For 35 years, Rocky Mountaineer has offered luxury rail journeys across the Canadian Rockies. Building on this legacy, it comes as no surprise that Armstrong Collective has introduced Canyon Spirit, an elevated rail experience that welcomes guests to explore the American Southwest. From towering mountains and deserts to canyons and red rock formations, these are four destinations that define the Rocky Mountaineer and  Canyon Spirit routes. 

Vancouver 

Vancouver

On a Globus or Cosmos tour, you can start or end a Rocky Mountaineer journey in Vancouver. This powerhouse city is easily walkable so lace up your shoes and start exploring! Whether it’s through the historic streets of Gastown, along the Seawall at Stanley Park, or moseying through the Museum of Anthropology, there’s something for everyone in Vancouver. 

Jasper National Park 

Jasper National Park

If you love to get outdoors, Jasper National Park is a must. It’s the largest park in the Canadian Rockies and boasts an abundance of wildlife (think moose and bears), world-class stargazing and epic natural wonders. On this Cosmos tour, you’ll have a day at leisure to explore Jasper town and park before boarding Rocky Mountaineer’s spectacular Journey Through The Clouds route to Vancouver. 

Denver 

Denver

Nicknamed the ‘Mile High City’ due to its precise elevation of one mile above sea level, Denver is the diamond of the Rocky Mountains. It came to life in the 1860s with the discovery of gold and silver in these very mountains and hasn’t looked back since. It also marks an excellent start or finish point when travelling on the Canyon Spirit. There are outdoor adventures, arts and culture, food, drink, and history a-plenty so we recommend adding on extra time to do this city justice.  

Moab 

Arches National Park

With its red rock adventures and endless horizons, Moab acts as the gateway to Utah’s ‘Mighty 5’. The Canyon Spirit train starts, ends and/or has an overnight in Moab giving you ample opportunity to tick off some of the nearby National Parks. From the 2000+ sandstone arches of Arches National Park to the unique hoodoo formations in Bryce Canyon National Park, immerse yourself in the local culture and stunning scenery. 

Why these rail journeys are worth doing 

Canyon Spirit train
Photo credit: Rocky Mountaineer

There are several reasons why these rail journeys are iconic. It’s not just about getting from A to B; it’s about slowing down and letting the landscapes take centre stage.  

  • Unmatched scenery: from start to finish, your glass-domed carriages provide panoramic views of mountains, rivers, forests and canyons 
  • Travel in comfort: spacious seating, attentive onboard hosts and regionally inspired dining elevate your journey 
  • Daylight-only travel: routes are carefully timed so you don’t miss a thing! 
  • Storytelling with a view: your onboard Hosts will share insights into the landscapes, history and wildlife as the scenery unfolds 

Ready to explore the Canadian Rockies and the American Southwest in style? Look no further than a Globus or Cosmos tour that includes the Rocky Mountaineer or Canyon Spirit train.  

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