Prior to attending the ASTA Travel Advisor Conference in Salt Lake City, I had the chance to join a pre-FAM trip with Armstrong Collective’s Canyon Spirit to experience the Rockies to the Red Rocks route from Denver, Colorado, to Moab, Utah.

Armstrong Collective is the parent company for both Rocky Mountaineer and Canyon Spirit. Rocky Mountaineer has three rail routes in Western Canada, and Canyon Spirit (which operated under the Rocky Mountaineer name since 2021) has one soon-to-be-expanded route in the American Southwest: Rockies to the Red Rocks.

The company announced the rebrand earlier this year, along with news of the extended route. While the journey currently connects Denver, Glenwood Springs and Moab, starting in 2026, it will also connect Salt Lake City.

“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,” said Tristan Armstrong, CEO, Armstrong Collective. “Although the name of our train is changing, our world-class service and onboard experience will remain the same, and we look forward to sharing the beauty of the American Southwest with even more guests from across the United States and around the world.”

Experiencing Rockies to the Red Rocks

I have traveled with Rocky Mountaineer once before, and although it was 10 years ago, it’s a type of travel you don’t easily forget. Boarding the train in Denver brought back all the amazing memories from that first trip. Here is just a glimpse of what guests have to look forward to when traveling on Canyon Spirit’s Rockies to the Red Rocks route.  

All-Inclusive

A train ticket comes with much more than a comfortable seat. Traveling with Canyon Spirit is an all-inclusive experience while onboard. This means all meals, snacks and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are included, as well as gratuities for the onboard team and access to an outdoor viewing area. Overnight accommodations between rail days, rail transfers and luggage handling are also included in the rate.

The All-inclusive Signature experience already leaves guests feeling pampered, but there is also an option to do a Premier upgrade. Included in this is access to an exclusive lounge car (which means more space and more views), elevated dining, premium alcohol, an additional restroom and an additional outdoor viewing area.

Gourmet Food & Drinks

The food and beverages are not only included onboard but are also created with fresh, local ingredients. Our journey kicked off with a celebratory mimosa toast, and before I knew it, I was taking in the initial sights while indulging in a warm muffin paired with a hot cup of coffee. For each meal, the chef personally explained each menu item available, and there were always a few to choose from.

Outside of mealtimes, unlimited snacks are available, some of which include popcorn, nuts and fruit. Unlimited alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are also on offer throughout the journey. It might be impossible to go hungry or thirsty while on the train.

Destinations

• Denver: Depending on which direction you take the train, Denver makes for an ideal pre- or post-stay. From breweries and museums to scenic hiking trails and fly fishing opportunities, there’s something for everyone here.
• Glenwood Springs: On the Rockies to the Red Rocks route, guests enjoy an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs. The highlight? For most people, it’s taking a dip in the hot springs. The train stops right in the downtown area, so several restaurants and shops are also close by.
• Moab: Although the train ended in Moab for the FAM trip, our itinerary didn’t allow any extra time to explore. Guests taking this route have lots of options, though, including a visit to Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park.
• Las Vegas: Guests can choose to start or finish in Las Vegas and take a scenic highway bus transfer to or from Moab. With endless options to shop, eat and embrace the nightlife, Sin City adds an exciting element to the trip.
• Salt Lake City: In 2026, the Rockies to the Red Rocks route is expanding to include Salt Lake City. From art and eateries to outdoor excursions, this place has it all.

Service & Storytelling

While the all-inclusive aspect, delicious culinary delights and beautiful scenery make for an amazing time on board, what truly stands out during a trip with Canyon Spirit is the excellent customer service. Not only do the staff members ensure every need is exceeded, but they also add to the experience by pointing out wildlife when it’s spotted from the train and sharing intriguing stories about the surrounding areas. From historical facts to fun folktales, there’s a lot to learn along the way.

To learn more about Canyon Spirit, visit thecanyonspirit.com. Travel advisors interested in learning more can take the new Canyon Spirit TRACKS training program, an online training focused on the Canyon Spirit brand. After becoming certified, advisors have access to a special travel agent rate to experience the journey firsthand. Visit the Agent Portal to learn more.