Arrive Colorado Springs, CO for a four night stay and dinner at Edelweiss German Restaurant.  For 30 years, this family spot has offered authentic German cuisine in a cozy Bavarian setting.  There are also some American and continental selections on the menu.  Weekends feature strolling musicians.  Indoor and outdoor dining. (D)

The morning features a round trip ride on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway.  This 8.9 miles long ride begins along Ruxton Creek in Englemann Canyon.  The track is built next to the stream where there are boulder fields on both sides.  Conductors like to point out the various “faces” and shapes, which with a bit of imagination can be seen in them, during the first 1/3 of the trip.  Then pass Minnehaha Falls and through a natural gateway known as Hells Gate, past Lake Moraine and Mount Almagre before climbing above the timberline.  You will spend 20-30 minutes at the 14,110 foot summit.  From here, on a clear day, you can see the skyscrapers of downtown Denver and the Great Plains to the east.

This afternoon visit the famous Garden of the Gods. Filled with dramatic view of 300′ towering rock formations against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks and blue skies.  The visitors center is the most visited attraction in the region featuring a great movie titled, “How Did Those Red Rocks Get There?”

Tonight visit a real working cattle ranch that also entertains guests.  You’ll enjoy the picturesque setting, authentic Western Town and a tasty Chuckwagon Supper.  Following dinner, top off the evening with an outstanding Western Stage Show underneath a star filled Colorado Sky. (B,D)

This morning, visit the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center.  Here you will see a narrative film, then tour the training facilities, visit the Olympic Hall of Fame and finally the Olympic Spirit Store.

Next motor into Denver for an afternoon of sightseeing.  This City is almost like two different towns.  While it is very much a thriving metropolis it still sports a lot of old west character.  Drive past the the elegant Victorian homes on Larimer Square including the mansion of “Unsinkable Molly Brown”.

You’ll see the Gold Domed State Capitol and drive amongst the towering skyscrapers set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.  Returning to Colorado Springs enjoy dinner this evening at a local restaurant. (B,D)

Today enjoy a visit to the Royal Gorge often called the Grand Canyon of the Arkansas River.  The Royal Gorge Bridge is one of the worlds tallest suspension bridges, a sight so incredible that a park for tourists has grown around it.  Your admission ticket will allow you to ride the aerial tram and the Carousel and Silver Rock Railway.

You’ll also have a chance to walk across the Bridge, do the Cliff Walk, see live music shows, shop for souvenirs and more.  (B)

After breakfast, depart for home. (B)