There are trips you enjoy—and then there are journeys that truly stay with you. My recent experience aboard the Canyon Spirit from Denver to Salt Lake City was exactly that: a seamless blend of luxury, breathtaking scenery, and thoughtfully curated experiences that made every moment feel special.
Arrival in Denver: The Perfect Start
We arrived in Denver a day ahead of our train departure, which I highly recommend. It gave us time to settle in and explore before the journey began. One of the highlights was visiting Red Rocks Amphitheatre. The natural beauty and dramatic rock formations make it a must-see, but be sure to check the event schedule before heading over, as access can be limited during concerts.
That evening, we had dinner at The Hungry Goat, a cozy local spot with great food, exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere—an ideal way to kick off the trip.
Day 1: Denver to Glenwood Springs
The next morning, we departed from Denver Union Station and officially began our Canyon Spirit journey. From the moment we boarded, the experience felt elevated. The service was attentive, the food was outstanding, and the scenery quickly became the star of the show.
As we traveled through the Rockies, we were treated to stunning views of canyons, rivers, and rugged mountain landscapes. It’s the kind of scenery that keeps you glued to the window.
We arrived in Glenwood Springs that evening, a charming town that immediately stood out as a favorite stop.
Day 2: Glenwood Springs to Moab
After a night in Glenwood Springs, we continued west toward Moab. This stretch of the journey offered even more dramatic scenery, transitioning from lush mountain landscapes to the striking red rock formations of Utah.
Moab delivered a completely different vibe—earthy, adventurous, and full of energy. That evening, we experienced one of the trip’s most memorable moments: a relaxing river cruise on the Colorado River, complete with live music and incredible desert views at sunset.
Day 3: Arches National Park & Salt Lake City
Our final full day began with a visit to Arches National Park, and it did not disappoint. Seeing the iconic natural arches up close was truly unforgettable and a bucket-list experience.
After exploring the park, we returned to the train for the final leg to Salt Lake City. It was the perfect time to reflect on the journey, relax, and take in the last of the incredible scenery.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Canyon Spirit Journey
1. Consider traveling Salt Lake City to Denver
While our route was incredible, I recommend doing the trip in reverse. Traveling from Salt Lake City to Denver gives you more time in Glenwood Springs—which is absolutely worth it.
2. Don’t rush Glenwood Springs
This charming town has a fun hidden gem—be sure to find all the “wings” scattered throughout the area. It’s a unique and interactive way to explore.
Also, take advantage of the local transportation app—it’s like Uber, but only about $1 per person and very convenient.
3. Take advantage of Moab experiences
- The Canyon Spirit offers a guided tour to Arches National Park. It’s on the pricier side, but absolutely worth it for the convenience and experience.
- Get on the water! The Colorado River cruise with live music was a highlight of the entire trip.
- Moab also has a free local transportation app, making it easy to get around town without needing a car.
4. Plan ahead for Red Rocks Amphitheatre
If you’re visiting before your train departure, definitely go—but check the event calendar in advance to avoid surprises.
5. Prepare for a long (but beautiful) train day
One of the days onboard is quite long. While the service is exceptional and the food is fantastic, it’s still a full day of travel—so come prepared to relax and enjoy the pace.
6. Choose your train class wisely
- If having more space to move around is important to you, upgrade to the Premium service. It includes access to two additional lounge cars, each with a bar, which makes a big difference during the longer travel day.
- However, don’t upgrade to Premier solely for more comfortable seating—the guest cars are essentially the same as those in Signature service.
Final Thoughts
The Canyon Spirit is more than just a train ride—it’s a curated travel experience that allows you to slow down and truly take in the beauty of the American West. From the towering peaks of Colorado to the red rock landscapes of Utah, every moment felt intentional and memorable.
If you’re looking for a unique, all-inclusive journey that combines luxury, adventure, and unforgettable scenery, this is one trip that absolutely delivers.
