Explore Colorado’s Royal Gorge Route Railroad

Discover the beauty of Colorado through the historic Royal Gorge Route Railroad. This scenic railroad has been transporting passengers through the breathtaking Royal Gorge canyon along the Arkansas River since 1879, making it a symbolic transportation means in Colorado’s rich history.

Recognized as Colorado’s most famous scenic railroad and a popular attraction in the Colorado Springs area, this route was highlighted by Trains magazine as one of America’s top train experiences.

Moreover, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad is more than just a ride with incredible views. It also hosts themed rides, including a murder mystery train on Saturdays, twilight excursions, and the festive Santa Express Train in the winter months. Special events such as Oktoberfest celebrations and Mother’s Day brunches further enhance the experience.

This family-owned operation is notable for being the first in Colorado to provide first-class gourmet dining along with exceptional service. Unlike a standard snack cart, this train features five kitchens and four bars, offering a full-service culinary experience aboard.

It is essential to note that this train ride is not akin to an amusement park; while an amusement park resides at the Royal Gorge, the train experience emphasizes the preservation of the canyon and showcases a significant part of Colorado’s history.

Where to Catch the Train

Visitors can board the Royal Gorge Route Railroad daily at the Santa Fe Depot in Canon City, Colorado, located just a block south of Highway 50 and Third Street. Canon City is conveniently situated about 45 minutes from Colorado Springs and two hours from Denver, making it easily accessible.

The train operates from March through December, offering a seasonal adventure for travelers.

What You Can See From the Train

Passengers can enjoy stunning views as the train travels along the canyon, navigating 1,000-plus-foot cliffs of the Royal Gorge. The full tour stretches 24 miles roundtrip, with scenic rides lasting about two hours, and evening trips at 6:30 p.m. extending to two and a half hours. The journey takes passengers from Canon City to Parkdale, Colorado, right beneath the Royal Gorge suspension bridge.

The suspension bridge, an iconic structure highlighted throughout the journey, has been standing since 1879 and is currently 955 feet above ground level. It holds the title as the highest bridge in the United States and ranks among the top 20 highest in the world, having previously held the world record until it was surpassed by another bridge in China. Keep a lookout for local wildlife such as bald eagles and bighorn sheep on your trip!

Experience the Royal Gorge Canyon

Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Arkansas River,” the Royal Gorge promises extraordinary views for those unafraid of heights. This attraction covers 360 acres, surrounding the gorge on both sides of the striking suspension bridge. For those wishing to explore further post-train ride, aerial gondola rides and thrilling options like a skycoaster or zipline await adventurers.

Pricing Options

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad provides six diverse classes of service, each with a unique pricing structure:

• Coach class: Starting at $49 for adults and $44 for children (ages 3 to 12), with kids under 3 riding for free on an adult’s lap. Coach class still offers excellent views through large windows, plus food service is available.
• Club: Club class tickets are $59 for adults and $54 for children, providing a table and access to a bar, along with food offerings.
• Vista Domes: For unparalleled views, opt for Vista Dome seating at $74 for adults and $69 for children. These seats are designed for comfort in cozy booths.
• First Class Lunch Train: Enjoy a gourmet three-course lunch with wine for $114 per person, available on select dates. The minimum age for this class is 8.
• First Class Dome Dinner: Experience a three-course dinner with premium service in the dome at $124 per person, with the minimum age again set at 8. Dates vary throughout the week.
• Locomotive seat: For a unique experience, ride in the actual locomotive alongside an engineer for $150 each. Only two seats are available per ride, filling quickly. Minimum age is 13 when accompanied by an adult.
• Santa Train: During winter, the Santa Train offers discounted rates, with coach seats at $44 for adults and $39 for children. Passengers enjoy complimentary cookies and hot chocolate on the Santa Train.

Tips for Riding the Train

If you appreciate local brews, the train provides a solid selection of regional beers for your enjoyment. For budget-conscious travelers, consider purchasing the cheapest ticket and spending time in the open-air car, available to all class passengers. Remember to dress in layers; it is advisable to bring a jacket for chillier months and sunscreen during the summer when the sun can be particularly strong.

To secure the best seat—a window view beside the river—arrive early and plan your adventure accordingly.

The Railroad’s Unique History

The Royal Gorge railroad originated during the silver mining boom in the 1800s when railroads emerged to support the increased mining activity in Colorado’s mountainous regions. Constructing a railroad through the steep granite cliffs of the canyon was indeed a formidable challenge.

After the mining era ended, the railroad was revitalized as a scenic passenger train, making it a must-visit experience for over 100,000 visitors each year. Despite its restoration, the railroad preserves its mid-century charm and offers open-air cars for those wanting to enjoy fresh air and spectacular views.

The Royal Gorge suspension bridge was constructed in 1929, costing $350,000 at the time and now regarded as a $25 million engineering marvel.