Day 1 : Fly to Colorado

We fly to the Centennial State and enjoy overnight accommodations in Denver.

Day 2 : Rocky Mountain National Park

This morning, we depart Denver and head into Rocky Mountain National Park. Enjoy sweeping overlooks of Trail Ridge Road as we wind across the highest paved highway in the country and gaze in wonder at the expansive tundra wilderness that surrounds us. Take in thrilling views from over 12,000 feet above sea level, watch for majestic wildlife, and learn the history of this area at visitor centers. Tonight, we check in to our accommodations near the alpine village of Vail and get to know fellow travelers at an included Holiday Vacations Welcome Dinner.

Day 3 : Colorado National Monument

Our day begins with traveling west to the “Grand Valley,” home to Colorado’s wine country, surrounded by marvelous red cliffs. We visit Varaison Vineyards & Winery in Grand Junction with an included lunch before enjoying a scenic drive through Colorado National Monument. Great landscapes of the American West surround us along Rim Rock Drive with views of towering monoliths, red rock canyons, and wildlife, such as bighorn sheep and eagles. This evening, our accommodations are in Grand Junction.

Day 4 : Silverton Train Ride

After an included breakfast, we head south towards Silverton, taking in spectacular views of the Million Dollar Highway en route. Located in the heart of the breathtaking San Juan Mountains, the Silverton area was packed with mining camps in search of silver and gold in the late 1800s. During free time to explore the historic downtown district, you are welcome to visit the Mining Heritage Center, the restored 1902 County Jail Museum, or take an optional stagecoach ride along the main drag. Next, travel the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This classic steam-powered locomotive follows the same tracks the settlers once took through the area. Marvel at stunning canyons and the San Juan National Forest as we ride alongside the Animas River. Later, we head to Durango to check in to our accommodations for the next two nights.

Day 5 : Mesa Verde National Park

Today’s adventure begins with a glimpse into the lives of the ancient Pueblo people during a driving tour of Mesa Verde National Park. Boasting nearly 5,000 archaeological sites and 600 cave dwellings, including some of the best preserved in the country, our knowledgeable guide teaches us about the history and culture of the fascinating people who inhabited this area from 600 - 1300 AD. After lunch, we return to Durango and enjoy leisure time to relax or explore all that the town has to offer. Later, we gather for an incredible cowboy dinner and show at Bar D Chuckwagon. Delight your taste buds with a hearty western meal followed by a variety show, featuring songs of the Old West and comedy.

Day 6 : Royal Gorge Gondola

This morning we depart Durango to continue our journey along the majestic terrain of the Rocky Mountains. As we make our way through Wolf Creek Pass, we take in stunning views of the sweeping landscapes below at an elevation of 10,875 feet. This afternoon, we arrive at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park in Canon City. Board a gondola for 360-degree views of the surrounding scenery as you glide 1,200 feet above the Arkansas River. This aerial ride travels over 2,200 feet across the gorge, allowing us to marvel at unparalleled views of gorgeous vistas. Tonight, we travel to beautiful Colorado Springs for an evening at leisure.

Day 7 : Pikes Peak & Garden of the Gods

This morning we embark on a cog railway ride up one of the most iconic mountains in the country. As we ascend to the top of Pikes Peak, we take in the gorgeous views and watch for wildlife, while our conductor narrates the journey with intriguing stories. Enjoy time at the summit to marvel at the scenery from over 14,000 feet before returning to the base. We then depart for the surreal beauty within the Garden of the Gods. This National Natural Landmark offers towering sandstone rock formations set against the snow-covered beauty of the mountains. A docent boards the motorcoach to provide interesting commentary and great photo stops during a tour of this majestic area. This evening, we gather for our Holiday Vacations Farewell Dinner to reminisce on our spectacular Colorado adventure.

Day 8 : Fly Home

We return home today with incredible memories of our time exploring the Centennial State.