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
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Vibe: Chic meets classic.
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Why Go: Renovated into a world-class hub with boutique shops, restaurants, and The Crawford Hotel.
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Tip: Ride the Winter Park Express ski train in winter for a snow-day adventure that starts downtown.
🚂 Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
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Vibe: Wild West with steam and steel.
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Why Go: This 1880s-style train carves through canyons and river valleys.
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Bonus: Fall foliage season here is jaw-dropping.
🛤️ Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad (Antonito)
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Vibe: Remote, rustic, and stunning.
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Why Go: A full-day mountain journey between Antonito, CO, and Chama, NM—64 miles of vintage rail glory.
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Bring: Layers! Weather shifts fast at high elevation.
🏰 Georgetown Loop Railroad
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Vibe: Classic Colorado mining route.
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Why Go: Just 45 minutes from Denver, this winding route includes bridges, tunnels, and a mine tour.
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Great For: Families and weekend warriors.
🌄 Pikes Peak Cog Railway
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Vibe: Sky-high adventure.
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Why Go: Travel to the 14,115 ft summit of Pikes Peak. Panoramic views await.
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Insider Tip: Book early—tickets sell out fast during peak season.
🛤️ Active Amtrak Routes
🚆 California Zephyr
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Stops Include: Denver, Fraser-Winter Park, Glenwood Springs, and Grand Junction.
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Best Leg: Denver to Glenwood Springs—watch the Rockies unfold.
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Why It’s Cool: One of Amtrak’s most scenic long-distance routes in the U.S.
🚆 Southwest Chief
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Stops Include: Lamar, La Junta, and Trinidad.
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History: Once the flagship Santa Fe Railway line—Old West nostalgia meets modern Amtrak comfort.
🧭 Other Cool Colorado Train Stations Worth Visiting
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Glenwood Springs Station – Walk from the platform to the hot springs.
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La Junta Station – Southeast Colorado’s gateway to dinosaur tracks and desert parks.
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Castle Rock Depot – A Victorian-era relic turned local museum.
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Littleton Depot – Quaint, preserved, and perfect for a coffee stop and photo op.
🥾 Adventure Tips & Nearby Fun
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Durango: Stay at the historic Strater Hotel and enjoy local distilleries.
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Glenwood Springs: Soak in Iron Mountain Hot Springs after hopping off the Zephyr.
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Georgetown: Pair your ride with a hike to Silver Dale or a brewery stop in Idaho Springs.
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Antonito: Bring a picnic—there are quiet, scenic stops along the Cumbres route.
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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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