Scenic train rides in Colorado for the whole family

Fall is almost here and Colorado is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, and exploring them by scenic trains can be a fantastic family activity. Here are some Colorado scenic trains that offer family-friendly experiences.

Are you looking to ditch the train and hit the trail? Check out Colorado hiking with kids: 50 hiking adventures for families  and scroll down for fun fall activities for families.

Colorado’s Best Scenic Trainrides with Kids

1. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: This historic train takes you on a spectacular journey through the San Juan Mountains. You and your family can board the steam-powered train in Durango and enjoy a round trip to the charming town of Silverton. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning mountain views, deep canyons, and the rushing Animas River. Start and End Points: Durango and Silverton.
2. Georgetown Loop Railroad: Located just outside of Denver, the Georgetown Loop Railroad offers an exciting adventure for families. The narrow gauge train winds its way through the Clear Creek Canyon, passing through historic mining sites and picturesque landscapes. Kids will love the open-air cars and the chance to experience a real steam locomotive in action. Start and End Points: Silver Plume and Georgetown.
3. Royal Gorge Route Railroad: Situated near Cañon City, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad combines awe-inspiring scenery with a delightful train ride. The train traverses the famous Royal Gorge, with towering cliffs and the Arkansas River below. This journey offers stunning views of the gorge and the opportunity to spot wildlife such as eagles and bighorn sheep. Start and End Point: Cañon City.
4. Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad: Crossing the border between Colorado and New Mexico, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is the highest and longest narrow gauge steam railroad in the country. Families can embark on a full-day or half-day adventure, witnessing remarkable landscapes, including alpine meadows, deep canyons, and dense forests. Start and End Points: Antonito, CO, and Chama, NM
5. Pikes Peak Cog Railway: While not a traditional scenic train, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers a unique experience for families. The cogwheel train ascends to the summit of Pikes Peak, one of Colorado’s famous fourteeners. Along the way, you’ll pass through different ecological zones, and at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and plains. Start and End Points: Manitou Springs. 
6. Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad. This ideal route for seeing Colorado in its autumn-color glory reaches up into the Continental Divide through hairpin turns along the upper Arkansas River Valley. Keep an eye out for Mount Elbert and Mount Massive, the state’s two tallest peaks. Start and End Points: Leadville and Climax.
7. Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad. Several stops along the route of this family-owned railroad 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. Start and End Points: Cripple Creek and Victor.
8. Rockies to the Red Rocks. The opulent Rocky Mountaineer trains provide an escape from reality for four days between Utah and Colorado. Aboard the 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 experience.  Start and End Points: Moab and Denver with a stop in Glenwood Springs.
9. Winter Park Express Ski Train. It’s hard to say you’ve been to Colorado if you’ve never taken part in this experience. There’s a special Amtrak train that leaves Union Station in Denver in the morning, and it heads up to Winter Park Resort to drop off passengers for a day on the slopes. It’s a tradition that dates back to 1912, but it fills up, so buy your tickets early. Plus, they have one-way tickets, just in case you never want to leave Winter Park. Start and End Points: Denver Union Station and winter Park. 

These scenic trains offer various amenities for families, including onboard narration, refreshments, and comfortable seating. It’s advisable to check the specific schedules, ticket prices, and availability in advance, as they may vary depending on the season. Enjoy your family adventure exploring the stunning Colorado landscapes by train!

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