7-Day Adventure Nature and Rail Trip in Colorado

Day 1: Explore Denver

Denver, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Start your day with a delicious pancake flight or eggs benedict at this popular Denver breakfast spot.
Located in downtown Denver, you can easily walk or drive.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Explore this famous amphitheater and hiking trails while enjoying stunning views of the natural rock formations.
Drive 30 minutes from Denver.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cherry Cricket

Indulge in some of the best burgers in Denver at this charming eatery known for its unique toppings.
Drive back to Denver, roughly 30 minutes.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Denver Botanic Gardens

Stroll through beautiful gardens and diverse plant species in this urban oasis.
A short drive or 15-minute bike ride from lunch.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Ride the Platte River Trolley

Enjoy a scenic trolley ride along the South Platte River that captures the heart of Denver's downtown.
Board near the Botanic Gardens.
USD5, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Guard and Grace

Savor a modern steakhouse experience with locally-sourced ingredients for a fiery dinner to round off your first day.
A 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk from the trolley stop.
USD70, 2 hours

7:00PM

Check-in at hotel

Rest and recharge at your downtown hotel before the next day's adventures.
Walk to your nearby hotel.
USD200, 2 hours
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Day 2: Nature in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Over Easy

Enjoy an egg benedict with a twist at this locally-loved breakfast spot.
Drive approximately 1 hour from Denver.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Garden of the Gods

Marvel at stunning sandstone formations and scenic trails perfect for all ages.
10-minute drive from breakfast.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Kissing Camels

Enjoy farm-to-table fare with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
A quick 15-minute drive from Garden of the Gods.
USD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Pikes Peak

Take the Pikes Peak Highway or hike the Barr Trail to reach the summit for jaw-dropping vistas.
Drive 30 minutes to the toll road entrance.
USD15, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Famous Steak House

Dive into a hearty steak meal to end your day beautifully after your mountain adventure.
20-minute drive back to Colorado Springs.
USD50, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Check-in at hotel

Relax and enjoy your cozy accommodation in Colorado Springs.
Short drive back to your hotel.
USD120, 1 hour
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Day 3: Adventure in Canon City

Canon City, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Café 13

Enjoy classic American breakfast with fresh ingredients and great coffee to kickstart your day.
Drive 1 hour from Colorado Springs.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

White Water Rafting on the Arkansas River

Feel the rush of adrenaline on this guided rafting adventure along one of Colorado's most famous rivers.
Located nearby, your rafting company will often provide transport.
USD90, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Johnny's Diner

Refuel with a hearty diner-style meal featuring burgers and shakes right after your rafting adventure.
Return to Canon City after rafting.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Ride the Royal Gorge Route Railroad

Experience breathtaking scenic views of the Royal Gorge as you ride along the Arkansas River in a vintage train car.
Head to the train station, 15 minutes from lunch.
USD60, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey

Enjoy a refreshing dinner with a beautiful vineyard view and delicious local wine.
Drive 20 minutes from the train station.
USD35, 2 hours

7:00PM

Check-in at hotel

Relax for the night in your Canon City lodge.
Short drive from dinner.
USD90, 1 hour
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Day 4: Historic Durango Experience

Durango, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Steaming Bean

Enjoy locally roasted coffee and baked goods to fuel up for a day of adventure.
30-minute drive from Canon City to Durango.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Touring the Animas River Trail

Enjoy walking or biking along this scenic trail, which follows the river through beautiful landscapes.
Near downtown Durango; walk or bike to trail access.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Steamworks Brewing Co.

Taste crafted local beers and hearty dishes for a delicious midday meal.
A short distance back to the restaurant.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Hop aboard a historic steam train for a scenic ride through breathtaking mountain vistas to Silverton.
Board at the station in Durango.
USD85, 3 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Silverton hotel

Once you arrive in Silverton, check into your cozy mountain accommodation.
Close to the train station.
USD150, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pickle Barrel

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with sandwiches and local favorites in a charming atmosphere.
Walking distance from your hotel.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Historic Silverton Adventure

Silverton, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at Handlebars Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this local diner known for its friendly service.
Quick walk from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Old West Town

Wander through Silverton’s historic district, taking in the gold rush history and unique architecture.
Walking tour with no transportation needed.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Nugget Mountain Pizza

Nourish yourself with local pizza offerings and craft beer amidst mountain views.
Short walk from the historic district.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

ATV Tour in the San Juan Mountains

Experience an adrenaline-inducing ATV ride through the stunning mountain terrain.
Tour operators are local and typically provide pickup.
USD130, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Brown Bear Cafe

Enjoy a cozy dinner featuring seasonal ingredients and friendly service.
Walking distance from dinner.
USD35, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Check-in at hotel

Enjoy a restful evening in Silverton with the beauty of mountain views.
Walk back to your hotel.
USD150, 1 hour
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Day 6: Wilderness in Creede

Creede, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Red Mountain Grill

Enjoy a delicious breakfast in a rustic setting, perfect to start your mountain adventure.
Drive 45 minutes from Silverton to Creede.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike the Crystal Lakes

This picturesque hike offers stunning lake views surrounded by towering peaks.
Drive approximately 30 minutes to trailhead.
USD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Creede Taco House

Savor delectable tacos and fresh ingredients while enjoying a friendly atmosphere.
Drive back to Creede town center.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the underground mining museum

Dive into Creede’s history by exploring the fascinating underground mining exhibits.
Just a short walk from lunch.
USD10, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Rio Grande National Forest

Take in various outdoor activities in this expansive forest filled with stunning views and wildlife.
Short drive to the forest entrance.
USD0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Antlers Restaurant

Round off your adventurous day with a hearty meal, surrounded by stunning mountain views.
Drive back to Creede town.
USD30, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Check-in at hotel

Unwind in your cozy hotel room after an exciting day in Creede.
Short drive from dinner.
USD100, 1 hour
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Day 7: Relaxing in Estes Park

Estes Park, Colorado

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Egg of Estes

Indulge in a sumptuous breakfast with amazing views to wrap up your trip.
Drive 2.5 hours from Creede.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Rocky Mountain National Park

Spend the day exploring the breathtaking landscapes, wildlife and hiking trails of this iconic national park.
Short drive to park entrance.
USD30, 5 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at Smokin' Dave's BBQ

Refuel your energy with mouth-watering BBQ dishes in this local favorite.
Head to Estes Park; it's a short drive from the park.
USD25, 1 hour

5:00PM

Stroll through Downtown Estes Park

Enjoy unique shops and serene views of the mountains while soaking in the local culture.
Walking distance from lunch.
USD0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Pullman

Savor a gourmet dinner featuring local ingredients and a creative menu.
Drive or walk back to dinner.
USD50, 2 hours

9:00PM

Check-in at hotel

End your amazing Colorado adventure with a restful night in Estes Park.
Short drive to your hotel.
USD150, 1 hour
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