The California Zephyr through Colorado, particularly the stretch between Denver and Glenwood Springs, claims the title as Amtrak's most scenic route. This 234-mile segment slices through the heart of the Rockies, hugging canyon walls above the Colorado River and threading through landscapes that highway travelers simply can't access. If you're planning your 2026 adventure, you're not just choosing a train ride. You're booking a front-row seat to...
Isle Royale National Park sits in the icy waters of Lake Superior, 56 miles from Michigan's Upper Peninsula, and getting there requires genuine commitment. This roadless wilderness island demands a ferry ride of 3 to 6 hours or a seaplane flight, operates only from mid-April through October, and charges a $7 daily entrance fee per person (with a $60 seasonal pass available for frequent visitors). If you're used to Colorado's accessible mountain...
Getting to Indiana Dunes National Park is straightforward: the main Indiana Dunes Visitor Center sits at 1215 IN-49, Porter, IN 46304, perfectly positioned between US Highway 20 and Interstate 94. You'll need an entrance pass (standard passes run $15 to $25, an annual pass is $45, or use your America the Beautiful Pass), and the visitor center welcomes guests daily with parking for 100 vehicles plus dedicated RV and bus spaces. This slice of...
After spending the last three years trekking through permit-only wilderness corridors and scrambling up alpine passes on five continents, we can confidently say that Torres del Paine in Chile, Banff in Canada, and Fiordland in New Zealand top our list for adventure travelers chasing multi-day backcountry routes that demand real planning and reward you with solitude most day-hikers will never see. These parks rose to the top because they combine...
Colorado offers three distinct ways to experience a true three-day train adventure, and the best choice depends on whether you want continuous rail travel, a seasonal mountain escape, or a day trip that anchors a longer itinerary. The Canyon Spirit Train delivers the most authentic multi-day experience, with journeys running from April through November 2026 that include three days relaxing onboard plus overnight stays in Glenwood Springs and...
Colorado's mountain railways deliver some of North America's most breathtaking rail journeys, winding through alpine passes, red rock canyons, and historic mining districts that roads simply can't reach. Seven standout routes offer everything from leisurely valley tours perfect for families to challenging narrow-gauge ascents that thrill serious rail enthusiasts, each showcasing a different side of the state's dramatic landscapes. Key Takeaway:...
Book your flights into Orlando International Airport at least two days before your cruise departure to build in buffer time for weather delays or travel disruptions from Colorado's unpredictable mountain conditions. This breathing room transforms potential stress into opportunity—you'll experience Florida's subtropical climate, explore Kennedy Space Center, or squeeze in theme park visits before boarding. Secure transportation from Orlando...
Colorado boasts some of the finest scenic train rides in the nation. Evolving from a utilitarian function to captivating tourist adventures, the state's railway network has navigated a journey filled with complexities and transformations since its inception. If you want to explore Colorado by train, here are some of the best train rides you want to consider: Royal Gorge Route Railroad Embarking on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad for a two-hour...
Colorado hosts a collection of some of the most hazardous roads in the region, some of the most scientific roads and views you can explore by train. While some roads on this roster might come as no shock, such as harrowing high-altitude alpine routes with hair-raising narrowness, you might be taken aback to learn that even your daily work commute could lead you down one of the state's riskiest thoroughfares. That said, here are some of the most...
As snow blankets the landscape and holiday cheer fills the air, Colorado's December events offer a magical array of festivities that encapsulate the spirit of the season. The Denver Christkindl Market transports visitors to a European winter wonderland, featuring charming wooden stalls offering traditional gifts, crafts, and delectable treats. This market captures the essence of a German Christmas market, creating a warm and festive atmosphere....