Rockies to the Red Rocks

Our adventure began in Denver, Colorado, the Mile High City, where the vibe is a perfect blend of urban cool and rugged outdoor spirit. Known for its craft beer scene, passionate sports culture, and proximity to the Rocky Mountains, Denver was the ideal launchpad for our journey.

We stayed close to the beautifully restored Denver Union Station, a grand landmark that now buzzes with restaurants, boutiques, and easy transit links including a direct train to the airport. It’s the kind of place where you can sip coffee, people-watch, and feel the pulse of the city all at once.

The real magic began as we boarded the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day rail journey from Denver to Moab. Pulling out of the city, the train made a steep climb into the Colorado Rockies. From our glass-dome coach, we watched the urban sprawl fade into a stunning tapestry of rugged canyons, dense forests, and the ever-winding Colorado River.

What sets the Rocky Mountaineer apart—besides the views—is the experience onboard. Think: gourmet meals, panoramic windows, and staff who somehow anticipate what you need before you do. It’s a luxury train ride, but one that still feels rooted in adventure.

That evening, we arrived in Glenwood Springs, a charming mountain town famous for its natural hot springs. We stayed at the historic Hotel Colorado, built in 1893 and steeped in old-world charm—and possibly a few ghost stories. (Let’s just say there were some mysterious creaks and bumps in the night!) Overlooking the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool, the hotel had huge rooms and a cozy bar and restaurant where we unwound after a day on the rails.

The next morning, we rolled into a whole new world. As we crossed into Utah, the landscape transformed dramatically. Gone were the lush greens of Colorado; in their place rose deep-red cliffs, sculptural hoodoos, and vast stretches of desert.

One highlight was Ruby Canyon—a remote, crimson-hued gorge carved by the Colorado River and inaccessible by road. Watching those towering cliffs pass by from the comfort of the train felt like peeking into a hidden world.

The train journey ended in Moab, Utah—a lively desert town and the gateway to two of America’s most awe-inspiring national parks: Arches and Canyonlands. We spent two days exploring Arches, hiking past impossibly balanced rock formations like Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch. Each vista looked like a scene from another planet.

Canyonlands, by contrast, felt even more expansive and serene. In fact, I discovered it’s wider than the Grand Canyon (thanks, Google!)and to me, it felt just as grand, if not more so.

From Moab, we drove five hours north to Salt Lake City, tracing the edge of Utah’s surreal desert terrain along the way. Arriving in the city felt like returning to civilization, but with the wildness of the West still lingering in the air.

Salt Lake is clean, friendly, and framed by dramatic, snow-dusted peaks. We stayed downtown near Temple Square, soaking up the mix of historical landmarks and modern culture. At night, we explored cozy cafés and vibrant restaurants, discovering a surprisingly creative and artsy side to the city.

This journey—from the alpine charm of Colorado to the fiery landscapes of Utah was the perfect combination of luxury, nature, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re a train travel enthusiast, a hiking junkie, or just someone who wants to see the heart of the American West in style, this route is truly unforgettable