Denver, CO 16th Street Mall 
Glenwood Springs, CO 
Arches National Park, Utah
Rising up from the Earth, tall, red, and majestic, experiencing the breathtaking views of the American Rockies and its magnificent rock formations along with the expansive desert and vast canyons is nothing short of spectacular. Now, imagine seeing and experiencing these incredible views from the comfort of a luxury train car, surrounded on all sides by crystal-clear oversized domed windows, where you’ll never miss a moment of the West’s wonderous and ever-changing landscape.
“Even after living in Colorado for over 30 years, I am always in awe of mother nature and the sites and formations we can see in this beloved state,” says Travel Advisor Susie McMahon, owner of Luxe Lowcountry Travel. “Utah is spectacular, and the sandstone formations seem to be from another planet.”
Aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, you’ll venture through parts of the Continental Divide that can’t be seen on foot or by car, but only by train. Chances are you’ve never experienced travel quite like this – intimate, inviting, and effortless. Be among the first guests on this new Southwest rail expedition, October 17-20, 2021, traveling from Denver to the resort town of Glenwood Springs, CO for a hotel stay then on to Moab, UT — the gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. There you’ll stay at the funky downtown Gonzo Inn to rest up for an optional hike or drive through the national parks the next day. Breakfast and a picnic lunch will be included as part of the half-day tour at Moab before driving back to Denver by shared rental car.
Susie advises, “The National Parks in Utah are exciting to visit due to the diversity of landscapes and landforms. Sunrises and sunsets can be a magical and even spiritual experience in this part of the Western United States.”
Traveling by train is comfortable and relaxing, you’ll hear the whistle blow, sit back, and relax as you ride the tracks alongside the Colorado River. Upon departure, you’ll enjoy breakfast with your fellow travelers, take in views of the Gross Reservoir Dam, and marvel at your surroundings as you slowly gain in elevation towards the Continental Divide. The train will pass through Moffat Tunnel, opened in 1928, which cuts through 6.3 miles of mountainous terrain before emerging on the western side of the Continental Divide. You’ll want to have your camera ready as you travel the picturesque canyons including Byers Canyon and Gore Canyon. And keep your eyes peeled for wildlife — you may spot bighorn sheep, bears, mountain lions, deer, and marmots.
Heading from Glenwood Springs to Moab on Day 2, the scenery changes once more to include mountain vistas, desert cliffs, and amazing rock formations. Passing by Parachute Creek and Mount Logan towards De Beque Canyon, you’ll view a 15-mile long narrow canyon with stair-step cliffs of sedimentary rock layers. The only word to describe it — stunning!
At 6,600 feet, get your camera ready again for Mount Garfield, the highest point of the Book Cliffs, stretching nearly 200 miles from west to east. As you enter Utah, you’ll enjoy its famous red rock formations lining the cliffs in Ruby Canyon before noticing snow-capped Mount Peale, the highest point of the La Sale Mountains at 12,726 feet! As you reach your final destination of Moab, also known as “Scarlet City,” you’ll be greeted by the brilliant red sandstone backdrop and the iconic Arches National Park and its more than 73,000 acres of geological wonderment.
Along your journey, you’ll enjoy the luxurious touches and engaging storytelling by your Rocky Mountaineer Onboard Hosts. Traveling only by day, your trip provides access to the train’s newly-renovated lounge car where a mixologist crafts signature cocktails or keeps your wine glass filled. You may even wish to step into the small outdoor viewing area to soak in the scenery! Returning to your pre-assigned seat, you’ll have plenty of room to recline or to enjoy your elevated dining service featuring a two-course hot breakfast and three-course regionally inspired lunch (plus an extra course), premium alcoholic beverages, and gourmet sweet and savory snacks. Once you reach each day’s destination traveling in 5-star luxury, luggage delivery is provided to your 4-star overnight accommodations.
“I believe in the importance of authentic, slow travel experiences. I would love for my friends and clients to experience the Rockies to Red Rocks luxurious train journey. Cherish time spent with family members or make some new friends along the way!”
Be among the 20 guests on this special getaway to see the unseen West by rail this fall and reserve your space today. Book now: The Rockies to Red Rocks Getaway (luxelowcountrytravel.com).
Karen L. SnyderKaren Snyder has pursued her passion for writing for more than 30 years and is the owner of WORD Writing & Virtual Services. She has served as a corporate editor to Fortune 500 companies and contributing writer to many regional publications and magazines covering parenting, travel, health, education, and more. She enjoys living the coastal lifestyle, relaxing on the beach, and spending time with her family and pups.
