Colorado Train Adventure
Sep 10, 2022

This morning, our first stop will be at the Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden. This museum’s mission is to acquire, preserve and exhibit railroad equipment, artifacts, and photographs emphasizing Rocky Mountain area railroads. You will learn about the history of this region from the 1860’s to present.

After departing the museum, we are on our way to the town of Georgetown nestled in the mountains and take a journey on the historic Georgetown Loop Railroad. This spectacular stretch of three-foot narrow gauge was considered an engineering marvel for its time. Our journey will take us through the Rockies to the scenic mountain town of Glenwood Springs. This evening, you may enjoy a soak in the local hot springs. (B, D)

Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge or similar, Glenwood Springs, CO

This morning, we’ll travel to the historic town of Silverton, enjoy some free time to explore the many shops and have lunch on your own. After your explorations, board the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, one of the last such railroads operating in the United States. Enjoy a delightful trip through the Colorado Rockies between Silverton and Durango. The rugged peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal lakes take you back to the early days of the West when mountain men searched this untouched land for traces of bear and mountain lion.

Upon arrival in Durango, we’ll re-board the motorcoach for our hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore this fun western town on your own. (B)

Holiday Inn or similar, Durango, CO

After breakfast, travel to nearby Mesa Verde National Park for a day of exploration. Here you will visit cliff dwellings where the mysterious Anasazi once lived. Known as the “Ancient Ones” to the Navajo, the Anasazi lived in the Four Corners area almost a thousand years ago, then suddenly disappeared leaving their incredibly well-preserved dwellings to intrigue and challenge modern civilization.

This is the nation’s largest archeological preserve with 4,000 sights including 600 cliff dwellings. Spend some time in the Visitors Center with its large collection of ancient artifacts for an introduction to the ancient culture. A local expert will guide you through the most famous ruin sites with a stop at the Spruce Tree House Restaurant for lunch on own.

After a fascinating tour of the park, return to Durango for an evening on your own. (B)

Holiday Inn or similar, Durango, CO

This morning, we’ll depart for Pagosa Springs, nestled in southwest Colorado and one of the state’s last undiscovered gems. Known for its amazing hot springs, abundant sunshine and small-town feel, it offers healing waters and an enigmatic town.

Stop for lunch as you travel to Royal Gorge Park & Bridge, where the world’s highest suspension bridge towers 1,053 feet above the Arkansas River. Here, you will have time to walk out on the bridge, have dinner on your own and explore other sights in the park. (B, L)

Hampton Inn or similar, Canon City, CO 

This morning, we’ll board the Royal Gorge Route Railroad for a vintage train ride along the legendary Arkansas River deep within the Gorge. A spectacular ride!

We’ll travel to Canon City and Manitou Springs to take a ride on Pike’s Peak Cog Railway that climbs to the top of Pikes Peak. Looking at this famous peak, rising 12,110 feet above sea level, you will understand the meaning of “Rocky Mountain High!”

What a great end to our Colorado Train vacation. This afternoon check into your hotel and freshen up, but do not wander too far because tonight you’ll rejoin your fellow passengers for a farewell dinner. (B, D)

Drury Inn & Suites or similar, Colorado Springs, CO

Say farewell to Colorado and the amazing Rocky Mountains. After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the Denver International airport before noon.  Please make departure flights after 12:00 pm MST for your journey onward. (B)