of the Book Cliffs, marking the transition from Colorado to Utah.

15

Grand Junction, Colorado

Travel through Grand Junction, the largest city on Colorado's western slope, located at the confluence of the Gunnison and Colorado Rivers. Founded in 1882, Grand Junction has long been a major fruit-growing region, known for its orchards and agricultural heritage.

16

Fruita, Colorado

Pass by Fruita, a city surrounded by stunning mesas and famous for its dinosaur fossils. Uniquely, Fruita is also known as the home of 'Mike the Headless Chicken' and holds an annual festival in his memory, adding a quirky touch to this Western town.

17

Ruby Canyon

Enter Ruby Canyon, a 25-mile canyon carved by the Colorado River, with towering red sandstone cliffs. This section of the river, popular for rafting, is largely inaccessible except by water or rail. Look for the painted declaration 'Utah I Colorado' marking the state border on the canyon walls.

18

Cisco, Utah

Witness the haunting remnants of Cisco, Utah, a ghost town that once thrived as a watering stop for steam engines. The construction of Interstate 70 and the decline of steam locomotives led to its economic demise. Movie buffs might recognize Cisco as a location from the film 'Thelma and Louise.'

19

Thompson Springs, Utah

Observe Thompson Springs, Utah, another town that fell victim to changing times. Though only a few residents remain, the area holds historical significance. Explore the Thompson Wash Rock Art District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, featuring petroglyphs and pictographs left by early Native Americans.

20

Arches National Park & Moab

Behold the breathtaking red rock formations as you approach Moab and pass by Arches National Park. Marvel at the over 2,000 arches, including the impressive Landscape Arch. In the distance, see the La Sal Mountains. Established in 1929, the park presents a stunning display of natural beauty and geological wonder.

21

Moab, Utah

Your rail journey concludes in Moab, the gateway to Utah's Mighty 5 National Parks. Known for its warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere, Moab invites you to explore the wonders of Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Parks. Discover microbreweries, restaurants, and galleries in this charming American Southwest town.

Know Before You Go

This two-day train journey includes luggage handling to and from the midpoint accommodations in Glenwood Springs, delicious lunches and breakfasts, engaging storytelling and world-class service from onboard Hosts, gratuities, and restroom facilities. The package also covers one night's accommodation in Glenwood Springs. It does not include pre- and post-trip lodging, onboard Wi-Fi, or airfare and connecting transportation to and from the departure and arrival locations.

Hot Tip

Reviewers suggest sitting on the left side of the train for the best views, especially on the first day. Packing layers is also recommended, as temperatures can vary throughout the journey. Bring a camera to capture the incredible scenery!

From $2327 Price

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.

Book Now

As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.