Trade the city for mountain air on this full-day adventure to two of Colorado’s most spectacular destinations. Begin with a scenic drive up to Pikes Peak, with winding mountain curves and wide-open views. Enjoy the crisp alpine air and sweeping overlooks set the stage for a classic Colorado experience.
Descend into Manitou Springs, a historic town tucked at the base of the Rockies. Here you’ll enjoy time to explore its boutique shops, bubbling mineral springs, and a variety of restaurants for lunch on your own.
In the afternoon, walk among the towering sandstone formations of the Garden of the Gods. Balanced Rock, Cathedral Valley, and other striking landmarks rise dramatically against the mountain backdrop, offering unforgettable photo opportunities.
On the return trip, your guide may take the scenic foothills route (weather and traffic allowing). This alternate drive winds through rustic mountain towns and a pass by the world-famous Red Rocks Amphitheatre before arriving back in Denver.
• Fantastic photo opportunities
• See world-famous red sandstone rock formations
• A local expert guide navigates the drive from Denver for you
• Transportation from Denver
• Professional driver-guide with local expertise
• Friendly banter and information from our knowledgeable local guide*
• Water refills and biodegradable cups are provided
*Not Included: Lunch in Manitou Springs, gratuities
Mon-Sun: 9:30AM / Return 6:00PM (8.5 hours)
We meet at Union Station, at the large American flagpole located at the corner of 17th St. and Wynkoop St. The address is 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202.
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Smaller groups, no big bus
• Minimum age is 8 years old. Contact us to see if we can make an exception for your group.
• Local expert guide
• From November to April, waterproof shoes are highly recommended. Wool socks are also recommended.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Most travelers can participate
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers
• Sunglasses recommended!
• We highly recommend you bring your own water bottle in an effort to promote our values of sustainability and waste reduction
• Be prepared for communal, conversational seating (meaning opposing rows face each other, typical of train travel). For taller guests, that means you may be knocking knees a bit. To ride comfortably, we recommend that you strategically sit across from a short person. You're certainly not required to chat with the people across from you, even if you came together. But who knows! You might make a friend and have some laughs or a fun "small world" moment. We love those!
• Our friends at the COG railway reserve the right to delay or adjust train itineraries as needed due to inclemate weather, debris on the tracks, or mechanical issues. If an issue does arise, a partial refund will be issued to participants.
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 7 days before the experience’s start time.
• If you cancel less than 7 days before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
• Any changes made less than 7 before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
• Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.