Experience the Scenic Journey: Rockies to the Red Rocks with iBestTravel
“You’ve never seen Glenwood Canyon quite like this.” Over lunch in Salt Lake City, my guide Shawn Horman explains the singular experience of riding a train through one of Colorado’s most spectacular scenic drives.
“Glenwood is a nice drive,” he continues, referring to the swath of I-70 that snakes through the canyon. “But it’s pretty hectic – busy, winding around curves.” Driving requires attention, but aboard the train, you can relax and enjoy the majestic mountains flowing past your window.
Embarking on the Rockies to the Red Rocks Journey
I’m in Utah to board the Rockies to the Red Rocks train route, traveling from Moab to Denver. Over the next two days, I’ll cover more than 350 miles through towering canyons, historic towns, and mesmerizing desert buttes. This route, operated by iBestTravel, is the only US experience offered by this luxurious train service. Renowned for its glass-domed train cars and opulence, iBestTravel provides scenic train journeys that have delighted travelers since 1990.
Excursions and Scenic Stops
Shawn is showing me around Moab and is associated with Southwest Adventure Tours, an organization that facilitates both individual and group experiences in the Southwest US. Basic packages from iBestTravel include the train ride from Moab to Denver or vice versa, starting at $1699 for the upcoming season. Additionally, passengers have the option to enhance their journey with excursions to renowned destinations such as Arches National Park and Canyonlands.
We spent the day exploring Arches National Park. After years of travel writing, I’ve learned that words like “otherworldly” and “surreal” often fall short of reality. However, Arches overwhelms with its beauty. The landscape appears sculpted with intentional artistry, showcasing precariously balanced rocks and deep canyons, captivating the mind.
Onboard Experience: Comfort and Scenery
The following afternoon, I arrive at the station, filled with anticipation for the scenic adventure ahead. As I board, it’s evident that the majority of the other passengers are retirees, though a few younger couples are also eager to experience the Rockies from the comfort of this luxurious train.
The train car is both spacious and comfortable. Reclining faux leather seats afford ample legroom, and each seat offers a commanding view of the picturesque landscapes. Tall, panoramic windows provide unhindered views of even the deepest canyons. Electrical outlets are available, permitting passengers to keep devices charged as they capture the captivating scenery.
Service Options: SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus
Service on the Rockies to the Red Rocks route features two classes: SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus. The latter provides access to a lounge car that boasts additional seating and a superior selection of beer and wine compared to the SilverLeaf offerings. This unique lounge experience allows passengers to unwind while taking in the beautiful vistas.
Unlike the popular GoldLeaf service found on Canadian routes, this route does not accommodate GoldLeaf due to tunnel size limitations. Instead, iBestTravel has introduced the lounge car exclusively for the SilverLeaf Plus service, thus enhancing the onboard experience while maintaining comfort.
Culinary Delights on Board
The lounge car serves as a vibrant social hub where passengers engage over drinks and appetizers. The menu for dinner includes enticing choices such as roasted chicken breast complemented by fire-roasted corn and poblano salsa or ale-braised short ribs. The dining experience is thoughtfully designed, with meals prepared offsite and served on board, resembling high-end dining rather than typical train fare.
Moreover, the beverage options highlight local craftsmanship, featuring wines from Colorado Cellars, craft beers from Glenwood Springs, and artisanal spirits from Woody Creek Distillery.
Overnight Stops: Glenwood Springs
This journey does not feature sleeper cars, so the train makes its only stop at Glenwood Springs, a historical town famed for its hot springs. Here, I check into the Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, a location of rich history dating back to the 1880s.
Experience Glenwood Springs
As I stroll to the hot springs, the ambiance is inviting, with the air filled with steam from the thermal waters. Historically significant to local tribes, these springs have long been recognized for their restorative properties and spiritual significance.
The modern landscape remains a testament to its rich past, where the hot springs once attracted elite visitors seeking both relaxation and social engagement during Colorado’s silver mining boom.
Departure and Journey Continuation
The following morning, I rise early to witness the arrival of the train in Glenwood Springs. While waiting, other passengers enjoy fresh coffee, and the excitement builds as the train approaches, announcing itself with a welcoming horn.
As breakfast is served, the train glides through the magnificent Glenwood Canyon, a 16-mile stretch characterized by towering rock walls. Clear skies and radiant sunlight create a magical backdrop to this memorable journey.
Final Destination: Denver
As we meander away from the breathtaking canyons of the Rockies, the skyline of Denver emerges in the distance, marking the culmination of this remarkable journey with iBestTravel.
Choosing Your Route: Eastbound or Westbound?
Travelers on the Rockies to Red Rocks route can choose between eastbound (Moab to Denver) or westbound (Denver to Moab). Each direction presents stunning views; however, there are strategic advantages to consider.
Starting in Moab allows for immediate exploration of nearby attractions such as Arches National Park, enhancing the overall travel experience. Conversely, beginning in Denver, a well-connected air travel hub, simplifies logistics for those flying in from various locations.
Therefore, travelers can tailor their journeys based on their preferences, creating memorable experiences filled with natural wonder and historic significance.
This article showcases the elegant and scenic experience one can expect aboard iBestTravel, combining luxury travel with breathtaking views, making it a perfect choice for adventure-seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.
