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Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, the Georgetown Loop Railroad is much more than a scenic train ride, it’s a journey through Colorado’s rich mining history. Winding between the historic mountain towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume, this narrow-gauge railroad offers spectacular alpine views, fascinating history, and one of the best family-friendly day trips from Denver.
Whether you’re a history buff, train enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique Colorado adventure, the Georgetown Loop Railroad is an experience worth adding to your itinerary.
Why We Chose the Georgetown Loop Railroad
When my Nana talked about Colorado, she always mentioned “the trains in the mountains.” So when she came to visit, I knew a scenic railroad had to be part of her trip.
The Georgetown Loop Railroad was the perfect choice.
Located just under an hour west of Denver, Georgetown makes for an easy day trip. We loved being able to spend time exploring the charming mountain town before boarding the train, and it quickly became one of our favorite experiences to share with out-of-town visitors.
If you’re planning your first visit, here’s everything you need to know before riding the Georgetown Loop Railroad.
The History of the Georgetown Loop Railroad
Originally built in the 1880s during Colorado’s silver mining boom, the Georgetown Loop Railroad was considered one of the greatest engineering achievements of its time.
Miners needed a way to transport silver ore through the mountains, but engineers faced an enormous challenge: climbing more than 600 feet in elevation in just two miles.
Their solution became legendary.
The railroad features tight curves, dramatic trestle bridges, and the famous Georgetown Loop, where the train actually crosses over itself while traveling across the towering Devil’s Gate High Bridge.
After mining declined, the railroad closed in the 1930s. Thanks to decades of preservation efforts, it reopened in the 1980s as one of Colorado’s premier heritage railroads, allowing visitors to experience an important piece of the state’s history.
What to Expect on the Georgetown Loop Railroad
Today, the Georgetown Loop Railroad offers a 3.1-mile scenic journey between Georgetown and Silver Plume that takes approximately one hour round trip.
Passengers ride aboard restored vintage steam or diesel locomotives while traveling through spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery. Along the route you’ll enjoy:
- Towering mountain views
- Dense pine forests
- Historic mining sites
- The famous Devil’s Gate High Bridge
- Narrated stories about Colorado’s mining history
You can choose between enclosed cars or open-air coaches depending on the weather and your preference.
After the ride, be sure to stop by the gift shop for souvenirs before exploring the historic streets of Georgetown.
My Honest Review
The scenery is absolutely breathtaking.
One thing that surprised me, though, was how rustic the seating is. The Georgetown Loop Railroad prioritizes preserving the historic feel of the train, so don’t expect plush seats or luxury accommodations.
If you’re visiting on a cooler day or want a little extra comfort, I’d recommend bringing a small seat cushion or blanket. It made a noticeable difference for us, especially since mountain temperatures can feel much cooler than Denver.
Add-On Experiences
One of the best ways to enhance your visit is by adding the Lebanon Silver Mine Tour to your ticket.
This guided underground tour gives visitors an inside look at what life was like for Colorado miners during the late 1800s. Keep in mind that the mine tour isn’t recommended for children under five years old.
If you’re interested in Colorado history, it’s well worth adding to your visit.
Seasonal Events on the Georgetown Loop Railroad
The railroad also hosts several themed events throughout the year that make repeat visits worthwhile.
Some of the most popular include:
- Pumpkin Fest Trains during the fall
- Santa’s North Pole Adventure throughout the holiday season
- Wild West Days during the summer
These special events are especially popular with families, so tickets often sell out weeks in advance – check out the full event schedule.
Tips for Riding the Georgetown Loop Railroad
A little planning can make your trip even better.
Book your tickets early. Summer weekends, fall foliage season, and holiday events often sell out well in advance.
Dress in layers. Colorado mountain weather changes quickly, and open-air train cars can feel chilly—even during the summer.
Bring a blanket or seat cushion. The historic seats aren’t the most comfortable, especially for longer rides.
Spend time exploring Georgetown. Don’t rush back to Denver after your train ride. Georgetown is filled with charming local shops, cafés, restaurants, and museums. We loved grabbing coffee before wandering through the downtown shops, where I even found a great hat to bring home.
Have your camera ready. Crossing Devil’s Gate High Bridge is easily one of the most photogenic moments of the ride.
Is the Georgetown Loop Railroad Worth It?
Absolutely.
The Georgetown Loop Railroad perfectly combines Colorado history, spectacular mountain scenery, and family-friendly fun. While it isn’t a luxury train experience, that’s part of its charm. You’re riding a living piece of Colorado history through one of the state’s most beautiful mountain landscapes.
Whether you’re visiting Colorado for the first time or looking for one of the best day trips from Denver, the Georgetown Loop Railroad is an experience I’d happily recommend.
If you love scenic train rides, historic attractions, or simply want to slow down and enjoy the beauty of the Rockies, this railroad belongs on your Colorado bucket list.
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