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If you’re looking for one of the best scenic train rides in Colorado, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad should be at the top of your list. This historic railway travels through the breathtaking Royal Gorge, a 1,000-foot-deep canyon carved by the Arkansas River, offering incredible views that simply aren’t accessible by car.
I’ve had the chance to ride the Royal Gorge Route Railroad twice, and I already know I’ll be back. My first trip was during the Christmas season, when the festive decorations and holiday atmosphere made it feel like we had stepped aboard the Polar Express. On my second visit, an unexpected May snowstorm transformed the canyon into a winter wonderland. Watching fresh snow blanket the cliffs and riverbanks from the train was one of the most beautiful experiences I’ve had in Colorado.
Whether you’re visiting Colorado for the first time or you’re a local looking for an unforgettable day trip, this is an experience I recommend over and over again.
A Scenic Train Ride Through the Royal Gorge
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad departs from Cañon City, Colorado, about one hour southwest of Colorado Springs and roughly two and a half hours from Denver.
The train follows a 24-mile round-trip route through the famous Royal Gorge, where towering granite cliffs rise more than 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River. Along the journey, you’ll enjoy incredible views of the rushing river, dramatic canyon walls, wildlife, and the iconic Royal Gorge Bridge suspended high above the tracks.
One of my favorite parts of the ride is spending time in the open-air observation car. Even though we’ve booked Coach Class both times, we rarely stayed in our seats because the panoramic views outside were impossible to resist.
Royal Gorge Route Railroad Classes of Service
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers several seating options depending on your budget and the type of experience you’re looking for.
Coach Class
This is the option we’ve chosen both times and would absolutely book again.
Coach Class is the most affordable choice, making it perfect for families and casual travelers. The seats are comfortable, and guests can purchase food and drinks from the 403 Grill. Since everyone has access to the open-air observation car, we didn’t feel like we missed out on the scenery by choosing Coach.
Deluxe Class
If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, Deluxe Class features beautifully restored railcars with oversized windows, table seating, and full bar service. Guests can also enjoy meals made with locally sourced ingredients while taking in the incredible canyon views.
Vista Dome
For the best panoramic views, the Vista Dome is hard to beat.
Its glass-domed ceiling provides nearly uninterrupted views of the canyon above, while comfortable booth seating creates a relaxed atmosphere. Guests can enjoy breakfast or lunch and still step outside to the open-air observation car whenever they’d like.
First Class Dinner Train
The First Class Dinner Train combines fine dining with spectacular scenery.
Guests enjoy a multi-course gourmet meal featuring dishes such as Colorado prime rib or fresh salmon while traveling through the Royal Gorge. If you’re celebrating an anniversary or special occasion, this would be an unforgettable choice.
Ride with the Engineer
For train enthusiasts, the Ride with the Engineer experience offers a behind-the-scenes look inside the locomotive cab. You’ll learn about the railroad’s history while enjoying one of the most unique perspectives on the route.
Seasonal Events on the Royal Gorge Train
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers special themed rides throughout the year that make repeat visits worthwhile.
Santa Express
This was the experience that introduced us to the railroad, and it couldn’t have been more magical.
The train is decorated for Christmas, Santa visits every family, holiday music fills the railcars, and the entire canyon feels festive. We sipped hot toddies and steaming hot chocolate while singing Christmas carols with other passengers—it truly felt like stepping into a holiday movie.
Murder Mystery Dinner Train
This is still on our Colorado bucket list.
Guests work together to solve an interactive mystery while enjoying a gourmet dinner. If you’re looking for a unique date night or something different to do with visiting friends, this sounds like an unforgettable experience.
Holiday and Seasonal Celebrations
Throughout the year, the railroad also hosts themed rides for Mother’s Day, Easter, Valentine’s Day, New Year’s Eve, and other holidays.
That said, if it’s your first visit, I don’t think you need to wait for a special event. The standard ride is impressive enough on its own.
Tips for Planning Your Royal Gorge Route Railroad Trip
If you’re planning your first visit, here are a few tips from someone who’s ridden twice:
Bring your camera. You’ll want it ready when the train passes beneath the Royal Gorge Bridge.
Book your tickets early, especially during summer and the holiday season.
Choose an earlier departure if you’re driving from Denver so you can spend the rest of the day exploring Cañon City.
If you’re traveling with friends or family, purchase your tickets together to ensure you’ll be seated together.
Dress in layers. Colorado weather changes quickly, and you’ll probably spend plenty of time in the open-air observation car.
Is the Royal Gorge Route Railroad Worth It?
Absolutely.
I’ve experienced the Royal Gorge Route Railroad in both snowy winter conditions and springtime, and each trip has been completely different. The scenery is stunning, the ride is relaxing, and it’s one of the few Colorado attractions that both visitors and locals genuinely enjoy.
If you’re searching for one of the best day trips from Denver, a unique activity near Colorado Springs, or simply one of the most scenic train rides in Colorado, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad is well worth adding to your itinerary.
No matter which season you visit, you’ll leave with incredible photos and memories that last long after the train pulls back into Cañon City.
Oh Lexi – that train experience!' What a thrill that must be! I have for a very long time wanted to take the Canadian train across Canada ;but then I learned it did not go all the way to Calvary -and then of course I never did it! I love your posts – I get to ʺdo” and ʺsee” things vicariously! â¤ï¸â¤ï¸â¤ï¸