AUGUST 2021
Adventure Travel is Trending Upward Outdoor excursions are rebounding in the wake of COVID-19
Arizona is the Place to Be Countless possibilities await planners in every corner of the Grand Canyon State
2022 Colorado Group Tour Planner
The Centennial State is home to picturesque views and scenic byways
A Premier Travel Media publication • LeisureGroupTravel.com
Bring a buddy. Or three. Rediscover Arizona RediscoverAZ.com
If you average 36 steps a day, it’s time to get away.
Experience a day or weekend of adventure. Take a guided tour. Visit our world-class art museums. Relax and play. Enjoy fine cuisine. Then, unwind at one of our official hotels. Make memories knowing we’re abiding by CDC guidelines for your safety. Discounts available for groups of 15 or more. Book your group trip today: call 1-800-228-8878, email groupsales@cwf.org, or visit colonialwilliamsburg.com/grouptours
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CONTENTS
August 2021 Vol. 31 No. 4
FEATURES 8
ADVENTURE TRAVEL IS TRENDING UPWARD By Jason Paha After an arduous 2020, adventure travel is rebounding in the wake of COVID-19
SPECIAL SECTIONS 10
THEATER GUIDE Group-worthy live entertainment can be found at these fabulous theaters
23
2022 COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER The Centennial State is home to picturesque views and scenic byways
DESTINATIONS 14 18 55
58 62
WEST ARIZONA IS THE PLACE TO BE By Randy Mink Countless possibilities await tour planners in every corner of the Grand Canyon State GO BACK IN TIME AT THESE WESTERN LUXURY RANCHES By Jill Pillow Escape the hustle and bustle by unwinding at these charming ranches
CENTRAL EMBRACE THE MIDWEST’S SCENIC TRAILS By Jamie Fischer Cyclists, hikers and those seeking a beautiful stroll can delve into a multitude of scenic trails
EAST ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE IN WEST VIRGINIA By Jill Pillow Explore charming Fayetteville and the Mountain State’s first national park
SOUTH EXPLORE WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA FROM A LUXURY LODGING BASE By Dave Bodle
Although you may never want to leave the luxurious Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, there’s so much to experience not far from your front door
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PADDLE YOUR WAY THROUGH THESE NORTH CAROLINA FAVORITES By Dave Bodle
From mountain streams to piedmont rivers, there are kayak adventures for every member of your group
COLUMNS 6 ON MY MIND B y J e ff G ayduk
7 ON TOUR B y M a rty S a rbey
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Tanque Verde Guest Ranch in Tucson Photo courtesy of Tanque Verde Guest Ranch
IOWA TOUR GUIDE
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harming main streets, sophisticated cities and gorgeous open-air prairies distinguish the Hawkeye State as a terrific option for group tours. Whether your group wants to savor an art gallery, embark on an agritourism adventure or discover centuries of engaging history, Iowa has activities that will appeal to you. Created in conjunction with the Iowa Group Travel Association (IGTA), this guide offers numerous ideas for tour planners tasked with preparing an unforgettable Midwestern itinerary.
Check out the online version or download a print copy at: https://www.leisuregrouptravel.com/iowa-tour-guide
VISIT LEISUREGROUPTRAVEL.COM STILL HUNGRY FOR MORE GREAT CONTENT? Check out more recent articles on leisuregrouptravel.com • 5 Great Pilgrimages of the World • Iowa Attraction on I-80 Spotlights the World of Trucks • Canton, Ohio Scores a Touchdown with Tour Groups
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et weekly digests of all the best online content with InSite, our free Friday e-newsletter, at: bit.ly/2nhxPvY
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ON THE COVER: Enjoy the great outdoors in beautiful Arizona. Photo courtesy of Arizona Office of Tourism
August 2021 ■ 5
ON MY MIND
By Jeffrey Gayduk
Vol. 31, No. 4 August 2021 Editorial & Advertising Office 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 info@ptmgroups.com
What’s Next?
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rognosticators have been thrown for a loop over the past 18 months as the world has been turned upside down and everyone’s been thrust into this “new normal.” Not only were we blindsided by travel’s shutdown, but predicting how business recovers and what the future holds becomes a difficult task when we’re focused so hard on how we’re going to make it to the next day.
ALL WE HAVE IS THE FUTURE
But it’s precisely at times like this when it’s most important to focus on the future. Sure, there’s pent-up demand that should be driving interest in domestic tours. And as international borders open to vaccinated tourists again, “early adopters” will fill those seats. But is that enough to sustain a full and prolonged recovery? What everyone should be concerned about in the group travel industry is that percentage of older travelers who’ve hung up their spikes, no longer interested in traveling again. It could be due to health reasons, it could be fear, it could be monetary issues – but we know that X% won’t be back on our trips. Facing that reality, what’s next for our business? For our industry?
INSPIRATION STARTS IN THIS EDITION
Active, outdoor and adventure tourism has consistently ranked at the top of travelers’ priority lists and has been one of the shining beacons during this pandemicstunted travel year. Expect as the world recovers, this segment of the business will be the driver of tourism over the next generation. It’s not just me saying this. The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) has been leading this charge for nearly two decades and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) coined adventure travel “the future of tourism.” What’s important to note here is that the term “adventure travel” casts a wide net – adventure travelers come in all shapes, sizes and age groups. They could enjoy paddling in a canoe or a class IV rapid. They could get a thrill out of rappelling a sheer cliff or walking on a paved trail. Tackle rugged terrain on a mountain bike, or a lakeside path on an e-bike. Whatever shape it takes, adventure travel makes us feel alive and what should be clear is that the beauty of this world is best experienced by participating, not watching. One final word: adventure travel goes hand in hand with sustainable tourism, so look for opportunities to incorporate both as you tweak itineraries into the future. Happy traveling,
Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk jeff@ptmgroups.com
Associate Publisher – Dave Bodle dave@ptmgroups.com
Managing Editor – Jason Paha
jason@ptmgroups.com
Senior Editor – Randy Mink randy@ptmgroups.com Associate Editor – Miles Dobis
miles@ptmgroups.com
Chief of Content & Technology – Lance Harrell
lance@ptmgroups.com
Director, Design & Production – Lisa Hede lisa@ptmgroups.com
Vice President – Theresa O’Rourke Midwest, Frontier/Mountain West P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 theresa@ptmgroups.com
Regional Business Development Managers Midwest, Mid-Atlantic/New England – Tom Tobiason P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 tom@ptmgroups.com
South/West Coast – Cheryl Rash P 563.613.3068 • F 815.225.5274 cheryl@ptmgroups.com
The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as advertising, but assumes no responsi bility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but the publisher makes no warranty that listings are free of error. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited photos, slides or manuscripts.
Leisure Group Travel (ISSN-1531-1406)
is published bi-monthly by Premier Travel Media, 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406, Willowbrook, IL 60527. The magazine is distributed free of charge to qualified tour operators, travel agents, group leaders, bank travel clubs and other travel organizations. Other travel-related suppliers may subscribe at the reduced rate of $12.00 per year. The regular sub scrip tion price for all others is $18.00 per year. Single copies are $4.95 each.
Send Address Change to: Premier Travel Media 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 A
Jeff Gayduk Publisher 6
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publication
All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher.
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ON TOUR
Photo courtesy of stokpic via Pixabay
By Marty Sarbey de Souto, CTC
Lessons Learned from COVID-19
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his has certainly been a summer to remember as we are now carefully emerging from our cocoon known the world over as COVID-19. So, what have we learned? I think most of us here in America have learned that while we truly missed our usual summer vacations, activities and freedoms, we are now more than ready to venture back into the summer mode to which we were accustomed. I think we have a new appreciation of what we had for so long taken for granted: long summer days at the beach, travels far and wide, attendance at sporting events, family reunions, picnics and summer weddings. We are fortunate that we live in a vast and varied country in which we are able to hibernate and yet enjoy vacation activities and freedoms. Many of us have been able to visit our great national parks, our lakes and forests, and in many cases, even our backyards, in a way that many LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
other countries and people have not been able to do. We hope, going forward, that travel and its associated vacation activities will continue to grow again, perhaps in a new and appreciative mode, realizing that here at home we have a vast, attractive land begging its citizens to get out and enjoy its many vistas, histories and activities. We hope, going forward, we take note of new cruise ships and routes, whether on our rivers or the Great Lakes or up and down our Atlantic and Pacific shores. Watch for new rail packages and interesting national parks offerings that should be emerging. We, as trip planners, must be on the lookout for coming new itineraries, new tours, and highly focused points of interest. Also, watch for re-openings and renovations of old favorite destinations with a new look. Let’s not assume that just because a destination is close at hand that it’s not as interesting or exciting as a
destination on the other side of the globe. Let’s enjoy and appreciate the company of our family and friends, perhaps some new friends we made during the post-pandemic months who now feel more like family than actual family. Perhaps some of these new friends may be the perfect addition to your numerous old travel friends when it comes to future travel ideas. Let’s grow from the experiences we’ve endured during lockdown, Zoom, and working at home, making these experiences the basis for new ideas, new ventures and new destinations that await us.
Marty is a Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) with a long history in the travel/tourism industry. She has been a tour operator, worldwide trip leader, college tourism instructor and textbook author. Her consulting firm is Sarbey Associates (sarbeyassociates.com)
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GET OUTDOORS AND GET ACTIVE
ADVENTURE TRAVEL IS TRENDING UPWARD
Photo courtesy of Visit Phoenix/Jeff Berting
Mountain biking in Arizona’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, near Phoenix.
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AFTER AN ARDUOUS 2020, ADVENTURE TRAVEL IS REBOUNDING
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By Jason Paha
ndeniably, 2020 was a difficult year for virtually everyone in the tourism market. Worldwide travel came to a virtual halt as estimates say the global tourism sector lost nearly $4.5 trillion and 62 million jobs last year. Domestically, things were no better as the U.S. Travel Association reports domestic travel spending totaled $679 billion in 2020, an unprecedented 42 percent annual decline from 2019. Statistics estimate since the beginning of March and through the end of 2020, the pandemic resulted in $492 billion in cumulative losses for the U.S. travel economy, the equivalent of a daily loss of approximately $1.6 billion. Those are bloodcurdling numbers. Fast forward to the present day and while the COVID-19 pandemic is still a major concern, optimism has returned to the travel market, particularly the adventure travel sector. According to the 2021 Global Adventure Tourism Market Report, the global adventure travel market is expecting an elevation of $2.02 billion (in U.S. dollars) by 2030 and is witnessing a compound annual growth rate of 10.7 percent from 2020-30. “The signs are super encouraging,” said Shannon Stowell, CEO of the Adventure Travel Trade Association, a global network of adventure travel leaders. “The U.S. domestic adventure market is crushing it right now. International travel is still hampered by all the problems with vaccination rollouts and we are still behind the starting line, so to speak, but we can see the pent-up demand is massive.” The ATTA defines adventure travel as a type of tourism involving exploration or travel with perceived (and possibly actual) risk. This type of travel potentially requires specialized skills and physical exertion and may be any tourist activity including two of the following three components: a physical activity, a cultural exchange or interaction LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
and engagement with nature. In layman’s terms, adventure tourism includes various air, water and land activities like mountaineering, hiking, biking, scuba diving, canyoneering, sandboarding, paragliding and river rafting. “One reason adventure travel will come back quicker and stronger is the passion of adventure travelers,” Stowell said. “A casual traveler who looks to make the decision between going to Hawaii and remodeling the bathroom is very different than a passionate cycler. People who define themselves as hikers and bikers, they have to get back out there. They are not making a decision whether to hike or remodel the bathroom. Passion-driven verticals will recover more quickly.”
AVOIDING CROWDS
With various surveys showing the majority of American travelers planning to avoid crowded destinations when they fully return to travel, adventure travel is particularly suited to appeal to that mindset. With a focus on small group outings, less-frequented destinations and vast, open spaces, adventure tourism has proven to be a popular go-to for travelers in the COVID era. “COVID has had a lasting effect on people’s psyche,” Stowell said. “The thought of crowding into a location with hundreds of people is something people want to avoid. The thought of wide-open spaces with open air is much more appealing.” As a result of this COVID mentality, adventure travel is rising in popularity. Intrepid Travel, the largest small group adventure travel company in the world, claimed a 33 percent increase in bookings from North Americans since March with its most popular trips including outings to see wild animals, glaciers and active volcanoes.
CYCLING IS SURGING
Society’s renewed appreciation for the great outdoors has also led to an unexpected development: The world is mired in a bicycle shortage as the industry hasn’t been able to keep up with bike demand. In the early stages of COVID-19, bicycle sales ramped up more than 120 percent over the previous year and that demand has not waned in 2021. While many of these sales
stem from day-to-day riders and commuters, tour operators have also found bike tourism to be a popular travel niche. Bike tourism resides in the health and wellness market, an international market predicted to grow by $315 billion in the next four years alone.
POPULAR DESTINATIONS
Not surprisingly, national parks and states renowned for outdoor travel are preferred adventure travel destinations. Visitation numbers are expected to surge in 2021 with Grand Teton National Park in Northwestern Wyoming having reported a 48 percent increase in April from its popular 2019 season. “National parks are getting slammed,” Stowell said. “Colorado and Oregon seem to be on a lot of people’s lists. Travel Oregon has done a really good job of being innovative in their marketing and is trying to push people out to different parts of the state. The Rockies are also popular in general.” Overseas adventure travel, while facing challenges stemming from COVID-19, is also showing positive signs. “Japan is truly emerging,” Stowell said. “Croatia has also been really hot to the point that some of the cities in Croatia were trying to tone down tourism before the pandemic. Latin America and Iceland are also popular adventure travel destinations.”
MISSING LOVED ONES
The pandemic inflicted an inordinate amount of damage on society including keeping many separated from their loved ones. With airports shut down and much of the world forced into quarantine, people emerged from 2020 with a fresh perspective on traveling with family and friends. Not only do more travelers want to savor trips with those they cherish, they want to get outside and stretch their legs while doing so. “People have missed each other,” Stowell said. “They’ve been cooped up for so long, they want to get outdoors and they want to do so with family and friends. People like to spend time with people they know and trust and have the same mindset. Multigenerational travel was already trending up (before the pandemic) and will be a strong trend going forward.” August 2021 ■ 9
Photo courtesy of Bell Tower Theater
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT IS BACK
L Group-Worthy Live Entertainment
ooking for an activity to keep the whole group entertained? These live entertainment options add life to any group itinerary. Whether your group is in the mood to see a Broadway show, be wined and dined or take a behind-the-scenes tour, these theaters have something for everyone.
TREAT YOURSELF TO A DELIGHTFUL SHOW
BELL TOWER THEATER Dubuque, IA
Keep Your Group Laughing with Incredible New Comedies at the Bell Tower Theater in beautiful Dubuque, Iowa
The Bell Tower Theater, Dubuque’s Hometown Theater, performs comedies and musicals year-round, and with an emphasis on new works, you are sure to find shows your group has not already seen. The theater is located in a beautiful 100+ year-old building and has ample free parking for buses. Its intimate 160-seat space has large comfortable chairs and lots of leg room making it the perfect place to experience quality live theater. (belltowertheater.net)
Photo 140822522 / Collage Laughing People © Kurhan | Dreamstime.com
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GROUP THEATER TIX Chicago, IL
Are you bringing a group to Chicago and been told there are no shows available on your travel dates? THEATER ON DEMAND can help with a menu of shows, and the opportunity to customize your date and time. It is an array of award-winning performers available for all kinds of shows - a cabaret show, Broadway Show, Elvis, Aretha, Comedy, and they will even try to create a show to meet your needs and budget. THEATER ON DEMAND will be available on most Monday & Tuesday evenings and even select weekdays at the Venus Cabaret or Mercury Theater in Chicago. 312-423-6612 (grouptheatertix.com)
CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR WITH THE ROCKETTES New York, NY
New York City’s favorite celebration returns for the 2021 holiday season as the Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes will make the holidays at Radio City Music Hall as magical as ever. The Christmas Spectacular has been a treasured holiday tradition since it first debuted on December 21, 1933. The show captured the country’s heart from that first high kick and has evolved into a 90-minute extravaganza that has drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors to Radio City Music Hall. Tickets are on sale now. (rockettes.com)
NARROWAY PRODUCTIONS Fort Mill, SC
Looking for quality Christian entertainment a cut above the rest? See why NarroWay is the Broadway of Christian entertainment. The only dinner theater in Charlotte that runs year-round, Narroway offers original dinner shows with fun-filled entertainment for the entire family. From Broadway-style shows to children’s performances, NarroWay will entertain everyone in your group. On top of the incredible talent on stage, guests will dine on freshly prepared meals themed after the show, served by the cast members themselves. (narroway.net)
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GREAT FOOD GREAT SHOWS A GREAT TIME! The only continuous running dinner theatre in the greater Charlotte area!
LIVE THEATRE AND DINNER
ets a n d I nf t Tick o! e G
narroway.net 803.802.2300
Fort Mill, South Carolina I-77 Exit 90
The Broadway of Christian Entertainment
WEST
REGION
Camelback Mountain, Phoenix
ARIZONA
GUIDE TO GROUP TRAVEL
Photo courtesy of Visit Phoenix/dspaz.com
By Randy Mink
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COUNTLESS POSSIBILITIES AWAIT TOUR PLANNERS IN EVERY CORNER OF THE GRAND CANYON STATE
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color-splashed mosaic of blazing red rocks, majestic mountain ranges and cactus-studded desert landscapes right out of the movies, Arizona wows visitors with its scenic beauty and geological diversity. National parks, state parks, national forests and tribal lands beckon those looking to feast on the wonders of nature. As for the Grand Canyon, there’s simply nothing like it anywhere else in the world. Flowing through the mighty canyon, the Colorado River offers whitewater thrills, and other mighty bodies of water—such as lakes Powell, Mead and Havasu—provide refreshing recreation as well. Besides mile after mile of scenic splendor gracing its wide-open spaces, Arizona brims with cultural treasures. Favorite tourist destinations highlight Native American heritage and rip-roaring reminders of the Wild West. Dynamic cities like Phoenix, Mesa and Tucson are flush with urban amenities, and character-rich towns like Wickenburg, Tombstone and Bisbee bristle with Western flair. Throughout the state, groups will enjoy shopping for Native American arts and crafts, cowboy kitsch and other wares distinctive to the region. And tour planners will want to spice their itineraries with meals featuring Southwestern flavors. If your group is looking for eye-catching vistas, outdoor adventure and a tantalizing taste of the great American Southwest, the address is Arizona.
for the Queen Mine Tour, an underground exploration of one of the 20th century’s most productive copper mines. Goldfield Ghost Town, along the Apache Trail byway near Apache Junction, also hearkens back to frontier times. A collection of weathered wooden buildings on the remains of an 1890s mining community, this fun-filled tourist magnet offers shops, two museums, a gold mine tour, gold panning, horseback rides, narrow-gauge train rides and off-road jeep tours through the desert. The architectural gem of Tucson is Mission San Xavier del Bac, built from 1783-1797 by Spanish missionaries. Called the “White Dove of the Desert,” the parish church of the Tohono O’odham Indian Reservation is distinguished by its domes, arches, carvings and murals. In Sierra Vista, 70 miles southeast of Tucson, stands Fort Huachucha, an active military installation dating from 1877 and former headquarters of the famed Buffalo Soldiers, the first all-black regiment in the U.S Armed Forces. Exhibits on the elite units of African-American men and women, which served from just after the Civil War through World War II, highlight visits to the Fort Huachuca Museums. Groups also can go back in time riding 1950s-era passenger cars on the Grand Canyon Railway, which is powered by vintage diesel locomotives. Strolling
Groups will find many places that recall Arizona’s Old West days. In southeastern Arizona, Tombstone was a silver boomtown infamous for lawlessness and violence. Today “the town too tough to die” abounds with Western-themed attractions, restaurants and souvenir shops. Re-enactments of the 1881 Gunfight at the O.K. Corral feature actors portraying Wyatt Earp, his brothers, Doc Holliday and the Clanton Brothers. In the old mining town of Bisbee, an artist enclave close to the Mexican border, tourists don a hardhat, yellow slicker and miner’s lamp LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
Photo courtesy of Arizona Office of Tourism
ARIZONA’S HERITAGE AND CULTURE
Mission San Xavier del Bac, Tucson
musicians and a mock train robbery provide entertainment on the trip between Williams and South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Travelers looking for 20th century roadtrip nostalgia will find it in shops and eateries in Williams and other northern Arizona towns that lined Route 66, the legendary highway that ran from Chicago to Los Angeles. The Mother Road’s story comes alive at the Historic Route 66 Museum in Kingman. At Montezuma Castle National Monument in central Arizona, visitors can see the ruins of a cliff dwelling built in the 12th and 13th centuries. Believed to have been inhabited by Ancestral Pueblo people, the five-story castle contained 20 rooms and once was accessible only by ladders. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument in Coolidge preserves the four-story Casa Grande (Big House) from the same period. The Navajo Nation, in northeastern Arizona, is rich in Native American history as well. The sovereign nation of the Navajo tribe is home to a dozen national monuments, including Canyon de Chelly National Monument, where ruins of ancient villages and pictographs adorn red sandstone walls. Tours led by Navajo tour operators showcase places like Canyon de Chelly and Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, whose surreal sandstone monoliths have appeared in many Hollywood movies. Groups touring Navajo Tribal Land also will want to see Petrified Forest National Park, named for the fossilized logs scattered across its 50,000 acres. A land of colorful mesas, buttes and badlands, the park contains part of the Painted Desert. In Phoenix, the Heard Museum boasts one of the most comprehensive collections of Native American art in the world. Treasures range from paintings, sculptures and photographs to baskets, jewelry, pottery, textiles and carvings. The visually appealing Phoenix Art Museum, a masterpiece of architecture, houses art from around the world within its soaring concrete walls. Even those who are not musically inclined will enjoy Phoenix’s Musical Instrument Museum, which exhibits instruments from almost every country on earth, from horns, August 2021 ■ 15
harps and harmonicas to banjos, bagpipes and balalaikas. Everyone gets a high-tech audio guide that provides soundtracks for videos at more than 300 sites in the spacious, light-filled galleries. In the Experience Gallery guests can beat a drum, pound a gong, strum a guitar or pluck the strings of a harp. Another one-of-a-kind musical place perfect for groups is Mesa’s Organ Stop Pizza. Diners in this cavernous, theater-like space feast on pizza and pasta while being serenaded by tunes belted out from the “mighty” 1927 Wurlitzer organ. Some of Arizona’s most intriguing cultural institutions interpret the Sonoran Desert. The most outstanding examples are the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix and Tucson’s Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a combination zoo, aquarium, botanical showplace and natural history museum.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURES IN ARIZONA
Photo courtesy of Musical Instrument Museum
Arizona certainly has a number of jawdropping destinations ideal for communing with Mother Nature. Whether groups are content to sit back and relax or prefer some physical challenges, they will find their perfect adventure on the state’s rivers, lakes and trails. One of America’s top spots for whitewater rafting, the Colorado River provides thrills in the Grand Canyon area, from peaceful float trips to adrenaline-pumping rides through the rapids. Outfitters offer guided trips ranging
from a half-day to a week or longer. Hualapai River Runners, operated by the Hualapai Tribe, has a popular one-day whitewater trip starting and ending in Peach Springs, at the western gateway to the Grand Canyon. Offering a Colorado River option tamer than whitewater rafting, Yuma River Tubing in Yuma provides the tubes and a shuttle ride up the river. Then relax as you float your way back down. Choose from 1-, 2½- and 5-mile floats. Your group can enjoy all the comforts of home while cruising the open waters and hidden canyons and coves of Lake Powell. Part of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area in far north-central Arizona, Lake Powell, with 2,000 miles of shoreline, is one of the largest manmade reservoirs in the country and almost synonymous with houseboating. Lake Powell Resorts & Marinas in Page rents houseboats that accommodate up to 12 guests overnight and also offers boat tours past vermilion monoliths to Rainbow Bridge, the world’s largest natural bridge. On Lake Mead, extending beyond the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead Cruises’ narrated paddlewheeler excursions shed light on the dam’s construction. Both lakes Mead and Powell are popular for swimming, waterskiing, kayaking, paddleboarding and fishing. Groups following the scenic Apache Trail byway often schedule a 90-minute sightseeing cruise on Canyon Lake aboard the
Musical Instrument Museum, Phoenix
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Dolly Steamboat paddlewheeler. Binoculars are provided for spotting bighorn sheep that inhabit the sand- and rust-colored cliffs bordering the secluded inner waterways. Hiking and biking opportunities abound for those who’d rather stick close to land. What better way to appreciate the splendor of Tucson’s Sonoran Desert than setting out on a trail in Saguaro National Park, home to stands of stately saguaro cactus that typify the landscapes we associate with Arizona. Besides taking in panoramic views from ridgelines, your tour members will be captivated by the exotic flora—from creosote bushes and groves of mesquite to the surprising variety of cacti. In Grand Canyon National Park, the family-friendly Bright Angel Trail takes you into the depths of the gorge. Or consider a trek along the canyon rim on the back of a sure-footed mule. Pedaling through desert scenery is a great way to explore the environs of the Phoenix area, which abounds with mountain biking trails for all skill levels. A good option for beginners is Papago Park’s Double Butte Loop, a 2.3-mile trail that offers fine views of the park’s red rock formations. A forest of glistening stalactites and stalagmites awes groups touring southern Arizona’s Kartchner Caverns State Park, a subterranean wonderland deep below the Whetstone Mountains in Benson. Even those in wheelchairs can negotiate the wide concrete trails that wind through the spacious underground chambers. While most guest ranches in the Rocky Mountain states close down for the winter, those in Arizona’s Sonoran Desert provide a relaxing, warm-weather vacation experience when much of the country is buried in ice and snow. Horseback riding is the main focus, but these Western fantasy worlds offer other activities as well. Wickenburg, 54 miles northwest of Phoenix, was once known as the Dude Ranch Capital of Arizona and still lures city slickers who dream of a true cowboy experience. No one will get bored at the resort-style Rancho de los Caballeros, which boasts tennis courts, a heated pool, a day spa and even an 18-hole golf course. Other Wickenburg ranches are Kay El Bar, Rancho Casitas and Flying E. Tucson’s Tanque Verde Ranch is surrounded by 60,000 acres of Saguaro >> LeisureGroupTravel.com
Photo courtesy of Arizona Office of Tourism
National Park. In addition to trail rides, guests can mix things up with mountain biking, national park hikes, nature programs, tennis and pool time. White Stallion Ranch is another laid-back Western paradise in Tucson. At Tombstone Monument Ranch, just outside of Tombstone, guests can go for one-hour trail rides, stay overnight, and even take part in cattle drives and other chores. The working ranch is set up like an 1880s Western town.
TASTES OF ARIZONA
Although Arizona restaurants offer every type of food imaginable, from classic Italian recipes to Japanese sushi, hungry travelers really look forward to chowing down on specialties inspired by the cultures of neighboring Mexico and the state’s Native American population. Foodies, moreover, will delight in products grown on local farms and vineyards. Yes, vineyards. Who knew that Arizona is a wineproducing state? Fans of Mexican food will find plenty of places serving up superb renditions of tacos, burritos, enchiladas, chimichangas and other dishes familiar to the American palate, but some eats are unique to Arizona and the Southwest. Take the Sonoran hot dog, for instance. This South-of-the-Border twist on the American favorite features a grilled beef frankfurter wrapped in bacon, topped with pinto beans and garnished with condiments like chopped tomatoes and onions, jalapenos, mustard and mayonnaise—all sandwiched into a split-top roll. The most famous purveyor of Sonoran hot dogs is El Guero Canelo, a 2018 James Beard Award winner that has three locations in Tucson and one in Phoenix. Nothing is more iconic to Arizona than cactus, and the plant, particularly the prickly pear variety, is commonly found in foods and drinks. Purplish-red items range from prickly pear candy and jelly to prickly pear vodka and margaritas. Tortilla Flat Country Store and Ice Cream Shop, in a tiny community east of Phoenix, scoops up a prickly pear gelato. Maya Mexican Restaurant in Prescott offers prickly pear breakfast burritos and a platter featuring grilled cactus, while the menu at Sedona’s Cowboy Club lists cactus fries with prickly pear sauce. LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
Horseshoe Bend, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
On tribal lands and elsewhere in Arizona, travelers can savor Native American cuisine. Indian frybread is often eaten in taco form, with the fluffy bread serving as a shell for the choice of meat. The View Restaurant, overlooking the stunning landscape of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, offers Navajo tacos made with frybread, along with mutton stew, red chile pork posole (a hominy soup) and other traditional Navajo fare. Hogan Family Restaurant in Tuba City and the Hopi Cultural Center, a motel and restaurant on the Second Mesa, are also worth the trip for their frybread tacos and other fare using indigenous ingredients. Culinary-minded travelers in the Mesa area satisfy their taste buds at sites on the Fresh Foodie Trail. At Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek, Arizona’s largest organic peach grower, owners Mark and Carrie Schnepf can arrange a farm-to-table meal along with a cooking demonstration and trolley or miniature train ride through the orchards. The cafe/bakery turns out homemade goodies, including peach cinnamon rolls and peach jalapeno bread. Down the road, a tour and classroom session on olive oil at Queen Creek Olive Mill can be paired with a meal in the Tuscan-inspired eatery or al fresco under the olive trees. Joe’s Farm Grill, another stop on the Fresh Foodie Trail, is located in Gilbert on an agricultural community called Agritopia. The restaurant (in a converted 1960s farmhouse) takes pride in its local organic ingredients;
everything is made from scratch. Also on the grounds are a coffee shop famed for its luscious cupcakes, plus a micro-winery and brewery. Three of Arizona’s elevated regions have established themselves as producers of award-winning wines, and the state counts some five dozen wineries. Not far from the red rocks of Sedona, grapes flourish in the Verde Valley. The Verde Valley Wine Trail features more than 20 vineyards and tasting rooms. An hour south of Tucson, a dozen welcoming wineries can be found in the neighboring towns of Sonoita and Elgin. The Willcox area, east of Tucson, is home to 11 wineries and tasting rooms. Innovative microbreweries provide cold refreshment across the state. The Flagstaff Brewery Trail showcases 15 establishments in Flagstaff, Williams and Sedona. At Barrio Brewing Company in Tucson, the state’s longest-running independent brewery, guests dine in an industrial-chic taproom and out on a patio with views of mountains and trains rumbling past. In the Phoenix-Mesa area, groups can enjoy beer, food and behindthe-scenes peeks at several breweries on customized bus outings organized by Arizona Brewery Tours. The trade team at the Arizona Office of Tourism works with travel professionals in planning unforgettable adventures for their clients. For suggested itineraries, newsletter sign-up and other trade resources, log on to www.visitarizona.com/travel-trade. August 2021 ■ 17
WESTERN TOUR IDEAS
Western Luxury Ranches Escape the hustle and bustle by unwinding at upscale ranches
T
By Jill Pillow
he Western region of the United States has an abundance of historic sites, scenic views and opportunities for adventure. Luxury ranches will allow you to leave the everyday stresses behind as you step into the past and experience the charm and amenities they have to offer.
Sorrel River Ranch, Moab, Utah For those who are lovers of nature and exploration, but also appreciate the value of unmatched opulence and fine dining, Sorrel River Ranch has exclusive access to the offerings of Moab’s National Parks, Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. With its epic bar and gorgeous views from the outdoor dining area, the ranch’s dining has been deemed one of the best in the state. National park excursions, canyoneering, air adventures, and mountain biking are just some of the ways guests can experience the beauty of Moab during their stay at Sorrel River Ranch. From the two-guest balcony studio to the 12-guest luxury ranch house estate and many options in between, the ranch is perfect for both small weekend getaways and large group outings.
The Ranch at Rock Creek, Philipsburg, Montana Whether seeking out a laid-back, slow-paced, relaxing vacation or a more adventurous and activity-filled day, The Ranch at Rock Creek has options for every traveler. This five-star guest ranch is the perfect location to explore the outdoors with an abundance of hiking trails and fun experiences for the whole family such as a ropes course, archery, naturalist classes, rancher ride alongs and much more. The resort’s Granite Spa has many unique therapeutic treatments and focuses on connecting you to the land. You can even experience your spa treatment in a renovated luxury Conestoga 18
■ August 2021
Photo courtesy of Sorrel River Ranch
GO BACK IN TIME AT THESE
Sorrel River Ranch in Moab, Utah
wagon. Keeping with this rustic turned chic theme, the ranch is known for its gorgeous glamping accommodations that turn roughing it out west into a relaxing and luxury affair.
Brush Creek Ranch, Saratoga, Wyoming Nestled within the scenic lands of Saratoga, Brush Creek Ranch is 30,000 secluded acres of serenity. Guided group hunting and fishing trips allow guests to feel connected to the land without the everyday stresses that come from life’s demands. The Magee Homestead accommodations include nine historically restored cabins perfect for a either a romantic getaway or a family trip. Large groups can even “Rent the Homestead” for a more private experience. Brush Creek Ranch is equipped to host weddings as well as family gatherings and corporate events where exclusive itineraries are crafted specifically for your group including outdoor adventures, world-class meals, and exclusive events.
The Resort at Paws Up, Greenough, Montana On land that was once traversed by Lewis and Clark, the wideopen spaces found at The Resort at Paws Up are a wilderness that yearns to be explored. The premier Montana glamping resort has beauty indoors that matches that of the breathtaking Montana mountain views. The glamping accommodations are the epitome of rustic luxury allowing guests to sleep underneath the stars while still enjoying the amenities of a five-star resort. Paws Up also offers >> LeisureGroupTravel.com
overstimulating technology and workday concerns. Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort is known for its abundance of family-friendly activities, particularly those involving horseback riding. With beginner- and intermediate-level riding lessons for all ages as well as specialty rides, the ranch has many opportunities for guests to feel like real wranglers. Notable specialty rides include a scenic picnic ride, a historic breakfast ride to the Adobe camp, and a saddle-to-paddle ride which includes a trail ride leading into paddle boarding on the ranch’s serene lake.
Rancho de los Caballeros, Wickenburg, Arizona
Photo courtesy of Brush Creek Ranch
Since 1948, Rancho de los Caballeros has been a family run ranch known best for its southwestern hospitality and prime location within the High Sonoran Desert. Rooms and suites are fit for housing between 2-4 guests and are based on themes including the Sunset Rooms, which have breathtaking nightly views of the desert sunset, and the Ranch Rooms, designed with authentic southwestern decor. Nature programs, shooting activities, and Jeep & ATV tours allow guests to get their fill of fun while at the resort. In the middle of historic Wickenburg, the possibilities for adventure are endless.
Lost Creek Ranch, Moose, Wyoming
Unwind and enjoy the views at Brush Creek Ranch.
28 beautiful vacation homes and even has a rentable private island resort on nearby Salmon Lake. Team building and educational exercises make it the ideal resort for reunion and corporate events and getaways that encourage groups to push their boundaries and think outside of the box.
Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort, Solvang, California Disconnect and unwind at the 10,500-acre authentic Western dude ranch where family bonding is uninterrupted by LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
From glorious views of Grand Teton National Park to gourmet dining experiences, Lost Creek Ranch has everything needed to host the perfect wedding, family reunion, corporate retreat, and more. With the ability to host up to 60 guests for private events, the wide range of team building activities, detail-oriented service, and spectacular mountain scenery will make any getaway perfect. Rustic duplex and luxury cabins provide elegant Western comfort that feels like a home away from home with a plethora of activities right outside your door. Horseback rides, floats down the Snake River, fly fishing, and guided tours of the national park are just some of the ways guests can stay entertained. August 2021 ■ 19
All photos courtesy of Black Hills & Badlands Tourism Association
ITINERARY
Black Hills and Badlands, SD
Building Memories in South Dakota SCAN FOR INFO
Entertain your group with scenic views at every turn and enjoy a tour that’s filled with fun experiences and memorable moments.
Day 1
After breakfast at your Wall, South Dakota hotel and checkout, the day begins with a stop at the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site Visitor Center. The park film, “Beneath the Plains” is the place to start, while the exhibits detail the story.. Next is a visit to the Ben Reifel Visitor Center at Badlands National Park. Explore the museum exhibits, join a ranger at the Fossil Preparation Lab and watch the park film, “The Land of Stone and Light.” Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) is an incredible scenic drive. There are beautiful landscapes, informational exhibits and glimpses of wildlife. Return to Wall for a late lunch and true experience at historic Wall Drug. The Western Art Gallery Restaurant has a complete menu, but is best known for its donuts, rolls, and hot beef sandwiches and buffalo burgers. Coffee is still five cents and the ice water is free. Allow plenty of time for shopping. Depart for the Southern Hills and Hill City/Keystone and a visit to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Begin at the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center for exhibits and a 14-minute film detailing the carving of Mount Rushmore.
Day 2 BLACK HILLS & BADLANDS TOURISM ASSOCIATION
MIchelle Thomson, CTP, CTIS, CSTP Michelle@blackhillsbadlands.com 605355-3603 Blackhillsbadlands.com
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Breakfast and checkout before boarding the midmorning 1880 Train departure for a relaxing steam locomotive adventure. Later, visit the National Presidential Wax Museum. Groups are welcomed with a group rate for 10 or more. Take a short drive to the Crazy Horse Memorial
and the Indian Museum of North America. The largest collection of art and artifacts features the diverse cultures of 300 Native Nations. It’s on to Custer State Park. Crystal clear waters and granite peaks along with historic sites make the park a favorite of locals and visitors. First stop is the museum/visitor center. Depart to meet Tatanka. Buffalo Safari Jeep Tour goes off-road in search of pronghorns, elk and buffalo in an open-air jeep.
Day 3 After breakfast and checkout, it’s a short drive to Spearfish and the High Plains Western Heritage Center. It’s everything you can expect from an oldwestern style museum. While in the area, connect with Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, a 19-mile stretch of stunning views highlighted by cascading water falls. Return to Deadwood for lunch before gathering for the 2 p.m. Main Street Shootout – The Strange Case of David Lunt. Founder/Owner Kevin Costner invites you to Tatanka Story of the Bison. The larger-than-life bronze statue greets you. The Adams Museum founded in 1930 displays the history of the Black Hills and the mysterious discovery of gold in the 1830s. At the Broken Boot Gold Mine, you’ll walk in the footsteps of miners seeking their fortunes. If your supply of gold is getting slim, try the Gold Panning Lesson and keep the gold. It’s less than an hour drive to your accommodations in Rapid City. Enjoy a great dinner and a good night’s rest. Tomorrow will be filled with a half dozen Rapid City Experiences. Check the details online by scanning the QR code on this page. >> LeisureGroupTravel.com
Glacier Country Tourism Glacier Country Tourism
ITINERARY
Glacier Country, MT
Enjoy an Adventure in Western Montana Experience three days in Glacier Country, starting in the Bitterroot Valley. See Montana through the eyes of missionary settlers Lewis and Clark. Spend the night in Montana’s arts and culture hub— Missoula. Travel north to explore the Bison Range or take a scenic cruise along Flathead Lake. Top off your trip at the Crown of the Continent—Glacier National Park.
GLACIER COUNTRY TOURISM
Debbie Picard debbie@glaciermt.com 406-532-3231 touroperators.glaciermt.com
LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
Day 1
Arrive in Stevensville, the first permanent pioneer settlement in Montana. View well-preserved artifacts, learn about the founding of Historic St. Mary’s Mission and then stroll through Main Street’s locally owned shops in this Bitterroot Valley community. Continue your trip through Montana’s past with an interpretive tour of the only archeologically verified site of Lewis and Clark at Travelers’ Rest State Park in Lolo. From there, stop by the Missoula Smokejumper Visitor Center for a guided tour of the largest smokejumper base in the country. Learn about the jump gear and fire-fighting tactics these parachuting, wildland firefighters use to protect the West. Check in at a group-friendly Missoula hotel. This vibrant mountain town is home to gourmet restaurants, popular breweries and its very own cidery, all offering plenty of local flavor.
Day 2 Wake up in Missoula and enjoy breakfast at your hotel or check out a local hot spot. Then head north to explore the Bison Range—an 18,500-acre national wildlife refuge offering views of the Mission Mountains and ample chances to see bison, elk, pronghorn, deer and bear. Continue your scenic drive to Flathead Lake—the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Grab lunch in the picturesque community of Bigfork and spend the afternoon shopping at worldclass art galleries and numerous shops. If time permits, take in a Broadway-caliber performance at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse. Check into your hotel
in nearby Kalispell or Columbia Falls before enjoying an evening sunset cruise with spectacular views on Flathead Lake aboard a Far West Boat Tour.
Day 3 Wake up in Kalispell or Columbia Falls and enjoy breakfast in one of these two charming towns before heading to Glacier National Park for an interpretive tour with Sun Tours or a red bus tour of the spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road. The park boasts 1 million acres of stunning peaks, vast valleys, hidden alpine lakes and more than 200 waterfalls. On the east side of the park, include a stop at St. Mary Lake. Take a historic boat ride for incredible views from the second largest lake in Glacier National Park and see iconic Wild Goose Island, often featured on magazine covers and post cards. Stay in East Glacier Park— where Great Northern Railway history comes alive and you can learn more about the Blackfeet Nation. Enjoy a laid-back dinner and evening at historic Glacier Park Lodge—a timbered lodge built in 1913 that offers a great setting to recap your day’s adventures and plan your next Glacier Country getaway.
Jason Savage
SCAN FOR INFO
August 2021 ■ 21
The allure of Western Montana’s jaw-dropping landscapes and relaxing outdoor activities—like nature walks and tranquil, scenic river floats—offers the rejuvenating trip of a lifetime. Enjoy history, arts and culture, cozy lodging, a delightful food and drink scene and warm hospitality in Glacier Country’s charming small towns. • • • • • • •
Visit Montana’s first permanent settlement of non-indigenous people at the Historic St. Mary’s Mission in Stevensville Tour the only archeologically verified Lewis and Clark site at Travelers’ Rest State Park in Lolo Meet wildland firefighting heroes at the country’s largest smokejumper base in Missoula Explore thousands of acres of wildlife at the Bison Range in Charlo Climb aboard Far West Boat Tours for a sightseeing cruise on Flathead Lake Shop galleries and boutiques and dine in Bigfork—Montana’s most charming village See Glacier National Park from an iconic red bus tour or a Blackfeet interpretive Sun Tour
Consider a Glaciers to Geysers tour combining Glacier and Yellowstone national parks or highlight two of the most scenic states in the lower 48 with a Western Montana and Idaho itinerary.
TourOperators.GlacierMT.com
2022 EDITION
SCENIC & HISTORIC BYWAYS
7 ROUTES FOR AN AUTHENTIC COLORADO ADVENTURE
ROCKY MOUNTAINEER
COLORADO’S NEWEST RAIL EXCURSION
GROUP ITINERARY
COLORADO CARES PRESERVING THE ROCKIES’ NATURAL BEAUTY
EXPLORE DESERT DUNES AND MAJESTIC MOUNTAINS
WWW.TOURCOLORADO.ORG
2022 EDITION
C O N T E N TS COLORADO TRAVEL RESOURCES Getting Here is Easy, Getting Around is Easier
4 Colorado’s Scenic Railways 6 Colorado’s Scenic & Historic Byways 8 14 Rocky Mountaineer Train Journey 16 Colorado Cares
Map, welcome centers, Amtrak routes, airports
Stations of Colorado’s historic railroads
Schedule an adventure on one of these 7 routes
The new “Rockies to Red Rocks” excursion
Leave No Trace
SAMPLE ITINERARY
& Culture, Memorable Vistas, 18 History Outdoor Adventures & More TOUR COLORADO MEMBERS
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Member Listings A directory of Colorado attractions, destinations,
hotels and service providers
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Member Spotlights
ON THE COVER Million Dollar Highway (Photo courtesy of Visit Durango)
Profiles of Tour Colorado members Royal Gorge Bridge & Park and Southwest Adventure Tours
2022 EDITION
SCENIC & HISTORIC BYWAYS
7 ROUTES FOR AN AUTHENTIC COLORADO ADVENTURE
ROCKY MOUNTAINEER
COLORADO’S NEWEST RAIL EXCURSION
GROUP ITINERARY
COLORADO CARES PRESERVING THE ROCKIES’ NATURAL BEAUTY
EXPLORE DESERT DUNES AND MAJESTIC MOUNTAINS
WWW.TOURCOLORADO.ORG
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COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
2022 EDITION
Editorial & Advertising Office Premier Travel Media 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 advertising@ptmgroups.com
Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk jeff@ptmgroups.com
Associate Publisher – Dave Bodle
dave@ptmgroups.com
Managing Editor – Jason Paha
jason@ptmgroups.com
Associate Editor – Miles Dobis
miles@ptmgroups.com
Director, Design & Production – Lisa Hede lisa@ptmgroups.com
Unforgettable Rocky Mountain Adventures Await in Colorado! We are proud to present the 2022 edition of our Colorado Group Tour Planner. This edition will take you on a tour full of history, culture and outdoor adventure. You will learn about an exciting new train service, Colorado scenic byways, the “Care for Colorado” program and more! There
Vice President, Sales – Theresa O’Rourke theresa@ptmgroups.com
is always something exciting around the next corner. We look forward to sharing our beautiful state with you
Published in Partnership with Tour Colorado info@tourcolorado.org www.tourcolorado.org
and helping you plan your next tour. We would like to thank all our members for their continued support.
Tour Colorado Executive Director – Julianne Fredrick
Please take a moment to look at their listings and reach out to them for information and assistance in
The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as advertising, but assumes no responsibility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but the publisher makes no warranty that listings are free of error. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited photos, slides or manuscripts.
your itinerary planning. Within those
2022 Colorado Group Tour Planner is
Julianne Fredrick, Executive Director, Tour Colorado
published by Premier Travel Media, 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406, Willowbrook, IL 60527. The magazine is distributed free of charge to qualified tour operators, travel agents, group leaders, bank travel clubs and other travel organizations.
Send Address Change to: Premier Travel Media 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 A
listings you will find attractions, hotels, destinations and service providers. All our members are eager to help you plan that perfect tour! I, the Tour Colorado Board of Directors and our members are excited to welcome you, your clients and groups to Colorado!
Tour Colorado is a Proud Partner with the Colorado Tourism Office and Proud Member of NTA, ABA and TAP
P.O. Box 4017, Durango, CO 81301 888-401-4330 www.tourcolorado.org
publication
All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher.
COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
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GETTING HERE IS EASY.
GETTING AROUND IS
EASIER
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COLORADO WELCOME CENTERS
T
en Official Colorado Welcome Centers are located throughout the state and easily accessible from every major highway entering the state. Services provided by dedicated volunteer Colorado experts are free. More information is available at colorado.com/ official-colorado-welcome-centers.
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CANYONS & PLAINS
1. Colorado Welcome Center at Lamar 109 E. Beech St. Lamar, CO 81052 719-336-3483 leslie.stagner@colorado.com 2. C olorado Welcome Center at Trinidad 309 Nevada Ave. Trinidad, CO 81082 719-846-9512 marty.hackett@colorado.com
DENVER & CITIES OF THE ROCKIES
3. C olorado Welcome Center at Fort Collins 3745 E. Prospect Rd., Suite 105 Fort Collins, CO 80525 970-491-4775 cheryl.glanz@colorado.com
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MOUNTAINS & MESAS
4. Colorado Welcome Center at Cortez 928 E. Main St. Cortez, CO 81321 970-565-4048 scrow@cityofcortez.com 5. C olorado Welcome Center at Fruita 340 Hwy. 340 Fruita, CO 81521 970-858-9335 fruita@colorado.com
MYSTIC SAN LUIS VALLEY
6. C olorado Welcome Center at Alamosa 610 State Ave. Alamosa, CO 81101 800-258-7597 or 719-589-4840 savannah.schlaufman@colorado.com
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COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
PIONEERING PLAINS
ROCKIES PLAYGROUND
7. Colorado Welcome Center at Burlington 48265 I-70 Burlington, CO 80807 719-346-5554 burlington@colorado.com
9. Colorado Welcome Center at Silverthorne 246-V Rainbow Dr. Silverthorne, CO 80498 970-468-0353
8. Colorado Welcome Center at Julesburg 20934 County Road 28 Julesburg, CO 80737 970-474-2054 sue.carter@colorado.com
10. C olorado Welcome Center at Dinosaur 101 E. Stegosaurus St. Dinosaur, CO 81610 970-374-2205 cheryl.mcdonald@colorado.com
THE GREAT WEST
AMTRAK SERVICES COLORADO
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Two Amtrak passenger train routes travel though Colorado. The California Zephyr connects San Francisco and Chicago with regular stops in the newly renovated Denver Union Station, Grand Junction, Glenwood Springs, Winter Park and Fort Morgan. The Southwest Chief connects Los Angeles and Chicago with stops in Trinidad, La Junta and Lamar, Colorado. (amtrak.com/west-train-routes) Introduced in 2017, the Winter Park Express seasonal route links Denver Union Station and Winter Park Resort and is ideal for groups seeking a day of winter sports or mountain air. Developed for ride-in/ride-out skiing, the Express operates Saturdays, Sundays and select Fridays through March.
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TAKE FLIGHT TO COLORADO 7
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Denver International Airport is serviced by 23 airlines that provide direct non-stop service from 188 destinations, including 25 international destinations. Denver has the the third-busiest airport in the United States, eighth-busiest in the world and— with more than 69 million passengers—is one of the busiest airline hubs in the world. Travelers looking to explore the I-70 corridor should consider Aspen/ Pitkin County Airport for unbeatable access to the area’s ski resorts and national forests. American, Delta and United travelers can also fly into Eagle County Regional Airport if they wish to experience the mountains. Steamboat Springs, another premier outdoor destination, can be accessed from the Yampa Valley Regional Airport in Hayden, which features non-stop flights from 14 destinations. Colorado Springs Airport welcomes Southwestern, American, Delta, Frontier and United flights daily, ideal for visitors to the Pikes Peak Wonders Region. Grand Junction Regional Airport receives flights from Denver, Chicago, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Dallas, Los Angeles and Salt Lake City for visitors seeking Colorado’s wine country. Durango-La Plata County Airport welcomes American and United travelers. Smaller regional airports also include Montrose Regional Airport and Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport. Cortez Municipal Airport offers commercial flights from Boutique Air to Denver and Phoenix.
Colorado Travel Fun Facts • Colorado features North America’s highest paved road. The Mount Evans Scenic Byway passes through five distinct climate zones before reaching a final height of
14,130 feet.
• The Eisenhower-Edwin C. Johnson Memorial Tunnel is an engineering marvel and the highest auto tunnel in the world, bored under the Continental Divide at an elevation of
11,158 feet.
• The highest suspension bridge in the world is over the Royal Gorge near Cañon City. The Royal Gorge Bridge spans the Arkansas River in Fremont County at a height of
1,053 feet.
• Denver International Airport is the largest in North America by volume and welcomes over 64 million passengers annually. The everexpanding airport covers
33,531 acres. COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
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Colorado’s Scenic Railways • Broadmoor Pikes Peak Cog Railway 515 Ruxton Ave., Manitou Springs, CO 80829 cograilway.com • Colorado Model Railroad Museum 680 10th St., Greeley, CO 80631 cmrm.org • Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad 520 E. Carr Ave., Cripple Creek, CO 80813 cripplecreekrailroad.com
(Georgetown)
•C umbres & Toltec Railroad 5234 B Hwy 285, Antonito, CO 81120 cumbrestoltec.com •D urango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad 479 Main Ave., Durango, CO 81301 durangotrain.com
Leadville & Southern Scenic Railroad (Leadville)
•G eorgetown Loop Railroad 646 Loop Dr., Georgetown, CO 80444 georgetownlooprr.com
Rocky Mountaineer (Denver)
(Greeley)
Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad (Cripple Creek)
Broadmoor Pikes Peak Cog Railway (Colorado Springs)
•L eadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad 326 E. 7th St., Leadville, CO 80461 leadville-train.com •R io Grande Scenic Railroad 610 State Ave., Alamosa, CO 81101 coloradotrain.com
(Durango) (Conejos)
•R ocky Mountaineer 1100-980 Howe St., Vancouver, BC, V6Z 0C8 rockymountaineer.com
Rio Grande Scenic Railroad (Conejos)
(Cañon City)
•R oyal Gorge Route Railroad 330 Royal Gorge Blvd., Cañon City, CO 81212 royalgorgeroute.com
Big news in 2021 and beyond Greeley Stampede Historic 100th Anniversary Scheduled for 2022
New Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center Now Open for Visitors
Rocky Mountaineer Launches New Colorado Route in 2021
The Greeley Stampede’s rich tradition began in the 1800s. The annual event, held for 12 days and tied to the July 4th holiday, sees an average of 250,000 visitors. Throughout the year, Greeley Stampede offers numerous community events from concerts to a golf tournament to a rousing kickoff. greeleystampede.org
The new, sustainably built Summit Visitor Center has replaced the old facility atop Pikes Peak: America’s Mountain. The new building (accessible via the updated Pikes Peak Cog Railway) features new food and drink options, a gift shop and the worldfamous summit donuts that can now be customized with various toppings. coloradosprings.gov
Rocky Mountaineer will bring its luxury train journeys to Colorado with the Rockies to Red Rocks Route. The journey will make stops in Denver, Glenwood Springs and Moab, Utah and will include fine dining and stunning scenery. The new route will offer attractive group rates and customizable experiences. rockymountaineer.com
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COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
COLORADO’S
SCENIC & HISTORIC BYWAYS SCHEDULE AN ADVENTURE ON ONE OF THESE 7 ROUTES
Estes Park Aerial Tramway Visit Estes Park
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COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
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isitors to Colorado will be greeted by a collection of landscapes that rival anywhere else in the nation for diversity and beauty. Groups can experience the majestic Front Range Mountains, high desert plateaus of Grand Valley and the rolling plains in the state’s eastern half along Colorado’s Scenic & Historic Byways. These 26 routes cover every corner of the state and are excellent ways to structure your Colorado group itinerary. Below are seven routes that showcase Colorado’s urban playgrounds, beautiful national parks and rich history.
SAN JUAN SKYWAY Passing through the gorgeous San Juan Mountains, this loop in Colorado’s southwestern corner includes stops in beautifully preserved heritage sites, historic mining towns and soothing hot springs. Begin your adventure in Durango, which developed in the 1880s as a railroad hub and welcomes visitors with blocks of Victorian, Greek and Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. Walk through the Main Avenue Historic District to pass by the Strater Hotel (an opulent building that catered to railroad barons) and Rio Grande Railroad Depot before boarding the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Established in 1882 to transport Mesa Verde National Park gold and silver through the mountains, Visit the USA this route passes through cascading creeks and virgin pine forests on a steam-powered train. Groups will follow the course of the Animas River while relaxing in open-air coaches before disembarking in the historic city of Silverton. This former silver mining camp offers alpine views and the opportunity to explore sites like Old Hundred Mine (where you can follow a vein thousands of feet into the mountainside) and Mayflower Mill (where you can learn how prospectors extracted precious metals from ore). Located just south of the San Juan Skyway is Mesa Verde National Park, a collection of over 600 preserved cliff dwellings that housed the Ancestral Pueblo people in the 1200s. The park’s most spectacular site is the Cliff Palace, an immense structure that consists of 150 rooms and 23 kivas (spiritual spaces used for religious ceremonies). A variety of ranger-led tours can also guide groups through the Long House, Balcony House and Wetherill Mesa. Continue to the nearby city of Cortez to learn more about the area’s Native American history at the Crow Canyon Archaeological Center and browse the galleries of the Mancos Creative District. The canyon-clinging stretch of the byway between Silverton and your next stop, Ouray, is called the Million Dollar Highway either because it cost so much to build or the amount of gold ore that
remained in the roadway’s fill. Promoted as the Switzerland of America, this tiny alpine town boasts gorgeous snow-capped scenery and numerous outdoor pursuits. Plan a dip at the healing Ouray Hot Springs Pool, which began operating in 1927. Be sure to explore the town’s miningera buildings preserved within its own National Historic District. Conclude your visit in the city of Telluride. Shadowed by the San Juan Mountains and lined with Victorian architecture, this former gold mining town attracts skiers in the winter and movie stars during its acclaimed fall film festival. However, its secluded location has preserved its hidden gem status for groups seeking outdoor recreation during the summer. Low-impact hiking routes include the Cornet Creek Falls Trail, Bridal Veil Falls Trail (to see the tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado) and the San Miguel River Trail. Looking for hip art galleries and boutiques? Downtown Telluride and the Mountain Village base area are connected by a free gondola, and the monthly art walk encourages visitors to sip a glass of wine while admiring the work of local painters.
LARIAT LOOP Circling through the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, this route passes through spectacular rock formations and landmarks of Old West history, and it makes for a great day trip for groups using Denver as their hub-and-spoke. Begin in the city of Golden, which began as a Pikes Peak Gold Rush town in 1859 before becoming a thriving university community located in the shadow of Lookout Mountain. Learn about COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
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COLORADO’S SCENIC & HISTORIC BYWAYS the Front Range’s gold rush legacy at the Mines Museum of Earth Science, tour the Arts & Craftsstyle Boettcher Mansion and enjoy the bistros and bars that line historic Washington Avenue. Golden is most famous as the headquarters of Coors Brewing Company, and your group can register to tour the world’s largest single brewing facility in the world. Venture into the mountains to visit the Buffalo Bill Grave & Museum. The resting place of America’s famous cowboy and showman includes artifacts from the touring Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, a peace pipe that belonged to Lakota leader Sitting Bull and beautiful views of downtown Golden. Continue into the mountains and the town of Evergreen, whose hillsides are populated with bighorn sheep during the winter months as they descend to lower elevations for food. Embark on a 1.4-mile hike around Evergreen Lake before touring Hiwan Heritage Park (a former summer camp and home to one of the state’s first female doctors) and Dinosaur Ridge (where you can view preserved Stegosaurus bones and Iguanodon tracks in an outdoor museum). Conclude your loop at Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, an immense outdoor performance venue carved into the sandstone walls of the Fountain Formation. Take part in a morning yoga session, hike uphill for views of downtown Denver and tour the Colorado Music Hall of Fame.
Red Rocks Colorado Tourism
DINOSAUR DIAMOND
Grand Valley Wine Country Colorado Tourism
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Over 150 million years ago, the arid region along Colorado’s western edge was a lush jungle populated by massive ferns and towering dinosaurs. Begin in Dinosaur National Monument, a 210,000-acre landscape where you can drive through ancient waterbeds, hike through dramatic river canyons and view the massive fossil display at the Quarry Visitor Center (located on the Utah side of the park). The center houses an immense slab of exposed rock that contains over 1,500 bones of species such as the Stegosaurus and Allosaurus. Enjoy the local eateries and kitschy sculptures in the town of Dinosaur before heading south to the Canyon Pintado National Historic District. Occupied by the prehistoric Fremont Indians 11,000 years ago, this canyon is filled with mysterious petroglyphs often defined with depictions of Kokopelli: the hunched flute player. Travel through Douglas Pass to arrive in Grand Valley. Nourished by the convergence of the Gunnison and Colorado Rivers, this area is famous for its bountiful orchards and vineyards. Sample creations from nearly two dozen wineries after an invigorating hike through the colorful canyons of Colorado National Monument, and enjoy outdoor dining and the over 100 pieces of public art in downtown Grand Junction. The nearby city of Fruita offers desert sidetracks for mountain bike enthusiasts, an official Colorado Welcome Center and more rare fossils at the Dinosaur Journey Museum.
SANTA FE TRAIL
Bent’s Old Fort Colorado Tourism
Thousands of covered wagons traversed the Santa Fe Trail from Missouri to New Mexico during the route’s heyday in the 1800s. Begin at the Colorado Welcome Center in Lamar. Before you leave town, admire the art deco designs of the Lamar Theatre and expansive World War I poster collection at the Big Timbers Museum. Learn about sobering moments of American history in the nearby town of Amache and the Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site. U.S. volunteer soldiers attacked a village of Cheyenne and Arapaho Indians in 1864 and ultimately killed 230 people. These innocent victims are honored by a memorial that overlooks Big Sandy Creek, and a park ranger can lead groups on Monument Hill Trail to provide historical context. Pass through the city of Las Animas to John Martin Reservoir Park, the second-largest body of water in Colorado. Here your group can enjoy a picnic and spot rare species like the piping plover and interior least tern along the lakeshore. Continue to Bent’s Old Fort and Battle Site, a reconstruction of a oncethriving trading post that connected fur trappers, local Indian tribes and westward pioneers. Register for an interpretive tour to interact with costumed craftspeople and walk the ramparts of this adobe structure. Drive through Comanche National Grassland and spot beautiful songbirds before ending your route in Trinidad, a small city with a quaint Victorian downtown.
CACHE LA POUDRE-NORTH PARK Meaning “hide the powder” in French, the Cache la Poudre was bestowed its name by French trappers in the 1820s who were caught in a snowstorm and forced to bury their gunpowder along its banks. Today the river is the essential natural feature of Fort Collins, a thriving university town, craft beer hub and starting point of this scenic byway. Founded as a military outpost and later a thriving agricultural center, downtown Fort Collins retains much of its original Western facades and is home to hundreds of charming storefronts and group-friendly restaurants. Groups can register for a tour of New Belgium Brewing, learn about the city’s Prohibition history and walk the Poudre Trail along the river. Follow the Poudre upstream through the vast woodlands of Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests to Cameron Pass, where you can witness the river’s strongest rapids. Descend to North Park and the city of Gould, which has been dubbed Colorado’s Moose Capital. You can learn more about these extraordinary animals at the State Forest State Park’s Moose Visitor Center.
Cache la Poudre River Visit Fort Collins
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COLORADO’S SCENIC & HISTORIC BYWAYS TRAIL RIDGE ROAD
Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado Tourism
Bisected by the Continental Divide, Rocky Mountain National Park is a awe-inspiring landscape of craggy peaks, serene alpine lakes and dense spruce forests. Trail Ridge Road, used by Ute Indians for centuries before it was widened for vehicles in 1926, is the highest paved through-road in the United States and offers jaw-dropping views. Be sure to stop at the Alpine Visitor Center, the highest elevation building in the National Park System. Before you embark on the trail, spend time in the charming mountain community of Estes Park. Popular attractions include the Estes Park Aerial Tramway (an enclosed gondola that whisks guests to an elevation of 9,000 feet at Prospect Mountain), the Stanley Hotel (a haunted lodge that inspired the Overlook Hotel in Stephen King’s The Shining) and the Riverwalk (where the Thompson River and Fall River wind through the city). Next, admire the glacier-carved valleys and crystalline lakes of Rocky Mountain National Park along Trail Ridge Road. Groups can stop at the Holzwarth Historic Site (a preserved 1920s homestead), Lulu City (an abandoned mining town) and animal observation areas where your group can spot herds of elk, bighorn sheep and moose. Exit the park and conclude your route in the town of Grand Lake, a quaint village named for Colorado’s highest natural lake. Visitors can walk the historic boardwalk to enjoy an old-fashioned ice cream sundae, enjoy Broadway-caliber productions at the Rocky Mountain Repertory Theater and embark on a short hike around the lake itself.
PAWNEE PIONEER TRAILS Groups looking for an alternative to mountain routes should consider the High Plains of Colorado’s northeastern corner. Named for an offshoot of the Oregon Trail that followed the South Platte River and passed through the town of Sterling, the Overland Trail Museum commemorates westward expansion and the early pioneers of eastern Colorado. The museum campus includes a schoolhouse, church, general store and barn that all predate 1915, and local historians can demonstrate how 19th century smiths and farm machinery worked. The route then dips south to the town of Fort Morgan, a former military outpost where your group can learn about the Gold Rush prospectors who traveled along the Overland Trail at the Fort Morgan Museum and see elegant Victorian homes in the Sherman Street National Historic District. Continue west to experience the amazing biodiversity of the Pawnee National Grassland, where you can spot mountain plovers, skylarks and burrowing owls along several trails. This area may appear dry, but there are fields of delicate wildflowers in bloom every spring. The Pawnee Buttes, two fortress-like sandstone mesas that date back 40 million years, can be seen up-close from a 1.5-mile trail off the main road. Note that some of these vehicle trails are unpaved.
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Pawnee Buttes Colorado Tourism
SPLENDID SCENERY, ATTENTIVE SERVICE ON THE NEW ROCKY MOUNTAINEER
TRAIN JOURNEY
Rocky Mountaineer
“ROCKIES TO THE RED ROCKS” IS A TWO-DAY TRIP FROM DENVER, TO MOAB, UTAH, OVERNIGHTING IN GLENWOOD SPRINGS.
Impeccable SilverLeaf Service with an engaging host.
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WESTBOUND ay 1 - Depart 9:00 a.m. from Denver, D Arrive 5:00 p.m. in Glenwood Springs Day 2 - Depart Glenwood Springs 7:00 a.m., Arrive Moab 12:00 p.m.
EASTBOUND ay 1 - Depart Moab 2:00 p.m., Arrive D Glenwood Springs 7:00 p.m. Day 2 - Depart Glenwood Springs 9:00 a.m., Arrive Denver, 5:00 p.m. From Denver to Glenwood Springs, the route parallels the Colorado River through a series of canyons with steep, rugged rock walls. In Glenwood Springs you’ll discover an exceptional dining scene with a local flavor and plenty of fun things to do. Between Glenwood Springs and Moab,
Rocky Mountaineer
T
he Rocky Mountaineer’s new “Rockies to the Red Rocks” route is a multi-day, daytime train journey that features incredible scenery, regional cuisine and the outstanding service that have long been the staple of the company’s three rail routes in Western Canada. “Rocky Mountaineer will bring a new, luxury train tour to explore the historic rail route between Denver and Moab. Over the past 30 years, Rocky Mountaineer has become renowned for our world-class train travel experiences, and now we are opening our newest train experience in the region where train travel history began,” said Peter Armstrong, founder of Rocky Mountaineer. “This region—with its magnificent scenery, national parks, vast opportunities to explore—will be a delight.” The new service will launch its preview season with 40 departures across 10 weeks from August 15 to October 23, 2021. The Rocky Mountaineer experience will showcase the epic scenery of the southwestern United States. “Rockies to the Red Rocks” will have all the company’s Western Canada trademarks and more. The 2022 season will run from April to November. The approximate schedule for the “Rockies to the Red Rocks” route follows:
the journey offers a variety of scenery from mountain vistas to desert cliffs to rock formations. This is not your daily commuter train zipping along from station to station. Traveling only during daytime, the Mountaineer travels just around 30 milesper-hour giving guests every opportunity to marvel at the scenery. The pace and oversized custom windows give the photographer great opportunities. In addition to the majestic scenery on the “Rockies to the Red Rocks” journey, impeccable SilverLeaf service enhances the experience. Oversized glass-dome windows are perfect for taking in the spectacular views. The multi-course breakfast and lunch menus feature premium cuisine, and both meals are served at your seat. The meals feature the flavors and ingredients from this area of the Southwest. Gourmet sweets and savory snacks are included. Two hosts and a culinary team member will attend you. Engaging hosts are storytellers ready to share the history, flora, fauna and wildlife along the way. There is complimentary baggage delivery to your overnight hotel accommodation in Glenwood Springs. “Rockies to the Red Rocks Classic” package (Denver, Glenwood Springs; Moab) is a 4-day/3-night trip with 2 days Rocky Mountaineer SilverLeaf Service. The trip includes two breakfasts and a lunch. From Moab, one breakfast, one lunch
and one dinner are part of the package. Three nights’ accommodations in Denver, Glenwood Springs and Moab are included as are luggage handling and rail station transfers. A variety of additional packages are available, beginning with the basic “2day Rail, Moab-Denver,” which features SilverLeaf Service, breakfast, lunch and dinner both days, hotel accommodations in Glenwood Springs and luggage handling and rail station transfers in Moab. This package also can depart from Denver with changes to the dining portion of the package. Return trips can also be packaged. Extend your Colorado experience and visit Denver to explore the city’s thriving cultural scene, magnificent attractions and must-try restaurants. There are plenty of options to fill your days and nights. Get started at denver.org Add a day or two in Glenwood Springs, and regardless of your group’s interest you’ll find plenty of options to experience, including the relaxing mineral hot springs and a vibrant downtown. Look for more details at visitglenwood.com. Group travel is important to Rocky Mountaineer and their commitment to their newest journey, “Rockies to Red Rocks,” is certainly no exception. You can reach out to your travel professional, or look to Tour Colorado for details on building full itinerary at 1-888-4014330, tourcolorado@gmail.com and tourcolorado.org.
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LEAVE NO TRACE T
THIS MESSAGE FOR COLORADO TRAVELERS WAS DEVELOPED IN A PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN THE COLORADO TOURISM OFFICE AND LEAVE NO TRACE CENTER FOR OUTDOOR ETHICS. he Care for Colorado principles empower travelers to protect the very qualities that attracted them to visit Colorado in the first place.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Colorado and federal agencies manage 42% of Colorado’s majestic landscape. Cities and counties maintain even more. Learn about and respect the spaces we all share. Stay back from the pack. Find your way to less-visited and off-peak destinations to minimize downtime and maximize your connection with special places. There are plenty of options available for groups. Bring along reusable water bottles or hot drink tumblers to limit waste and stay hydrated in Colorado’s dry climate. Check the conditions where your group is planning to visit. In Colorado, even late spring can bring snowstorms, so be aware of the latest news for weather and snow as well as for road and trail closures. Ski groups, before you head out on
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your spring-skiing adventures, take the Colorado Backcountry Winter Safety Awareness Pledge (colorado.com/ BackcountryPledge) and commit to protecting yourself and others while exploring.
STICK TO TRAILS
With 39,000 marked trails and 13,000 designated campsites, there’s no need to venture beyond. By sticking to these areas and camping at least 200 feet from lakes, rivers and streams, you’re helping natural areas stay natural. Even though shortcuts can be tempting, please don’t take them. A few extra strides on the path will protect plants and the homes of the true locals. Melting snow leaves trails and vegetation more open to damage. Be sure to stick to trails and walk in the middle of the trail — even if it’s wet, muddy, slushy or icy — to avoid erosion and damage to trailside plants. Make sure to wear sturdy footwear — like insulated, waterproof hiking boots — so you can always stick to the trail, particularly in spring and early
Courtesy of U.S. Forest Service
CARE FOR COLORADO
summer when trails are more likely to be wet and muddy from melting snow.
LEAVE IT AS YOU FIND IT Leave plants, rocks and historical items as you find them so others experience the joy of discovery. Any of Colorado’s 750 different species of wildflowers will live forever in a photo. Snap away, but only with a camera. Treat all living things with respect. Carving or hacking plants and trees may kill or disfigure them. Colorado is beautiful all on its own. Building structures or campsites on public land isn’t cool. Keep it pristine for everyone to enjoy. Dismantle any snow structures you build before you leave. When taking a skiing or snowshoeing hut trip, leave your hut better than you found it. Be considerate of other users and follow the instructions. Don’t leave food or trash behind, as it may attract mice or other unwanted creatures.
TRASH THE TRASH Pack it in, pack it out. Or pick it up to leave a place better than you found it.
Browns Canyon National Monument in the upper Arkansas River Valley
Put litter, even crumbs, peels and cores in your nearest waste/recycling bin. Wash yourself, your dog or whatever else needs cleaning at least 200 feet from waterways, and use biodegradable soap. A bubble bath is no treat for fish. If you have to poo, walk at least 70 steps from trails, water and people. Dig a cat hole six inches deep, do your thing in the hole, cover it and pack out your TP. Or, use a wag bag (a disposable bag found in most outdoor stores) so you can pack out your waste.
BE CAREFUL WITH FIRE Colorado’s low humidity has perks, but it can create dry, dangerous conditions. Keep campfires small and manageable to avoid sparking wildfires. When putting out a fire, water it until you can handle the embers. Never let a fire burn unattended. Use care when smoking in Colorado’s dry climate. Always put cigarettes out completely and don’t leave your butts behind. Always check for local fire restrictions. Regardless of the season, avoid making
fires in areas where there is little or no dead and down wood, where fires may scar the landscape, or in parking lots and at trailheads.
KEEP WILDLIFE WILD Spring can be a particularly sensitive time for wildlife since many species are nesting, having their young or coming out of hibernation. Be sure to travel quietly and give all wildlife extra space during this time. Colorado is home to tens of thousands of furry, scaly and feathered creatures. To keep them — and you — safe, don’t approach them. Do not feed wildlife no matter how hungry you think they might look. Keep your furry buddies leashed when enjoying dog-friendly trails, and pack out their waste all the way to a trashcan. All wildlife, from squirrels to moose, has to work a lot harder to survive in winter. Observe all wildlife from a distance, and do not follow or pursue them. Fleeing forces them to burn energy they need to survive the colder months.
SHARE COLORADO’S TRAILS & PARKS Chances are you’re not out in nature to people-watch, so try out the lesserknown paths and sites. Silence your cell phone before stepping into nature and speak softly without using the speaker function. Be considerate when passing others on the trails and yield to the uphill hiker and biker — they need the momentum. Listen to nature. Keep your voice and music soft so all can enjoy the peace of Colorado. Keep noise to a minimum when near others on the trail and let nature’s sounds prevail. This information is provided by Colorado Tourism Office and Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics and can be found online at colorado. com/articles/leave-no-trace-carecolorado. Brochures that are great for groups prior to their departure for Colorado, or serve as an on-coach narrative, are also available at the link shown above. - Colorado Packing List, Act Like a Local and Are You ColoReady?
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ITINERARY
History & Culture, Memorable Vistas, Outdoor Adventure & More Trains, trams, gondolas, jeeps and kayaks are all great ways to enjoy the scenic wonders of the Centennial State’s most beautiful sites. Combine some early Colorado history and a little outdoor adventure regardless of your agility, and you have one perfect itinerary.
5 UNIQUE EXPERIENCES ■ Historic Arkansas Riverwalk ■ C umbres & Toltec Scenic ■ ■ ■
Railroad
Great Sand Dunes National Park Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
DURATION: 4 Days AVAILABLE: Spring/Summer/Fall THIS ITINERARY IS IDEAL FOR: Adults 18+ & Extended Families Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve
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Photo Courtesy of of National Park Service
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad/Alamosa CVB
Day 1 Arrive in Pueblo and visit the El Pueblo History Museum for a self-guided tour. Through innovative exhibits, including ”The Borderlands of Southern Colorado” and the award-winning ”Children of Ludlow,” the region’s cultural and ethnic groups are showcased. Enjoy lunch along Pueblo’s Historic Arkansas Riverwalk. Depart for a 90-minute drive south to Fort Garland. Arrive at the Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center. Explore life in a military fort built in 1858. Five original adobe buildings still exist and tell the history of the fort. From the Buffalo Soldiers of the 9th Cavalry to Colorado’s role in the Civil War in the West, you’ll discover a rich military history. Depart for a 30-minute drive to Alamosa. Located in the unique geography of the San Luis Valley, Alamosa restaurants feature locally grown food. Enjoy dinner before checking into your group-friendly accommodations. Day 2 Depart for Antonito onboard Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad. Deemed the ”Best Scenic Railroad” by USA Today in 2019, the railroad runs for 64 miles from Antonito, Colorado to Chama, New Mexico. The highlights are nothing short of dramatic. The ride includes the Cumbres Pass, the highest mountain pass reached by rail in the United States. Traveling through the Toltec Gorge, the train appears pressed in by the steep, rocky sides. The train stops for lunch at the scenic Osler train station before proceeding across the 137-foot-tall Cascade Creek Trestle. Traveling with you are friends of the railroad that act as docents who share and describe what you see along the journey. Return to Alamosa for dinner and a good night’s sleep. Day 3 Breakfast and checkout at your hotel before departing for the Great Sand Dunes Visitors Center. There you’ll see a short film on the history of the dunes along with exhibits showing the formation of the tallest sand dunes in North America. The diverse system of the park ranges from the 30 square miles of sand dunes to forests. The dunes and surrounding mountains are a great place to enjoy unspoiled natural beauty. After the visitors center, check out the dunes from the Dunes Parking Area and Medano Creek. Sand sledding down the dunes is popular. Several retail outlets provide sand-sled and sandboard rentals. A hike to Mosca Pass pays off with great views, while the adventurous hikers will take on the Star Dune—the tallest in North America. Lots of water is highly recommended. Head to Villa Grove and a stop at Villa Grove Trade. It’s a restaurant and perfect for lunch today, along with being a convenience store and grocery store. Depart Villa Grove and it’s a scenic 30-minute drive to Salida.
Enjoy a scenic train journey.
Board your gondola for the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway. The tramway and gift shop are located on the top of Monarch Pass. At 11,312 feet you’ll be on the Continental Divide at the southern end of the Sawatch Mountain Range. As you ascend to more than 12,000 feet in elevation, you’ll see marvelous panoramic views. The gift shop opened in 1954 as a Greyhound bus stop and now attracts visitors from all around the world. It’s back to Salida in the heart of the Rockies. Check into your accommodations and enjoy the culinary delights of Salida’s culinary scene. There are world-class chefs doing everything from sushi to locally harvested specialties. This evening, it’s a visit to the Salida Creative District, one of only two “Certified Creative Districts” in Colorado. The city’s growth as an art and culture center took many years, but the project has blossomed. Within the downtown Salida Creative District there are more than 230 locally owned businesses. Day 4 Enjoy an early breakfast and check out from your hotel. You enjoyed the Arkansas River from El Pueblo’s Historic Riverwalk, and now we’re headed to Bill Dvorak Rafting, Kayak & Fishing Expeditions and a half-day rafting on the Arkansas River. Colorado’s first licensed outfitter specializes in watersport rentals. For the less experienced, join a guided trip down the river on Class II to V levels. If your water interest is more in-line with fishing, try the half-day “Beginner Fly Fishing Clinic” or a “Float Fishing Trip on the Arkansas River.” Regardless of your agility level, there’s a fun experience waiting for you. Depart for Canon City; it’s about a 90-minute drive. Upon arrival, check into one of the area’s lodging options. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely evening stroll. Breakfast at your hotel then depart for Colorado Jeep Tours. A scenic half-day adventure is in store. It’s a fun way to learn more about Colorado’s regional history and geology. The ride is in a customized, open-air jeep. After lunch, it’s the panoramic views from Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. One of the world’s highest suspension bridges is a Colorado landmark. Depending on your level of adventure, you can crisscross Royal Gorge in an Aerial Gondola 1,200 feet in the air. It’s a great view of the gorge, Arkansas River, bridge and park. For the adventuresome try the Cloudscraper Zip Line, the Royal Rush Skycoaster or join your guide for a ferrata. Enjoy a lovely meal to go along with your Colorado memories. Return to your hotel for a good night’s sleep before breakfast, checkout and departure the next morning.
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ME M BE R L I S T IN G S Tour Colorado members are ready to serve you! Working to draw domestic tour groups and packaged travel to the Centennial State, these attractions, destinations, hotels and service providers are ready to accommodate visitors and make their Colorado experience unforgettable.
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ATTRACTIONS
Bar D Chuckwagon
8080 County Rd., Durango, CO 81301 Krystal Scarborough www.bardchuckwagon.com groups@bardchuckwagon.com • 970-335-9805 The Bar D Wranglers perform songs of cowboys and the Old West, comedy and lively instrumentals after supper to entertain the whole family.
Colorado Model Railroad Museum
680 10th St., Greeley, CO 80631 Michelle Kempema www.cmrm.org michelle@cmrm.org • 970-392-2934 The Colorado Model Railroad Museum houses America’s most scenic model railroad; an immersive experience for all ages. Private tours for groups available.
Cumbres & Toltec Railroad
500 Terrace Ave., PO Box 1057, Chama, NM 87520 www.cumbrestoltec.com groups@cumbrestoltec.com • 877-890-2737 The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad steam trains depart out of Antonito, Colorado and Chama, New Mexico daily at 10 a.m. from Memorial Day weekend until mid-October.
Colorado Tourism
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
479 Main Ave., Durango, CO 81301 Carrie Whitley www.durangotrain.com cwhitley@americanheritagerailways.com • 970-247-2733 Ranked in the top 10 scenic railroads in the world. The 3.5-hour journey from Durango to Silverton climbs 3,000 feet through Colorado’s majestic Rocky Mountains. Part of the journey travels along jaw-dropping cliff ledges. Step back in time riding on 1880-era cars pulled by a 1920s steampowered locomotive. May through October, four different seating classes, open-air as well as enclosed cars. Visit the free Roundhouse Museum or book a Railyard Tour for a behind-the-scenes experience.
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ATTRACTIONS
Georgetown Loop Railroad
Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park
PO Box 249, Georgetown, CO 80444 Tom Hill www.georgetownlooprr.com tom.hill@historicrailadventures.com • 888-456-6777 The Loop is a narrow gauge line that offers spectacular views of the mountains April through January. Mine tours with gold panning are available to add to your ride.
51000 Two Rivers Plaza Rd., Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 Christine Goodale www.glenwoodcaverns.com cgoodale@glenwoodcaverns.com • 970-945-4228, ext. 118 Located atop Iron Mountain overlooking Glenwood Springs, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park offers a unique venue for groups. Your guests travel to the park in fully enclosed gondola cars that offer panoramic mountain views. At the top, choices include thrill rides, cave tours and family-friendly activities.
History Colorado
1200 N. Broadway, Denver, CO 80203 Zach Werkowitch www.historycolorado.org zach.werkowitch@state.co.us • 719-583-0453 At History Colorado, we believe in making our history accessible and creating opportunities that connect people to Colorado. Our eight museums around the state offer engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
4218 County Rd. 3A, Cañon City, CO 81212 Dona Webb (Basham) www.royalgorgebridge.com dwebb@royalgorgebridge.com • 719-276-8310 This quarter-mile journey through the clouds is undoubtedly the high point of any Colorado vacation. Come across the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park.
Colorado Tourism
Royal Gorge Route Railroad
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330 Royal Gorge Blvd., Cañon City, CO 81212 Mary Lynn Hegdahl royalgorgeroute.com marylynnh@royalgorgeroute.com • 719-276-4000 Experience America’s most spectacular rolling restaurant aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad. Come experience not just a memorable train ride through the Colorado Rockies, but enjoy classes of service where we combine gorgeous scenery and great service with delicious food that is sourced locally and prepared fresh right on board the train for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
DESTINATIONS
Alamosa CVB
610 State Ave., Alamosa CO 81101 Kale Mortensen www.alamosa.org director@alamosa.org • 717-589-9385 Let us guide you along trails less traveled in the San Luis Valley, show you where to get the best bowl of green chile and even share our sacred fishing spots on the magnificent Rio Grande. Play on the beach at Great Sand Dunes National Park, walk through our historic downtown or relax aboard the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad.
Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce, Visitors Bureau & Office of Economic Development
354 Manitou Ave., Manitou Springs, CO 80829 Leslie Lewis www.manitousprings.org leslielewis@manitouchamber.com • 719-685-5089 Enjoy historic charm, mineral drinking springs, boutique shopping, art galleries, dining and lodging. Centrally located to all Pikes Peak Region attractions. Step-on guides and bus parking available by request.
Boulder Convention and Visitors Bureau
Mesa Verde Country
Royal Gorge Region
Visit Colorado Springs
Explore Sterling
VISIT DENVER
2440 Pearl St., Boulder, CO 80302 Angela “Fig” Wirkler, CMP www.bouldercoloradousa.com fig.wirkler@bouldercvb.com • 303-442-2911 Boulder offers a variety of experiences for every type of travel. Catch a glimpse of some of Boulder’s wildlife while strolling through our 300 miles of trails and 45,000 acres of open space, people-watch at an outdoor café or restaurant on Pearl Street or check out a top attraction like Celestial Seasonings Tea Factory.
424 Main St., Cañon City, CO 81212 Royal Gorge Region – Cañon City Chamber of Commerce www.royalgorgeregion.com contact@royalgorgeregion.com • 1-800-704-6743 Let us help you plan a one- or two-day itinerary with lodging in the Royal Gorge Region that you will want to market for years to come.
102 N. Riverview Rd., Sterling, CO 80751 Marilee Johnson www.exploresterling.com johnsonm@logancountyco.gov • 970-522-0888, ext. 253 Experience our rich past and innovative attractions in the heart of northeast Colorado. Explore our sculptures, museums, rodeos, eateries, state park, concerts, festivals and brewery.
PO Box HH, Cortez, CO 81321 Kelly Kirkpatrick www.mesaverdecountry.com kellyk@mesaverdecountry.com • 970-565-8227 In the communities of Cortez, Dolores and Mancos you’ll discover thousands of years of history and endless outdoor adventures. Beyond the National Park, there’s more to explore in Mesa Verde Country.
515 S. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903 Group Sales www.visitcos.com groups@visitcos.com • 719-635-7506 Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods Park, outdoor adventure, historic railroads, museums and iconic attractions provide authentic experiences for all ages in Olympic City, USA.
1555 California St., Suite 300, Denver, CO 80202 Lisa Bruening www.VISITDENVER.com lbruening@visitdenver.com • 303-571-9445 The Mile High City, where 300 days of sunshine, a diverse arts and culture scene, walkable downtown, chef-driven dining, urban adventure and natural beauty make a great option for groups.
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DESTINATIONS
Visit Durango
Visit Fort Collins
Visit Estes Park
Visit Glenwood Springs
802 Main Ave., Durango, CO 81301 Percy Stevens www.durango.org percy@durango.org • 970-247-3500 From outdoor pursuits in the surrounding high desert and mountains, to fresh food raised at high-elevation farms, Native American history and Old West heritage, Durango is Southwest Colorado’s premier four-season destination.
P.O. Box 4426, Estes Park, CO 80517 Rebecca Pena www.visitestespark.com rpena@visitestespark.com • 970-586-0500, ext. 1231 Situated about 90 miles northwest of Denver, Estes Park sits in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. Experience gold medal fishing rivers, iconic peaks, fertile valleys dotted with wildlife plus Rocky Mountain National Park, which is home to 300 miles of hiking trails and mountain wilds.
1 Old Town Square, Suite 107, Fort Collins, CO 80524 Katy Schneider www.visitftcollins.com katy@ftcollins.com • 800-274-3678 Fort Collins’ ideal proximity to Rocky Mountain National Park, Denver and Denver International Airport make it a perfect location to bring your tour group. Fort Collins is known for its craft beer scene and all-American downtown.
802 Grand Ave., Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 Lisa Langer www.visitglenwood.com lisa@visitglenwood.com • 970-945-6580 Glenwood Springs, where world-famous hot springs meet year-round outdoor adventures and a vibrant dining and entertainment scene. Plan a trip to the Land of Water!
Visit Grand Junction
740 Horizon Dr., Grand Junction, CO 81506 Elizabeth Fogarty www.visitgrandjunction.com elizabethf@gjcity.org • 970-244-1480 Known for Colorado National Monument and the Grand Mesa, Grand Junction is an authentic Colorado experience complemented by friendly, hospitable locals. The Downtown Creative District boasts over 100 pieces of art, the region includes 27 wineries and rich regional cuisine, and the valley offers unique boutique shopping and year-round outdoor recreation.
Visit Greeley
902 7th Ave., Greeley, CO 80631 Amy Dugan www.visitgreeley.org amy@greeleychamber.com • 970-352-3567 Let’s plan your adventure to Greeley together! We know and love our city and look forward to you spending time with us. Visit Greeley will help with ideas for pre- and post-events, entertainment and day-trips for spouses.
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COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
DESTINATIONS
HOTELS
Visit Longmont
Chipeta Solar Springs Resort & Spa
Visit Moffat County
Clarion Inn Grand Junction
Visit Pagosa Springs
DoubleTree by Hilton Greeley at Lincoln Park
Visit Pueblo
Durango Hampton Inn
512 4th Ave., #103, Longmont, CO 80501 Gera Sivak-Salva www.visitlongmont.org gera@visitlongmont.org • 303-776-9011 Just 36 miles from Denver, Longmont features an arts and entertainment district infused with unique shops, world-class dining and beer. Crazy good brews, crazy good views and crazy good energy.
PO Box 12, Craig, CO 81626 Tom Kleinschnitz www.visitmoffatcounty.com tomk@moffatcounty.net • 970-824-2335 Moffat County is a little bit off the beaten path and that’s exactly why curious explorers and nature-loving stargazers vacation here. Nearly two million acres of pristine public lands and free-flowing rivers distinguish this unspoiled landscape where hundreds of species of wildlife find sanctuary.
105 Hot Springs Blvd., Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 Jennifer Green www.visitpagosasprings.com sales@visitpagosasprings.com • 970-903-9728 Pagosa Springs offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy the world’s deepest hot springs and explore stunning scenery in over 2.5 million acres of surrounding wilderness.
302 N. Santa Fe Ave., Pueblo, CO 81003 Linda Lutz www.visitpueblo.org lindal@pueblochamber.net • 719-542-1704 Colorado’s most historic and culturally diverse city boasts year-round outdoor activities, celebrated and varied dining options, one of only 12 state-designated creative arts districts and exceptional business opportunities.
304 S. Lena St., Ridgway, CO 81432 Patsy Young www.chipeta.com patsy@chipeta.com • 970-626-3737 Located in the heart of the Southern Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, Chipeta Solar Springs Resort & Spa provides the perfect Rocky Mountain getaway destination that is central to countless seasonal outdoor activities, music festivals, skiing, relaxing romantic getaways and more.
755 Horizon Dr., Grand Junction, CO 81506 Tracy Shelton www.clarioninngrandjunction.com tshelton@clariongj.com • 970-243-6790 Clarion Inn amenities include indoor and outdoor pools and spas, complimentary hot breakfast buffet, an on-site restaurant, fitness center, free Wi-Fi and so much more.
919 7th St., Greeley, CO 80634 Melissa Lawley www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dengcdt-doubletree-greeley-atlincoln-park mlawley@greeleydoubletree.com • 970-350-5407 Our hotel is one block from the Union Colony Civic Center in downtown Greeley. Local attractions like the Moxi Theater and Doug’s Diner are within walking distance, and we’re two miles from the University of Northern Colorado. Relax in our indoor pool and outdoor hot tub. Every stay starts with a warm chocolate chip cookie.
3777 Main Ave., Durango, CO 81301 Chris Vivolo www.durangoco.hamptoninn.com vivolo@frontier.net • 970-247-2600 Working closely with groups of all shapes and sizes, we can help customize your itinerary and offer exceptional service and group pricing. Making You Happy Makes Us Happy!
COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
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HOTELS
Fairfield Inn & Springhill Suites Denver International Airport
Radisson Hotel Colorado Springs Airport
Far View Lodge-Mesa Verde
Sky Ute Casino Resort
Grand Vista Hotel
Strater Hotel
6851 Tower Rd., Denver, CO 80249 Kimberly Johnson www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/denda-springhill-suites-denverairport kimberly.johnson@crestlinehotels.com • 303-371-9400 Designed with your needs in mind, Fairfield by Marriott Denver Airport provides easy access to the nearby international travel hub and local attractions such as Aurora Sports Park and Coors Field. You’ll find comfort in our hotel’s modern amenities, including free on-site parking, business center and Wi-Fi.
National Park P.O. Box 277, Mancos, CO 81328 Robin Marquis www.visitmesaverde.com/lodging-camping/far-view-lodge marquis-robin@aramark.com • 928-645-1119 Far View Lodge is the only lodging inside of Mesa Verde National Park and is located 15 miles from the park entrance. The traditional Western decor of the lobby and dining room, fantastic views, warm hospitality and superb dining welcome you for an unforgettable vacation. The lodge comprises of 150 rooms in 2 room types, Kiva and Kiva Deluxe View.
2790 Crossroads Blvd., Grand Junction, CO 81505 Phyllis Veale www.grandvistahotel.com phyllis@grandvistahotel.com • 970-254-7142 Surrounded by western Colorado’s beauty, the Grand Vista Hotel is located near I-70, offering a full-service hotel with 158 rooms and mini-suites. Dine in Oliver’s Restaurant and enjoy live entertainment, karaoke and nightly specials in Bailey’s Lounge.
1645 Newport Rd., Colorado Springs, CO 80916 Michele DeVoll www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/en-us/hotels/radissoncolorado-springs-airport michele.devoll@radissonamericas.com • 719-597-7000 Less than 10 miles east of downtown, Radisson Hotel Colorado Adventure awaits you at our Colorado Springs hotel. Located less than 10 miles east of downtown, 20 minutes to area attractions and four miles to the Colorado Springs Airport. Enjoy beautiful views of the Front Range from our dining room and lounge. Relax in our large indoor heated swimming pool, outdoor hot tub and gym.
14324 Hwy 172 North, Ignacio, CO 81137 Jeff Lyman www.skyutecasino.com jeff.lyman@skyutecasino.com • 970-563-1757 Located amidst the rugged beauty and scenic landscapes of the diverse Four Corners region, Sky Ute Casino Resort is the perfect hub from which to explore the endless recreational options that are available.
699 Main Ave., Durango, CO 81301 Tori Ossola www.strater.com tossola@strater.com • 970-375-7122 A historic hotel in the heart of downtown Durango with 93 unique rooms, the Strater Hotel is located near Mesa Verde National Park and two blocks from the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Our restaurants and bars — all connected to the Strater Hotel—offer an unforgettable and unique dining and social experience. Join us in the Mahogany Grille, the Office Spiritorium and the Diamond Belle Saloon.
Tour Colorado
Ute Mountain Casino Hotel
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COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
3 Weeminuche Drive, Towaoc, CO 81334 www.utemountaincasino.com 970-565-8800 Just 20 minutes from the entrance to Mesa Verde National Park, the Ute Mountain Casino Hotel offers Southwestern hospitality, friendly faces, great food and lots of gaming excitement. The hotel has 90 renovated rooms, including suites with an indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi and a state-of-the-art workout facility to enjoy.
S E R V I C E P R OV I D E R S
Adventures Out West
Lively Tours and Talks
FunME Events Excursions & Entertainment
Rocky Mountain Guides Association
GOGO Charters
Southwest Adventure Tours
1680 S. 21st St., Colorado Springs, CO 80904 advoutwest.com info@advoutwest.com • 719-578-0935 Well on its way to 50 years in the adventure-making business in Colorado Springs, Adventures Out West and its trusty crew of funloving guides specializes in bringing you the quintessential Rocky Mountain experience on wheels, on foot, on line and via basket. We charter hot air balloon excursions, ziplining adventures, Segway tours and more.
650 Peace Rd., Ste. F, DeKalb, IL 60115 Michael Th. Embrey www.funmeevents.com m.embrey@funmeevents.com • 815-756-1263 FunME Events and Music Festivals To You provide adult and student groups with entertainment experiences in Colorado. Student performance packages and adult customized tours available.
8 E. 1st Ave., Suite 108, Denver, CO 80203 Hala Faruqi www.gogocharters.com info@gogocharters.com • 720-216-2068 Since 2012, GOGO Charters has provided high-quality, luxury coaches for groups in and around the United States. With easy access to over 1,000 buses, our transportation services exist in over 30 cities nationwide. Our 24/7 reservation specialists are available to take your call, whether it’s for existing trip confirmations or last-minute emergencies.
PO Box 1554, Grand Lake, CO 80447 Dave Lively www.livelytoursandtalks.com info@livelytoursandtalks.com • 970-531-1211 Your local step-on guide for Rocky Mountain National Park and your new north-central Colorado itineraries.
4820 E. Kentucky Ave., Unit B, Glendale, CO 80246 Sherry Moon www.rockymountaintourguides.com rmgapresident@rockymountaintourguides.com • 720-425-5931 Professional, independent members providing tour and travel services throughout Colorado, including tour directors/guides, step-on-guides, tour operators and hospitality services.
382 E. 650 S. Circle, Cedar City, UT 84720 Jason Murray www.southwestadventuretours.com info@southwestadventuretours.com • 800-970-5864 Southwest Adventure Tours specializes in group tours to the National Parks in the Western United States. Our tours offer active hiking, scenic and photography experiences.
Leisure West Tours & Cruises
Tour Colorado
1266 Strong St., Brighton, CO 80601 Lee Dahl www.leisurewesttours.com lwt@leisurewesttours.com • 303-659-4858 Have a group? Want to plan a tour of Colorado or the Southwest? We can provide a complete tour package customized to your group needs.
COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
JASON MURRAY
Southwest Adventure Tours
Jason offers breathtaking tours across the American West
private photography experiences. All of our guides are versed in the general basics of good photography and can point guests to particular National Park areas at certain times to capture a photo. We also have wildlife biologists, geologists and anthropologists who are part of our staff. What do you feel are the benefits of operating with smaller tour groups? In the current environment, it’s been huge for the health of the company. We’ve been operating since June of 2020, with groups going out weekly. Just as important is the personal attention you can give a guest in a smaller group. Travel is all about the experience, enriching your life, going to a new place and experiencing new things. Our guests can have intimate oneon-one time with other members of the group and create lifelong friends.
Jason Murray, Southwest Adventure Tours Owner/CEO
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stablished in 2013, Southwest Adventure Tours has flourished into a premier tour operator for small groups seeking natural beauty in the American West. What began as the singular passion of founder Jason Murray has grown to include an expanded operations team and a network of over 60 guides that lead groups through America’s national parks. What is a sampling of your tour itineraries, and what has proven popular with groups? Our main niche is small group travel, which is typically 15 passengers or less. Our most popular tours are our Mighty
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COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
Five Tours, which travel from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas and include stops in Utah’s five national parks. We also have a National Parks of Colorado tour that started a few years ago and has continued to grow in popularity, and it includes stops at Great Sand Dunes, Mesa Verde and Rocky Mountain National Park. We also offer a Trail of the Ancients trip that incorporates the Ancestral Pueblo lands of Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico that has proven very popular. What sort of themed itineraries does Southwest Adventure Tours offer? All of our tours have the ability to be photography tours, and we offer custom
Southwest Adventure Tours has grown so much and you supervise a large team, but do you still lead and supervise tours yourself? I do. Even though I’m the owner of the company, I still try to join a day tour or multi-day tour once a month, so I can continue to interact with the clientele and get feedback from them. Travel is always changing, and the needs and wants of the customer are always shifting. To understand those changes and be able to respond to them is one of the things I try to do to stay relevant in this industry. What is your favorite region to explore in Colorado? Personally, I love Southwest Colorado. I fell in love with the Ancestral Puebloan history, their culture, the ruins sites and the joy of traveling on the Million Dollar Highway all the way up to Grand Junction. There are so many untouched places in that region that are so beautiful.
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The warmer months in Pueblo means legendary sunsets with plenty of outdoor activities like biking, hiking, boating, fishing, golfing, rafting, rock climbing and exploring San Isabel National Forest. Savor delicious local cuisine along the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk, explore our region’s extensive farmer’s markets and live it up at our outdoor music festivals and activities for the entire family.
Autumn in Pueblo turns the leaves vibrant yellows and oranges, the air smells of roasted chiles and your favorite summer activities are still available as the summer heat shifts to temps of late Spring. The acclaimed Pueblo Chile & Frijoles Festival celebrates harvest season with freshly roasted chiles, hayrides and pumpkin patches kick off and the evenings offer a cooler experience around waterfront campfires.
Scan for Pueblo’s Official Visitor Guide
VisitPueblo.org
© 2021 Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
DONA WEBB (BASHAM)
Royal Gorge Bridge & Park
Dona spotlights the region’s
beautiful views and outdoor adventure opportunities
Dona Webb (Basham), Royal Gorge Bridge & Park Sales Manager
travel from end-to-end. Each car holds up to eight people, so large groups can stay together. This ride is weather permitting. What is a typical group experience like for Royal Gorge Bridge & Park visitors? Upon arrival, motorcoach groups are greeted by sales staff who orients the guests with the park layout. The guests are then free to experience and navigate the park to their preference. They can take in the spectacular views of the mountains from the Visitor Center deck before they even reach the bridge itself. After that, they’re free to ride the Aerial Gondola or take their time and enjoy the views from the bridge and take group pictures with stunning backdrops. Groups are able to watch a short film about the history of the Royal Gorge and the engineering marvel of the bridge in the nearby Plaza Theater.
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fter an internship at Walt Disney World and approximately 12 years with the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, Dona Webb has worked at the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park in various capacities since 2012 and now serves as the Sales & Marketing Manager.
United States government donated the surrounding land to Cañon City in 1906, and the eventual bridge that was built in 1929 was the highest suspension bridge in the world for 72 years, and it currently remains the highest suspension bridge in the United States.
What is the history of Royal Gorge as a tourist destination? Tourism in the Royal Gorge region began in 1874 when a photographer came through via the new railroad at the bottom of the gorge and claimed it was a “Royal Gorge” and by the turn of the century, visitors were coming to picnic on the edge of the gorge and admire the views. The
What attractions at the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park are particularly popular with groups? Groups love to ride the Aerial Gondola, which spans the entire gorge and offers 360-degree views over one thousand feet above the Arkansas River. Our guests board one of six gondola cars, and the ride is amazingly smooth as they
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COLORADO GROUP TOUR PLANNER
Are there activities for group members who prefer more physical activity? Individuals within the group can ride the Cloudscraper Zip Line, which is a handsfree zip line that runs parallel to the Aerial Gondola. There are no individual stations at which to pause or change routes—it’s one long, thrilling ride across the gorge. Guests can also try the Royal Rush Skycoaster where they are hoisted up a 100-foot tower and swung over the edge of the gorge. Both of these rides are extra pay and weather permitting. What element of Royal Gorge do you enjoy the most? Personally I love the bridge, our main attraction. It’s a massive achievement of architectural wonder, and it allows me to be surrounded by the amazing landscapes in this particular area of Colorado.
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CENTRAL
Photo courtesy of Idaho Depertment of Parks and Recreation
REGION
Coeur d’Alenes Trail
the Midwest’s Scenic Trails Cyclists, hikers and those seeking a beautiful stroll can delve into a multitude of scenic trails in America’s Heartland By Jamie Fischer
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he Midwest is filled with picturesque landscapes that are perfect for groups seeking a little adventure. Hikers and bikers can embrace the region’s variety of trails that offer challenges and leisurely riding opportunities. With many surrounding attractions and restaurants, these trails can be anything from a weekend getaway to a weeklong vacation. Here are some of the Midwest’s must-see trails.
LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
Katy Trail Spanning the Missouri countryside, this 237-mile trail is America’s longest “rails-to-trail” project. More than half of the eastern portion follows Lewis and Clark’s path up the Missouri River through serene farmland into the state’s picturesque small towns. The trail welcomes hikers, runners and cyclists alike, offering 200 miles of uninterrupted terrain. With several restaurants along the trail, in addition to a bed August 2021 ■ 55
and breakfast inn, motels, campgrounds and shopping excursions, this adventure offers enough attractions for a weekend getaway. Visitors can also combine their hike with a wine tasting tour, sampling some of the finest wines Missouri’s wine country has to offer. bikekatytrail.com
Paul Bunyan State Trail Stretching 120 miles, the Paul Bunyan State Trail is Minnesota’s longest trail and the longest continually paved rail-trail in the U.S. Extending from Crow Wing State Park to Lake Bemidji State Park, the trail can be used for hiking, biking, mountain biking, in-line skating and snowmobiling. The surrounding region’s rich culture makes the trail more than simply a daytime hiking adventure. Having been previously occupied by the Dakota and Ojibwe tribes, this region is home to indigenous people to this day. In addition to its cultural history, towns along the trail act as popular vacation destinations, providing trail access points, rest areas and other services. paulbunyantrail.com
Little Miami Scenic Trail
Wabash Trace Nature Trail This 63-mile Iowa trail can be traveled by foot, bike, ski, snowshoe or even wheelchair. The opportunities are endless as visitors can watch birds and wildlife, identify diverse animal and plant life, picnic, visit the trail towns, or stargaze at night. Parallel to the Wabash Trace is an off-road multi-use trail approved for use by hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. There are several bridge crossings shared between the off-road and the main trail. The area offers several lodging options that can accommodate whatever experience you are seeking, whether it be a bed and breakfast, hotel, primitive camping option, or if you prefer, your own RV. There are many attractions beyond the trail that make this Iowa destination more than
Photo courtesy of Mike Egan
The fourth-longest paved trail in the United States, the Little Miami Scenic Trail spans 78 miles through five southwestern counties in Ohio. This trail makes up part of the statewide Buckeye Trail, the North Country National Scenic Trail and the statewide
Ohio-to-Erie trail. Divided into two distinct personas, the trail offers visitors the best of both worlds. South of Spring Valley, visitors will pass canoe liveries, quaint eateries, the Ft. Ancient State Historic Site and various other contemporary attractions of Kings Island. North of Spring Valley, the route links larger urban cities, Xenia and Springfield, through the vibrant village of Yellow Springs. Must-see attractions include Xenia Station, a restored railroad station at the hub of four trails that meet in Xenia, and John Bryan State Park. miamivalleytrails.org/trails/ little-miami-scenic-trail
The Little Miami Scenic Trail is ideal for families.
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>> LeisureGroupTravel.com
The Chatcolet Bridge in Idaho offers picturesque views.
just a day trip. Visitors can enjoy an outing at the American Legion Country Club, putt some holes at the Fairview Hills Golf Course, or take a dip at Shenandoah’s Wilson Aquatic Center or Malvern’s Public Pool. Those who want a break from the outdoors can visit the Historic St. Patrick Catholic Church, the Shenandoah Historical Museum or the Sugar Clay Winery. wabashtrace.org
Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes Named one of the 25 top trails by the Rails to Trails Conservancy, this paved, wheelchairaccessible 73-mile trail is perfect for cyclists, in-line skaters, walkers, Nordic skiers and snowshoers, and wild-life enthusiasts. Stretching through the Idaho panhandle between Mullan and Plummer, the trail threads through the historic Silver Valley along the Coeur d’Alene River through scenic farmland to Plummer. Twenty trailheads act as entry points, and the trail is lined with 20 waysides to stop for a picnic. The trail’s unique landscape makes it one of the state’s best birding locales, bisecting all of the major low-elevation habitats in North Idaho. Visitors will have the chance to experience mixed conifer forests, wetlands, agricultural fields, urban streetscapes, cottonwood groves and deep water. These diverse conditions offer a potential list of 189 species in addition to 48 very rare species, with elk, white-tailed deer and moose being most common. parksandrecreation.idaho. gov/parks/trail-coeur-d-alenes
Photo courtesy of Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation
George C. Mickelson Trail
LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
Located in the heart of the Black Hills, this South Dakota staple is perfect for a variety of outdoor activities from biking to horseback riding to bird watching. With its mild slopes, the trail is accessible to visitors of all ages. While most of the trail does not exceed a 4% grade, the trail’s longest incline, the 19 mile stretch from Deadwood to Dumont, is its most strenuous portion. The 109-mile trail consists of more than 100 converted railroad bridges, four rock tunnels and 15 trailheads. Each trailhead includes parking, self-sale trail passes and tables. Four-hour trolley rides are offered to ensure that everyone can enjoy the trail’s beauty, regardless of physical limitations. gfp.sd.gov/parks/ detail/george-s--mickelson-trail August 2021 ■ 57
EAST
REGION
ADVENTURE IS OUT THERE IN
WEST VIRGINIA Explore charming Fayetteville and the Mountain State’s first national park By Jill Pillow
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All photos courtesy of Tabitha Stover Photography and Visit Fayetteville
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he state of West Virginia is overflowing with historic sites and scenery. With a plethora of gorgeous mountains and hiking trails, West Virginia is the perfect destination for those looking to put down their phone and seek adventure. In the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, the Mountain State is home to the United States’ newest, and West Virginia’s first, national park. Bordering the charming town of Fayetteville, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve was founded in 1978 and has been drawing millions of visitors from across the United States every year since. Those who come to visit the park will find an abundance of activities for people across all fitness levels. The park is home to hundreds of miles of hiking trails, established rock climbs, biking trails and tons of guided adventures with Adventures on the Gorge. At Adventures on the Gorge, there is never a shortage of things to keep adventurers occupied. Their guided white water rafting programs range from full day to overnight and multi-day tours with camping along the New and Gauley rivers. They provide both family-oriented adventures for beginner rafters as well as more challenging rafting excursions for the more experienced thrill seeker. Guided rock climbing, repelling, horseback riding, mountain biking and hiking are also available with Adventures at the Gorge. Perhaps some of the most popular and extensive offerings the adventure resort has to offer are its aerial adventures. From the adrenaline-filled 850-foot walk upon the New River Gorge Bridge to zipline tours, tree canopy tours and treks through the TimberTrek
West Virginia is a perfect spot to slow things down and enjoy a relaxing outing.
>> LeisureGroupTravel.com
LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
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Adventure Park, visitors are provided a multitude of options to fill their adrenaline and team-building needs. The resort’s Gravity Zipline Tours includes six ziplines increasing in length as the tour proceeds with 1.5 miles of total zipline length and a final 3,150 ft “adrena-line” which reaches speeds of up to 65 mph and is competitive in length with the longer single-length ziplines in the United States. Visitors can continue their aerial adventures by paying a visit to TimberTrek. With options for day and night-time tours, guests can experience the woods of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve from a new perspective with physical challenges and obstacles above the forest floor that allow seekers to “take the initiative of their own adventure.” Looking to try a bit of
everything? Adventures on the Gorge also has a Treetops Canopy Tour which allows guests to zipline, hike, and repel through the park’s strikingly beautiful forests. Last, but certainly not least, on the list of aerial adventures is a bridge walk on the “longest steel arch bridge in North America,” the New River Gorge Bridge. The bridge features a thrilling 3,000foot walk 850 feet above the New River upon a 24-inch-wide catwalk.
GET ACTIVE IN THE PARK Outside of Adventures on the Gorge, travelers have an abundance of opportunities for individualized activities such as hikes and climbs to stay active while visiting West Virginia’s first national park. The New River Gorge National Park and
West Virginia’s colors come alive during the autumn season.
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Natural beauty can be found throughout Fayetteville.
Preserve has, in recent years, begun the “Get Active in the Park” partnership with Active Southern West Virginia in order to create initiatives for West Virginians and travelers alike to get outside and move more. Programs run through Get Active in the Park include trained volunteer instructors and free beginner level fitness activities to encourage folks to be more confident in building a lifestyle with increased physical activity. The park has also created the 100 Mile Challenge, originally created to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the National Park Service, which challenges park visitors to keep track of their miles hiked in the park and aim to reach 100 miles to “earn a special prize that places you in that elite group of wilderness pedestrians.” Laying just outside of the national park is the quaint town of Fayetteville, which is never lacking in activities for every type of traveler. Local mountain biking and rockclimbing tours are available and visitors can even take a ride in a biplane with Wild Blue Adventures for breathtaking views of the New and Gauley rivers, the New River Gorge Bridge, and the Hawks Nest State Park and Dam. Take a trip downtown to see a show at the historic Fayette Theatre, explore local shops, and grab a bite to eat at a variety of local restaurants such as the Cathedral Cafe and BookStore on South Court Street or The Free Folk Brewery on Court Street. Whether seeking exhilarating adventure tours, serene hiking and biking trails, or exploration of a charming and buzzing town, the Fayetteville and New and Gauley rivers area has everything needed for a fulfilling, fun and nature-filled experience. >> LeisureGroupTravel.com
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SITE INSPECTION
SCAN FOR INFO
Christmas with the Rockettes Returns
The spirit of the holidays is alive and kicking with the Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes®
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ashes of red and green spin across the stage signifying the start of the annual Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes presented by Chase at Radio City Music Hall® in New York City. The colors beautifully coincide with the display of holiday imagery above the famous precision dance troupe, the Radio City Rockettes®. Since the first Christmas Spectacular in December of 1933, the show has become a New York Christmas tradition, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors to the historic venue each year. This year, the beloved show returns following a 2020 absence due to the pandemic, which marked the first time in 87 years the production was canceled. Tickets are on sale now and the Christmas Spectacular will run from November 5 through January 2, 2022. Tickets start at $49 and can be purchased online at rockettes.com/christmas. For group sales, please call 212-465-6080. Visit rockettes. com/ptm for more information. The Christmas Spectacular has greatly evolved since its grand opening. It has transformed from a 30-minute show to the 90-minute performance it is today, LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
consisting of 150 cast members, including the Rockettes, singers, dancers, musicians and more. The performers partake in many routines to make this show possible. “Sleigh Ride,” the opening routine, kicks off with the Rockettes carrying Santa’s sleigh across the stage to their tap routine “12 Days of Christmas.” In “New York at Christmas,” the show features a double-decker bus carrying the Rockettes through Manhattan before entering Central Park. The park includes an ice rink where two skaters glide through an intricate routine to the audience’s amazement. Two iconic performances have survived every transformation the Christmas Spectacular has undergone over the years. These numbers are “The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” and “Living Nativity.” From their seats, guests appreciate the intricate details that go into these scenes. After 90 minutes and 140 performers, the Rockettes take the stage with their line of 36 women beginning the final kick line with seamless precision. The most special part of the show that brings smiles to fans of all ages is the Rockettes’ dazzling dance moves. From the harmonized soldier
marching to the bubbly Reindeer knee pops, the Rockettes transport guests to a magical world through their rhythmic motions. All these precise details and talent make this show what it is today, and Radio City Music Hall makes all of it possible. The theater sits next to Rockefeller Center and has remained a must-see destination for decades. The center’s beautiful architecture is rich in history. Originally completed in 1932, the theater was designed during the Great Depression in hopes of creating a place where people could watch grand performances at an affordable cost. Its upbringing has made Rockefeller Center a symbol of hope as it brought amusement and fun to people of all ages. Radio City, or the “Showplace of the Nation,” has provided more than 300 million people with its films, concerts, theater performances and special events.
MADISON SQUARE GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT MSG Group Sales Department 212-465-6080 group.sales@msg.com rockettes.com/ptm
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SOUTH
REGION
Point Lookout Vineyards at sunset
EXPLORE WESTERN
Photo courtesy of VisitNC
FROM A LUXURY LODGING BASE
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>> LeisureGroupTravel.com
Although you may never want to leave the luxurious Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, there’s so much to experience not far from your front door he mountain setting for the 21-story Harrah’s Cherokee Hotel in Cherokee, North Carolina is certainly majestic, but the 1,108 rooms and in-room amenities also contribute to the guest experience. The hotel has 53 room types featuring king or two queens, each including the normal fixtures such as large TVs, refrigerators, coffee makers, hair dryers and safes. There are rooms with whirlpool baths, overhead spa-like rain showers, accessible mobility, rooms for the hearing impaired and much more. From the upscale Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse to the casual dining of BRIO Tuscan Grille and Selu Garden Café to quick bites at Johnny Rockets and the Earl of Sandwich, there are dining options to fit every taste and budget. Overall, there are 11 choices to grab something on the go, sit down in a casual atmosphere with friends or enjoy that one special meal and evening to remember. On the casino floor, you’ll find your favorite video games, including Buffalo, Monopoly Wheel of Fortune and many others. There are more than 3,100 games in denominations from one penny per spin up to $500. There a wide range of video poker including Double Double Bonus, Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild and Pot O’ Gold, among others. Variations range from a nickel play to high limit machines. The new non-smoking addition of the World Series of Poker – Poker Room has opened featuring 25 tables offering eighthanded cash games. Texas Hold’em Poker Tournaments are Monday to Thursday at 7 p.m. Registration begins a few hours earlier. There’s no shortage of table games on the casino floor. Hit or stay, the choice is yours in the popular game of Blackjack. A Craps table can be challenging for a newcomer to the game, but after a rules overview and a few minutes at the table, you’ll be ready.
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The popular spin-off of Five Card Stud Poker; Let It Ride pits you against other players with the winner doing quite well. Three Card Poker uses traditional poker rankings, except straights are higher than flushes. Digital Mini Baccarito has made James Bond’s favorite table game classic a 21st century favorite. caesars.com/ harrahs-cherokee
CHEROKEE Harrah’s Cherokee Resort is surrounded by 11,000 years of cherished Cherokee culture. Take time to discover it all. Step into the Oconaluftee Indian Village, a vivid portrayal of an historic Cherokee village. The age-old arts and crafts of Cherokee artisan, many made and demonstrated at the Oconaluftee Indian Village, are on display at the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc. The Museum of the Cherokee Indian gives a fun way to immerse in the history of the Cherokee people. Take time to visit Mountain Farm Museum, Mingus Mill or the Sequoyah National Golf Club. visitcherokeenc.com
BRYSON CITY Nearby Bryson City is only an 11-mile drive to plenty of fun and adventure. Departing from its historic downtown depot, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad is a favorite of groups and one of the best ways to enjoy the scenic beauty of the mountains. The Nantahala Gorge Excursion and Tuckasegee River Excursion are popular round-trip experiences. The latter has an hour-and-a-half layover in Dillsboro for shopping in more than 50 shops. For lovers of the outdoors, there are options for every adventure level from tubing and white water rafting to ziplines. greatsmokies.com
MAGGIE VALLEY/WAYNESVILLE Just 33 miles from Cherokee you’ll find Haywood County, right in the middle of the Smoky Mountains and Blue Ridge Parkway. First stop is Waynesville and the Shelton House/Museum of North Carolina Handcrafts. The Shelton House shares the rural origins of the town and promotes Western North Carolina history, heritage and crafts. Historic Downtown Waynesville reminds you of a time when
Photo courtesy of VisitNC
T By Dave Bodle
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
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Photo courtesy of VisitNC
Enjoy big winnings at Harrah’s many games and tables.
all your hometown shops were occupied and all your shopping needs were satisfied. Then, it’s on to Maggie Valley. You don’t have to be a motorcycle maniac to thoroughly enjoy Dale’s Wheels Through Time. The world’s premier collection of rare American motorcycles, memorabilia and one-of-a-kind automobiles is a must
see. It’s 5:00 somewhere, so before leaving town make a stop at Elevated Mountain Distillery Co. They’ll show you how to make good spirits, than treat you to a tasting. visitncsmokies.com.
Photo courtesy of VisitNC
FRANKLIN
North Carolina has a great variety of gemstones.
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The casino isn’t the only way to bring some winnings home from the mountains, but you’ll have to drive 33 miles for your second opportunity. North Carolina has the greatest variety of gemstones in the East. The Franklin area is where you’ll find rubies and sapphires from spring through autumn. Bring a towel to sit on and some gloves if it’s chilly or you don’t want to ruin your manicure. At Rose Creek Mine you’ll dig your own dirt then wash the dirt away in the covered flume. Gold City Gem Mine does the digging for you on its 40-acre property. If you prefer to pan for real gold, they have all the supplies you’ll need. Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine features a 150-foot covered flume and a wide variety of gems and bucket sizes to fit any budget. All cutting prices are per carat weight of the finished
product based on gem type. franklinchamber.com/gem-mines-north-carolina/
HIGHLANDS The 50-mile drive to the Highlands Botanical Station is well worth the journey. Established in 1927, HBS opened a one–room museum as an attachment to its library in July of 1928. Work began in the late 1930s on the station’s free-standing museum and opened in 1941. Known today as the Highlands Nature Center, the museum has a variety of public programs and is the perfect start of your visit. The star of the show for visitors may very well be Highlands Botanical Garden. Now in its 60th year, it has developed into a foremost High Elevation (approaching 4,000 feet) garden featuring native plants. highlandsbiological.org and highlandschamber.org/savor/elevated-dining During the day, immerse yourself in the beauty, history and culture of the Western North Carolina mountain communities. In the evening, explore the thrills and excitement of casino gaming and luxury resort accommodations. >> LeisureGroupTravel.com
let’s get the party started
Must be 21 or older to enter the casino floor and to gamble, and must present a valid state or federal photo ID upon request. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-522-4700. An Enterprise of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. ©2021, Caesars License Company, LLC.
www.harrahscherokee.com
NORTH CAROLINA TOUR IDEAS
PADDLE YOUR WAY Through These North Carolina Favorites
Paddlers on the Yadkin River
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Photos by Sam Dean
From mountain streams to piedmont rivers, there are kayak adventures for every member of your group
N
By Dave Bodle orth Carolina’s natural beauty beckons for adventurers of all ages. You’ll find dozens of places to rent kayaks and it’s likely there’s one or more near your destination. Here are just a few where you can immerse yourself in a fun destination and enjoy some great kayaking, too.
ELKIN
Welcome to this cozy little town that celebrates an active outdoor vibe. For paddlers, the Yadkin River Bluewater Trail has access points in Elkin, Surry County and nearby Wilkes County and Yadkin County. The Elkin access is in Crater Park close to Elkin’s Main Street restaurants. The Yadkin River Bluewater Trail includes High Rock Lake, Tuckertown Reservoir and Lake Tillery with a series of connecting rivers access points from Wilkes County to Montgomery County. These local outfitters will help you on your way kayaking or tubing the slow- flowing Elkin section of the Yadkin River.
Enjoy North Carolina’s natural beauty from the water.
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NORTH CAROLINA TOUR IDEAS
Rocky Forest River Run offers kayaking, river tubing and canoeing for groups by reservation 10 days in advance. Full moon kayaking is popular and Wellness Retreats are available for small groups. Reach them at 336-469-8652 or rockyforestriverrun.com. Located in nearby Dobson, Yadkin River Adventures offers 2, 4 and 6-hour canoe and kayak trips. Groups of 15 or more boats are welcome and receive a discounted rate. A two-week reservation prior to arrival with deposit is required. Call for details and reservations at 336-374-5318, or visit online at yadkinriveradventures.com. Just across the Yadkin River from Elkin is Jonesville and the Hometown River Co. Guests are welcome Friday-Sunday beginning at 8 a.m. There are two runs to
Photo courtesy of VisitNC.com
Madison River Park
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choose from: a 7-mile, 3-4.5-hour paddle or an 11-mile run at 4-6 hours. Call 336404-1616 during weekend hours, or visit online at hometownrivercompany.com. Also in Jonesville, Jonesville Kayak & Tube Rentals welcomes groups and family reunions with groups of 10 or more receiving a discount. Rentals include life jackets, kayak, paddle(s) and shuttle. They can be reached for more information and reservations at 336-999-0017, text to 336-934-0874 or learn more online at 67riverrentals.com. Each outfitter’s website has details on what you’ll need to bring on your trip. A few also include lodging, dining and other area attraction information. A great place to learn more about the Yadkin River Valley is online at yadkinvalleync.com.
MADISON Just 25 miles north of Greensboro, the Dan River flows quietly near the county’s small towns. One of those communities, Madison, managed to take an aging 1960s dam and a dying fish population and turned it into improved water for the city and an expanded tourism economy. Using 10,000 tons to create weirs (low head dams) altered the flow characteristics of the river. Roanoke Logperch are no longer becoming extinct and both locals and visitors have the Madison Water Park for access to kayaking and tubing. Its popularity is expanding well beyond the Triad Area of North Carolina as paddlers share the story. The gentle rapids caused by the weirs are perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers. Servicing Madison Water Park and Lake Reidsville are nearby outfitters. In Eden, North Carolina, Three Rivers Outfitters is a full-service outfitting company. They provide canoe and kayak rental, shuttle services that are handicap accessible, a variety of guided trips and even river camping. They operate trips seven days a week, while the store is open Friday and Saturday. For more information call 336-627-6215, 276-340-3983, or get started on 3-r-o.com. If you live in Rockingham County and have the outdoors in your blood, it’s likely you regularly visit Mayodan Outdoor Sports, Inc. in Mayodan. They are a Federal Firearm Licensed business and a one-stop shop for rods, reels, live bait, lures and plugs. For paddlers, Mayodan Outdoor Sports has kayak, canoe and tube rentals available. Give them a call at 336-548-6296, email mayodanoutdoorsports@gmail.com. Learn more online at mayodanoutdoorsports.com. Madtown Tubing does one thing and they do it very well. Located near Madison River Park, they have all your floating needs from tubes and cooler carriers to sit-on-top kayaks and tube trackers. They’ll put you on the river at the park and shuttle you back at the end of your tubing adventure. It doesn’t get anymore laid back than tubing the Dan. Groups are encouraged to join in the fun. Reserve your tubes by calling 336-548-2789. Learn more at madtowntubing.com. >> LeisureGroupTravel.com
The small towns of Rockingham County offer so many things to do off the water; you’ll have no problem building an itinerary. Start planning at visitrockinghamcountync.com.
In Pitt County on the banks of the Tar River, there are several waterways, creeks, swamps and ponds to explore. You’re in the Inner Banks of Eastern North Carolina. The Tar River is a gently moving waterway giving the paddler ample time to enjoy the old growth trees in the tupelo and cypress swamps and tributaries. You can launch from the Greenville Town Common or Port Terminal in Greenville. Without exception, every outfitter is invested in the conservation that keeps our waterways beautiful. Possibly none has shown more dedication to that cause than Knee Deep Adventures owner Kelsey Curtis. Her accolades are numerous, but what stands out is the personal time invested in cleanups and educating students and adults about kayaking and wildlife on the rivers. State of the art paddleboards and kayaks are critical to the business as is a solid group policy. Groups of five, or more require a group reservation to reserve boats and the right life jackets. Call 252-714-5836, or visit kneedeepadventures.com. In Greenville Town Common, Riverside Recreation will handle all your kayaking and biking needs. Long before you arrive for your outdoor adventure two things are clear. First, it’s obvious the owners and staff thoroughly enjoy the peace and serenity of the outdoors and love sharing the experience with their customers. Second, safety and customer service are unwavering. For your water adventure, kayak, SUP and pedal rentals are available. For the full experience groups of all types should schedule a private tour with a certified tour guide. Get started by calling 252-215-0878, or explore online at riversiderecreationrentals.com. In Grifton, North Carolina, adjacent to Contentnea Creek, you’ll find North Carolina Museum of Natural Science. A Time For Science offers kayaking as a wonderful option to engage with nature. There are a variety of wetlands and waterways to explore on the 380-acres of the Bray Hollow Conservancy. LeisureGroupTravel.com <<
Photo courtesy of VisitGreenvilleNC.com
GREENVILLE
Greenville has many beautiful waterways.
Beginners and kids can learn kayaking on a pond, while experienced paddlers can explore the waterways down the Big, or Little Contentnea. For more information call 252-364-2862, or visit online at atimeforscience.org. Plan to extend your Greenville stay past your adventure on the area’s waterways. There are dining options to please your most ardent culinary critic and numerous
accommodations that welcome groups. Artists, musicians and creative of all kinds expand the horizon of an active arts scene, fueled in part by East Carolina University’s School of Art and Design and School of Music. Check it out, there’s plenty to see, do and enjoy. visitgreenvillenc.com. Relax and enjoy the moments you spend kayaking North Carolina’s waterways. Take a look at visitnc.com for more options. August 2021 ■ 69
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Columbus delivers experiences uniquely tailored to your groups. From traditional sites such as the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, Franklin Park Conservatory and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to far-from-ordinary experiences like pouring your own candle or taking a tour with your taste buds, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. Citywide, our partners have taken the Live Forward Pledge to ensure health and safety protocols remain a priority for your group. For guidance, visit experiencecolumbus.com/groups.
Be Inspired. Follow your curiosity to Theodore Roosevelt National Park where bison and wild horses roam through Badlands vistas. Access the north unit from Watford City and the south unit from the Old West town of Medora, with its acclaimed Medora Musical and Roosevelt’s cabin from when he ranched here. Visit us online to plan your group tour. NDtourism.com/grouptravel