Colorado’s historic railways offer some of the most spectacular mountain views in
North America, winding through canyons, climbing steep passes, and crossing
dramatic landscapes that can’t be seen any other way. These engineering marvels, many built during the mining boom of the 1800s, now serve as scenic railways that let you experience the Rockies in comfort and style.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
This historic narrow-gauge railroad climbs 3,000 feet through the spectacular Animas
Canyon, following the same route miners took to the silver-rich mountains in 1882.
The coal-fired steam locomotive winds along cliff edges and through pristine
wilderness areas inaccessible by car, offering breathtaking views of the San Juan
Mountains.
You can choose between open-air gondolas or classic parlor cars for the 45-mile journey, with seasonal special events, including winter polar express rides and fall photographer’s specials.
Royal Gorge Route Railroad
Traveling through the 1,000-foot-deep Royal Gorge, this train offers Colorado’s most
dramatic canyon views from both dome and open-air cars. The route passes under
the famous Royal Gorge Bridge, providing unique photo opportunities of America’s
highest suspension bridge.
First-class passengers enjoy full-service meals in restored 1950s Vista dome cars, with seasonal themed rides including murder mysteries and wine dinners.
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Georgetown Loop Railroad
This engineering marvel makes a spectacular spiral climb between Georgetown and
Silver Plume, gaining more than 600 feet in elevation over its 3-mile route. The train
crosses the dramatic Devil’s Gate High Bridge, offering panoramic views of the
surrounding mountains and historic mining district.
Optional mine tours let you explore a historic silver mine at the halfway point.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
America’s longest and highest narrow-gauge railroad crosses the Colorado-New
Mexico border multiple times as it climbs over 10,015-foot Cumbres Pass. The 64- mile journey includes passage through Toltec Gorge, where the tracks cling to sheer
cliff walls hundreds of feet above the river.
Steam locomotives pull both open and enclosed cars through remote wilderness areas where wildlife sightings are common.
Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad
This high-altitude adventure climbs into the San Isabel National Forest, offering
spectacular views of Colorado’s two highest peaks, Mt. Elbert and Mt. Massive. The
conductor provides entertaining commentary about Leadville’s wild mining history
and points out historic mines along the route.
Fall color trips are particularly popular as the train passes through vast aspen forests that turn brilliant gold.
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Rio Grande Scenic Railroad
Departing from Alamosa, this standard-gauge railroad climbs La Veta Pass, offering
access to otherwise unreachable mountain concert venues. The route passes
through pristine wilderness areas where elk and eagles are commonly spotted.
Summer music festivals at Fir Summit combine live performances with spectacular
mountain scenery.
Winter Park Express
Running from Denver’s Union Station directly to Winter Park Resort, this seasonal
train offers car-free access to Colorado’s favorite ski destination. The route through
Moffat Tunnel provides spectacular views of the Front Range and Continental Divide.
Comfortable Amtrak coaches feature large windows and café service during the two-
hour journey.
Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway
North America’s highest railway climbs to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak on a
recently modernized track system that uses modern Swiss technology to ensure a
smooth ride to the summit while maintaining its historic charm. The train ascends
through several climate zones, passing pristine mountain lakes and ancient
bristlecone pine forests.
The new Swiss-made coaches offer panoramic views and oxygen-enriched air for passenger comfort at high altitudes.
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Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad
This family-friendly short line offers a 45-minute trip through a historic gold mining
country near America’s greatest gold camp. Open-air cars provide 360-degree views of abandoned mines and historic structures from the 1890s gold rush.
The conductor shares entertaining stories about the area’s colorful mining history and points out active modern mining operations. Special photography trips allow passengers to capture images of the train against spectacular mountain backdrops.
Durango Blues Train
This unique musical experience combines a night-time train ride with live blues
performances in different cars. The vintage train features multiple stages where
passengers can move between cars to enjoy different performers.
The four-hour round trip through the Animas Valley includes dinner and dancing under the stars.
Royal Gorge Santa Express
During winter months, this special evening train transforms into a magical holiday
journey to the ‘North Pole.’ Children receive special visits from Santa while enjoying
hot chocolate and cookies in decorated cars.
The gorge’s dramatic walls are illuminated by thousands of holiday lights during the journey.
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Amtrak California Zephyr
While not exclusively a scenic train, the section between Denver and Glenwood
Springs offers some of Colorado’s most spectacular rail views. The route follows the
Colorado River through Glenwood Canyon, where sheer walls rise 2,000 feet above
the tracks.
Glass-domed observation cars provide panoramic views of the journey through the heart of the Rockies.
Colorado State Fair Train
Operating only during the annual state fair in Pueblo, this special excursion
combines mountain views with historic railroad heritage. The route follows
abandoned mining tracks that once served the Colorado Fuel and Iron steel mill.
Passengers learn about Colorado’s industrial history while enjoying scenic views of
the Front Range.
Wild West Train
Based in Morrison, this themed excursion recreates the experience of riding the rails
in the 1880s. Costumed performers stage realistic train robberies and Western
entertainment during the journey.
The route offers excellent views of the red rock formations in the Morrison area.
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Bennett Scenic Journey
This rural railroad experience travels through Colorado’s eastern plains with views of
the Front Range. The restored 1920s coaches provide a comfortable journey through
working ranch land.
Special sunset trips offer spectacular views of the mountains silhouetted against Colorado’s famous western skies.
Fort Collins Municipal Railway
While technically a streetcar rather than a train, this restored trolley offers scenic
rides through Fort Collins’ historic district. The beautifully maintained Car 21
operates on summer weekends along Mountain Avenue, which is lined with historic
homes and mature trees.
Volunteer conductors share stories about the city’s transportation history during the 3-mile round trip.
Georgetown Christmas Market Train
During December weekends, this special version of the Georgetown Loop features
Santa visits and holiday decorations. The train passes through a winter wonderland
of snow-covered peaks and decorated historic buildings.
Evening rides offer views of Georgetown’s famous Victorian Christmas lighting displays.
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Colorado Railroad Museum Rides
The museum’s collection of historic locomotives offers short rides around the
museum grounds every Saturday. Different historic engines, including steam
locomotives, operate throughout the year.
Special themed events include ‘Days Out With Thomas’ for young children and ‘Ride The Rails Saturday’ featuring rare motive power.
Tiny Town Railroad
Perfect for families with young children, this miniature railway circles Colorado’s
oldest kid-sized village. The 15-inch gauge steam locomotives are exact 1/6 scale
replicas of historic Colorado trains.
The mile-long track offers views of handcrafted miniature buildings representing Colorado’s architectural history.
Royal Gorge Dinner Train
This elegant evening experience combines gourmet dining with spectacular sunset
views through the gorge. The restored vintage dining cars offer white-tablecloth service featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Murder mystery dinner trains add an element of entertainment to the scenic journey.
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Manitou Springs Cog Railway Winter Special
Special winter excursions offer unique views of snow-covered Pikes Peak and
opportunities to spot bighorn sheep. The heated coaches provide comfort while
traveling through dramatic winter landscapes.
Sunrise trips offer spectacular photography opportunities as the sun illuminates snow-covered peaks.
Leadville Holiday Lights Train
During December evenings, this special train travels through Colorado’s highest
incorporated city decked out in holiday lights. The heated coaches offer comfort
while viewing the Victorian architecture illuminated for the season.
Hot chocolate and cookies complete the festive mountain experience.
Enjoy Scenic Train Rides Through Colorado’s History
These historic railways preserve an important part of Colorado’s heritage while
offering access to some of the state’s most spectacular scenery. Each route provides
a unique perspective on the state’s diverse landscapes, from deep canyons to high
mountain passes and mining camps to ranching country.
Whether you’re a serious rail enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable way to
experience Colorado’s natural beauty, these scenic train rides offer unforgettable
journeys through the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
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