The Colorado Rockies featuring National Parks and Historic Trains
The Colorado Rockies featuring National Parks and Historic Trains
9 Days Starting in Denver, USA and ending in Colorado Springs, USA
Visiting: Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado National Monument, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Silverton, Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado Springs
Tour operator:
Tour code:
16100
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Interests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Rail Tours, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the majestic Colorado Rockies, where natural wonders and historic adventures await. This tour takes you through four breathtaking national parks, starting in Denver, the vibrant "Mile High City." Experience the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountain National Park and the dramatic Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Ride the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and ascend Pike's Peak aboard the world's highest cog railway. Relive the Old West in Durango, explore the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park, and savor a farm-to-table dinner on a family-owned ranch. Conclude your adventure in Colorado Springs, where the stunning Garden of the Gods and the artistic charm of the city await. This tour promises a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and cultural experiences in the heart of the Rockies.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Denver, Colorado
Location: Denver
Accommodation Name: Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Adventure awaits as you explore the towering peaks and rolling meadows of Colorado. This tour (which features four national parks) opens in the “Mile High City” of Denver where you will gather for a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers.
Day 2 : Denver - Rocky Mountain National Park - Denver
Location: Rocky Mountain National Park
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Travel through Boulder, a scenic university town known for its iconic landmark... the striking, reddish-brown foothills known as the Flatirons. Stop in Estes Park, a mountain resort town and home of the Stanley Hotel, the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining. Your adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park starts on the Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved, continuous highway in North America. It’s a drive that should be on everybody’s bucket list. At Rainbow Curve, marvel at the majestic mountains that stand in contrast to deep, rugged canyons. Later, return to Denver for a free evening in this dynamic city.
Day 3 : Denver - Colorado National Monument - Grand Junction
Location: Colorado National Monument
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Junction Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
The spectacular Rocky Mountains are your traveling companion. Make a scenic drive from Denver to Grand Junction, passing through many of Colorado’s famous ski resorts. This journey also takes you to one of the grand landscapes of the American West – Colorado National Monument. Continue along the monument's historic Rim Rock Drive to see a colorful panorama of deep, sheer-sided canyons and high rock towers. Gather for dinner at a favorite local hangout in Grand Junction, a town that attracts outdoorsmen, foodies and all manner of free spirits.
Day 4 : Black Canyon Of The Gunnison National Park - Grand Junction
Location: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch
Today, venture to another amazing national park – Colorado’s own “Grand Canyon”! Marvel at the steep-walled gorge and dramatic views of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park while travelling along its South Rim. Pause at one of the scenic viewpoints to soak in this stunning wilderness of rock, water, and sky. Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking some of the steepest and oldest rock walls in North America, carved over 2 million years by the Gunnison River. Perhaps you’ll even spot a peregrine falcon. Then, immerse yourself in the stories of the American west during a tour of the Museum of the Mountain West, a preserved and re-created pioneer town that captures life as it was over a century ago. Return to Grand Junction for an evening at leisure.
Day 5 : Grand Junction - Silverton - Durango
Location: Silverton
Accommodation Name: Strater Hotel
Head south to Silverton, a former silver mining town and now a National Historic Landmark. Hidden high in the San Juan Mountains, this town blends spectacular scenery, Victorian charm and historic architecture. Then it's “all aboard” the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This 1881 coal-fired, steam-powered locomotive made its name hauling silver and gold ore from the San Juan Mountains, but you will soon realize it is the view that is its most precious asset.
Day 6 : Durango - Mesa Verde National Park - Durango
Location: Mesa Verde National Park
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
An incredible day awaits in Mesa Verde National Park (UNESCO), home of the ancient Ancestral Puebloan civilization. Join a local guide on a drive through the park making several photo stops including views of the famous Spruce Tree House, one of Mesa Verde’s best preserved cliff dwellings and Cliff Palace, the largest in the park. This evening, experience a farm-to-table dinner on a family-owned ranch surrounded by red mountain peaks and lush green pastures.
Day 7 : Durango - Colorado Springs
Location: Colorado Springs
Accommodation Name: Embassy Suites by Hilton
Sit back and relax during a scenic ride to Colorado Springs. En route, marvel at the landscape as you make your way from the San Juan National Forest and across Wolf Creek Pass, a section of the Continental Divide that would take pioneers two to three weeks to cross. Continue on through the Rio Grande National Forest, a vast expanse of wilderness named for the 1,800 miles of Rio Grande River that cuts through the forest. Your day concludes in Colorado Springs, an artistic and cultural hub.
Day 8 : Colorado Springs - Manitou Springs - Colorado Springs
Location: Colorado Springs
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Depart for Manitou Springs, home of Pike’s Peak – the legendary symbol of the 1859 Gold Rush. Embark on a journey aboard the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, the world’s highest cog railroad, for an 8.9 mile trip to the top of Pike’s Peak. During the journey you will see magnificent views and perhaps animals in their native habitat. Later, travel to the Garden of the Gods to take in the view of towering sandstone formations that dot the landscape set in the backdrop of majestic Pikes Peak. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner and celebrate your adventure.
Day 9 : Colorado Springs - Tour Ends
Location: Colorado Springs
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Your tour comes to a close in Colorado Springs.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Junction Hotel, and the historic Strater Hotel in Durango, offering comfort and charm amidst the stunning landscapes of Colorado.
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Transport
Travel through Colorado's breathtaking landscapes by coach, with scenic drives and historic train rides, including the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and the Pike's Peak Cog Railway.
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Meals
Enjoy an authentic farm-to-table dinner on a 450-acre, family-owned ranch.
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Guided Tours
Join a local guide on a drive through Mesa Verde National Park, making several photo stops including views of the famous Spruce Tree House and Cliff Palace.
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Historic Train Ride
Ride a historic, narrow-gauge train from Silverton to Durango.
What's Not Included
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Free Evening in Denver
Return to Denver for a free evening in this dynamic city.
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Leisure Time in Grand Junction
Return to Grand Junction for an evening at leisure.
Experiences
Journey aboard the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway to the top of Pike’s Peak.Spend two nights in Durango, a fun-filled cowboy town where you can relive the excitement of the Old West.
Culinaries
Enjoy an authentic farm-to-table dinner on a 450-acre, family-owned ranch.
Must See
Explore the massive and rugged Rocky Mountain National Park.Travel to a vertical wilderness at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.Ride a historic, narrow-gauge train from Silverton to Durango.
Choice Highlights
Denver Denver, the capital of Colorado, was founded on November 22, 1858, as a mining town. It is nicknamed the Mile-High City because of its official elevation of exactly one mile. Although developed into an urban area, much of Denver still remains green for outdoor adventures.
Rocky Mountain National Park Established in 1915, Rocky Mountain National Park is located in the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains and features mountain views, mountain lakes and a variety of wildlife. The park is dominated by Longs Peak. Each year thousands of people attempt to scale this 14,259-foot peak, one of Colorado's "fourteeners." The park is also visited hikers and rock climbers.
Colorado National Monument Located on desert land on the Colorado Plateau, the Colorado National Monument hosts a variety of wildlife, including red-tailed hawks, golden eagles, ravens, desert bighorn sheep and coyotes. The area was first explored by John Otto in the early 20th century, when many residents believed the canyons to be inaccessible to humans. The park was then established on May 24, 1911. Today, many come to hike, horseback ride, bicycle and take scenic drives through the park.
Grand Junction The city of Grand Junction is the home rule municipality located along the Colorado River. Grand Junction serves as a major commercial and transportation hub between the Green River and the Continental Divide. Like most of Colorado, Grand Junction also serves a natural beauty and red rock landscape. Many come to hike, camp, and ski. In the downtown area, visitors can shop at local stores, dine at various restaurants and view art galleries.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Museum of the Mountain West
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad The Durango & Silverton Railroad has run continuously since 1881. The line was constructed to haul silver & gold ore from the San Juan Mountains, but passengers soon realized it was the view that was truly precious. This historic train has been in continuous operation for 131 years, carrying passengers behind vintage steam locomotives. Relive the sights and sounds of yesteryear for a spectacular journey on board the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
Mesa Verde National Park (UNESCO) Mesa Verde National Park is the largest archaeological preserve in the United States. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park was created in 1903 by President Theodore Roosevelt to protect cliff dwellings, which are structures built within caves and under outcroppings in the cliff. Today, visitors come to see some of the park features, which include ruins of homes and villages built by the Ancient Pueblo people, the Anasazi.
Pikes Peak Cog Railway The cogs railway is the world’s highest cog train that climbs to 14,115 feet. Since 1891, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway has been taking thousands of people to the summit of Pikes Peak. Today, visitors travel the cog railway to view the panoramic view of Pikes Peak and the Colorado Springs.
Garden of the Gods Located in Colorado Springs, this public park was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1971. The Garden of the Gods' red rock formations were created during geological upheaval along a natural fault line millions of years ago. Archaeological evidence shows that prehistoric people visited the park about 1330 BC and Native American people camped in the area of the park about 250 BC. The land, however, was officially established in 1909. The Garden of the Gods Park is popular for hiking, rock climbing, road and mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Mode of Transport
Travel through Colorado's breathtaking landscapes by coach, with scenic drives and historic train rides, including the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and the Pike's Peak Cog Railway.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences can I expect on the tour?
You can expect to ride the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, journey aboard the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway to the top of Pike’s Peak, and enjoy an authentic farm-to-table dinner on a family-owned ranch.
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What kind of wildlife might I see during the tour?
During the tour, you might see a variety of wildlife including peregrine falcons at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and possibly animals in their native habitat while traveling on the Pike’s Peak Cog Railway.
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What historical sites are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the Museum of the Mountain West, a preserved and re-created pioneer town, and a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which has been in operation since 1881.
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What are some of the scenic highlights of the tour?
Scenic highlights include the towering peaks and rolling meadows of Rocky Mountain National Park, the steep-walled gorge of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, and the colorful panorama of canyons and rock towers at Colorado National Monument.
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What cultural experiences are part of the tour?
Cultural experiences include exploring the cowboy town of Durango, visiting the ancient cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park, and enjoying a farm-to-table dinner on a family-owned ranch.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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