California Zephyr in Colorado

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Seaboard92

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Hey guys. I have a friend from work who wants to take a day trip by rail into the Rockies from Denver. Then go hiking furring the layover. Which stops would you recommend for her. With hiking close by. Isn't the Winter Park stop on a Ski Resort? Thank you
 
All things considered, Glenwood Springs would be better, but requires an overnight stay!

Winter Park/Fraser doesn't allow much more than a Lunch break after #5 arrives before #6 catching #6 back to Denver so spending the night there would be a good idea also!( the Amtrak stop is actually @ Fraser)
 
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Winter Park stop is actually in Granby (I think), it's not actually at the ski area. There used to be a ski train that ran to the resort, but that shut down some years ago.
 
Winter Park stop is actually in Granby (I think), it's not actually at the ski area. There used to be a ski train that ran to the resort, but that shut down some years ago.
The Winter Park stop is actually in Fraser - about six miles up US 40 from the ski area. Granby is the next stop west.
 
I would also suggest Glenwood Springs. First of all, there is the large hot springs and spa. Secondly, the bike/pedestrian trail up the canyon is not to be missed. You will see it from across the river from the train, but the best view - with the ability to stop when you want - is to be had on the trail. It is paved all the way, and in the vicinity of 12 miles each way if I remember correctly. So a fairly easy bike ride. You can rent bikes in downtown Glenwood Springs. One of the stopping points on the trail is the trailhead up to Hanging Lake. This is for hiking only, but pretty spectacular. Last time I was there, I biked the canyon trail and did the climb to Hanging Lake. Terrific views from the trail as it winds around mostly under I-70. You can see the train track on the other side, including the Zephyr going by if you time your bike/hike right.
 
I heartily agree that Glenwood Springs is the place to go for hiking and biking into Glenwood Canyon. There are also bike trails south from town towards Aspen that follow a former RR ROW. There is even a short hike from GSC up the eastern hillside to a cemetery where Doc Holliday is buried.
 
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