Rockies & Moab Escape with Canyon Spirit Train

After meeting Canyon Spirit representatives, get set to embark on your journey from picturesque Denver, Colorado. Heading west you'll be greeted by your first engineering marvel, the Big 10 Curve, built in the early 1900's as the Rockies were still being opened to rail travel. As the train ascends it will cross the Continental Divide through the Moffat Tunnel, another engineering feat with a unique story that you'll hear about from your on-board host. As you travel alongside the Colorado River, marvel at the colossal beauty of the Byers and Gore canyons. Keep an eye out for wildlife (and rafters - but don't look too closely if you see them!) as you pass through Glenwood Canyon, along the Upper Colorado River. With Premier Class seating, you'll also have access to the Canyon Spirit lounge car where you can mix and mingle, enjoy unique craft cocktails, and enjoy gourmet snacks. Finish your day in Glenwood Springs where you'll unwind overnight in a cozy hotel near the train station. If time permits, consider visiting one of Glenwood Springs local hot springs, renowned for their revitalizing effects.

As you head southwest, you'll begin your day surrounded by mountain vistas and desert cliffs, enjoying a thoughtfully prepared breakfast aboard the Canyon Spirit. As your morning continues, rugged landscapes lead to the striking 15-mile (24 kilometer) 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 (320 kilometers) 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 Five, and this evening you'll be just a short hop from two: Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park. Upon arrival to Moab, you'll disembark from the Canyon Spirit and transfer by coach to your nearby hotel. The late afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy as you see fit. Optionally, you will be invited to participate in an afternoon coach tour to Canyonlands National Park; further information, pricing and the ability to sign up will be offered to you aboard the train, or with the help of your Destination Specialist.

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 Moab's hidden gems. Lions Park and Trailhead makes for a lovely morning along the Colorado River, and an optional morning visit to Arches National Park is also available. You will learn more about this tour and have the option to sign up (at additional cost) aboard the Canyon Spirit before you arrive at Moab; this is a highly recommended experience and serves as the ideal way to spend your morning. If you would prefer to prearrange this activity, please speak with your Destination Specialist. Once back on the train in late morning or early afternoon, 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.