Who doesn't love a train ride? Earlier this summer these Trip Monkees set off for a train adventure to the American West. Moab, in the southeast corner of Utah, has always been on our bucket list. Here is how we got there.
We boarded Amtrak's California Zephyr at Denver's Union Station. Once onboard, we found our "roomette" which consisted of 2 seats facing each other. It was equipped with bottled water and pillows. The two seats had the ability to go flat and there was an overhead bunk that pulled down. There was a sliding door and curtain for privacy, but neither were needed as we would not be riding overnight.
Trip Monkee Tip - Spend a little extra for the roomette. Its worth the comfort and included meals.
The ride between Denver and Grand Junction is arguably the most scenic on the route of the California Zephyr which connects Chicago and San Francisco. The views as we passed through the mountains were incredible. A plus was passing through the Moffat Tunnel. This 6 mile long tunnel which crosses the Continental Divide was built in 1928 and offers a single track.
From there, the ride meanders through the Rocky Mountains passing through Winter Park and Glenwood Springs. Passengers are treated to views of the Colorado River not experienced by motorists. The river was dotted with fishermen and rafters enjoying a beautiful Summer day. I think we found our next adventure!
Trip Monkee Tip - Whether your meals are included or not, make sure you experience the dining car. The food was good and the views as you dine are unparalleled.
After lunch and dinner, we disembarked in Grand Junction, Colorado, rented a car and were off for the 2 hour drive to Moab. We pulled in to town after dark and were not aware of the spectacular scenery around us! We checked in to our AirB&B in downtown Moab and settled down for the night anticipating the next day's exploration.
Morning brought a sunny and warm day which shed light on the amazing surroundings we missed the night before. We headed off to The Jailhouse Cafe known for its ample breakfast. We were not disappointed with our meal and soon after - took off for Canyonlands National Park.
Trip Monkee Tip - There are more National Parks in Utah than any other state.
One is humbled with the sheer size of the American West when you view the endless views in every direction. We anticipated crowds of people but were pleasantly surprised that the park was not overrun with visitors. Plenty of room for all.
The highlight of our trip was a guided evening boat ride on the Colorado River which carves its way through the sheer cliffs just outside the city center. Points of interest were pointed out during daylight hours but after dark, the real show began. Huge spotlights were pointed on the massive rock facades as we floated by. Music accompanied the light show which added another dimension to this ride that should not be missed.
Trip Monkee Tip - We were tipped off the the "best meat loaf ever" so we had to try it. Go to The Spoke on Main Street and try for yourself.
We saved the best for last. Just outside Moab is the entrance to Arches National Park. The scenery here was outstanding and almost unbelievable. You can enjoy this park and never leave the comfort of your car should you choose. (We did not stay in the car.) A few times, I felt like I was somewhere, literally out of this world. Each turn of the road brought another awesome view and rock formation.
Arches National Park did not disappoint. We spent most of the day there, exploring and taking endless pictures. Here is one of my favorite spots:
All good things must come to an end and our trip to Moab was no exception. We packed up of the drive back to Grand Junction where we boarded the Last Train From Moab!
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