A New Chapter in Luxury Rail Travel Through the American Southwest
Rocky Mountaineer's Red Rocks route undergoes an exciting luxury transformation
Luxury train travel enthusiasts have a new reason to celebrate as Rocky Mountaineer’s renowned “Rockies to the Red Rocks” route undergoes an exciting transformation. Now known as Canyon Spirit, this rebranded experience continues the legacy of world-class hospitality while deepening its connection to the breathtaking landscapes of the American Southwest.
A Legacy of Excellence Expands
Canyon Spirit is part of the Armstrong Collective, a distinguished group of travel experiences that also includes the globally acclaimed Rocky Mountaineer. Since 1990, Rocky Mountaineer has captivated travelers with its luxurious train journeys through the Canadian Rockies, setting a gold standard for scenic rail adventures. With the introduction of Canyon Spirit, the Armstrong Collective is extending its expertise southward, offering a journey that showcases the raw beauty of towering peaks, deep canyons, and expansive deserts.
An Unforgettable Journey Through the Southwest
Canyon Spirit invites travelers to embark on an awe-inspiring rail journey that blends natural beauty, regional history, and top-tier service. The train’s route traverses some of the most iconic landscapes in Colorado and Utah, winding through rugged river canyons, striking red rock formations, and the meandering Colorado River. While the surrounding environment is vast and untamed, the experience onboard is refined and immersive, offering guests a front-row seat to nature’s grandeur.
The journey is accentuated by the vibrant urban landscapes of Denver and Salt Lake City, serving as gateways to this one-of-a-kind rail adventure. Guests will also have the opportunity to explore the charming towns of Glenwood Springs, CO, and Moab, UT, with overnight stays that allow for deeper cultural and scenic exploration.
Expanding the Rockies to the Red Rocks Experience
Starting in 2026, Canyon Spirit will introduce a three-day Rockies to the Red Rocks Extension journey, expanding upon the existing two-day itinerary between Denver and Moab. This new offering includes an additional day of travel, taking passengers through eastern Utah’s mountain passes and the vast, open landscapes of the Great Basin before arriving in Salt Lake City. This enhanced route will provide a more immersive experience, allowing guests to witness even more of the Southwest’s breathtaking scenery.
Tristan Armstrong, CEO of the Armstrong Collective, expressed excitement about this evolution: “We could not be more excited to bring our Canyon Spirit train to Salt Lake City and to expand our Rockies to the Red Rocks route further into the beautiful state of Utah. Although the name of our train is changing, our world-class service and onboard experience will remain the same.”
Unparalleled Onboard Experience
Canyon Spirit’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its picturesque route. Onboard, passengers will be treated to:
- Attentive service from knowledgeable hosts
- Engaging storytelling about the region’s rich history and culture
- Locally inspired cuisine, featuring fresh, regional ingredients paired with fine wines, craft beers, and spirits
This blend of hospitality and education ensures that travelers not only see the beauty of the Southwest but also develop a deeper appreciation for its heritage.
The Rockies to the Red Rocks Extension will launch on April 21, 2026, with weekly departures—one westbound from Denver and one eastbound from Salt Lake City. As the latest evolution in luxury rail travel, Canyon Spirit is set to redefine how travelers experience the American Southwest, blending adventure, comfort, and world-class hospitality into one unforgettable journey.
