2026 Southwest Railways Tour

Guests will fly into the Albequerque Sunport Airport and transfer to Santa Fe.
On arrival in Santa Fe, you’ll step into the spirit of the Old West with a stay at La Fonda on the Plaza, Santa Fe’s iconic hotel steeped in Southwestern charm and Harvey House history. Nestled in the heart of the  plaza, La Fonda offers handcrafted décor, vibrant local art, and timeless elegance that echo its railroad-era roots. As one of the original Harvey Hotels, it blends historic authenticity with modern luxury, making it the perfect gateway to Santa Fe’s culture, cuisine, and architectural beauty. Wake up to cathedral views, stroll to world-class galleries and shops, and relax where travelers have gathered for nearly a century. Your journey through the Southwest begins in true style—right where history and hospitality meet.

We start the day with a short drive to the Colorado Railroad museum in Golden to get an overview about the state’s railroad history.

Next we’ll head to Georgetown where you’ll have free time to explore and grab lunch before we hop into our private car on the Georgetown Loop Railroad.

A morning drive brings us to Antonito, where we meet the Cumbres & Toltec Railroad for our all-day narrow-gauge excursion from Antonito to Chama.  

On the C&T, step aboard a historic steam train and journey through breathtaking mountain meadows, dramatic canyons, and towering trestles on your way to Chama. Feel the rhythm of the rails as plumes of steam rise against the backdrop of the Rockies, offering a nostalgic glimpse into the golden age of rail travel. After this unforgettable six-hour ride, you’ll be met in Chama for a scenic drive through the mountains to Durango. Settle in for a two-night stay in this vibrant western town, where charm and adventure meet. As evening falls, stroll along Durango’s historic Main Avenue, filled with lively restaurants, boutique shops, and a warm Southwestern spirit.

Depart from Durango in the morning for a picturesque journey into the San Juan Mountains, where rugged peaks and winding roads lead you to the historic town of Silverton. Spend time leisurely exploring Silverton’s charming streets, filled with quaint shops, cozy cafés, and echoes of its mining past. As the afternoon unfolds, enjoy a breathtaking return drive along the famed Million Dollar Highway, where every curve reveals sweeping alpine vistas and dramatic mountain scenery. Back in Durango, settle in and unwind after a day of exploration and adventure.

Begin your day with a scenic drive from Durango to Mesa Verde National Park, where history and landscape merge in a breathtaking display. Stop first at the Visitor and Research Center to orient yourself before journeying up the mesa, taking in panoramic overlooks and rugged canyon views along the way. Explore the park’s ancient cliff dwellings—such as the awe-inspiring Cliff Palace and Spruce Tree House—and gain a deeper understanding of the ancestral Puebloan people at the museum and visitor exhibits.

After your exploration, continue your adventure with a picturesque desert drive toward Monument Valley, where towering red mesas rise from the vast horizon. Arrive at Goulding’s Lodge in time to unwind and watch the sunset over the iconic buttes, painting the landscape in shades of gold and crimson.

Wake up to the serene beauty of Monument Valley, where the morning light illuminates the iconic sandstone buttes just beyond your window at Goulding’s Lodge. Embark on a guided Jeep tour through the valley’s awe-inspiring landscapes, weaving among towering rock formations and learning about Navajo culture and the land’s deep history. After your adventure, enjoy lunch on-site with panoramic desert views as your backdrop. In the afternoon, set out on a scenic drive toward the Grand Canyon, passing through sweeping red rock country and high desert vistas. As you approach the canyon, the landscape opens up to reveal one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders, the perfect finale to a day of discovery and beauty.

Begin your day with a scenic drive along the Grand Canyon’s breathtaking rim, stopping at iconic viewpoints such as Hopi Point and Mohave Point to take in sweeping vistas of the canyon’s vast beauty.

After exploring the rim, make your way to the historic Grand Canyon Railway station in the village, where vintage charm meets modern comfort. Board the afternoon train to Williams for a nostalgic ride filled with lively entertainment and stunning views of the high desert.

Upon arrival in Williams, we will check into the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel.

Enjoy a relaxed morning in the charming town of Williams before setting out on a scenic drive to Clarkdale, where your next adventure awaits aboard the Verde Canyon Railway. Step into your private railcar, complete with comfortable seating and personalized catering, for an unforgettable afternoon journey. As the train winds through red rock canyons, lush riverbanks, and towering cliffs, savor both the views and the atmosphere of this historic route. After the four-hour ride, return to the road for a smooth drive south through Arizona’s stunning desert landscapes. Conclude your day with a comfortable stay at your airport hotel in Phoenix, reflecting on the beauty and tranquility of your final rail experience.

From our airport hotel you can have breakfast and then depart for Phoenix International Airport at your leisure using the hotel shuttle service.