Traveling through the breathtaking landscapes of the American West has always been a dream—but experiencing it aboard the Rocky Mountaineer? That took it to an entirely new level.
I recently had the privilege of sitting down with Maria Triantos, Sales Development Manager for Rocky Mountaineer, on my Wish List Wander podcast. And during our conversation, I received an unexpected and unforgettable invitation: to experience the Rockies to Red Rocks route in celebration of Rocky Mountaineer’s 25th anniversary.
Spoiler alert: it was incredible.
A Warm Welcome in Denver
Our adventure began with a stay at the Indigo Hotel, a stylish and modern hotel near Union Station in downtown Denver. Its location was perfect—just steps from the city’s top spots and the departure point for our train journey.
The next morning, the excitement was real. A luxury coach picked us up for a short transfer to the train platform, where we were greeted with mimosas and smiling faces. This wasn’t just transportation—it was the start of something special.
Day One: Into the Rockies
As the train pulled out of Denver, the Rocky Mountaineer team began their magic. Onboard breakfast was a showstopper—featuring fresh, local ingredients and served right to our seats. From warm pastries to hearty entrées, every bite felt curated with care.
Between courses, we sipped drinks and took in the stunning Rocky Mountain views from the panoramic windows. The onboard hosts kept us entertained with stories of geology, local legends, and railway history, giving us a deeper appreciation for the landscapes rolling by.
By afternoon, we arrived in Glenwood Springs, a charming mountain town where we spent the night at the Hotel Maxwell Anderson. With its historic architecture and cozy vibe, it was the perfect midpoint retreat—and a destination we now want to revisit on its own.
Day Two: From Mountains to Desert
We began our second day with coffee or hot chocolate by the Colorado River—a peaceful, magical start. Then it was back on board for another delicious breakfast and a dramatic change in scenery.
As we rolled westward, the lush Rockies gave way to stunning desert cliffs and red rock canyons. The contrast was mesmerizing—this route truly shows off the diversity of the American West.
By late afternoon, we arrived in Moab, Utah—a town that feels like it belongs on another planet. Known for its towering rock formations, adventurous spirit, and national parks, Moab was the perfect finale to our journey.
Why This Trip Stands Out
From the moment we stepped onboard to the final goodbye, the Rocky Mountaineer team delivered exceptional service and attention to detail. The journey is paced to let you truly take in the views—no rushing, no Wi-Fi, just connection to the land (and maybe a little champagne).
Celebrating their 25th anniversary added an extra touch of magic, but even without the milestone, this trip would have exceeded expectations. Rockies to Red Rocks is a rail journey designed for travelers who want something different—something slower, richer, and more immersive.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a vacation that combines luxury, scenery, and storytelling, look no further. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to exploring the American West, this is an experience that will stay with you long after the last sunset over the red rocks.
Mary and I can’t recommend it enough. Want help planning your own rail adventure? Let Wish List Travel take care of the details—so you can sit back, sip your mimosa, and enjoy the ride..
