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Colorado's
gold and silver riches lured miners, settlers and railroads during the
mid-19th century. The rough and ready Centennial State resulted. This
7-day program features natural beauty and crisp mountain air, historic
train rides, national parks, heritage sites and western hospitality.
Day 1 -
Arrivals
Welcome to colorful Colorado! Your tour director and coach will meet you today at Denver's International Airport. Our introduction to the mile high city begins with visits to the Colorado History Museum and the unique Black American West Museum & Heritage Center. This evening we'll enjoy a relaxing welcome dinner to kick off our eventful journey.
Day 2 - Rocky Mountain
National Park
Our first full day in magnificent Colorado begins with a scenic drive over famous Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. We'll stop in Estes Park to explore its unique collection of shops and boutiques, and make numerous photography stops along the way. (Be sure to bring plenty of film!) Overnight again in Denver.
Day 3 - Denver To Grand
Junction
Today we travel across the Continental Divide aboard the fabled California Zephyr transcontinental train route, noted for its 6.5 mile long Moffat Tunnel carved right through the granite fastnesses of the Rockies. Completed in 1927 as a water conduit for the city of Denver, the Moffat is the second largest railroad tunnel in the US. After a delightful day of Rocky Mountain scenery, our coach will meet us at Grand Junction. Our evening will be capped by a very special picnic and sunset tour of beautiful Colorado National Monument. Overnight in Grand Junction.
Day 4 - Cross Orchards/
Mesa Verde National Park
Cross Orchards is a living history farm where 19th century characters guide visitors through the original bunkhouse, barn and apple orchards. In addition to demonstrating how the fruit was harvested, processed and packed, we'll also be treated to a large collection of Uintah narrow-gauge railway cars and western memorabilia. As we travel southward, Colorado's mining heritage is highlighted. We'll end the day in Mesa Verde National Park, ancient home of the Anasazi cliff dwellers, where we'll have an opportunity to explore these amazing dwellings and the excellent interpretive exhibits under the guidance of our knowledgeable step-on guide. Overnight at Far View Lodge in the park.
Day 5 Silverton-Durango
Railroad / Black Canyon
We'll board the narrow-gauge Silverton-Durango steam train which will take us through breathtaking scenery as we wend our way northward through a remote wilderness area (inaccessible by motor vehicle) which is part of the two million acre San Juan National Forest, following the Animas River. The locomotives use coal-fired steam engines and coaches of 1880 type, with some open gondola cars also available. Also on the agenda is the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, a magnificently carved gorge which has recently been upgraded to a national park. Overnight in nearby Montrose.
Day 6 - Royal Gorge/ Old
Colorado City
A complete change of scenery is in store for us today as we travel eastward on our circle. We'll visit the Royal Gorge with it's numerous sights and amusements before moving on to Old Colorado City, the first capitol of Colorado. We'll stroll the historic streets, browse the many specialty shops and galleries and enjoy the 19th century ambiance of the area before celebrating the end of our wonderful journey with a festive farewell dinner. Overnight in Colorado Springs.
Day 7 - Departures
Sadly we bid a fond farewell to our Colorado adventure as we wend our way homeward with memories of new friends and great experiences in colorful Colorado! Airport transfers included.
Package Includes:
6 nights' lodging,
3 evening meals, 2 breakfasts,
1 luncheon
deluxe motorcoach and driver,
professional tour director,
park entrance fees,
all admission fees,
baggage handling, airport transfers
Highlights:
Rocky Mountain National Park
Colorado National Monument
Mesa Verde National Park
Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Cross Orchards Living History Farm
Royal Gorge
Old Colorado City
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