If you are having a hard time finding inspiration, sign up for some of the best Colorado train trips. The railroad enthusiasts in your life will enjoy them and the newbies will soon fall in love with access to some of the most epic scenery in Colorado. Along with the panoramic views, some of the first-class dining experiences, service, and special events on these excursions are unforgettable. If you are looking for a fun and unique experience, you’ll want to hop aboard one of these eight best train rides in Colorado:

1. Georgetown Loop Railroad (Georgetown)
Georgetown Loop Railroad, 646 Loop Dr, Georgetown, CO 80444, USA
Georgetown Loop Railroad Facebook
Originally opened in 1886, the Georgetown Loop and its narrow tracks were considered to be an engineering marvel for its time. Today, visitors of all ages can ride, dine, and even stop for a little gold panning on this historic treasure, and one of the best train rides in Colorado.

Take a look at this video by @WereintheRockies:
2. Pikes Peak Cog Railway (Manitou Springs)
Pikes Peak Cog Railway Facebook
Climb aboard the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, with nonstop service from Manitou Springs to Pikes Peak via steam train. This is one of the best train trips in Colorado.
3. Royal Gorge Route Railroad (Canon City)
Royal Gorge Route Railroad, S 3rd St, Cañon City, CO 81212, USA
Royal Gorge Route Railroad Facebook
Quite possibly one of the most famous of Colorado railroads is the Royal Gorge; an excursion train that offers not only your standard cab and club rides but special experiences, such as murder mysteries, Santa Express, wine dinners, and so much more on this Colorado railroad.
4. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (Durango)
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, 479 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301, USA
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Facebook
Your eyes do not deceive you; that IS in fact Snoopy and he is just one of many special guests who make a regular appearance on the historic steam railroad, depending on the event, of course. This railroad offers some of the most scenic train rides in Colorado.

Take a look at this video by @AdventureEveryDay:

Related Stories

There’s A Little-Known, Fascinating Train Park In Colorado And You’ll Want To Visit

There’s A Little-Known, Fascinating Train Park In Colorado And You’ll Want To Visit

 This Colorado Christmas Town Is Straight Out Of A Norman Rockwell Painting

This Colorado Christmas Town Is Straight Out Of A Norman Rockwell Painting

 Visit These 12 Incredible Charming Small Towns In Colorado, One For Each Month Of The Year

Visit These 12 Incredible Charming Small Towns In Colorado, One For Each Month Of The Year
5. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad (Antonino)
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, 5234 US Hwy 285, Antonito, CO 81120, USA
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Facebook
The bi-state railroad, which is owned by both Colorado and New Mexico, boasts scenic excursions between Antonino and Chama, New Mexico every summer. It is one of the best scenic train rides in Colorado.
6. Rocky Mountaineer (Denver)
Rocky Mountaineer, 1660 Wynkoop St Ste 120, Denver, CO 80202, USA
Rocky Mountaineer/Facebook
Settle into one of these custom-designed coaches for an epic train ride that feels like you are watching a movie, with unbelievable panoramic views between Moab, Utah to Denver, Colorado. The dining is exquisite with a regionally-inspired menu. Sleeping arrangements are not available on the Rocky Mountaineer but there is a hotel stay in Glenwood Springs.
7. Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad (Leadville)
Leadville Railroad, 326 E 7th St, Leadville, CO 80461, USA
Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad Facebook
How fabulous is this picture? These lucky people are relaxing, taking in the astonishing Rocky Mountains, AND eating tender, fall-of-the-bone BBQ. Want in on the action? Be sure to check out Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad's special events.

Take a look at this video by @Denver7:
8. Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad (Cripple Creek)
Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad, 520 E Carr Ave, Cripple Creek, CO 80813, USA
Jess A./Yelp
Last but certainly not least is the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad; a 15-ton locomotive that offers 45-minute tours that are sure to bring smiles to everyone's faces. It's one of the most fun Colorado train trips you can take!

Have you had the opportunity to take any of the best scenic Colorado train trips? If you have, please tell us about your experience in the comments below. And if you are seeking other activities in the rugged state’s wide open spaces, check out this bucket list of things to do outside in Colorado. If you need a place to stay while exploring the stay, here are the best places to stay in Colorado.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Things To Do In Colorado

Carolyn Harmon | September 19, 2022

What is another way to enjoy trains in Colorado?

Go see what more than 150,000 visitors have experienced at the Colorado Model Railroad Museum in Greeley. Here's what you can enjoy about it:

  • This 5,500-square-foot, nonprofit, facility is full of handmade railroad artifacts and memorabilia.
  • From more than 500 scale locomotives, 80 miles of train track, and hundreds of railroad sceneries, you are sure to find something that piques your railroad interest.
  • Its thoughtful open-air design has broad aisles with theatrical lighting to enhance the experience.
  • You can tour the 1919 Colorado and Southern Caboose.

 

What is another one of the best unforgettable experiences in Colorado?

Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado, Glen Eyrie is a 1903 English Tudor-style castle. Here are some of the reasons why visiting is such an unforgettable experience in Colorado:

  • Glen Eyrie offers an abundance of activities: Enjoy a spot of tea Wednesday-Sunday in the Castle Music Room and Library Wednesdays, take a tour, or have lunch at the bookstore and coffee shop.
  • Its history is fascinating. Founded in 1871, it was the home of William Jackson Palmer and his wife Mary “Queen” Mellen, and their three daughters. Founder of Colorado Springs, Palmer was also a Brigadier General in the Union Army during the Civil War and president of The Denver and Rio Grande Railroad. After changing ownership several times, Glen Eyrie was purchased as the headquarters of The Navigators in 1953, which still maintains it as the group's headquarters.
  • People are invited to visit the historic castle tours for overnight stays, conferences, and its many other offerings. 

 

What is another way near me to experience the outdoor scenery in Colorado? 

This Colorado road trip takes you from the wineries of the Western Slope to the tolling Eastern Plains. Here are the stops:

  • It begins with the Grande River Vineyards in Palisade, where you can wet your whistle and take a tour.
  • Next is lunch at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort in Glenwood Springs.
  • Then it's off to see the natural wonder of Dotsero Volcano in Dotsero.
  • turn to some shopping opportunities at Breckenridge.
  • Ride the carousel at the colorful Nederland community.
  • Finally, wander around the Brush Prairie Ponds State Wildlife Area in Brush.

 

This trip offers some of the best sightseeing areas in Colorado.

Related Articles

Explore Colorado