Vancouver British Columbia - Canada's Rocky Mountaineer will be bringing a new luxury train journey to America's Southwest in 2021.
 
The newest route, Rockies to the Red Rocks, travels between Denver, Colorado, and Moab, Utah, with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
 
Guests also have the option of traveling from Moab east to Denver.
 
The two-day Rockies to the Red Rocks route is rich in history and opportunities to explore the magnificent scenery and iconic destinations of the region.
 
Deep canyons, richly hued deserts, natural archways, and mesmerizing hoodoos are just the beginning.
 
The well-appointed train winds alongside rivers, through incredible mountain ranges, and past ancient rock canyons as it travels between the mile-high city of Denver to the inimitable red rock formations of Moab.
 
The Rockies to the Red Rocks route is chock full of highlights best seen by train, including Ruby Canyon, Mount Logan, and the Continental Divide.
 
Your journey starts in Denver.
 
Hear the whistle blow, board the train, take your seat, and get ready to start your once-in-a-lifetime journey alongside the Colorado River through a series of canyons and magical landscapes.
 
As you enjoy breakfast, you'll take in the panoramic views of the Gross Reservoir dam, which has an amazing spillway that sits at 7,225 feet in elevation.
 
Before reaching the Continental Divide, the route slowly gains elevation.
 
Here you'll pass through Moffat Tunnel and emerge awe-struck on the western side of the Continental Divide.
 
This railway tunnel, which was opened in 1928, cuts through over six miles of mountainous terrain.
 
Take your ease as you feast on a three-course, regionally inspired lunch, as the train's onboard Hosts regale you with stories about the region.
 
Make sure you keep your camera at the ready as you travel along the Colorado River through a series of breathtaking canyons, including Byers Canyon and Gore Canyon.
 
Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife because these canyons are the perfect place to see bighorn sheep, bears, marmots, mountain lions, deer, and more.
 
In Glenwood Springs you'll disembark from the train and share stories with fellow guests about the sights you have seen.
 
You'll spend the evening in a cozy hotel as you look forward to tomorrow's new adventures.
 
The next day takes you from Glenwood Springs to Moab.
 
Enjoy a gourmet two-course hot breakfast as the train passes by Parachute Creek and Mount Logan towards De Beque Canyon.
 
As the train continues west, look out for Mount Garfield.
 
At 6,600 feet, it's the highest apex of the Book Cliffs.
 
These sandstone cliffs and mountains stretch almost an amazing 200 miles from west to east so you'll have lots of chances to take photos.
 
The train continues to follow the lovely Colorado River and crosses over the state line between Mack, Colorado, and Westwater, Utah.
 
Take in the enchanting red rock formations that ring the cliffs in Ruby Canyon, a canyon that is only accessible by train, or from the river.
 
This canyon is 25 miles long and is named for the awe-inspiring red sandstone cliffs that hug the canyon walls.
 
After the train crosses over the Colorado-Utah state line, look out for Mount Peale.
 
You won't miss it because at 12,726 feet, it's the highest point of the regal La Sal Mountains.
 
The mountains are so high they seem to pierce the sky and its no wonder they are usually snow-capped until early summer.
 
As the train reaches Moab, you'll be greeted by its brilliant red sandstone backdrop and take in your unforgettable first glimpse of the legendary Arches National Park, a 73,234 acre wonderland of unparalleled geological marvels.
 
Welcome to the scarlet city!
 
Consider extending your train adventure with packages like the seven night, Rockies to the Red Rocks at Leisure Las Vegas, or the five night trip Rockies to the Red Rocks Explorer Salt Lake City.
 
Sandra MacGregor.

Interesting observations, but the writer probably hasn't ridden the train as it hasn't even started operation yet due to the COVID-19 pandemic.