Day 1: As we look forward to a wonderful railroad tour, we make our way to Alamosa CO for our first night.

Day 2: Today we board our first train, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, the finest remaining example of the original Denver and Rio Grande narrow-gauge line, which was built in the 1880s to serve miners and loggers. One hundred years ago, this daring steam engine railroad opened up the Great American West. Miles of unspoiled scenery await us as we climb through the spectacular Rocky Mountains of Colorado and New Mexico. Wailing whistles bounce down canyon walls and far below the Los Pinos River glistens in sunlight while smoke bellows into the air. Through tunnels and over trestles, you experience it all! Lunch is included at the halfway point. We check into our Durango hotel for two nights. (B, L)

Day 3: The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad awaits us this morning! This coal-burning locomotive traverses through the San Juan National Forest along the Animas River. The sights and scenery you encounter on this trip through the National Forest are truly spectacular. After arriving in Silverton, there is time to explore the many restaurants and shops in this quaint town. Next, we drive up the hillside and tour the Old Hundred Gold Mine. Here we travel 1/3 of a mile into the heart of Galena Mountain in a vintage miner’s “Man-Trip” car. Back to Durango for the night. (B)

Day 4: This morning it’s on to Ouray over part of the “Million Dollar Highway” and the Red Mountain Pass. We take a guided 4x4 adventure into the San Juan mining country. This ride is framed by towering mountain vistas and colorful canyon walls. During your tour, our knowledgeable guides will share information about historical sites, geological features, local wildlife, flora, and fauna. We view ghost towns, mining relics and cabins, wildflowers, and waterfalls. The tour stops at Twin Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in the area. Lunch is at the infamous True Grit. This location is rich in history and culture with John Wayne memorabilia. It also is known for its comfort food and scenic view of the San Juan Mountains. After lunch, we make our way through the scenic mountains to the town of Salida. (B, L)

Day 5: Hop aboard the Leadville, Colorado, & Southern Railroad! This 2.5-hour adventure through the untamed wilderness of the San Isabel National Forest offers spectacular views of Freemont Pass, Mt Massive, and Mt Elbert. Enjoy a captivating commentary from our conductor as you travel. After lunch, we venture to The National Mining Hall of Fame which holds more than 250 stories of men and women who achieved lasting greatness in mining and natural resources. Back to the same hotel in Salida. (B, L)

Day 6: Experience one marvel after another at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, where a wonder of man-made architecture crosses a stunning example of nature’s raw power. The Royal Gorge Railroad takes us for a scenic ride through the Royal Gorge, alongside the Arkansas River. A grilled luncheon entree will be served in our glass-domed car for a memorable experience with great views. Colorado Springs will be our destination for the next two nights. (B, L)

Day 7: This morning, we ready ourselves for our final rail experience, Pikes Peak Cog Railway! It takes us to the top of America’s best-known mountain, Pikes Peak, at 14,110 feet, where there is a new facility. The first few miles of track follow a cascading stream through a steep canyon filled with dense pines and steep boulders. At about 11,500 feet, the train climbs above timberline where we can enjoy awesome views. After the descent, we will spend some time in Manitou Springs enjoying the shops and small cafes. Afterward, a step-on guide takes us through the Garden of the Gods. Learn how the towering sandstone rock formations got there and enjoy the dramatic views. This evening, we head to Flying W Ranch for a chuckwagon supper and a western show. Be ready to be wowed! (B, D)

Day 8: Today we say goodbye to the magnificent mountains, beautiful scenes, and our railroad experiences as we make our way back to Yoder. (B)