Southwest Colorado meets the hype

Our bucket list was long when we arrived in Grand Junction, Colo., following an eight-hour train ride from Denver aboard Amtrak's California Zephyr. With so much to explore in southwest Colorado, where to begin?

We checked into our hotel and made a beeline for Colorado National Monument. By day, beautiful. By sunset, stunning. Pictures and details to come in a separate package.

We dipped into eastern Utah for a day at Arches National Park and back into Colorado for exploration at Mesa Verde National Park. Again, more pictures and information will follow later.

I just like saying the word Durango. A stroll down the main drag lived up to the hype. It was time to climb into our rental car and make our way to Silverton. Nestled in the mountains in the middle of seemingly nowhere, the historic town includes a variety of eateries, shops and a train depot, where steam-powered trains can be spotted en route to and from Durango.

We spent an afternoon exploring Ouray, often referred to as the Little Switzerland of America. This included a soak at a neighboring hot springs.

Finally, no trip to southwest Colorado is complete without a stop at the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. We gazed over the 2,000-foot sheer cliffs from the safety of the rim and pondered the geologic history that prevailed. Pure splendor.

1/5: It has been said that no other North American canyon combines the sheer walls and dramatic depths of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. The national park may be viewed by driving the scenic rim road or by hiking into the canyon. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, including deer and a wide variety of birds.

2/5: Valor keeps watch outside the Silverton Hostel, where walk-ins are welcome.

3/5: It has been said that no other North American canyon combines the sheer walls and dramatic depths of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. The national park may be viewed by driving the scenic rim road or by hiking into the canyon. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, including deer and a wide variety of birds.

4/5: All aboard! Hop a steam-powered train in Durango and wind your way through the scenic backcountry wilderness to Silverton.

5/5: Enjoy a scenic but harrowing drive from Silverton to Ridgway for breakfast at Kate's Place.