Welcome to Colorado

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Our Price From 5,992 Per Person
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 Trip Length
10 Days
 Trip Starts
Denver
 Trip Finishes
Denver
10 Day Welcome to Colorado Itinerary (Trafalgar)
Countries Explored: USA
Trip Style
State Explorer
Departures
Accommodation
4 Star
Max. Group Size
48
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
DCOL

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Trafalgar's 10 Day Welcome to Colorado. Enjoy Colorado sightseeing visiting Rocky Mountain and Mesa Verde National Parks, hearing captivating tales of the Gold Rush, ride aboard historic trains and drive the scenic “Million Dollar” and Peak to Peak Highways against the unforgettable backdrop of red-rock country.

Itinerary

Welcome to Denver, the Mile High City. Spend the day recovering after your travels or visit the Denver Art Museum or Botanical Gardens before joining your Travel Director and fellow travellers this evening for a Welcome Reception. (B/WR) Stay: Hyatt Regency Denver At Colorado Convention Center

The Rocky Mountains may seem larger than life, but your journey to Rocky Mountain National Park will see you come face to face with this extraordinary mountain landscape which snakes along western North America. Drive along the Trail Ridge Road, a designated national scenic byway and the highest continuous paved highway in America. Arrive at the charming Hotel Boulderado, your Stays With Stories and Colorado's top rated historic hotel, located one block from the city's hub for dining, arts, shopping and, of course, people watching.

This evening you will have free time to explore on your own. (B) Stay: Embassy Suites

Start the day with a guided MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and visit a local urban community farm that is using organic and sustainable farming practices. The 1-hour tour will dive into topics including regenerative agriculture, land conservation, and food access. Your next stop is Colorado's oldest tourist attraction, the Georgetown Loop Railroad, completed in the late 19th century.

Then walk along the cobblestone streets of the picturesque Vail Mountain Resort and feel the fresh mountain air in your lungs. Continue to Glenwood Springs, a resort city known for its hot springs, sitting in the rugged Rocky Mountains, surrounded by the vast White River National Forest.

This evening, your Stay With Stories overnight is the historic and iconic Colorado Hotel in the heart of Glenwood Springs. Built in 1893 during the mining boom, the Colorado Hotel has undergone a complete renovation, bringing it back to its former glory as the Grande Dame of Glenwood Springs having hosted historical figures including Teddy Roosevelt, William Taft, Molly Brown and now, you. (B/D) Stay: Hotel Colorado

Head up Colorado's Rocky Mountains to Aspen, known for its high-end boutiques, bars and restaurants. Join your Travel Director for a walk through town. Then an exciting and exclusive experience awaits you as you will be taken by 4WD jeeps from Aspen up Snowmass Mountain for an exciting excursion.

As you climb Snowmass, you will venture off road, through Aspen groves, past small waterfalls and through open meadows overlooking amazing views of the surrounding valleys. Your Local Experts will explain the history and geology of the area, including how ice age mammal bones, including Saber-toothed Tigers and Wooly Mammoths were found in the reservoir below.

Arrive at the historic Burlingmane Cabin, and try your hand at horseshoes, corn hole, or relax and admire the breathtaking views of the mountain ranges while the staff tends to all your needs. Enjoy a delicious lunch hot off the grill with wine and beer, a campfire, live music, and s'mores. Back in Glenwood Springs, the rest of the day is yours to do as you please. Perhaps, visit the renowned Glenwood Hot Springs, the world's largest mineral hot springs pool. (B/L)

Head for Palisade, known as the 'Peach and Wine Capital of Colorado,' perfectly nestled along the Colorado River. Stop at Clark Family Orchards and Connect with Locals as you meet with Clark family members and learn about the history of this farming family. Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage tour of the orchards before sampling fresh in-season produce. You'll have the chance to bring home some unique salsas, jams and preserves, pickled veggies, grilling sauces and salad dressings. 

After, we head on to Colorado National Monument, preserving one of the grandest landscapes of the American West. But this treasure is much more than a monument. Towering monoliths exist within a vast plateau and canyon panorama. Experience sheer-walled, red rock canyons along the twists and turns of Rim Rock Drive, where you may spy bighorn sheep and soaring eagles.

This evening, stay in the heart of wine country and enjoy a Be My Guest experience dinner at the Maison La Belle Vie Winery. You will be hosted by the owner for an exclusive evening, starting with a tour of the winery and tasting the flavors of their lovingly blended estate-grown reds. Then sit down for a 3-course dinner paired with wines adjacent the 4.5 acre vineyard and al fresco under the Colorado Sky! (B/D) Stay: Wine Country Inn

Head up the Western Slopes along the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway and stop in the must-see town of Ouray, nestled in some of the most rugged and towering peaks of the Rockies, and often referred to as the "Switzerland of America.” From Ouray, ride along the famous "Million Dollar Highway," a designated All-American Byway and one of the state's most scenic drives with some of Colorado's most spectacular views as it spirals over Coal Bank Summit, Molas Pass, and Red Mountain Pass.

Arrive in the mining town of Silverton, once a bawdy mining town, to board the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to Durango. Take a trip back in time as this coal-fired, steam-powered train chugs along rails that were originally laid at the end of the 19th century, winding through a wilderness which would be inaccessible by car.

This evening, you'll enjoy a night at The Strater Hotel, one of the West's first iconic hotels and the centerpiece of Durango, your Stays with Story. (B) Stay: Strater Hotel, Durango

Admire the ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloan people, carved out of the sandstone of the canyon walls, at the UNESCO-listed Mesa Verde National Park. Several hundred of these dwellings, in addition to thousands of known archaeological sites, are preserved in this protected area and you'll have an opportunity to see several during your visit to the park.

Later, indulge in free time in Durango with options of activities, including a fun rafting excursion on the Animas River.

This evening, the choice is yours with a selection of Durango's restaurants for a Your Choice Dining experience. (B/D)

Today's highlight is the Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, a sandbox of epic proportions- 101 square kilometers with the tallest dune towering 229 meters high, making it the largest sand dune in North America.

First up, set the scene for the adventure ahead with a start at the excellent Visitor Center with a short film and various exhibits. Your Travel Director will then take you to the best place for picture taking from the bottom of High Dune, a towering sand dune about 198 meters from base to top. 

Then learn about this unique geographical phenomenon as you explore the dunes before heading for Colorado Springs, our next destination for a two-night stay. (B) Stay: Hilton Garden Inn

This morning, head to Olympic City USA, a 1.7-acre of land dedicated to Team USA. Visit the brand-new US Olympic and Paralympic Museum and Hall of Fame. You will be guided through the museum gaining unique insight into the daily lives and regimen of Team USA highlighting the origins of the ancient and modern Olympic and Paralympic Games, the legacy of U.S. Olympic & Paralympic athletes, and the stories behind the artifacts.

Enjoy the magical town of Manitou Springs before boarding the historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the world's highest cog railroad, for an unforgettable trip to the 4,302 meters summit of Pikes Peak. Ride past cascading streams and forests of aspen and pine, enjoy the striking panoramas and learn of Pikes Peak connection with the patriotic song "America the Beautiful.'' Your trip through the Colorado Rockies comes to an end with a local Farewell Dinner where you'll have the chance to raise a glass and celebrate the adventures we've had in Colorado. (B/D)

Our journey ends today as we say a fond farewell to new friends and depart Colorado Springs for Denver, but not before one last stop at yet another natural wonder of Colorado at the spectacular Garden of the Gods, a registered National Natural Landmark boasting dramatic vistas and towering, jagged red-rock formations.

After some free time, you will be joined by a Garden of the Gods Local Specialist for a guided scenic loop drive around the central Garden zone and spurs out to Ridge Road and Balanced Rock for views of North and South Gateway Rocks, Gray Rock, Montezuma Tower, Scotsman Picnic Area, High Point, Siamese Twins, Steamboat Rock, and Balanced Rock where we'll say our goodbyes to the group.

After a final big morning, transfer to Denver International Airport, arrival at approximately 12:30, please be aware when booking flights. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Visit Rocky Mountain National Park, Boulder, Vail, Glenwood Springs, Aspen, Colorado National Monument, Palisade, Silverton, Durango, Ouray, Mesa Verde National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park Preserve, Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs, Manitou Springs
  • Scenic drive along Trail Ridge Road, Million Dollar Highway, San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway, Rim Rock Drive, Peak to Peak Highway
  • Iconic Train The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, & Pikes Peak Cog Railway
  • Durango: After some free time in Silverton to get lunch, browse the town and stop at the Visitor Center, take a trip back in time aboard the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad as this coal-fired, steam-powered train chugs along rails that were originally laid at the end of the 19th century, winding through a wilderness which would be inaccessible by car.

Be My Guest

  • Palisade: This evening, 'Connect With Locals -,' at Maison La Belle Vie Winery , as you meet the owners for an exclusive evening, starting with a tour of the winery and tasting the flavors of their lovingly blended estate-grown reds. Then sit down for a 3-course dinner paired with wines adjacent the 4.5 acre vineyard and al fresco under the Colorado Sky!

Dive Into Culture

  • Aspen: Wind along country roads passing elk habitat and views of the Elk Mountain Range as you journey out of Aspen and up Snowmass Mountain. As you climb, you'll venture off road, past small waterfalls and through open meadows, and aspen groves. When you reach Coney Glade Overlook you'll be able to take in the amazing views as your local experts will explain the history and geology of the area.

Iconic Experience

  • Rocky Mountain National Park: The Rocky Mountains may seem larger than life, but your journey to Rocky Mountain National Park will see you come face to face with this extraordinary mountain landscape which snakes along western North America.
  • Rocky Mountain National Park: Covering the 48 miles between Estes Park on the park's east side and Grand Lake on the west, Trail Ridge Road more than lives up to its advanced billing. Eleven miles of this high highway travel above treeline, the elevation near 11,500 feet where the park's evergreen forests come to a halt. As it winds across the tundra's vastness to its high point at 12,183 feet elevation, Trail Ridge Road (U.S. 34) offers visitors thrilling views, wildlife sightings and spectacular alpine wildflower exhibitions, all from the comfort of their car.
  • Vail: Welcome to one of Colorado's great playgrounds. While the winter attracts the ski crowds, the summer draws in guests to the European-style Vail Village. Surrounded by towering Rocky Mountain peaks, the pedestrian village offers a unique mix of shops, restaurants, pubs and cafes. Feel the friendly local vibe that makes Vail cosmopolitan and unpretentious.
  • Aspen: A typical mountain lunch will be served, complete with bonfire, s'mores, and live western entertainment. Before lunch you can try your hand at horseshoeing, cornholing, and using a lasso.
  • Aspen: This morning, head up Colorado's Rocky Mountains to Aspen, renowned the world over as a resort for the rich and famous, with high-end boutiques, bars and restaurants. Join your Travel Director for a guided walk through the delightful center of town.
  • Head for Palisade, known as the 'Peach and Wine Capital of Colorado,' perfectly nestled along the Colorado River. Stop at the Clark Family Orchards and 'Connect With Locals - -' as you meet with family members and learn about the history of this 7-generation farming family and their 7-generation orchards. You'll also get an opportunity to sample fresh in-season produce, salsas, jams and preserves, pickled veggies, grilling sauces and salad dressings. In addition to ten varieties of the famous Palisade Peaches, a wide variety of other fruit and vegetables are also grown on property (production varies depending on seasons).
  • One of the hidden gems in the Western USA, Colorado National Monument is a stunning section of land sitting atop the Colorado Plateau. The views offer dramatic panoramic photo opportunities of Monument Canyon (Independence Monument and Monument Canyon View Overlooks), the monument's most prominent attraction and runs the entire width of the park. You will also learn the controversy of why Colorado National Monument has yet to be designated as a National Park. (Possible viewing stop at Red Canyon and/or Cold Point Shivers Overlook on the way out toward the East Side entrance.) Drive along Rim Rock Drive enjoying spectacular views all around you.
  • Silverton: From Ouray, ride along the famous "Million Dollar Highway," one of the most beautiful roads in America, designated as an All-American Byway of Colorado's most spectacular views as it spirals over Coal Bank Summit, Molas Pass, and Red Mountain Pass. Arrive in the mining town of Silverton, once a bawdy mining town.
  • Mesa Verde National Park: There's no better place to learn about the ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloan people than at Mesa Verde National Park. View the carvings in the sandstone of the canyon walls at the several hundred of these dwellings – astounded by the history presented before you. This UNESCO-listed park also features thousands of well-known preserved archaeological sites. Take in the sites of this protected area as you ride along the Mesa Top Loop and Cliff Palace Loop, where you can see the magnificent Cliff Palace.
  • Great Sand Dunes National Park Preserve: Today's highlight is the Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, a sandbox of epic proportions - 39 square miles (101 square kilometers) with the tallest dune towering 750 feet high (229 meters), making it the largest sand dune in North America. Start at the excellent Visitor Center with a short film, various exhibits and Park Rangers to answer your questions about this unique geographical phenomenon. The back of the Visitor Center gives you a unique view of the full breadth of the dunes, framed by the Sangre De Cristo Mountains. Your Travel Director will then take you to the best place for picture taking from the bottom of High Dune, a towering sand dune about 699 feet (198 m) from base to top.
  • Colorado Springs: This afternoon visit the brand new U.S. Olympics and Paralympics Museum. The Museum is The 60,000-square feet dedicated to America's greatest athelets ansd their incredible stories behind their Olympic endeavors. It was called one of America's best new attractions upon it's 2020 opening and today is considered one of the most accessible and interactive museums in the world. Before exploring at your own leisure you are invited to take part in a 60-minute storytelling experience led by an experienced guide. The tour highlights origins of the ancient and modern Olympic and Paralympic Games, the legacy of U.S. Olympic & Paralympic athletes, stories behind the artifacts, and more. Guide included.
  • Pikes Peak Cog Railway: Board the most iconic experience in Colorado Springs: the newly renovated historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the world's highest cog railway. After 126 years of operation, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway has undergone a $100 million renovation and will take you past cascading streams, waterfalls, through aspen and pine forest as it winds its way up to the summit for some of the world's most spectacular views from this 14,115-foot peak (4,302 meters). There will be time to enjoy the extraordinary views and visit the new Summit House.
  • Colorado Springs: This afternoon visit the brand new U.S. Olympics and Paralympics Museum. The Museum is The 60,000-square feet dedicated to America's greatest athelets ansd their incredible stories behind their Olympic endeavors. It was called one of America's best new attractions upon it's 2020 opening and today is considered one of the most accessible and interactive museums in the world. Before exploring at your own leisure you are invited to take part in a 60-minute storytelling experience led by an experienced guide. The tour highlights origins of the ancient and modern Olympic and Paralympic Games, the legacy of U.S. Olympic & Paralympic athletes, stories behind the artifacts, and more. Guide included.
  • Pikes Peak Cog Railway: Board the most iconic experience in Colorado Springs: the newly renovated historic Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the world's highest cog railway. After 126 years of operation, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway has undergone a $100 million renovation and will take you past cascading streams, waterfalls, through aspen and pine forest as it winds its way up to the summit for some of the world's most spectacular views from this 14,115-foot peak (4,302 meters). There will be time to enjoy the extraordinary views and visit the new Summit House.
  • Colorado Springs: Experience yet another natural wonder of Colorado at the spectacular Garden of the Gods, a registered National Natural Landmark, boasting dramatic vistas and towering, jagged red-rock formations. At the excellent Visitors Center, you will experience the new Geo-Trekker Theatre for a fascinating presentation on how those majestic geological formations got here. Tour includes a Step On Guide.

Make Travel Matter®

  • Boulder: Tour Growing Gardens, an 11-acre farm. Learn about land conservation, water availability, regenerative agricultural practices, environmental education, and animal husbandry.

Trafalgar Difference

  • Glenwood Springs: Discover Hotel Colorado, a member of the National Trust's Historic Hotel of America.
  • Durango: Stay at The Strater Hotel, adorned with beautiful handcrafted woodwork, housing the largest collection of American Victorian walnut antiques. It's Durango's Historic Landmark Hotel, showcasing stories of the old west and mining times.

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities
  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
  • All transport and transfers shown
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • Optional Experiences (Additional Cost) and free time
  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.

  • 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
  • 10 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)
  • 3 Dinner (D)

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
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Trafalgar USA (2023-24)

Explore USA highlights with Trafalgar: from NYC's streets to the Grand Canyon's majesty. Meet locals, like Californian vintners and Costa Rican chocolatiers. Delve into museums, or relax on Hawaiian shores. The Trafalgar difference means seeing the not-to-miss sights and discovering some of the best nature spots USA has to offer.

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Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Trafalgar. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Trafalgar. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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