Colorado’s Vintage Railways

DAY 1: WELCOME TO COLORADO!

Your rail adventure begins in Denver, where you’ll meet your fellow travelers and Tour Director for a welcome dinner. Settle in and get ready for a memorable week exploring Colorado’s legendary railways, mountain scenery, and Old West history. D

DAY 2: GEORGETOWN LOOP R.R./MOUNTAIN TALES

Travel to the charming mountain town of Georgetown, which began as a mining camp in 1859. Here, you’ll board the historic Georgetown Loop Railroad for your first rail journey through the Rockies aboard a classic narrow-gauge train that loops high above the valley floor. After lunch in town, storyteller Leon Joseph Littlebird shares tales of mountain life and Indigenous music during a special performance. Later, continue to Grand Junction for the evening. B, L

DAY 3: DURANGO AND SILVERTON NARROW GAUGE RAILROAD

Today brings one of Colorado’s most iconic rail experiences. First, view the dramatic landscapes of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, where the Gunnison River has carved steep cliffs through ancient rock formations. Then board the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for a spectacular ride aboard an 1880s-era steam-powered locomotive. Following the same route once traveled by miners, settlers, and cowboys, you’ll wind through remote wilderness, deep canyons, and portions of the vast San Juan National Forest. Later, arrive in Durango for a relaxing two-night stay at the historic Strater Hotel. B

DAY 4: DURANGO YOUR WAY

Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the historic western town of Durango at your own pace. Founded in 1880 by the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad, Durango offers a lively historic downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and scenic mountain charm. You may choose to join a walking tour, stroll along the Animas River Trail, browse local shops, or simply relax and enjoy the atmosphere of this classic Colorado rail town. An optional excursion is also available today. B

Option—Mesa Verde National Park Travel deep into Mesa Verde National Park to learn about the Ancestral Puebloan people. L Price: $59 per person

DAY 5: CUMBRES AND TOLTEC RAILROAD

Step back into the days of frontier rail travel aboard the legendary Cumbres and Toltec Railroad. Relax in your comfortable coach or open-air observation car as this historic steam train climbs through the breathtaking San Juan Mountains. Your unforgettable journey from Chama to Antonito reaches elevations of more than 10,000 feet and passes through rugged mountain scenery, forests, and remote western landscapes. Midway through the journey, stop for lunch in the small mining town of Osier before continuing to Alamosa. B, L

DAY 6: GREAT SAND DUNES N.P./ROYAL GORGE RAILROAD

Marvel at the towering dunes of Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, home to the tallest sand dunes in North America. After lunch, board the famous Royal Gorge Route Railroad for a scenic journey along the Arkansas River beneath the soaring granite walls of Royal Gorge. This classic rail route offers spectacular views as the train winds through one of Colorado’s most dramatic natural landscapes. B, L, D

DAY 7: PIKES PEAK

Begin your day at Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, where the suspension bridge stretches 1,000 feet above the canyon below. Continue toward Colorado Springs with a stop for lunch in the charming town of Manitou Springs, known for its mineral springs and beautiful setting at the base of Pikes Peak. Many Native American tribes considered this area sacred, and you’ll quickly understand why. Tonight, enjoy a lively Western stage show and Chuckwagon dinner at Flying W Ranch. B, L, D

Option—Pikes Peak Cog Railway For an even more dramatic mountain experience, ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway during an 8,000-foot ascent to the summit of majestic Pikes Peak. Enjoy sweeping mountain views along the way. Price: $89 per person

DAY 8: GARDEN OF THE GODS

Visit spectacular Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, where towering red sandstone formations rise against the backdrop of Pikes Peak and the Rocky Mountains. This beautiful park is home to an impressive variety of plant and animal life, as well as some of Colorado’s most photographed scenery. Later, return to Denver with wonderful memories of Colorado’s vintage railways and scenic mountain landscapes. B

QUALITY ACCOMMODATIONS:

Night 1: Hyatt Place Airport, Denver, CO
Night 2: Hampton Inn Downtown, Grand Junction, CO
Nights 3-4: Strater Hotel, Durango, CO
Night 5: Hampton Inn, Alamosa, CO
Night 6: Holiday Inn Express, Cañon City, CO
Night 7: Hyatt Place, Colorado Springs, CO

Dates:

Sep 10-17, 2027

Price Per Person:

Double: $3,197
Single: $3,995

Pre/Post Tour Hotel:

$228 per night

Depart/Return:

Denver, CO

Inclusions:

Free airport shuttle or hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service

Arrival Time

Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, Hyatt Place Denver Airport, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight to arrive by 4:00 p.m.

Departure Time

Schedule your flight home to depart Denver Airport any time after 3:30 p.m. on Day 8.

Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking

Our starting hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to/from the Denver Airport. If you are driving to the starting location, they also offer complimentary parking for the duration of the tour.

Walking Distance

Moderate walking is required to fully enjoy this tour. Some walking will also be on uneven paths. While walking canes are allowed, we are unable to accommodate travelers using other mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs.

Average Temps

September – high of 75°, low of 48°

Time Zone

Mountain

Hotel Amenities

Most accommodations arranged by Country Travel Discoveries are equipped with in-room amenities such as a hair dryer, iron, and coffee maker. In addition, some properties may also have a pool, fitness center, or laundry facilities.

Additional Information

A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.

We are featuring four trains on this tour. You can find the duration of those train rides below:

Georgetown Loop Railroad – 1 hour and 15 minutes
Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad – 3 hours and 30 minutes
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad – 5 hours with a break for lunch at Osier
Royal Gorge Route Railroad – 2 hours

Elevations on this tour can reach 5,000 to 14,100 feet at Pikes Peak. If you are prone to altitude sickness, you may want to book a pre-night stay to fully acclimate. Cooler weather can also prevail at higher elevations (such as at Pikes Peak). We recommend drinking extra water before the tour to help prepare your body for these elevations.

Travel Protection Available?

Yes, view Travel Protection Information.