A Prelude to Adventure

The allure of train travel has always held a special place in my heart, a gentle reminder of a time when journeys were as cherished as the destinations themselves. When I heard whispers of the Rockies to the Red Rocks Train journey from Moab to Denver, I knew it was a call I had to answer. My adventure began not on the train itself, but two days prior, at the Hoo Doo Hotel in Moab. Here, I met Manu, a delightful gentleman who set the tone for the journey ahead. His warm welcome and meticulous attention to detail, from luggage tags to boarding passes, were a testament to the service that awaited us.

The morning of our departure was filled with anticipation, as we gathered in a conference room at the hotel. The aroma of freshly baked cookies and the refreshing taste of cool water greeted us, a small comfort as we learned of a slight delay due to a boulder on the tracks. Despite this hiccup, the excitement in the room was palpable, a shared eagerness among the 117 travelers ready to embark on this rail adventure.

The Journey Begins

Once the boulder was cleared, we were whisked away on a short bus ride to the train’s staging area. The absence of a traditional train station in Moab added a touch of rustic charm to the experience. As we boarded the train, I was immediately struck by the spaciousness and comfort of the interior. The SilverLeaf Plus service, a decision I was grateful for, promised an elevated experience with access to exclusive lounge cars and premium amenities.

Our hosts, Leigh and Crystal, along with our chef, Nephi, welcomed us with open arms and infectious enthusiasm. Their dedication to our comfort and enjoyment was evident from the start. Leigh, with her boundless energy and engaging personality, quickly became a favorite among the passengers. Her dual role as our bartender added a delightful twist to the journey, as she expertly crafted cocktails that complemented the stunning vistas outside our windows.

The landscapes we traversed were nothing short of breathtaking. From the red rock formations of Arches National Park to the ghostly remnants of towns like Thompson Springs and Cisco, each view was a reminder of the untamed beauty of the American West. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over Ruby Canyon, I felt a sense of peace and contentment that only train travel can provide.

A Snow-Kissed Finale

Our first day concluded in the historic town of Glenwood Springs, where we were greeted with a seamless hotel check-in process. Though the accommodations at Hotel Denver were modest, the warmth and cleanliness of the room were a welcome respite after a day of travel. The following morning, a fresh dusting of snow adorned the mountain peaks, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland.

As we continued our journey towards Denver, the camaraderie among passengers grew, fueled by the exceptional service of our hosts. Nephi’s culinary creations were a highlight, each meal a testament to her skill and passion. The playful antics of rafters along the Colorado River added a touch of humor to the day, their “moon shots” a cheeky nod to the train passing by.

As we neared our final destination, the heartfelt farewells from Leigh, Crystal, and Nephi were a poignant reminder of the connections forged on this journey. Leigh’s emotional goodbye, complete with parting gifts and warm hugs, left an indelible mark on my heart. The Rockies to the Red Rocks Train journey was more than just a trip; it was a celebration of the art of travel, a reminder of the beauty that lies in the journey itself.