Capture the scenic splendor of the American West on a journey that takes you back in time to the glory days of the old steam trains. Chug sedately along historic mining tracks and search for remnants of days gone by. Peruse centuries-old inscriptions at El Morro National Monument, practice traditional Aztec dance steps, and seize the opportunity to stand in four states at once!

This unique GRANDTRAVEL tour blends the majestic beauty of impossibly high mountains, sparkling rivers and red rock cliffs with the history of the region’s inhabitants, from the ancient Anasazi to modern day Pueblo and Navajo Indians. Experience the rich layers of American history on this exciting GRANDTRAVEL adventure!

July 11:

Arrive Albuquerque

Arrive in Albuquerque. In the afternoon, explore this vibrant town, soaking up the heady mixture of Indian, Mexican and Anglo culture that flavors the region. Get acquainted with your fellow Grandtravelers at a festive welcome dinner. You’ll be treated to a hands-on dance presentation by Aztec Dancers at the hotel. Learn ceremonial steps of the Aztec people and get into the spirit by trying some of the moves yourself!
Marriott Uptown (D)

July 12:

Albuquerque to Canyon de Chelly

Depart Albuquerque and head east to El Morro National Monument. Carved into the soft sandstone rock here are centuries-old graffiti. The oldest European inscription was left in 1605 by Juan de Onate, the first governor of New Mexico.

Enjoy a tasty box lunch under the shade of the piñon pines. In the afternoon a native Diné (Navajo) storyteller will relate tales passed down for generations by the Saltwater People Clan. Visit a Navajo reservation school and trading post. Discover more about Navajo culture while lodging on the reservation this evening.
Thunderbird Lodge (B,L,D)

July 13:

The Navajo Nation

Hop onto an all-terrain vehicle to explore ancient Anasazi ruins, Navajo “hogans,” or sacred homes, and massive sandstone formations in the Canyon de Chelly. This unique national park is situated entirely within the borders of the Navajo Nation. Your Navajo guide will make his homeland come alive for you as you journey to the heart of the canyon.

Step into Ansel Adams’ shoes and snap photos of the colorful and captivating buttes and cliffs. This afternoon travel to the Four Corners Monument. Here you may set foot in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah at the same time! Arrive in Durango in time to relax at the hotel before joining fellow Grandtravelers for an evening of cowboy food and entertainment at the Bar-D-Chuckwagon.
Doubletree Durango (B,L,D)

July 14:

Durango and Silverton, Colorado

All aboard! Hug the scenic Animas River on the Silverton/Durango Narrow Gauge Train. Built to carry gold and silver ore out of the mining towns, narrow gauge trains travel on narrow tracks that allow them to cling to steep mountains and canyon paths. Passengers are treated to breathtaking views of red rock cliffs, 14,000-foot mountains in the Weminuche Wilderness, and the picturesque Animas River snaking below.

After lunch you will visit some of the old mining towns of the San Juans mountain range. Occupied by the ghosts of the past now, these towns once bustled with activity and excitement as miners hit a mother lode and arrived in town to celebrate. Touch a cloud as you search for ghosts - most of these towns are located over 9000 feet above sea level!

Return to Durango to meet a narrow gauge train conductor who will confide the tricks of his trade. Tour the train depot and visit the roundhouse where the trains are maintained and repaired. Close your eyes and picture the glory days of railroading in the American West.
Doubletree Durango (B,L,D)

July 15:

Chamas to Taos

Venture south this morning and catch a ride on the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. Built in the 1880s, this line is a spectacular example of steam era railroading in the United States. Step back in time as you travel over high wooden trestles, through tunnels blasted into the rock and along high, narrow gorges.

Absorb the explosion of color as you journey through the Los Piños River Valley, where irises, sunflowers and Indian paintbrush bloom. Savor lunch in the wilderness before continuing on to Taos for the evening. A mecca for artists, Taos hums with creative energy. Stroll along its quaint streets and marvel at the mix of architectural styles on display.
Hilton Santa Fe (B,L,D)

July 16:

Taos Pueblo

Live like an Indian for the day at Taos Pueblo. The villagers in this unique World Heritage Site follow traditional practices, using no electricity and drawing water from the river. See a world nearly identical to the one discovered by Spanish explorers in 1540.

Later, meander along the Rio Grande with Pueblo Indian guides who will share their customs with you as you float down the river. Your immersion in Indian ways culminates in a feast at river’s edge accompanied by Pueblo hosts.
Hilton Santa Fe (B,L,D)

July 17:

Bandelier National Monument

This morning you will visit wild backcountry and explore ancient honeycombed homes built into cliffs at the Bandelier National Monument. Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes to explore this fascinating archaeological site situated at 7,000 feet above sea level. Imagine the life of the Anasazi people as you poke among the ruins in Frijoles Canyon.

Admire the ingenuity of these ancient farming people who carved homes into volcanic cliffs or along sheer canyon walls. Your final night will be spent in historic Santa Fe. A brief walking tour will orient you, then you will have time to explore New Mexico’s capital city on your own.

After your farewell dinner in a local restaurant, savor your final hours with your new friends on a ghost walk of the city. Dream tonight of ancient cave dwellers, ambitious prospectors, and all the spirits that inhabit the rails and trails you’ve explored with your Grandtraveler companions!
Hilton Santa Fe (B,L,D)

July 18:

Depart Albuquerque

Tranfer to Albequerque Airport for afternoon flight home.
(B)

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