This is the only way to travel to The Canyon and the Deluxe Dome Car is the only class to take. On the return trip we used the downstairs deluxe Parlour Car and the two gave us the feeling of being a Rail Baron. It is an excellent feeling.
The food is excellent, the views are superb, the staff attentive and informative and the seats are very comfortable.
To address some of the less then stellar reviews.
1) Yes, the train travels at approximately 30 mph and the reason is quite simple. The train, the tracks and the Federal Government have done extensive studies and the best speed is 30 mph to get everyone safely to the destination.
2) The scenery is BORING, It is Northern AZ. not Disney World, The scenery has been like this for eons,
3) If one can not take the time to enjoy the train and the scenery, then by all means, drive. You will see the same scenery, you will be stuck in traffic jams and your blood pressure will rise,
TAKE THE TRAIN