The Amtrak California Zephyr is the only train line connecting Denver and Salt Lake City. The train leaves one time a day, and is the only way to travel from one place to the other. If you’re considering a trip to either city, it’s best to plan ahead.
Amtrak’s California Zephyr
In the 1980s, Amtrak’s California Zephyr train service detoured through Wyoming to use the Union Pacific depot in Salt Lake City. This was the first time the California Zephyr made the detour. By 1983, daily service resumed with two passenger trains a day, with the first crossing the intended D&RGW route at Grand Junction, CO. The train would then make back-up trips to Rio Grande tracks to continue its westbound service.
Amtrak’s Rocky Mountaineer
Amtrak’s Rocky Mountaineer trains take you through the Rocky Mountains. The train passes through the city of Denver and into the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, including the “Big 10 Curve,” built in the early 1900s to allow trains to ascend the mountain range. There are also two dozen cement rail cars permanently parked alongside the track, acting as a wind block. While traveling on the train, make sure to take advantage of the outdoor viewing platforms to catch a glimpse of this iconic mountain range.
Rocky Mountain National Park
For travelers who want to take a train tour to the Rocky Mountain National Park, the Rocky Mountaineer is the train to take. This train has been operating for over 30 years and features luxurious carriages, plush leather chairs, and expert hosts.
Rocky Mountain National Park’s ski resorts
In the winter, you can enjoy the stunning beauty of Rocky denver to salt lake city train Mountain National Park’s ski resorts and drive through the snowy landscape of the park. In addition to skiing, the area offers a variety of activities that can be enjoyed by the whole family. But before you make your trip, you’ll need to prepare yourself for the weather conditions and drive safely in snow-covered areas. In addition, you’ll need to pack proper clothing for cold weather and carry water and sunscreen.
Vail and Park City ski resorts
For the 2014-15 ski season, the EPIC season pass will include access to Park City Mountain Resort and Vail Mountain Resort. Doppelmayr USA, which owns Park City and Canyons, has built two new chairlifts and relocated a third one. In addition, the King Con high-speed quad has been upgraded and relocated to replace the Motherlode triple chairlift. The upgrades are meant to ease the expected traffic that will result from the interconnect gondola.
Rocky Mountain National Park’s extensive oil shale resources
The Rocky Mountains have extensive oil shale resources, with an estimated 4.3 trillion barrels of crude oil. These oil shales are primarily found in the Uinta, Piceance, and Greater Green River basins. These deposits can potentially fuel the energy needs of the nation for decades to come.
Denver’s Union Station
A welcome back celebration is underway at Denver’s Union Station, which opened in 1881. The station is home to some of Denver’s finest shops, restaurants, and bars. It also hosts a seasonal farmers market. Denver’s Union Station is the main transport hub, serving Amtrak, Greyhound, and Jefferson Lines, as well as Denver International Airport. The A Line commuter rail also stops at Union Station.
Amtrak’s route through the Rockies
The new Rocky Mountaineer train offers a unique dining experience. Instead of sleeping cars, passengers sit at individual tables and enjoy the view while enjoying a gourmet meal. Guests can request specific meals or beverages, and receive personalized service throughout the trip. The train’s dining car serves local cuisine, and seasonal ingredients are used whenever possible. For example, the menu features seasonal vegetables grown by local farmers, as well as desserts made by Aspen Baking Company.