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Top Train Rides In Colorado

5 Scenic Journeys You Won't Want to Miss

Want to enjoy Colorado’s rugged terrain without the trouble of driving your car? No need to worry. There are a variety of ways to explore the natural beauty Colorado has to offer, and many can only be seen by train. For just the price of one ticket, you can experience any of the fascinating trips below. Here are the top train rides in Colorado.

5. Rio Grande Scenic Railroad

Departing the town of Alamosa which is near Great Sand Dunes National Park, the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad roams among the Sangre de Cristo and San Juan mountain ranges. The air-conditioned, steam and diesel locomotives promise an 8-hour round trip that features wildlife sightings and sweeping vistas of rugged mountains. One of the popular events on the train rides is the Mountain Rails Live which offers you the opportunity to travel with world-class musicians to Fir Summit, a concert venue which can only be accessed by rail.

4. Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad

Designated a National Historic Landmark, this railroad was ranked number one in the USA’s best Readers Choice Poll for American Train Rides. It’s America’s longest and highest narrow gauge railroad, providing full and half-day trips through iconic landscapes of Cumbres Pass, the San Juan Mountains, the 1883 Lobato, and Toltec Gorge. Don’t worry about lunch on this 64-mile journey as your ticket price includes a buffet lunch in Osier, CO.

3. Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad

The name might sound stuffy but don’t let it deter you from visiting this railroad for an unforgettable adventure. The century-old steam locomotive offers a 45-minute ride that will take you back to the days of gold mining. The ride trip takes a short journey through the historic mines while featuring stops for photos of the beautiful scenery. You don’t need to worry about missing this exciting experience as the train runs every 40 minutes, starting at 10 am and ending at 5 pm.

2. Georgetown Loop Railroad

Considered an engineering marvel of its time when it was completed in 2884, Georgetown Loop Train was originally used to transport folks among mining towns. The track travels between Georgetown and Silverplume on a journey through mountainous terrains, offering a true Colorado train experience. What’s more, you will be able to get up close and personal with burros at the Silver Mine. Georgetown Loop Railroad is now listed on the U.S. National register of historic places, attracting droves of tourists who are looking to discover Colorado.

1. Durango Silverton Train

The >Durango Silverton Train<> offers a year-round ride on a restored steam train that travels the same distance once journeyed by miners and settlers of the Wild West. The train ride through the San Juan National Forest features breathtaking views and a trip back in time for those who are interested in knowing everything about the train. An additional plus: you can gain free entry into the Durango train museum after the trip to see the displayed artifacts and other authentic items.

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