Trains & Parks of Colorado

Day 1: Denver

After getting whisked away by your Lamers driver from your pickup location, you will be dropped off at Mitchell International Airport (MKE) for your non-stop flight to Denver.

Welcome to the vibrant "Mile High City," Denver, Colorado! Kick off your journey with a warm reception followed by a delightful get-acquainted dinner with fellow travelers.

Day 2: Palisade

Step aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a historic narrow-gauge railway that winds through the breathtaking Rocky Mountains of Colorado. As the vintage steam locomotive chugs along the tracks, you'll be immersed in stunning alpine scenery, with towering pines, rugged cliffs, and the rushing waters of Clear Creek below. The journey takes you over the impressive Devil's Gate High Bridge, a feat of 19th-century engineering that offers dramatic views from high above the canyon. Along the way, the conductor shares stories of Colorado's rich mining history, adding depth to the experience. Tonight's stay is nestled among the vineyards of Palisade, Colorado, where the Wine Country Inn offers a charming and serene escape in the heart of Colorado's wine country. This boutique inn, surrounded by rolling vineyards and backdropped by a stunning mesa, provides an intimate and elegant retreat. Guests can relax in beautifully appointed rooms with cozy décor and private patios or balconies that overlook the vines. As the sun sets, indulge in a wine-pared dinner, a true highlight of the stay. Expertly crafted by local chefs, each course is thoughtfully paired with wines from nearby wineries, enhancing the flavors of both the food and the region's award-winning vintages.

Day 3: Palisade

Traversing Rim Rock Drive in Colorado National Monument is a breathtaking journey through towering red rock formations, sheer cliffs, and expansive canyon vistas. As you wind along the 23-mile scenic road, every twist and turn reveals dramatic overlooks, from the Independence Monument to the sweeping views of Fruita Canyon. With multiple pullouts and viewpoints, it's a drive meant to be savored, offering some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in western Colorado. After an unforgettable drive, settle in for a picturesque riverside dinner at a park along the Colorado River. This catered outdoor dining experience is the perfect way to end a day of adventure in Colorado's canyon country.

Day 4: Durango

Step aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, one of the most scenic and historic train rides in America. This legendary steam-powered journey takes you deep into the rugged San Juan Mountains, following the winding path of the Animas River through breathtaking canyons, towering pine forests, and sheer rock cliffs. As the vintage locomotive chugs along the narrow-gauge tracks, you'll experience awe-inspiring views of untouched wilderness, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic peaks rising over 14,000 feet. The train's open-air gondolas provide a perfect vantage point to take in the crisp mountain air and stunning scenery. Built in 1882 to haul silver and gold from the mines of Silverton, this railway still operates much as it did over a century ago, offering a step back in time with its authentic coal-fired engines and vintage railcars. Arriving in the charming town of Durango, with its Old West ambiance and historic buildings, is the perfect finale to an unforgettable journey through Colorado's high country. Tonight, we will stay at the Strater Hotel in Durango, Colorado, which is like stepping back into the grandeur of the Old West. This historic Victorian hotel, built in 1887, exudes charm with its hand-carved woodwork, antique furnishings, and vintage wallpaper, transporting guests to a bygone era while still offering modern comforts. Evenings at the Strater are truly special-live ragtime piano music drifts from the Diamond Belle Saloon, where costumed bartenders and an old-time atmosphere make for a lively night. The Mahogany Grille offers fine dining with a Western twist, while the hotel's cozy lounges invite you to relax with a handcrafted cocktail.

Day 5: Durango

Mesa Verde National Park is a breathtaking window into the ancient world of the Ancestral Puebloans, who built remarkable cliff dwellings over 700 years ago. Nestled in the high desert of southwestern Colorado, the park is home to over 5,000 archaeological sites, including the famous Cliff Palace, Balcony House, and Spruce Tree House-intricately constructed villages tucked into sandstone alcoves beneath towering canyon walls. Tonight's experience is the Bar D Chuckwagon Dinner and Show. Enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal served in true Western style, followed by an evening of live country music and cowboy entertainment. The warm, friendly atmosphere and rustic charm make it a memorable stop for anyone looking to experience the spirit of the Wild West firsthand.

Day 6: Alamosa

The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offers one of the most spectacular rail journeys in the United States, winding through the remote and rugged San Juan Mountains of southern Colorado and northern New Mexico. As you travel aboard a vintage steam-powered locomotive, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of pristine wilderness, crystal-clear lakes, and towering peaks over 10,000 feet. Along the way, the train pauses at scenic stops, offering the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and capture stunning photographs. A true highlight of the experience is the lunch served on the mountain, where you can enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by the majestic beauty of the high-altitude terrain. This authentic train ride gives you a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the Old West in a way that's nearly identical to how your ancestors would have traveled

Day 7:Manitou Spring

A visit to the United States Air Force Academy (when available) and Garden of the Gods offers a perfect blend of military history and natural beauty in Colorado Springs. At the Air Force Academy, you'll explore the stunning campus, set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. The iconic Cadet Chapel is a must-see, with its striking modern architecture and soaring spires that seem to reach the sky. Next, head to Garden of the Gods, a National Natural Landmark that showcases towering red rock formations set amidst sweeping views of the plains and Pikes Peak. The final two-night stay is the Cliff House at Pikes Peak, which is a beautifully restored Victorian-style hotel offering both historic elegance and modern comforts. Nestled at the base of the towering Pikes Peak, the Cliff House provides stunning views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains and Manitou Springs. This landmark hotel, originally built in 1873, has long been a favorite for travelers seeking a taste of classic mountain hospitality.

Day 8:Manitou Spring

The Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers an unforgettable journey to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado's most iconic and majestic mountains. As the world's highest cog railway, this historic train ride takes you from the base of the mountain, ascending nearly 14,000 feet to the summit, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains and the vast plains below.

Day 9: Home

Bid farewell as you transfer to the airport, taking with you cherished memories of an extraordinary Colorado adventure.
Upon arrival to MKE in the afternoon, your Lamers professional driver and transportation will be there waiting to take you back home, where our travels conclude, and leave our minds chocked full of wonderful memories.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D =Dinner