The 7 most scenic train rides around Colorado
Experience the start of Colorado’s locomotive history with these seven scenic train rides that still operate today.
Editor’s Note: Some of these trains operate seasonally. Check with official websites to make your reservation for a ride.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Ride (Photo) Credit Larry Lamsa (flickr)
1. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Ride
During Colorado’s colorful autumn season, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Ride is a can’t-miss experience to see aspens in full fall glow. This authentic steam train cruises through the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and New Mexico.
Photo Credit: Larry Lamsa (flickr).
Royal Gorge Train (Photo) Credit SWKrullImaging (iStock)
2. Royal Gorge Route Railroad
Dubbed a ‘rolling restaurant,’ the Royal Gorge Route Railroad winds through the canyon walls in the Cañon City area, following the Arkansas River.
Photo Credit: SWKrullImaging (iStock).
Georgetown Loop Railroad (Photo) Credit Jerry Huddleston (flickr)
3. Georgetown Loop Railroad
Breathe in fresh mountain air on a relaxing railroad ride in open-air cars through the Rocky Mountains via the Georgetown Loop Railroad.
Photo Credit: Jerry Huddleston (flickr).
Cripple Creek Train (Photo) Credit Donald Eugene Hammond (iStock)
4. Cripple Creek Railroad
The Cripple Creek Railroad is one of the most historic routes in Colorado. The 100-year-old steam engine travels through the gold mining areas of Cripple Creek and Victor.
Photo Credit: Donald Eugene Hammond (iStock)
Rio Grande Scenic Railroad (Photo) Credit Larry Lamsa (flickr)
5. Rio Grande Scenic Railroad
The scenic route followed by this southwestern Colorado train remains relatively unspoiled by civilization, traveling between Alamosa and La Veta. Rich history, breathtaking natural views, and quiet smalltowns are all features along the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad.
Photo Credit: Larry Lamsa (flickr).
Leadville Train (Photo) Credit chapin31 (iStock)
6. Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad
As the old saying goes, "it's not the destination, but the journey that's important." Experience 2.5 hours of Rocky Mountain terrain in comfort via the Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad.
Photo Credit chapin31 (iStock).
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (Photo) Credit miroslav_1 (iStock)
7. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
One of the most popular train rides in Colorado is the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad through the San Juan mountains. This ride is known for cliffside views, adding a kick of adrenaline to this experience.
Photo Credit: miroslav_1 (iStock).
Pikes Peak Cog Railway (Photo) Credit SondraP (iStock)
BONUS: The Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway (returning soon)
The expected May 2021 return of The Broadmoor Manitou & Pikes Peak Cog Railway is one of the most anticipated happenings of the year in Colorado’s tourism sector. This railway first opened in 1891 and will now reopen with new railcars, a new track, and a new depot, taking riders to a soon-to-open 38,000-square-foot Pikes Peak Summit Complex at 14,115 feet above sea-level.
Photo Credit: SondraP (iStock).
(1) comment
The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad went bankrupt in 2019. While it may reopen someday with a new owner, it is not in operation today and the link to its former website is dead. Please update this article.
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