Best of Colorado’s Historic Trains
Aug 21, 2020 · By Vacations By Rail
Learn about some of the oldest railways in the nation and how you can experience them firsthand in this presentation hosted by rail specialist Ryan Seals.
Read more2022 Tour code: RM-ABFA-22
About the tour
This 9-day tour takes you through the southwest in autumn, one of the most beautiful times of year to see the splendid colors and formations of Arches and Mesa Verde National Park, and of course, to gaze in awe at the hundreds of colorful balloons contrasting Albuquerque's blue skies during the International Balloon Fiesta. Your journey begins in Chicago, San Francisco, or wherever along the California Zephyr route is most convenient for you. After a night aboard the train to Grand Junction, you'll continue by motorcoach to the breathtaking red rock landscapes of Moab, Utah. The geography here is like nothing else in the country. Visit Arches National Park, featuring more than 2,000 natural stone arches. Continue to Mesa Verde National Park, where you'll explore the more than 600 ancient cliff dwellings dating back to A.D. 600. Next, aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, you'll journey along the Animas River and through the stunning Rocky Mountains, bursting with fall colors this time of year. In Santa Fe, you'll learn about the Spanish colonists that formed the city and saw the oldest building in the United States. Finally, you'll head to Albuquerque where you'll join visitors and locals alike to watch as hundreds of hot air balloons are launched into the sky, floating into the sunrise in the perfect photo moment. Tour Albuquerque and enjoy ongoing festivities around the city before gathering again to watch the balloons at sunset, complete with a fireworks show. A spectacular southwest adventure you'll remember for years to come!
Highlights
Activity level Natural Explorer
You don’t mind spending the day on your feet. You enjoy sightseeing that includes walking, standing or stair climbing. You’re okay with longer days that are more active, such as multiple sightseeing stops, longer motorcoach journeys and getting on and off ships and trains.
What’s included
Itinerary
Arrive at Chicago Union Station and board the California Zephyr. Settle into your onboard accommodations and prepare for your overnight rail journey. Travelers may elect to travel from San Francisco or points in-between and meet your tour manager in Grand Junction. Overnight train.
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Reviews
4.4 / 5 · 12 reviews
Eunice D., Galesburg, IL
Submitted 25 Dec 2018
I enjoyed the trip very much. We had great support from Glen and Ed because of motion sickness. Many thanks to them.
Collected by Vacations By Rail
Mary C., Galesburg, IL
Submitted 08 Oct 2018
The trip was a dream come true.
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Peggy B., Shoreview, MN
Submitted 08 Aug 2018
Outstanding! Great tour guides and itinerary.
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Sandi W., Libertyville, IL
Submitted 17 Feb 2018
Great experience. Well orchestrated.
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Hal D., Galesburg, IL
Submitted 07 Feb 2018
I think the tour was very positive.
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Sharon K., Tellcity, IN
Submitted 18 Jan 2018
Excellent service. Excellent tour!! Sally was exceptional and Time was an excellent driver.
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