jump on board | en route | landscapes and landmarks | be their guest | extend your journey
Your all-access pass to the American Southwest
T he American Southwest’s rugged beauty is something out of a movie frame. There’s no place quite like this rocky playground, with those awe-inspiring red rocks, burnt orange vistas and blazing sunsets. Rocky Mountaineer train journeys offer much more than point-A-to-point-B trips through this renowned region—they are truly transformational passages. Introduced in 2021, the Rockies to the Red Rocks route offers a journey to marvel in the beauty of the region's landscapes. From the rock formations and natural archways to the desert vistas and canyons, there’s always something to marvel at from the comfort of your seat. And most of those panoramic views? They're best seen by rail.
Here’s why now is the time to experience the Southwest on board Rocky Mountaineer (and what to expect).
Now is the time to see
the Southwest
This is the year to experience the American Southwest like never before. Rocky Mountaineer offers the most unique way to do it—through the magic of train travel. Guests will enjoy custom-designed coaches and locally inspired dining that few companies in the world offer. Rocky Mountaineer has extended the 2025 season into November, meaning you have more options to experience the Southwest.
Experience the best of the Southwest on board Rockies to the Red Rocks
in collaboration with:
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Arches National Park near Moab, Utah
Jump on board
En route
Landscapes and landmarks
Be their guest
Zion National Park | credit: Jay Dash Photography
Canyonland National Park at sunset | credit: Robert Riberia
Glenwood Springs, Colorado | credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Plan your trip
Rockies to the Red Rocks route | credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Stunning views from the comfort of your seat | credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Delicate Arch in Arches National Park | credit: Ken Cheung
Onboard service | credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Downtown Glenwood Springs | credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Arches National Park | credit: Andrey Grinkevich
Glenwood Hot Springs Pool | credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Mount Garfield | credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Byers Canyon | credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Credit: Rocky Mountaineer
SilverLeaf service | credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Byers Canyon | credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Utah | credit: Robert Riberia
Photo credit: Rocky Mountaineer
And, in addition to the postcard perfect views best seen by rail on the Rockies to the Red Rocks journey, Rocky Mountaineer has two new packages for 2025 that travel between Moab and Denver. The Classic journey offers up two nights in Moab, one in Glenwood Springs and two in Denver while the Moab Getaway is shorter with two nights in Moab and one in Glenwood Springs.
The route between Moab & Denver
Rocky Mountaineer’s two-day Rockies to the Red Rocks journey features three destinations that epitomize the Southwest. Journey through Moab to Glenwood Springs and finish Denver—each offers its own distinct character for a vibrant mix of nature, relaxation and city life. Guests could also look to start in Denver if they want to end their journey amidst the red rocks of Moab.
Nature’s playground
Moab, the self-proclaimed 'nature’s masterpiece,' is the gateway to Utah's mighty five national parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion. Arches is just a 10-minute drive away and Canyonlands is about 30. Both are easily accessible with guided tours and add-ons. Moab is surrounded by beautiful rock formations and myriad outdoor adventure activities. From hiking and biking to whitewater rafting on the Colorado River, this is the destination for outdoor appreciation.
Experience western charm
An overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, means you’ll have the chance to experience the area's rich history. What was once a raucous mining settlement called Defiance is now a wellness destination in its own right, cradled in the Glenwood Canyon. There are geo-thermal hot springs and year-round activities, along with great dining and shopping. Everyone from frontiersman Buffalo Bill to President Theodore Roosevelt have passed through—the former was a major fan of the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool.
The best of the Southwest
is en route
The adage "the journey is part of the experience" rings true on board Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks journey through the Southwest. Passing by ancient rock canyons, through mountain ranges and alongside rivers, you’ll see the iconic landscapes of the Southwest, and the best part? Because Rocky Mountaineer trains only run during daylight hours, there are no missed views, ever. Landmarks abound here; spot Mount Garfield, the highest point of the Book Cliffs and the red rocks of Ruby Canyon, clearly viewable by the train, as it crosses the Utah-Colorado border on your way to Glenwood Springs.
Along the mighty Colorado River, Byers and Gore Canyons offer epic views that few have seen—there is minimal train traffic along this stretch. Cut through the Continental Divide as the train goes through the six-mile-long Moffat Tunnel, both a historic landmark and an engineering marvel. Experience the long slow curve of the Big 10 where the railroad makes a 270-degree turn near the foot of the Colorado Rocky Mountains. This journey also passes the Gross Reservoir Dam, which sits over 7,000 feet above sea level.
The Rocky Mountaineer experience
Rocky Mountaineer offers an elevated experience, through a region that few get to encounter. On board, expect the service, cabin, food and scenery to bring train travel to a whole other level. The glass-dome coaches are custom-designed to provide the ultimate viewing experience, as are the outdoor viewing areas, so whether you’re dining or just soaking up the views, there’s always a new vista passing by. There’s plenty of space on board for spreading out and socializing, too. Want even more room? Upgrade to SilverLeaf+ for access to the lounge car, exclusive to this route.
Count on multiple Hosts in every coach to keep your glass full and whisk away your luggage right when you step on board. Plus, Hosts are a wealth of knowledge—they know all about the geography and history of the American Southwest and will guide your journey with engaging storytelling. Sip on signature cocktails, along with local wine or beer, as you soak up the Southwest. Onboard dining is elevated with locally inspired snacks and multi-course meals.
A must-see destination
Choose between starting or ending your journey in Denver, Colorado, known as the "Mile High City." It’s not only on top for being a great place to live, but also at the top of the list for one of the sunniest places in the country—Denver has 300 days of sunshine annually. This vibrant city is a mix of modern and western charm with great dining and arts scenes, along with outdoor adventure and panoramic views of the Colorado Rockies. Pick up or drop off is conveniently located at Denver’s Union Station in the city’s trendy downtown core.
Las Vegas | credit: Sung Shin
Extend your journey
Make that connection count
For those looking to continue their Southwest adventure, Rocky Mountaineer offers extended packages to Salt Lake City and Las Vegas, like the Rockies to the Red Rocks Mighty 5 Explorer and the Rockies to the Red Rocks Excursion Salt Lake City. As the closest major city to Moab, Salt Lake City offers great dining and shopping, along with exceptional outdoor activities like Red Butte Garden and world-class skiing. Las Vegas needs no introduction, but the Nevada landmark offers glitz and glamour in the desert with world-famous nightlife.
Salt Lake City | credit: Rocky Mountaineer
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Photo credit: Rocky Mountaineer
16th Street Mall, Denver | credit: Rebecca Todd
Union Station, Denver, Colorado | credit: Scott Dressel Martin
Colorado River flowing through Glenwood Canyon
jump on board | en route | landscapes and landmarks | be their guest | extend your journey
jump on board | en route | landscapes and landmarks | be their guest | extend your journey
jump on board | en route | landscapes and landmarks | be their guest | extend your journey
jump on board | en route | landscapes and landmarks | be their guest | extend your journey
Now is the time to see
the Southwest
This is the year to experience the American Southwest like never before. Rocky Mountaineer offers the most unique way to do it—through the magic of train travel. Guests will enjoy custom-designed coaches and locally inspired dining that few companies in the world offer. Rocky Mountaineer has extended the 2025 season into November, meaning you have more options to experience the Southwest.
The route between Moab & Denver
Rocky Mountaineer’s two-day Rockies to the Red Rocks journey features three destinations that epitomize the Southwest. Journey through Moab to Glenwood Springs and finish Denver—each offers its own distinct character for a vibrant mix of nature, relaxation and city life. Guests could also look to start in Denver if they want to end their journey amidst the red rocks of Moab.
Nature’s playground
Moab, the self-proclaimed 'nature’s masterpiece,' is the gateway to Utah's mighty five national parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef and Zion. Arches is just a 10-minute drive away and Canyonlands is about 30. Both are easily accessible with guided tours and add-ons. Moab is surrounded by beautiful rock formations and myriad outdoor adventure activities. From hiking and biking to whitewater rafting on the Colorado River, this is the destination for outdoor appreciation.
Experience western charm
An overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, means you’ll have the chance to experience the area's rich history. What was once a raucous mining settlement called Defiance is now a wellness destination in its own right, cradled in the Glenwood Canyon. There are geo-thermal hot springs and year-round activities, along with great dining and shopping. Everyone from frontiersman Buffalo Bill to President Theodore Roosevelt have passed through—the former was a major fan of the Glenwood Hot Springs Pool.
A must-see destination
Choose between starting or ending your journey in Denver, Colorado, known as the "Mile High City." It’s not only on top for being a great place to live, but also at the top of the list for one of the sunniest places in the country—Denver has 300 days of sunshine annually. This vibrant city is a mix of modern and western charm with great dining and arts scenes, along with outdoor adventure and panoramic views of the Colorado Rockies. Pick up or drop off is conveniently located at Denver’s Union Station in the city’s trendy downtown core.
The best of the Southwest
is en route
The adage "the journey is part of the experience" rings true on board Rocky Mountaineer’s Rockies to the Red Rocks journey through the Southwest. Passing by ancient rock canyons, through mountain ranges and alongside rivers, you’ll see the iconic landscapes of the Southwest, and the best part? Because Rocky Mountaineer trains only run during daylight hours, there are no missed views, ever. Landmarks abound here; spot Mount Garfield, the highest point of the Book Cliffs and the red rocks of Ruby Canyon, clearly viewable by the train, as it crosses the Utah-Colorado border on your way to Glenwood Springs.
The Rocky Mountaineer experience
Rocky Mountaineer offers an elevated experience, through a region that few get to encounter. On board, expect the service, cabin, food and scenery to bring train travel to a whole other level. The glass-dome coaches are custom-designed to provide the ultimate viewing experience, as are the outdoor viewing areas, so whether you’re dining or just soaking up the views, there’s always a new vista passing by. There’s plenty of space on board for spreading out and socializing, too. Want even more room? Upgrade to SilverLeaf+ for access to the lounge car, exclusive to this route.
Make that connection count
For those looking to continue their Southwest adventure, Rocky Mountaineer offers extended packages to Salt Lake City and Las Vegas, like the Rockies to the Red Rocks Mighty 5 Explorer and the Rockies to the Red Rocks Excursion Salt Lake City. As the closest major city to Moab, Salt Lake City offers great dining and shopping, along with exceptional outdoor activities like Red Butte Garden and world-class skiing. Las Vegas needs no introduction, but the Nevada landmark offers glitz and glamour in the desert with world-famous nightlife. On April 17, Rocky Mountaineer launched a new promotion offering couples up to $1000 off select 2025 Rockies to the Red Rocks journeys, available for bookings made by May 15. Plus, Travelzoo members receive an exclusive $200 discount on top of that.