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Rocky Mountaineer: Rockies to the Red Rocks
Explore the stunning landscapes around Moab by train with the Rockies to the Red Rocks route from Rocky Mountaineer.
This two-day rail journey is steeped in history and panoramic views — think breathtaking plains, mountain vistas and chromatic deserts alongside towering red rock canyons carved by the Colorado River. The Moab to Denver route can be traveled eastbound, westbound, or with a return journey, and includes an overnight hotel stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Whether you begin or end your journey in Moab, reserve time to explore off-train highlights like Arches and Canyonlands national parks or Dead Horse Point State Park, as well as the unlimited opportunities for guided outdoor recreation.
Train Route & Highlights
The Rockies to the Red Rocks one-way route covers more than 350 miles of the American Southwest and is filled with highlights best seen by train, including Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield and Moffat Tunnel. The Rocky Mountaineer coaches feature oversized glass-dome windows, an outdoor viewing area and are attended by Hosts with stories about the route's historic sites, scenery and wildlife. Rocky Mountaineer offers SilverLeaf Service on this route, or guests may choose to enhance their onboard experience with SilverLeaf Plus. All guests enjoy meals served right to their seat. Guests opting for SilverLeaf Plus service enjoy an elevated dining experience with wine pairings and premium beverage options as well as exclusive access to the lounge car.
More Utah Rail Experiences
One of the most iconic and life-altering events in U.S. history — the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad — happened in Utah on May 10, 1869. Today, you can visit the Golden Spike National Historic Park in Northern Utah to relive the history with exhibits and demonstrations. And in Central Utah discover the city of Helper, named after the team of “helper” coal-powered steam engines that assisted freight trains up the neighboring canyon and summit. Home to the Western Mining and Railroad Museum, Helper features a treasured historic Main Street and burgeoning artist community.
"This two-day rail journey is steeped in history and panoramic views — think breathtaking plains, mountain vistas and chromatic deserts alongside towering red rock canyons carved by the Colorado River."
Rockies to the Red Rocks Route
Where to Stay In Moab
Tucked in southeastern Utah, Moab is a major hub for outdoor recreation and offers a plethora of lodging options. Downtown you’ll find high-end or boutique options like Hoodoo Moab and Radcliffe Moab, and on the northern outskirts of town are the Sorrel River Ranch and Red Cliffs Lodge. You’ll also find a number of nearby camping and RV options.
Things To Do in Moab
Moab is a thrill-seeker's playground. But it’s also a place where you can stretch your legs or hone your skills in nearly every outdoor pursuit. There are quick hikes leading to world-famous landmarks, technical sandstone features to bike and some of the greatest regions of undisturbed backcountry in the American West. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Moab, come prepared with a sense of exploration, adventure and plenty of water.
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4 Days
The Complete Arches Trip
Discover a new side of Arches National Park with this four day itinerary. Start exploring the hidden gems in the Arches region today.
Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips
Highlights
- Arches National Park
- Colorado River Rafting Trips
- Delicate Arch
- Dead Horse Point State Park
- Manti-La Sal National Forest
02
5 Days
The Complete Canyonlands Trip
The Canyonlands Region of Utah combines the best of the Moab area's easy proximity to Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park's most accessible district with some of the United State's most remote and culturally significant landscapes.
Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips
Highlights
- Canyonlands National Park
- Dead Horse Point State Park
- Bears Ears National Monument
- Natural Bridges National Monument
- Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
03
3 Days
Denver to Moab: A High-Octane Weekend Road Trip
Start planning your road trip from Denver to Moab with three days of mountain biking, hiking, skydiving, rafting and experiencing the best of Moab.
Adventure, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips, Watersports and Rafting
Highlights
- Colorado River Rafting
- Moab Mountain Biking
- Skydive Moab
- World-Renowned Mountain Biking
04
4 Days
Salt Lake City to Moab
Moab is Utah’s adventure epicenter — a place where world-renowned natural destinations are scattered around a town that’s brimming with local charm. Be sure to bring a vivid imagination and taste for exploration along with your hiking shoes, sunscreen and water bottle, because this is not your typical retreat.
Adventure, Arts, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips
Highlights
- Arches National Park
- Guided 4x4 Wheeling
- Canyonlands Stargazing
- Floating the Colorado River
What's Nearby
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Arches National Park
Moab, UT
Arches National Park contains more than 2,000 natural arches—the greatest concentration in the country. Find places to stay, itineraries, reservation info and weather for Arches, Moab and Canyonlands National Park.
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Canyonlands National Park
Moab, UT
Canyonlands is home to many different types of travel experiences, from sublime solitude in the more remote stretches of the park to moderate hikes through the Needles district to the opportunity to create your own version of one of the West's most photographed landforms, Mesa Arch.
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Dead Horse Point State Park
Moab, UT
A broad peninsula of land jutting out over the spectacular White Rim of the Colorado River, Dead Horse Point State Park specializes in the type of sweeping, jaw-dropping views that make visitors run for their cameras to try and capture the area’s grandeur. In recent years, a tight network of fun singletrack trails has begun attracting mountain bikers who want epic views with moderate rides, increasing the popularity of the park.
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Discover Moab
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A Short Hike to Wilson Arch
1 minute read
Wilson Arch is an elegant sandstone feature that sits along Highway 191 south of Moab on BLM land. The short hike is free.
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A Van Lifer’s Guide to Responsible Travel in Southern Utah
Written By Kristen Bor
2 minute read
When Utah’s dirt roads are calling you, it’s time to plan your van life road trip. Here’s what you need to know to travel safely, support Utah’s rural communities, and help preserve the delicate desert landscapes.
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AndShe’sDopeToo: Giving Roots To Adventure
Written By DeAnn Armes
5 minute read
Retreats and rendezvous where women find their footing outdoors and discover the unexpected.
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Be Prepared for the Southern Utah Backcountry
Written By Kristen Pope
3 minute read
Prepare for a trip out into Utah's rugged red rock backcountry by learning as much as possible about the area before heading out. Stop by a ranger station to educate yourself and pick up necessary permits. Always practice good backcountry ethics and proper safety techniques for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
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Best Dude Ranches in Utah
Written By Matcha
5 minute read
From the red rock of Moab to the mountains of Park City, Utah offers a handful of ranches that will bring out your inner cowboy or cowgirl. So dust off your boots, pack your bags, and book a stay at one of these seven dude ranches.
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Boomer Travel: 76 Hours in Moab
Written By Ray Grass
Moab, Utah is a prime destination for Baby Boomer travel. Check out our specially-designed itinerary and plan your visit!
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Bridesmaids Gone Boating
Written By Melissa McGibbon
If you and your bride tribe are more outdoorsy than indoorsy, consider booking a whitewater rafting trip in southern Utah instead of club night at a casino. Half-day, full-day, and multi-day river trips are easy to plan and are great for groups of all sizes and abilities.
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Dog-Friendly Utah: The Road to Mighty
Written By Visit Utah
7 minute read
Want to bring your furry friend on your next vacation? Utah is home to several great dog-friendly national parks and other fun destinations. Check it out and plan your trip!
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Estrogen on Adrenaline: 48 Hours in Moab, Utah's Giant Playground
Written By Paula Colman
12 minute read
Looking for an unconventional girls weekend getaway? Get inspiration for an ultimate Moab mountain biking, stargazing, camping adventure here! Visit Utah.
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Find a Winter Refresh in a Utah State Park
Written By Rosie Serago
4 minute read
The best Utah state parks will entice you with ice fishing, white sand and snow-dusted scenery. Take a winter break to refresh with a visit to a few of these places.
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Fisher Towers River Rafting
Written By Bob Wassom
5 minute read
Join Bob Wassom, and a few others, as they raft down the Fisher Towers stretch of water disproving any idea or stereotype suggesting disabilities hinder outdoor recreation.
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Hole N'' the Rock
Your road trip in Moab might call for a stopover at the famous Hole N” The Rock.
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How to Slow Travel in Utah
Written By Elainna Ciaramella
Avoid the mad scramble and consider slow travel as a better approach to your Utah trip.
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How to Support Local On Your Utah Road Trip
Written By Elainna Ciaramella
5 minute read
Many small businesses in Utah rely on tourism for survival. These expert tips help road trippers make a real difference in communities by supporting local.
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It’s About Time We All Unplugged
Written By Megan Michelson
7 minute read
After months of being at home, we’ve all been disconnected from each other but connected permanently to our screens. It’s time to pull the plug—literally. In Utah, you can find far-flung places to reset, wellness resorts that promote digital detox, and destinations where you can swap screen time for much-needed adventure time.
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Moab Under Canvas: Glamping
If you’re looking for a luxurious camping experience, Moab Under Canvas is just the ticket. Book your stay in a fully-furnished canvas tent in canyon country!
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Moab's Singletrack Renaissance
Written By Matcha
3 minute read
Moab isn’t just for burly Slickrock riders anymore. In the last few years, local groups have established dozens of miles of new mountain bike trails.
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Movies Filmed in Utah: Plotting a Cinematic Drive-Through
Written By Andrea David
Follow a Germany-based film enthusiast on an extended road trip to discover the rich history of Utah cinematography.
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Resiliency Road Trip
Written By Tiffini Porter
5 minute read
The emergence of small Utah towns like Moab and Helper offer an inspiring backdrop for a road trip focused on reinvention.
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See the Fall Leaves Near Utah's National Parks
Written By Visit Utah
Sure, any of Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks are spectacular year round — covered in snow, peppered with spring wildflowers, and baked in sunshine. But find them exponentially special when the changing fall leaves are in juxtaposition to the immaculate red rock cliffs.
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Seven Must-Ride Mountain Biking Trails in Utah
Written By Visit Utah
5 minute read
To help you plan a Utah mountain biking trip, we've assembled a list of seven of Utah’s best mountain biking trails followed by a roundup of Utah’s best fat-tire destinations.
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The Art of Supporting Utah Artists
Written By Lindy Blanchette
5 minute read
Here’s a look at six local artists whose work draws upon Utah’s diverse environments as inspiration.
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Touring Utah with the State’s Most Well Known Women Writers
Written By Lindy Blanchette
The diversity and beauty found in Utah has often been captured by women. Here are the places that seven of Utah’s most well known women writers knew and loved most.
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Walking The Line Between Risk and Responsibility
Written By Chelsea Yamase
Why a Hawaii-based highliner and influencer hasn't returned to Utah — yet.
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Women in the Wild: Transformation and the Outdoors
Written By Paula Colman
11 minute read
Paula Colman joins a weekend retreat for women in Moab, Utah, that has an eye-catching mission: Build your tribe. Connect with your inner spirit. Transform body, mind and spirit around the theme: “Ignite the Flame Within.” Follow along as she seeks her authentic self and learn how to find your own Tribe.