COME TO LIFE Scenic & Historic Trains Ride back in time on Colorado’s scenic and historic railroads, many of which date back to the state’s mining days of the 1800s. These trains wind through breathtaking landscapes, offering a glimpse into Colorado’s rich heritage with jaw-dropping views you won’t find anywhere else. Take a Ride Leadville Railroad This route is ideal for seeing Colorado’s vibrant wildflowers in spring and summer as it navigates hairpin turns along the upper Arkansas River Valley. Keep an eye out for Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, the state’s two tallest peaks, as you listen to stories about Leadville’s colourful mining past. Go to Colorado.com/ TrainMuseums to learn more about museums that explore Colorado’s railroad history. Rockies to the Red Rocks via the Rocky Mountaineer This opulent ride provides an escape from reality for four days between Colorado and the state of Utah. Aboard the luxury glass-domed coaches, you’ll spot towering red-rock arches, vast deserts and deep canyons. Locally inspired dining, a sparkling wine toast as you cross the Continental Divide and a night in Glenwood Springs round out the excursion. Royal Gorge Route Railroad Royal Gorge Route Railroad Whisk along the curves of the Arkansas River and past the granite walls of the canyon this railway is named for. Book a Vista Dome seat for spectacular views out of the curved glass roof and enjoy a gourmet meal in first class accompanied by a well-curated wine, brew and cocktail list. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad This 1880 vintage line is best known for its appearance in “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.” A National Historic Landmark on wheels, the Cumbres & Toltec steams through the Rocky Mountains along cliffs, through narrow Toltec Gorge, over 10,000-foot (3,048-metre) Cumbres Pass and through miles of evergreen and aspen forests. access to classic American Southwest landscapes and attractions, such as Bent’s Old Fort and A.R. Mitchell Museum of Western Art. And, of course, there’s an observation car with sweet views. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad This 1880s steam-powered locomotive runs 200 feet (60 metres) above the blue-green waters of the Animas River. As it snakes along the river’s banks and high canyon walls, expect views of majestic peaks, rushing waterfalls and remote natural areas like the Animas Gorge and San Juan National Forest. Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad Climb onto the open-air cars pulled by a 15-tonne “iron horse” of a locomotive. Several stops along the route provide views and photo ops of Pikes Peak and old mining camps, as well as the opportunity to hear the train whistle ricochet off the walls of Echo Valley. Georgetown Loop Railroad Connecting the mining towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume, the Georgetown Loop Railroad was an engineering marvel of the 1800s. This short and sweet stretch of track traverses through the steep and narrow canyon, corkscrewing through craggy rock walls and gaining more than 600 feet (183 metres) in elevation on four bridges. Amtrak Southwest Chief This Amtrak line travels through the southeast corner of Colorado, providing The world’s highest cog railway is easily one of the most famous Colorado train rides, with its apex at the 14,107-foot (4,300-metre) summit of Pikes Peak. Your conductor narrates the journey with fun tidbits on area history and local lore, while you soak up views of sweeping plains and the Continental Divide. This daily Amtrak route is one of the most scenic train rides in the country. Sleeper cars, comfy seats, dining options and an observation car make this the choice for a spectacular trip that showcases varied landscapes. 36 COLORADO . COM MATTHEW INDEN/MILES PARTNERSHIP The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway Amtrak California Zephyr
Colorado Holiday Guide UK English 2025: Page 36
