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| Daily Itinerary: |
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| Day 1 | Fly this morning to Denver, where you’ll be met by our tour director and chartered motorcoach. This afternoon we’ll tour the handsome "Mile-High City" with an expert local guide, including such sights as the Colorado State Capitol, the U.S. Mint, Larimer Square, Coors Field, the Cherry Creek shopping area, plus lovely parks and historic residential neighborhoods. After checking in at the convenient Drury Inn and our trip orientation “get-together,” the popular Trail Dust Steak House is a perfect choice for a fun-filled “Welcome to Colorado” dinner. (D) |
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| Day 2 | This morning we approach Rocky Mountain National Park, one of America’s natural treasures. The trip across the Trail Ridge Road reaches an elevation of over 12,000 feet and features dramatic scenic grandeur throughout. Along our route are the Estes Park resort area, the spectacular mountain setting of the Alpine Visitor Center, glacial Lake Granby, Berthoud Pass and the Eisenhower Tunnel. Late this afternoon we’ll ride the historic, steam-powered Georgetown Loop Railroad through the silver mining country, then continue on to our overnight lodging at the Comfort Suites in Dillon, one of Colorado’s popular year-round mountain resorts. (B) |
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| Day 3 | Continuing south from Dillon through Fremont Pass, this morning’s sightseeing destination is the storied old mining town of Leadville, where we’ll tour the Healy House and Dexter Cabin Museums. Next, passing some of Colorado’s highest peaks, we’ll head for incredible Great Sand Dunes National Park, America’s newest. Here we’ll explore some of the 55 square miles of shifting dunes protected here, traveling by four-wheel-drive vehicle. Accommodations for the next two nights have been reserved in nearby Alamosa at the Best Western Alamosa Inn. (CB) |
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| Day 4 | This morning we dip into northern New Mexico to board the comfortable coaches of the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad for an extraordinary full-day trip between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado. Our trip on this old narrow-gauge, steam-powered train features unforgettable views of splendid mountain scenery, including the San Juan and Sangre de Cristo ranges, the Phantom Curve and the Toltec Gorge. Lunch is included mid-day at Osier Station. Returning to Alamosa, a delightful dinner has been arranged at Trujillo’s Restaurant. (CB, L, D)
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| Day 5 | Leaving Alamosa, we’ll head for Royal Gorge, one of Colorado’s favorite attractions. Here the world’s highest suspension bridge spans a canyon over 1,000 feet deep, created by the Arkansas River. Our admission includes a ride on the incline railway to the bottom of the gorge, a trip on the aerial tramway and other attractions. Then our visit is enhanced by an afternoon ride on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad through this dramatic canyon, as we follow the mighty Arkansas River and cross an unusual hanging bridge. Arriving in Colorado Springs, we’ll check-in for two nights at the Drury Inn in this famed resort community and enjoy dinner at the popular Mason Jar Restaurant. (CB, D) |
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| Day 6 | This morning we’ll board the comfortable coaches of the historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway for the winding journey to the summit of majestic Pikes Peak, 14,110 feet above sea level. Our view from the top of Colorado's most famous mountain is truly outstanding. Next, afternoon touring will include historic Manitou Springs and a visit to the massive red sandstone formations at the Garden of the Gods. This evening, we're sure to enjoy a delicious “farewell” dinner at Giuseppe’s Old Depot Restaurant. (B, D) |
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| Day 7 | First we'll tour the handsome campus of the U.S. Air Force Academy, nestled at the base of the Rockies and home of the inspiring Cadet Chapel. We’ll return to Denver in time for a lunch stop before we head for Denver International Airport to board our afternoon homeward-bound flight. (CB) |
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