Colorful Colorado: Peaks, Parks & Panoramas with Canyon Spirit Rail Journey

Welcome to Denver! At 6:00 p.m., meet with your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink. ENHANCED FREE TIME With its blend of Western heritage, urban culture, and stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, Denver offers a memorable introduction to the spirit of the American West. Discover one of the city’s great museums, stroll Denver’s famed 16th Street for food or drinks, or visit a local brewery on the Denver Beer Trail! Your Tour Director has suggestions to make the most of your free time.

Red Rocks and Mountain Tops Take an orientation tour of Denver, including the Colorado State Capitol, modeled after the Capitol Building in Washington, DC. Visit legendary Red Rocks Amphitheater, a geological wonder of battleship-sized red rocks surrounding terraced seats amid musical acoustic perfection since 1941. Continue to Boulder for Flatiron views and an orientation tour. Enjoy lunch and free time to explore Pearl Street, a pedestrian walkway in the heart of downtown. Depart Boulder for Estes Park, the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT Recognized as the “Happiest City in the US,” Boulder is known for its active lifestyle, innovative spirit, and stunning mountain setting. Home to the University of Colorado Boulder, the city is also famous for its Buffaloes football program, the legendary college hangout The Sink, and the iconic Flatirons that tower above the community.

Rocky Mountain Highs Discover Rocky Mountain National Park with a stop at the Alpine Visitor Center to savor the crisp mountain air and sweeping vistas. Continue to Grand Lake—Colorado’s largest natural body of water—whose tranquil waters perfectly mirror the surrounding forests and peaks. The day concludes in the alpine village of Vail, with dinner at a local restaurant and a two-night stay in the heart of the Colorado Rockies. (B,D) TOUR HIGHLIGHT Rocky Mountain National Park awakens the senses with serene alpine lakes, pristine peaks, and sprawling meadows—home to a rich wildlife population that includes elk, bighorn sheep, marmots, and black bears. Ascending from the Estes Park side, the journey climbs above 12,000 feet along Trail Ridge Road, the highest continuous paved highway in North America. After crossing the Continental Divide, descend into the park's western valleys, where moose are frequently spotted, enroute to the historic and charming town of Grand Lake.

Bavarian Beauty Visit the [LOCAL FAVORITE] Vail Nature Center and enjoy a light guided hike to explore the wildflowers, active beaver lodges, and local ecosystems. Continue to the Colorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame and learn about the rich history of skiing and snowboarding in Colorado. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the Bavarian-style village on your own. Consider strolling through the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, try goat yoga, or enjoy an exhilarating ride on the Copper Mountain gondola and alpine slide. (B) LOCAL FAVORITE Discover the woods, birds, and meadows at the Vail Nature Center. Walk along the Gore Creek and connect with nature while exploring the unique ecology, wildflowers, and wildlife in the heart of Vail. ENHANCED FREE TIME Explore more in Vail! Wander and wonder in the charming alpine village—a popular playground for year-round activities—from hiking to biking to skiing. Explore charming Lionshead & Vail Villages to enjoy art galleries, restaurants, and shops. Get insider tips on where to dine and what to do from your Tour Director.