3 Canyon Spirit Train Tips from Travel Advisors Who Rode It
By Lara (Bursch) Deppisch – July 2026
To celebrate Bursch Travel’s 70th anniversary, our team boarded Canyon Spirit for an unforgettable rail journey through the American West. From Utah’s dramatic red rock landscapes to Colorado’s towering mountain peaks, we experienced breathtaking scenery, exceptional service, and the relaxed pace of traveling by train.
After experiencing Canyon Spirit firsthand, I came home with a few recommendations for anyone considering this scenic rail journey. Whether you’re deciding which service class to book or wondering what to bring, here are my three tips for making the most of your Canyon Spirit adventure.
You can read more about our experience in All Aboard! Celebrating Our 70th Anniversary on Canyon Spirit.
Here are my three recommendations for making the most of your Canyon Spirit vacation.
1. Is Canyon Spirit Premier Class Worth It?
Based on our experience, I recommend considering Premier Class if you want a more elevated onboard experience.
For us, the upgrade added memorable touches throughout the journey, including access to the lounge car, premium beverages, elevated dining, and special onboard offerings such as afternoon tea and Colorado whiskey tastings.
These experiences made the trip feel like more than transportation between destinations. They were part of what made the journey special.
My tip: Compare the current class inclusions before booking. If dining, onboard amenities, and extra opportunities to relax are important to you, Premier Class may be worth the additional cost.
2. What Should You Pack for Canyon Spirit?
Pack layers and keep your camera or phone easily accessible.
One of the things that surprised me most was how dramatically the scenery changed throughout our journey. We traveled from Utah’s striking red rock landscapes to Colorado’s rugged mountains, with changing temperatures and views along the way.
Dressing in layers helped us stay comfortable, while having a camera nearby meant we could capture the scenery without digging through our bags.
My tip: Wear comfortable clothing, bring an extra layer, and keep your camera ready. Some of the most memorable views appear when you least expect them.
3. Don’t Miss the Canyon Spirit Lounge Car
Make time to leave your seat and enjoy the lounge car if it’s included in your travel class.
Although the views were beautiful from our seats, some of my favorite memories came from spending time in the lounge car.
It was a welcoming place to admire the scenery, meet fellow travelers, share stories, and enjoy the relaxed pace of train travel.
My tip: Don’t spend the entire journey in your assigned seat. Take advantage of the onboard spaces available to you and enjoy the experience from different perspectives.
Is Canyon Spirit Worth It? My Take
Absolutely. Based on our anniversary journey, I’d recommend Canyon Spirit to travelers who enjoy beautiful scenery, attentive service, and a relaxed way to explore the American West.
What stood out to me was the combination of dramatic landscapes, comfortable onboard surroundings, and the opportunity to enjoy the journey rather than focus on driving or navigating.
It’s especially appealing if you want to experience the region’s scenery while letting someone else handle the transportation.
Want a closer look at our experience aboard Canyon Spirit? Watch our Canyon Spirit Instagram Reel!
Plan Your Canyon Spirit Train Vacation with Bursch Travel
If our experience has inspired you to explore the American West by rail, we’d love to help you find the right journey. Bursch Travel’s experienced advisors can help you compare rail itineraries, travel classes, accommodations, and other details to find a trip that fits your interests and budget.
Whether you’re considering Canyon Spirit, the Canadian Rockies, or another scenic rail vacation, we’re here to help you plan.
Connect with a Bursch Travel Advisor
