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An incredibly scenic way of enjoying the red rocks and canyons of Colorado and Utah, Canyon Spirit is a part of the Armstrong Collective, who operate the Rocky Mountaineer in Western Canada. This new route, launched in 2021, brings the same levels of experience and service to the USA’s Southwest.
Offering a choice of two and three day rail options, the Rockies to the Red Rocks route travels between Denver and Salt Lake City with overnight stops in Glenwood Springs on the two day option, and Moab on the three day option. The journey is packed with renowned landmarks, which are best experienced by rail. On both the two and three day rail experiences, you’ll discover majestic mountains, enchanting canyons, forgotten ghost towns, and vibrant cities, with an onboard host on hand to guide you through the visual spectacle of the Southwest.
ROCKIES TO THE RED ROCKS
Rockies to the Red Rocks, will give you the adventure you crave with the service you deserve. From vast canyons and chromatic deserts, to red sandstone landscapes that twist through the bright blue sky, this rail route is filled with highlights best seen by their glass-dome coaches.
You can choose between a two day journey between Denver, Colorado and Moab, Utah, with an overnight in Glenwood Springs, or a three day journey between Denver, Colorado and Salt Lake City, Utah with overnight stays in Glenwood Springs and Moab. Both journeys are offered in either direction – eastbound and westbound, so you can start your adventure from Denver, Moab or Salt Lake City. Whichever option you choose, this stunning scenery is complemented by vibrant storytelling, regionally-inspired cuisine and impeccable service.
Operates: April to November
TWO DAY ROUTE – DENVER TO MOAB
Onboard Canyon Spirit, you’ll discover the awe-inspiring sights between Denver and Moab, with a mid-rail journey overnight stop in delightful Glenwood Springs. The dramatic scenery en route ranges from the vigor of gushing rivers to the stillness of breathtaking canyons, awakening your sense of wonder and amazement. Beyond your rail adventure, this two-day itinerary offers the perfect opportunity to extend your stay in Moab, using it as a gateway to explore Arches and Canyonlands – two of Utah’s iconic Mighty 5 National Parks.
DAY 1 – DENVER TO GLENWOOD SPRINGS
Embark on your Canyon Spirit journey from the picturesque Denver, Colorado. Heading west, you’ll be greeted by your first engineering marvel – the Big 10 Curve. As the train ascends, it will cross the Continental Divide through the Moffat Tunnel. Journey along the Colorado River, marveling at the colossal beauty of Byers and Gore canyons. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you pass through Glenwood Canyon, on the Upper Colorado River. Finish your day in Glenwood Springs, where you’ll unwind overnight in a cozy hotel, included as part of your journey.
DAY 2 – GLENWOOD SPRINGS TO MOAB
As you head southwest, you’ll begin your day surrounded by mountain vistas and desert cliffs. Rugged landscapes lead to the striking 15-mile De Beque Canyon, renowned for its stair-step cliffs of sedimentary rock layers. Continuing west, you’ll encounter Mount Garfield, the pinnacle of the Book Cliffs. Spanning 200 miles from east to west, these sandstone cliffs and mountains mark your transition from Colorado to Utah. Striking red rock formations signal your approach to Moab, the gateway to Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks.
THREE DAY ROUTE – DENVER TO SALT LAKE CITY
Building on the epic Denver to Moab itinerary, this three-day option includes an additional travel day by rail to soak in the splendor of Utah’s hidden gems between Moab and Salt Lake City. Set amid sandstone cliffs and alluring ghost towns, an elevated mountain pass is a highlight of this scenic route. This journey provides a deeper rail exploration of the region, perfect for those wanting to maximize their train experience along with time in vibrant Salt Lake City.
DAY 1 – DENVER TO GLENWOOD SPRINGS
Embark on your Canyon Spirit journey from the picturesque Denver, Colorado. Heading west, you’ll be greeted by your first engineering marvel – the Big 10 Curve. As the train ascends, it will cross the Continental Divide through the Moffat Tunnel. Journey along the Colorado River, marveling at the colossal beauty of Byers and Gore canyons. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you pass through Glenwood Canyon, on the Upper Colorado River. Finish your day in Glenwood Springs, where you’ll unwind overnight in a cozy hotel, included as part of your journey.
DAY 2 – GLENWOOD SPRINGS TO MOAB
As you head southwest, you’ll begin your day surrounded by mountain vistas and desert cliffs. Rugged landscapes lead to the striking 15-mile De Beque Canyon, renowned for its stair-step cliffs of sedimentary rock layers. Continuing west, you’ll encounter Mount Garfield, the pinnacle of the Book Cliffs. Spanning 200 miles from east to west, these sandstone cliffs and mountains mark your transition from Colorado to Utah. Striking red rock formations signal your approach to Moab, the gateway to Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks.
DAY 3 – MOAB TO SALT LAKE CITY
After a restful night in Moab, wake up to a morning of exploration at your own pace – whether it’s soaking in the desert sunrise or discovering the town’s hidden gems. Once onboard the train, journey past the last of the scenic Book Cliffs before winding through Castle Gate and ascending through the stunning Price Canyon, crossing the historic Soldier Summit via the Gilluly Loops. From Thistle Tunnel, travel through Red Canyon, taking in breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains before arriving in Salt Lake City via Spanish Fork.
ONBOARD EXPERIENCE
From the comfort of the glass-dome train, take in the expansive rugged desert canyons and endless red rock formations, millennia in the making. Immerse yourself in the storied landscapes with only the panoramic windows separating you from the ever-changing vistas. Sit back, relax, and indulge in world-class service where every detail has been designed to elevate your rail journey.
ALL INCLUSIVE SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE
Every Canyon Spirit rail journey comes with the all-inclusive Signature experience which includes two- or three-days onboard the train with reclining, comfortable, spacious seats; snacks, meals, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; elevated service and storytelling from Onboard Hosts; access to an outdoor viewing area; motorcoach rail station transfers and luggage delivery to and from your overnight accommodation between train days, where applicable.
PREMIER UPGRADE OPTION
Elevate the comfort and spaciousness of your journey onboard with a Premier upgrade. You’ll receive all the perks of our Signature experience plus:
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