Ride the Rails: Colorado Train Rides You’ll Never Forget

There’s something magical about hearing a train whistle echo through Colorado’s canyons.

Whether you’re soaking in hot springs, trekking mountain trails, or sipping wine in a historic downtown, hopping on a Colorado train is more than a journey—it’s a scenic time machine. From the rugged San Juan’s to Union Station’s polished platforms, these rail experiences combine history, adventure, and unmatched views.


🏞️ The Must-Experience Train Stations & Routes in Colorado

🚉 Denver Union Station

  • Vibe: Chic meets classic.

  • Why Go: Renovated into a world-class hub with boutique shops, restaurants, and The Crawford Hotel.

  • Tip: Ride the Winter Park Express ski train in winter for a snow-day adventure that starts downtown.


🚂 Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

  • Vibe: Wild West with steam and steel.

  • Why Go: This 1880s-style train carves through canyons and river valleys.

  • Bonus: Fall foliage season here is jaw-dropping.


🛤️ Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad (Antonito)

  • Vibe: Remote, rustic, and stunning.

  • Why Go: A full-day mountain journey between Antonito, CO, and Chama, NM—64 miles of vintage rail glory.

  • Bring: Layers! Weather shifts fast at high elevation.


🏰 Georgetown Loop Railroad

  • Vibe: Classic Colorado mining route.

  • Why Go: Just 45 minutes from Denver, this winding route includes bridges, tunnels, and a mine tour.

  • Great For: Families and weekend warriors.


🌄 Pikes Peak Cog Railway

  • Vibe: Sky-high adventure.

  • Why Go: Travel to the 14,115 ft summit of Pikes Peak. Panoramic views await.

  • Insider Tip: Book early—tickets sell out fast during peak season.


🛤️ Active Amtrak Routes

🚆 California Zephyr

  • Stops Include: Denver, Fraser-Winter Park, Glenwood Springs, and Grand Junction.

  • Best Leg: Denver to Glenwood Springs—watch the Rockies unfold.

  • Why It’s Cool: One of Amtrak’s most scenic long-distance routes in the U.S.

🚆 Southwest Chief

  • Stops Include: Lamar, La Junta, and Trinidad.

  • History: Once the flagship Santa Fe Railway line—Old West nostalgia meets modern Amtrak comfort.


🧭 Other Cool Colorado Train Stations Worth Visiting

  • Glenwood Springs Station – Walk from the platform to the hot springs.

  • La Junta Station – Southeast Colorado’s gateway to dinosaur tracks and desert parks.

  • Castle Rock Depot – A Victorian-era relic turned local museum.

  • Littleton Depot – Quaint, preserved, and perfect for a coffee stop and photo op.


🥾 Adventure Tips & Nearby Fun

  • Durango: Stay at the historic Strater Hotel and enjoy local distilleries.

  • Glenwood Springs: Soak in Iron Mountain Hot Springs after hopping off the Zephyr.

  • Georgetown: Pair your ride with a hike to Silver Dale or a brewery stop in Idaho Springs.

  • Antonito: Bring a picnic—there are quiet, scenic stops along the Cumbres route.

  • Denver: Don’t miss Snooze for brunch inside Union Station.


🧳 What to Bring Onboard

✔️ Light jacket (trains can get chilly)
✔️ Camera or smartphone with extra battery
✔️ Binoculars (for spotting elk and eagles)
✔️ Refillable water bottle
✔️ Snacks (especially on scenic routes without dining)


📍 Map + Printable Checklist Coming Soon

Check back for a downloadable Colorado Rail Adventure Map and printable train checklist—coming to GoColorado.com!


Want more rail-ready getaways, hidden hiking trails, and seasonal Colorado trip ideas?
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