Ride the Rails into Autumn: A Fall Getaway on the Rocky Mountaineer Through the U.S.
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s no better way to experience fall in the American West than aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, a luxury train journey that glides through some of the most spectacular landscapes in North America. With panoramic glass-domed coaches, gourmet meals, and storytelling hosts, it’s not just travel, it really is an an immersive experience in comfort and scenery.
Most people associate the Rocky Mountaineer with Canadian Train travel but did you know there are actually routes that run into the US? They make for a breath taking autumn getaway.
The Route: Rockies to the Red Rocks
The Rockies to the Red Rocks route connects Denver, Colorado, to Salt Lake City, Utah via Moab, and unfolds like a living postcard. Over 7 days, travelers wind past towering canyons, red rock arches, and river-carved valleys, all glowing in hues of amber, gold, and rust.
This is a package and includes includes hotel stops in each location of 1 or 2 nights plus a transfer from Moab to Salt Lake City
Rocky Mountaineer going though Red Canyon - Photo Credit: Rocky Mountaineer
The full 7 day option
If you have lots of time and a want to explore more of the Western part of the USA, it can be a leisurely option with plenty of time in each stop to explore and enjoy each of these locations.
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Arrive in Denver and spend time exploring the scenic and exciting city. Overnight in Denver.
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Enjoy the day with free time to relax or book your own activities at your leisure. From lush botanical gardens to historic jazz neighbourhoods and a blossoming foodie scene, there are activities for all interests in Denver. Overnight in Denver.
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Depart Denver and travel onboard Rocky Mountaineer. Cross the Continental Divide as you take in the spectacular views of rugged canyons and the Colorado River before arriving at the resort town of Glenwood Springs. Overnight in Glenwood Springs. B, L.
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Depart Glenwood Springs and travel onboard Rocky Mountaineer. Cross the Colorado-Utah border with stunning mountain views in the background. Red sandstone landscapes emerge as you approach Moab, the gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Overnight in Moab. B.
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Enjoy the day exploring Moab at your own leisure. Known as the Adventure Capital of Utah, there is no shortage of activities to choose from. Overnight in Moab.
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Start your day on a transfer from Moab to Salt Lake City. Overnight in Salt Lake City.
Prices for this start at around $3500USD per traveller but get in touch and we can provide you with a quote.
The QuickER 2 Day Option
If you don’t have that much time but you still want to explore, then you can do a smaller part of the whole journey and still take in the amazing views as the seasons shift.
Denver Hotel Suggestion: Thompson Denver
Located downtown but with the ability to gaze out at the Rocky Mountains, this is a perfect place to start your fall escape. As part of the Hyatt Prive program, I can book a rate for you that includes a Welcome Amenity, Daily complimentary full breakfast for up to two guests, an additional property credit as well as room upgrades (subject to availability), Early & Late Check in/out (subject to availability). All the perks at no additional cost.
Day 1: Denver to Glenwood Springs
Begin your journey in Denver, the Mile-High City, where urban charm meets mountain majesty. As the train departs, you’ll soon find yourself surrounded by the majestic Rockies, following the curves of the Colorado River. Keep your camera ready for wildlife sightings - elk, eagles, and perhaps even bighorn sheep.
Spend the night in Glenwood Springs, a cozy mountain town known for its hot springs and historic charm - the perfect place to relax after a day of awe-inspiring vistas.
Day 2: Glenwood Springs to Moab
As dawn breaks, the Rocky Mountaineer continues westward into an otherworldly landscape. The rugged red rock canyons of Utah rise dramatically, glowing in the morning sun. Arriving in Moab, gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, you’ll be poised for endless exploration - from hiking natural arches to stargazing under the desert sky.
Moab Hotel Suggestion: ULUM Moab
Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes just steps away from Looking Glass Arch ULUM Moab offers upscale accommodations tucked into an expansive secluded desert setting south of Moab Utah with views across Canyonlands National Park. I can book a rate for you here that includes and upgrade to next room category (based upon availability at check-in), Guaranteed 12pm late check-out, Welcome treat in room on arrival plus a $100 USD food and beverage credit per room, per stay (excluding alcohol). They have amazing luxury tent accommodations that immerse you in the natural landscape, definitely a unique experience.
Why Fall is the Perfect Season to go on this route
Fall transforms this route into a painter’s palette of color. The aspen forests shimmer gold, mountain peaks get a dusting of early snow, and the canyons blaze with fiery reds and oranges. With fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, autumn brings a sense of calm and intimacy to the journey. Whether you’re sipping coffee while watching the sunrise over the Colorado River or enjoying a gourmet meal paired with local wines, every moment feels cinematic.
Travel in Style: The Rocky Mountaineer Experience
What makes this journey truly exceptional is the onboard experience. The train offers SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus Service, featuring:
Panoramic glass-dome windows for uninterrupted views
Locally inspired, chef-prepared meals served at your seat
Storytelling hosts sharing the history and geology of the region
Overnight hotel accommodations in charming mountain towns
This isn’t your average train ride - it’s slow travel redefined, where the journey is as memorable as the destination.
Rocky Mountaineer SilverLeaf Plus Service - Photo Credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Extend Your Fall Adventure
Pair your train journey with a few extra days to immerse yourself, we can help you put together an itinerary that covers some other great places to explore on your fall adventure.
HIKE Arches National Park
📍UtahHike among over 2,000 natural sandstone arches
Explore Aspen or Vail
📍ColoradoIndulge in mountain luxury and leaf-peeping trails
HANG OUT IN Denver
📍ColoradoDiscover a vibrant city known for craft breweries and art
Stargaze at Canyonlands National Park
📍UtahExperience one of the darkest night skies in the U.S.
The Rocky Mountaineer’s U.S. route operates seasonally from April to November, making fall the final and most magical window to embark before the snow settles in. With limited departures and high demand, early booking ensures the best views and accommodations.
Let us craft your Rocky Mountaineer fall itinerary, complete with personalized recommendations across guided tours, outdoor adventures, and luxury stays. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a bucket-list journey, or a photography trip, this is one adventure you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Book Your Fall Escape with us today - Experience the colors, comfort, and wonder of the Rocky Mountaineer and enjoy the chance to slow things down. Contact us to plan your custom Rockies to the Red Rocks journey and watch autumn unfold from the most scenic seat in North America. Just get in touch with us and we can put together something based on how much time you have and your budget.