Best Train Rides in the Colorado Rockies
Looking for a great family getaway into the mountains? Train rides are the best way to catch some incredible views without having to drive yourself up a dicey dirty road, and they’re perfect for the kids where a hike won’t suffice. Here are some great train rides to take your crew on this year in Colorado.
Georgetown Loop
Venture out with AVA Rafting & Zipline on this historic loop. It brings you a total of three miles, crosses you over four bridges, including the legendary Devil’s Gate High Bridge, sends you through two loops, and elevates you six hundred forty feet. The railroad was built in 1884 and was one of Colorado’s first ever tourist destinations. Additionally, this train was considered an engineering marvel of its time. The ride features a re-engineered feel from 100 years ago. From the train you’ll be able to see the once thriving mining towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume. The train ride lasts a few hours and is suitable for people of all ages. Is your youngest adventurer under three years old? They’ll be able to ride for free!
Image courtesy of AVA Rafting & Zipline.
Pike’s Peak Cog Railway
Wanting to stand atop a 14,000+ foot mountain without the hassle? Pike’s Peak is the highest railway in America, bringing riders to the summit of Pike’s Peak that overlooks the city of Colorado Springs. The track is vintage with a beautifully restored station, and the cars are upgraded and modern with large windows that offer you and other guests nearly unobstructed views of the beautiful mountains. This ride is conveniently open all year round to offer you plush colors during summer and spring, and snow-capped mountains in the winter.
Royal Gorge Route
The popular Royal Gorge Route starts in Canon City and loops around the area back to point A to conclude the trip. The ride features incredible views of the Royal Gorge and quickly flowing Arkansas River. If you choose first class seating, you’ll get to indulge in a gourmet lunch which includes grilled bourbon-glazed chicken and roasted pork osso bucco with an extensive list of wine.
Rio Grande Railroad
The Rio Grande Railroad is located in La Veta, Alamosa and Fort Garland, which are the starting and ending points of the trip. The original purpose for this railroad was to bring supplies into inaccessible mining locations daily. There are three routes that run along the edge of the San Isabel National Forest that take riders past historic areas still virtually inaccessible by any other way of transport. It is common to see a multitude of wildlife on the ride. A cool feature about this railroad, is that it is used to service one of the unique concert venues in the state for the Mountain Rails Live Summer Concert Series at Fir Summit Amphitheater.
Bring all generations on a railway adventure in Colorado this year! Whether your on the hunt for a unique date with your plus one or bringing the whole family, train rides are a great way to experience Colorado’s Rocky Mountains.
If you’re planning on any river ventures this year, call Colorado River Rentals for all of your equipment needs.