COLORADO MOUNTAIN CRESTS & CRAFT BREWS
8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS
DAY 1
Denver
This evening, after checking into our Denver hotel, mingle with other group members at a meet and greet reception hosted by our guide, a beer aficionado and destination specialist. We’ll be given an introduction to this 8-day exploration of breathtaking National Parks, regional culture, history and—of course—fresh, local craft beer!
DAY 2
Denver—Aspen/Snowmass (159mi/254km)
This morning we’ll take a tour through Denver. Catch stunning views of the Rocky Mountains in between stops at historic and cultural locations, emerging neighborhoods and hidden gems of the Mile-High city.
In the brewery district of River North (known as RiNo) we’ll tour some of the 45 breweries located in this capital city, each producing beer with very distinct aroma, body and finish.
Our drive to Aspen this afternoon will be a memorable one. We’ll travel along highways that are lined with jagged cliffs, winding roads over high-alpine passes and switchback turns with views that will keep your camera snapping.
We’ll take a casual stroll through downtown Aspen to acquaint us with the town’s ins and outs and the energy that makes it a world-class resort town. Transfer to Snowmass for the overnight.
DAY 3
Aspen/Snowmass
This morning, choose your included activity. Enjoy a leisurely morning hike through the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Known as “the most photographed peaks in North America”, Be sure to bring your camera as this area is also
home to moose and black bear.
Or, beginners as well as experienced rafters can raft the Upper Roaring Fork. This section of river features beautiful scenery and wildlife.
The afternoon is free to explore Aspen’s landmarks and boutiques, or engage in more outdoor adventure. We’ll meet up for tastings at Aspen Brewing Company. From their Seasonally inspired brews to their Barrel-Aged Temerity Series, there’s sure to be a brew to inspire a “that’s damn good!” from everyone.
DAY 4
Aspen/Snowmass—Telluride (200mi/320km)
Today we travel through McClure Pass, one of Colorado’s most scenic and historic byways. A trip on the West Elk Loop passes through national forestlands, wilderness preserves, state and national parks, quaint small towns and some of Colorado’s most majestic scenery.
Upon arrival in Telluride we’ll explore the town on foot. Because of its significant role in the history of the American West, the core area of Telluride was designated a National Historic Landmark District. We’ll finish our tour at Telluride Brewing Company where we’ll quench our thirst with the smooth-tasting flavors of beer from one of the highest microbreweries in the world. The evening is free to enjoy the atmosphere of this historic Victorian mining town or take the gondola ride to explore Telluride Mountain Village and its magnificent views.
DAY 5
Telluride—Silverton—Durango (121mi/195km)
Today we’ll travel along the Million Dollar Highway between Ouray, a charming town surrounded by steep mountains, and Silverton, an old silver mining town. Much of Silverton is considered a National Historic Landmark and is the depot town of the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This 3 ft. narrow gauge heritage railroad has been hauling freight and passengers in continuous operation since 1882. We’ll ride the historic railroad along the Animas River, through wilderness inaccessible by any road, for a steam-powered arrival into Durango. The evening is free to explore Durango’s local culture and cuisine.
DAY 6
Durango—Mesa Verde—Durango (112mi/180km)
Today we’re off to Mesa Verde National Park, the largest archeological preserve in the US. Here we’ll get a look at cave dwellings inhabited by groups of nomadic American Indians as early as 7500 BC. Upon our return to Durango we’ll visit one of the oldest craft breweries in the state. Water born high in the San Juan Mountains of Southwest Colorado makes these hand-crafted brews taste so good.
DAY 7
Durango—Salida—Colorado Springs (300mi/480km)
Depart for Colorado Springs, stopping en route in Salida, a quaint, western style town with a creative arts scene and a selection of breweries, distilleries and wineries.
Before arriving in Colorado Springs we’ll visit the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. Hanging high above Colorado’s wild Arkansas River, the Royal Gorge Bridge is America’s highest suspension bridge and a legendary feat of engineering renowned the world over. An included final night pairings dinner will feature Colorado Springs’ internationally diverse cuisine and big tastes from small, local beer companies.
DAY 8
Colorado Springs—Cripple Creek—Denver (159mi/254km)
We begin the day by visiting the historic mining town of Cripple Creek. Old brick buildings along the main streets will take us right back to the Old West. We’ll even have the opportunity to descend 1,000 feet below ground to learn about the workings of the 1890s hard rock gold miner. Beginning with a ride on a skip to the lower working levels of the mine, we’ll witness the operation and ride aboard the last air-powered Tram-Air Locomotive.
There’ll be some time to enjoy lunch and one more mountain brewed beer before heading back to Denver.
Passengers can either be dropped off in downtown Denver or transferred to the airport.
2020 TOUR DATES
June 6
July 25
August 8
August 22
INCLUSIONS
• 7 night Accommodation
• Welcome Reception
• 1 Dinner
• Transportation via air-conditioned small Coach, Sprinter or Van
• Professional Driver/Guide and Beer Aficionado
• Sightseeing to include: Aspen Walking Tour, Telluride Walking Tour, Ouray, Silverton, Mesa Verde National Park, Salida, US Air Force Academy, Cripple Creek
• Experiences to include: Craft Brewery Tours & Tastings, Maroon Bells Hike OR North Fork River Rafting, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Royal Gorge Bridge & Park, Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine
HOTELS*
Denver Magnolia Hotel
Snowmass Stonebridge Inn
Telluride The Victorian Inn
Durango Strater Hotel
Colorado Springs Best Western Plus Vista Inn
*Similar hotels may be substituted on certain dates