The original train ceased operation in 1970, though the D&RGW continued to operate its own passenger service, the Rio Grande Zephyr, between Salt Lake City and Denver, using the original equipment until 1983.
Den oprindelige California Zephyr ophørte i 1970, men D&RGW fortsatte indtil 1983 med sit eget passagertog, kaldet Rio Grande Zephyr, mellem Salt Lake City og Denver, med brug af deres oprindelige materiel.