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

Traveling through the American West by train offers a unique way to enjoy its vast, rugged beauty. The Moab to Denver journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer is a two-day adventure designed for those who love spectacular scenery, comfort, and a touch of luxury. Starting in Moab, Utah, home to iconic red rock formations, and ending in the vibrant city of Denver, Colorado, this route is packed with unforgettable views of canyons, mountains, and rivers. The journey costs around $1,723 per person, and includes a night in Glenwood Springs, famous for its hot springs and charming small-town vibe.

What we love about this experience are the incredible vistas—especially Ruby Canyon and the crossing of the Continental Divide—and the engaging storytelling by onboard hosts that bring the landscape and history alive. The regionally inspired gourmet meals served aboard the train elevate the trip from beautiful to memorable. Plus, the luxury of the train itself, with spacious seats and plenty of legroom, makes long viewing periods comfortable and even relaxing.

A possible consideration is the price point—it’s an indulgence, but one that many feel offers good value given the scenery and service. Also, keep in mind that WiFi is not included, so if staying connected is essential, plan accordingly. This trip is best suited for travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes, enjoy a leisurely pace, and want a more refined way to see the American West.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: Experience Utah’s red rocks, Colorado’s canyons, and mountain vistas all from the comfort of a luxurious train.
• Engaging Storytelling: Onboard hosts share fascinating insights into geology, Native American heritage, and railroad history.
• Gourmet Dining: Enjoy regional-inspired meals and drinks, including alcohol and non-alcoholic options.
• Overnight in Glenwood Springs: Relax in a charming spa town known for its hot springs.
• Comfort & Convenience: Spacious seats, well-appointed restrooms, luggage handling, and motorcoach transfers simplify the journey.
• Limited Connectivity: No onboard WiFi, so plan for a tech-free experience or offline entertainment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Rocky Mountaineer Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The two-day route from Moab to Denver is designed to highlight the most striking sights of this part of the West, with a comfortable pace that allows you to absorb each landscape in detail.

Day 1: Moab to Glenwood Springs begins in the afternoon, when you board the Canyon Spirit, a luxury train that glides past some of Utah’s most dramatic scenery. Expect to see the famous red rock formations and expansive plateaus that make Moab a favorite for outdoor lovers. The highlight of this first leg is Ruby Canyon, where the train runs along the Colorado River beneath imposing red sandstone cliffs—a scene that’s both awe-inspiring and photographic.

Throughout this journey, your onboard hosts are lively storytellers who share insights into the geology, Native American history, and the railroad’s role in shaping the region. Many reviews praise the hosts for their engaging manner, with one guest noting, “The storytelling from our host, Mark, was the perfect complement to the incredible scenery.” The dining experience is equally memorable, with regionally inspired dinners served at your seat, accompanied by wine, beer, or non-alcoholic drinks, making the journey feel like a luxury dining event on wheels.

Arriving in Glenwood Springs in the evening, you’ll find your luggage waiting at your hotel—an effortless transition that keeps the focus on relaxation. This town is famed for its hot springs, so if time permits, a soak in the mineral pools can be a delightful way to unwind after a day on the rails.

Day 2: Glenwood Springs to Denver begins with stunning views of Glenwood Canyon, one of Colorado’s most scenic drives, but here you get to see it from the comfort of the train. The route continues through remote Gore Canyon with rugged beauty and crosses the Continental Divide via the historic Moffat Tunnel, a feat of engineering that’s been in use since 1928. The train’s large windows offer unparalleled views of towering mountain walls and rushing rivers, making it a perfect setting for photos.

Breakfast and lunch are served onboard, with hosts sharing stories about the natural features and history of the route. Travelers often comment on how much they appreciated the comfortable seating and the informative narration—many found it a highlight of the trip. The journey culminates in Denver, a vibrant city with plenty of sights, but for many, the journey’s quiet beauty and storytelling are what linger in their memories.

The Train & Service

The luxury train itself is a highlight. The spacious seats are designed for comfort and feature large windows to maximize the scenic viewing experience. For an extra touch of exclusivity, you can upgrade to SilverLeaf Plus, which provides more space and access to lounge cars, perfect for relaxing between scenery stops. The onboard hosts are dedicated to ensuring an engaging, comfortable experience, sharing stories and answering questions.

The meals serve as a highlight—each dish is thoughtfully prepared with regional ingredients, and the inclusion of alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks adds to the leisurely pace. The luggage handling to and from your overnight stay in Glenwood Springs is smooth, freeing you from worries about packing and unpacking.

Scenic Highlights & Photo Opportunities

The route is packed with photo-worthy moments. The Colorado River at Ruby Canyon is a favorite for many, with striking red sandstone cliffs framing the water. The crossing of the Continental Divide is another impressive sight, marking a natural boundary where waters flow to different oceans. Glenwood Canyon is a marvel of engineering—its towering walls and rushing waters are best appreciated from the train’s panoramic windows.

The journey also covers Mount Garfield and the colorful Ruby Canyon, providing a variety of landscapes—from arid deserts to lush mountain forests. Many travelers mention the quality of the scenery as the highlight, and the train’s large windows make sure you don’t miss a thing.

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Price & Value

At $1,723 per person, this journey is an investment in comfort, scenery, and memorable storytelling. Compared to other scenic train rides, the cost includes gourmet meals, overnight accommodations, and expert narration, which enhances the overall value. The luxury train experience means you’re paying for comfort and exclusivity, but many feel it’s worth it for the chance to see these landscapes in style.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for scenery lovers who enjoy a relaxed, luxurious experience. It’s also a good fit if you appreciate storytelling and cultural insights. Travelers who are looking for a comfortable way to see remote landscapes without the hassle of driving will find this journey especially appealing. It’s less ideal if you prefer quick, budget-friendly travel or need WiFi on the go, as those features are not part of the experience.

The Sum Up

The Moab to Denver Rocky Mountaineer offers more than just a train ride; it’s an opportunity to connect with the natural beauty of the American West in a refined setting. With stunning scenery, engaging storytelling, and fine regional cuisine, it’s a travel experience that elevates sightseeing into an elegant adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or celebrating a special occasion, this journey provides a memorable way to appreciate the vast landscapes from the comfort of a well-appointed train.

If you’re craving breathtaking views combined with luxury and storytelling, this trip is hard to beat. It’s an experience designed for those who want to slow down and truly soak in the scenery, making it a fantastic choice for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, or anyone seeking a somewhat indulgent but authentic way to explore the West.

FAQ

How long is the journey?
The entire experience spans two days, with the first day from Moab to Glenwood Springs in the afternoon and the second day from Glenwood Springs to Denver in the morning and early afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), beverages (including alcoholic drinks), one night’s accommodation in Glenwood Springs, luggage handling, and onboard storytelling and service.

Is there an upgrade option?
Yes, you can upgrade to SilverLeaf Plus for more space and access to lounge cars, enhancing comfort and relaxation during the trip.

Are there any free WiFi options onboard?
No, WiFi is not included, so plan for offline entertainment or prepare to disconnect during the journey.

What about dietary restrictions?
Menus cater to various dietary needs such as vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, etc. Guests are asked to notify the tour provider by filling out a dietary form in their final documents.

Can I join the journey in Denver or Glenwood Springs?
No, the itinerary starts in Moab and ends in Denver, with an overnight in Glenwood Springs. The route is designed as a continuous experience, not a flexible start or end point.

Is this trip wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing more travelers to enjoy the scenery comfortably.

What should I bring?
Bring toiletries, personal medications, a daypack, ID, and any personal essentials. Remember, no weapons, smoking, vaping, or pets (except assistance dogs) are allowed.

What is the best time of year for this trip?
While not specified, scenic train routes like this are generally most enjoyable in late spring through early fall when weather is warm and landscapes are lush, but check the provider’s schedule for availability.

You can check availability for your dates here: