7 Days
September 10, 2022
From: $2,599*
per person
Embark on a scenic tour showcasing historic railroads and magnificent landscapes!
Take a ride on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, an engineering marvel for its time. Ride the Durango to Silverton narrow gauge railroad, a spectacular trip through the Colorado Rockies. Experience the Royal Gorge Route Railroad for a vintage train ride along the legendary Arkansas River deep within the Gorge and visit the nation’s largest archaeological preserve at Mesa Verde National Park. You and your family will love this epic journey. All Aboard!
* Rates are per person, land only, based on double occupancy. Rates, hotels, terms, conditions and itinerary are subject to change. Rates do not include airfare, air taxes. AAA member benefits are valid for passengers who book through AAA travel only. Benefits listed may be substituted/eliminated based on passenger participation and have no cash value. This tour requires average physical activity. Participants should be in good health, able to climb stairs and walk reasonable distances, possibly over uneven ground or unpaved trails. This tour covers areas of higher altitudes including overnight locations above 6,000 ft. and touring above 9,000 ft. with a half day trip to the top of Pike’s Peak which is 14,000 ft. Other restrictions may apply. The Auto Club Group is not responsible for any errors or omissions in the promotion of this tour.
DAILY ITINERARY:
Arrive at the Denver Airport before 4 pm MST, and take your shuttle to the hotel where you will meet your local guide. Tonight, meet the group for a get-acquainted dinner. (D)
Embassy Suites by Hilton or similar, Denver, CO
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)
AAA EXCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS:
- 6 nights’ hotel accommodations
Georgetown Loop Railroad
Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
- Royal Gorge Route Railroad, Park and Bridge
Pike’s Peak Cog Railway
Mesa Verde National Park
- Colorado Railroad Museum
- Pagosa Springs
- Entrance fees to attractions, National Parks and Monument as mentioned in itinerary
Meals: 6-breakfasts, 1-lunch, 3-dinners
Services of a professional tour director
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