Denver to Moab: Rocky Mountaineer 2-Day Scenic Luxury Train

Denver to Moab: Rocky Mountaineer 2-Day Scenic Luxury Train
Location: Colorado, United States
Country: United States
Price: $1,725 per person
Duration: 2 days
Supplier: Rocky Mountaineer

Traveling by train often conjures images of slow-moving, retro rail journeys, but this is something quite different. The Rocky Mountaineer’s two-day scenic route from Denver to Moab offers an upscale, well-paced adventure through some of the most eye-popping landscapes the American West has to offer. For about $1,725 per person, you’ll spend two days aboard a luxurious train, soaking in towering mountains, dramatic canyons, and vivid red rock scenery, with gourmet meals, engaging storytelling, and a comfy overnight stay in Glenwood Springs.

What we really love about this experience are the spectacular vistas—from crossing the Continental Divide to traveling through Ruby Canyon, the views are genuinely breathtaking. The second thing that stands out is the quality of the onboard service; the hosts are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making sure you understand the stories behind the landscapes while keeping your glass full of regional wines or non-alcoholic options.

One potential drawback is the price—at over $1,700 per person, this isn’t a budget option. It’s a splurge, but one that offers a sense of exclusivity and comfort that many travelers will find worth the cost. This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic experience with plenty of amenities, and aren’t in a rush to cover the miles by car.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates beautiful landscapes, good food, and a touch of luxury, this trip will suit you well. It’s ideal for those who prefer a more leisurely pace, want to avoid the hassle of driving, or are curious about the stories behind the scenery. Let’s explore what makes this journey so special.

Key Points

• Spectacular Landscapes: See Colorado’s canyons, mountains, hoodoos, and Utah’s red rock formations—all from the comfort of your train seat.
• Luxury Experience: Gourmet regionally inspired meals, onboard storytelling, and comfortable seating with ample legroom.
• Unique Route: Crossing the Continental Divide and traveling through iconic spots like Mount Garfield, Gore Canyon, and Ruby Canyon.
• Overnight in Glenwood Springs: Relax in a charming town known for its hot springs, with luggage handled seamlessly.
• Convenient & All-Inclusive: Meals, lodging, and transfers are included, making this a hassle-free way to explore and relax.
• Educational & Entertaining: Knowledgeable hosts share stories about the landscapes, geology, and local culture, enriching your journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Day 1: Denver to Glenwood Springs
Your adventure begins at Denver’s historic Union Station, where you’ll meet your train, the Canyon Spirit. From there, the route takes you southwest into the Rockies, crossing the famous Moffat Tunnel—the highest point of the route and a marvel of engineering. This tunnel slices through the Continental Divide, offering a glimpse into railroad history and stunning views of the mountains above.

Once out of the tunnel, you’ll pass through Gore Canyon, with its sheer cliffs and raging river, and then glide into Glenwood Canyon, known for its dramatic curves and towering cliffs. Your onboard hosts will share stories about the natural wonders and railroad heritage of the region, making the scenery come alive with context. The meals—breakfast and lunch—are regionally inspired and served right at your seat, with a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to enhance the experience.

Arriving in Glenwood Springs in the early evening feels like stepping into a mountain town postcard—think steam rising from hot springs and cozy lodges. Here, your luggage will be waiting in your hotel room, so you can relax without hauling bags.

Day 2: Glenwood Springs to Moab
The next morning, you board the same luxurious train, heading westward into Utah. The landscape shifts from alpine forests to expansive plateaus, with the Book Cliffs rising in the distance. The highlight here is Ruby Canyon, where vibrant red and orange walls carve through the landscape, giving you one of the most striking visual contrasts of the trip.

This section offers a window into Utah’s geology, Native American history, and the rugged terrain that makes the state famous. Your onboard hosts continue their storytelling, enriching your appreciation of what you’re seeing. The day features a light breakfast and lunch, paired with curated beverage options, before arriving in Moab in the afternoon—your gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

What’s Included & What to Expect

This journey is designed to maximize comfort and engagement. The included components are notable:

• Breakfasts and a lunch—regionally inspired and served at your seat—allowing you to dine while soaking up the scenery.
• One night’s accommodation in Glenwood Springs, with luggage handled directly to your hotel.
• Luggage handling from train to hotel and vice versa simplifies logistics.
• Engaging storytelling from onboard hosts who bring the landscapes and history to life.
• All gratuities are covered, removing the need for you to worry about tipping.

What’s not included? Pre- and post-trip lodging, Wi-Fi onboard, and any connecting transportation before or after the train are additional expenses to plan for separately.

The Experience of Traveling by Rail

Traveling by luxury train like this offers a different perspective from driving or flying. You can sit back, relax, and truly take in the scenery—no need to worry about navigation or traffic. The train’s comfortable seats—ample legroom and large windows—make it easy to stare out and feel part of the landscape.

The storytelling aspect adds a layer of depth that makes the scenery more meaningful. Hearing about Colorado’s railroad history, the geology of Ruby Canyon, or the Native American ties to the land turns a simple view into a story you can connect with.

The gourmet meals are a highlight, especially if you appreciate regional cuisine. They’re served at your seat, making it a cozy, intimate experience perfect for chatting or simply gazing out glassy windows.

The Highlights in Detail

More Great Tours Nearby

Crossing the Continental Divide

This is a moment many travelers find memorable—watching the landscape change as you pass through the Moffat Tunnel, which is 6.2 miles long. The ride over the divide offers sweeping mountain views and a sense of traveling through history.

Gore Canyon & Glenwood Canyon

Gore Canyon’s steep cliffs and rushing river are dramatic. Later, Glenwood Canyon’s winding walls and waterfalls make for spectacular photo stops—though on the train, you’re immersed in the view without the hassle of stopping traffic.

Ruby Canyon

Utah’s vivid red walls are arguably the route’s pièce de résistance. The canyon’s colors and shapes seem almost surreal, providing countless photo opportunities and a sense of wonder.

Glenwood Springs

Famous for its natural hot springs, this town offers a chance to relax after the train journey—some travelers take a dip, others enjoy local dining or just unwind in the mountain air.

Moab & Surroundings

While the train arrives in Moab in the afternoon, many travelers use this as a base for exploring Arches and Canyonlands. The red rock formations here are unlike anything seen elsewhere, and the trip’s scenic foundation enhances your visit.

Authenticity & Value

While this experience comes at a premium, the value lies in comfort, scenery, and storytelling—all bundled into a seamless two-day adventure. The luxury train allows you to see areas that are difficult to access by car or plane, like the crossing of the Continental Divide or Ruby Canyon. And the included overnight stay in Glenwood Springs makes this more than just a day trip; it’s a mini-vacation.

Travelers who have reviewed it often praise the quality of the onboard meals and the informative hosts. Some note that the scenery exceeded expectations, describing the views as “breathtaking” and “surreal,” especially the red canyon walls. Others appreciate the ease—no need to worry about driving or navigating mountain roads after a long day; instead, you relax and enjoy.

Considerations:

This tour isn’t cheap, so those on a strict budget might consider alternative ways to see these landscapes. Also, if you’re looking for a purely active adventure or outdoor pursuits, this train journey emphasizes comfort and scenery over physical activity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want luxury, comfort, and stunning scenery all in one package. It suits those who prefer relaxed travel to the hustle of driving, and who enjoy learning about the places they visit through storytelling. It’s also well-suited for groups, couples, or solo travelers who want a memorable, upscale experience without sacrificing authenticity.

It’s less ideal for travelers on a tight budget or those seeking a more rugged, adventure-focused trip. But if you’re after a peaceful, scenic ride with excellent service and gorgeous views, this journey from Denver to Moab should be on your radar.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and onboard hosts are likely to assist, but it’s best to confirm accessibility details when booking.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast and lunch are served during both days, with regionally inspired dishes and beverage options available.

Do I need to bring my luggage?
Luggage is handled for you, transferred directly to your hotel in Glenwood Springs and then to your next destination, making packing light and easy.

Can I start the trip in Moab instead of Denver?
Yes, you can choose the reverse route, traveling from Moab to Denver on the Rockies to the Red Rocks route.

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Wi-Fi is not included in the package, so plan accordingly if you need connectivity.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The onboard menus cater to various diets like vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, etc. Guests are asked to notify the tour provider of any restrictions via a food allergy form.

What is the cancellation policy?
This activity is non-refundable, so plan your dates carefully before booking.

In The Sum Up
The Denver to Moab: Rocky Mountaineer offers a scenic, luxurious way to explore some of the most dramatic landscapes of Colorado and Utah. It’s a journey that combines comfort, storytelling, and spectacular views, making it perfect for travelers who wish to enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving. While it costs more than a typical train ride or road trip, the quality of the experience—gourmet meals, engaging guides, and breathtaking vistas—can make it a memorable highlight of your Western adventure.

Ideal for those who value relaxation, scenery, and a touch of elegance, this trip suits travelers eager to see the unseen west from a window seat and collect stories to last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: