A Luxurious Train Journey Through the American Southwest

First Impressions in the Desert

On my inaugural journey through the desert, I was captivated by the serene beauty of this arid land and its striking red rocks. The vast, untamed scenery made me feel wonderfully small. Many fellow travelers shared my sentiment as we slowly gazed out the train window, soaking in the breathtaking landscapes.

By the fourth hour of our three-day train adventure, I had abandoned the idea of photographing every passing scene. Instead, I allowed myself to be enveloped by the gentle rhythm of the train, indulging in distant dreams while marveling at the vibrant desert under the warm glow of the afternoon sun from my comfortable leather seat.

The Canyon Spirit Journey

I was fortunate to be among the first passengers to experience the new “Rockies to Red Rocks” route on the Canyon Spirit train, a fresh offering from Rocky Mountaineer that debuted last April. Over the next three days, this striking blue and gold train would take us from Salt Lake City to Denver, with overnight stops in Moab and Glenwood Springs.

This new itinerary caters to travelers eager to explore the wild beauty of the American Southwest, allowing us to witness stunning views that aren't easily accessible elsewhere. While there is no official boundary defining this mystical region, the landscape transforms in color with each rock formation, shifting from vibrant emerald greens to soft shades of pink.

Connecting with History Through Stories

Throughout this journey, our delightful guides enriched our understanding of the local history through engaging stories. They served as a bridge between us and the millions of years of history unfolding outside our window, from Cold War rocket testing sites to bizarre space phenomena. These narratives truly offered a fresh perspective on what we were witnessing.

The Canyon Spirit experience goes beyond just a train ride; it provides a unique storytelling adventure. The guide team conducted thorough research to gather information and verify local legends, creating a 50-page onboard document that allows passengers to not only enjoy the scenery but also gain deeper insights into the culture and history of the area.

Onboard Experience

Canyon Spirit offers a variety of all-inclusive service packages and routes heading east and west. Regardless of your chosen option, the journey includes daytime train service, meals served at your seat (including breakfast and lunch), alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as overnight hotel accommodations.

Some itineraries even feature off-train experiences, such as the six-day “Mighty 5 Explorer Package,” which includes guided tours at Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Parks. You can choose between two ticket classes: the “Signature Experience” with comfortable seating and the “Premier Upgrade,” which offers additional perks.

Essential Information for Vietnamese Travelers

If you’re interested in experiencing this trip, here are some important details to keep in mind: To enter the U.S., you will need to apply for a B2 tourist visa, with processing times ranging from 2 to 4 weeks. Flight prices from Vietnam to Salt Lake City (SLC) vary from 15 million VND to 30 million VND, depending on the time of travel and airline. Spring and fall are the ideal seasons for this journey, as the weather is pleasant and the scenery is at its most vibrant.

The cost for the Canyon Spirit journey can vary based on the package you select, but generally, prices start around 40 million VND for a trip that includes meals and accommodations. You can find more information about the itinerary and book tickets on the official Rocky Mountaineer website.

In summary, the Canyon Spirit train journey not only takes you to breathtaking landscapes but also connects you with the culture and history of the American Southwest. This is truly an experience worth trying for anyone who loves travel and exploration.

Article adapted and edited from source: Condé Nast Traveler