All aboard the Colorado express, where each train ride is a journey through time and nature, wrapped in the majestic beauty of the Rockies. From historic tracks to breathtaking views, these ten train rides offer a postcard-perfect escape from the everyday.
Grab your ticket and get ready to be whisked away by the rhythm of the rails as we explore these unforgettable experiences.
1. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Steam engines and mountain vistas; a combination as classic as peanut butter and jelly. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad takes you on an epic journey from the charming town of Durango to the historic mining town of Silverton. As you sway gently on the vintage train cars, you’ll find yourself mesmerized by the rugged beauty of the San Juan Mountains.
Listen to the whistle echoing through the canyon as you cross the Animas River, feeling like a prospector from the days of old. The train has been chugging along these tracks since 1882, and each trip is a tribute to a bygone era of American history.
With its coal-fired steam engines and panoramic views, this train ride is the quintessential Colorado experience. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, the sights and sounds will leave you enchanted. Pack a camera, because every twist and turn offers a view that begs to be captured.
2. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Imagine a journey on rails that feels like stepping into a living photograph. The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad offers precisely that with its stunning vistas and vintage charm. This historic train ride takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, from Chama, New Mexico, to Antonito, Colorado.
Pass through tunnels and over trestles as you climb to the summit of Cumbres Pass. At 10,015 feet, it’s the highest mountain pass reached by rail in North America. You’ll find yourself lost in the sweeping views of verdant valleys and soaring peaks.
Dating back to 1880, this scenic railroad is a National Historic Landmark. The gentle clatter of the tracks and the rhythmic puffing of steam create an ambiance that transports you back in time. This ride is more than a journey; it’s an experience that captures the essence of the Wild West.
3. Royal Gorge Route Railroad
Step aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, where adventure and elegance coalesce amidst the grandeur of the Colorado Rockies. This journey takes you through the iconic Royal Gorge, offering views that are nothing short of spectacular. As you glide along the tracks, marvel at the towering granite cliffs that frame the Arkansas River below.
The train offers a range of dining options, allowing you to indulge in a gourmet meal while soaking in the views. Whether you choose a seat in the Vista Dome car or the open-air gondola, every perspective is a picture-perfect memory waiting to happen.
Originally built in 1879, this route was once a battleground for railroad dominance. Today, it stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring beauty of nature. It’s a ride that promises to captivate both the heart and the senses.
4. Georgetown Loop Railroad
Feel the thrill of the old-time rails on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a marvel of 19th-century engineering. This train ride loops between Georgetown and Silver Plume, offering a taste of Colorado’s rich mining history as it climbs the steep terrain.
Marvel at the high trestle bridges that make this route famous, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding wilderness. The loop itself is a feat of engineering, designed to spiral up the steep grade with elegance and ease.
This train ride is like stepping into a time machine, offering a glimpse into the days when silver mining was king. With vintage steam engines and authentic rail cars, the Georgetown Loop Railroad offers an experience that is as nostalgic as it is exhilarating.
5. Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad
In the heart of the Rockies, the Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad offers a journey that is as enchanting as the town itself. Known as the highest railroad in the nation, it takes you on a two-and-a-half-hour round trip through the breathtaking Arkansas River Valley.
Catch sight of the towering peaks of the Continental Divide as you traverse this high-altitude paradise. Each view from the train is a reminder of Leadville’s rugged history and the indomitable spirit of its early settlers.
With its diesel locomotives and vintage passenger cars, this railroad offers a cozy and intimate look at one of Colorado’s most picturesque regions. It’s a ride that is bound to leave you with memories as grand as the mountains themselves.
6. San Luis & Rio Grande Scenic Line
Venture into the heart of Colorado’s San Luis Valley aboard the San Luis & Rio Grande Scenic Line. This train ride offers an unparalleled view of southern Colorado’s landscapes, from vast open plains to rugged mountain ranges.
The journey is as diverse as the scenery itself, with opportunities to see wildlife and explore the valley’s rich agricultural heritage. As the train winds through the landscape, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where time seems to stand still.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the San Luis & Rio Grande Scenic Line promises a journey of discovery. It’s a ride that offers both serenity and adventure, making it a must-see on any Colorado itinerary.
7. Pikes Peak Cog Railway
Climb to the heavens aboard the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, one of the most iconic train rides in Colorado. This railway takes you to the summit of Pikes Peak, offering views that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Ascend through forests of pine and aspen, past sparkling streams and rocky outcrops. As you near the summit, the landscape transforms into a tundra-like wonderland, with views that inspire awe at 14,115 feet.
The Pikes Peak Cog Railway is a feat of engineering, with a history dating back to 1891. It’s a ride that embodies the pioneering spirit of the West, offering an experience that is as exhilarating as it is unforgettable.
8. Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad
Step into the world of gold and glory on the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad. This delightful train ride takes you through the historic mining district of Cripple Creek, offering a peek into the past of Colorado’s gold rush era.
The train winds along its narrow tracks, passing old mines and rugged hillsides. Each mile is a story waiting to be told, from the bustling days of gold fever to the quiet beauty of today’s preserved landscapes.
With its authentic steam locomotive and charming cars, this railroad offers a nostalgic journey into the heart of Colorado’s mining heritage. It’s an experience that combines history, beauty, and a touch of whimsy.
9. Gilpin Tramway Heritage Run
Embark on a journey that echoes with the stories of miners and adventurers on the Gilpin Tramway Heritage Run. This unique tramway offers a glimpse into the early days of Colorado’s mining history, with restored tracks and vintage cars.
The route takes you through a landscape dotted with remnants of old mines and structures. It’s a ride that feels like uncovering a hidden chapter of history, with each turn revealing a new piece of the past.
With its quaint charm and historic allure, the Gilpin Tramway Heritage Run is a delightful escape into the world of Colorado’s mining legacy. It’s a ride that promises both education and enchantment.
10. Rio Grande Zephyr Heritage Excursion
Revisit the golden age of rail travel on the Rio Grande Zephyr Heritage Excursion. This train ride offers a nostalgic journey through some of Colorado’s most stunning landscapes, echoing with the grandeur of a bygone era.
Traveling along historic routes, the excursion offers a taste of luxury and elegance, with beautifully restored cars and attentive service. Each view from the train is a testament to the timeless beauty of Colorado’s diverse terrains.
The Rio Grande Zephyr was once a symbol of innovation and style, and this heritage excursion brings its legacy back to life. It’s a journey that combines history, elegance, and an appreciation for the artistry of rail travel.
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