Check out the best fall train rides in Colorado for leaf peeping! Visitors and locals alike flock every fall to see Colorado’s amazing show of autumn foliage. Some stroll through a park, some hike the hills, some jog, and some bike, while others enjoy a leisurely Sunday drive. But why not consider doing your leaf peeping from a train? Below are four train rides to enjoy Colorado’s fall colors. One is west of Denver in a historic mining town, one is half train/half truck in the Denver metro area, one is at an elevation of 10,000 feet, and one is two hours south of Denver through a dramatic canyon. They are all a little different, and there’s something for every budget.
Georgetown Loop Railroad & Mining Park
The Loop was originally built in 1884 to connect Georgetown and Silver Plume during Colorado’s Silver Boom era. It includes a steep elevation gain of 640 feet in a relatively short distance with hairpin curves, trestles, and a loop where the track crosses itself to handle the steep terrain. You’ll see old mining structures on the hillsides in this Georgetown–Silver Plume National Historic District.
On the ride, you’ll rumble through golden and green mountains, rugged canyons, and 14’er peaks. The train will cross the High Bridge (a tall trestle) and you’ll see dramatic views into the valley below. The ride goes through forests, rivers, and past old gold mine structures. Many people mention that the views are “photographer’s gold,” especially with the changing daylight and golden colors against the evergreen trees and bright blue Colorado sky.
Distance & Travel Time from Denver: Approximately 45–60 miles west along I-70.
Special Seasonal / Event Rides: Autumnfest (mid-October), Trick or Treat (Oct 24–25) trains.
Website: https://www.georgetownlooprr.com
Address: 646 Loop Drive, Georgetown, CO 80444
Hours / Schedule:
• Their main train schedule runs through October (October 1–21, 23–26) with multiple daily departures.
• After mid-October, train rides shorten: the ride alone becomes about 55 minutes (rather than full loop) from mid-October to early January.
Prices:
• Standard roundtrip “Open Coach” (train only): Adults (15+) ~$25.95, Children (3–15) ~$18.95
• Combined train + mine tour (when offered): Adults ~$35.95, Children ~$27.95
• For special fall event trains, fares are higher.
Colorado Railroad Museum Galloping Goose
Riding the Colorado Railroad Museum’s Galloping Goose is something that’s quite out of the ordinary. It’s part truck, part train. It’s a funky combination and named after a part in history. During the mining boom and the Great Depression, “geese” helped remote mountain communities carry mail and light loads, keeping rail service affordable. Because this unique railcar is small, you get an up-close feel and hear more train engine sounds. The ride is short, a loop around the grounds of the museum. Children often take multiple rides on special Goose rides.
Website: https://coloradorailroadmuseum.org
Address: 17155 W. 44th Avenue, Golden, Colorado 80403
Autumn Saturdays Schedule:
• Train and railcar rides (Diesel / “Galloping Goose”) are offered on select Saturdays between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
• In October, they list specific train-ride Saturdays (e.g. Oct 4, Oct 11, Oct 25) with departures every half hour between 10:00 and 3:00 p.m.
• Steam-up / special events (e.g. Harvest Haunt Express Oct 18–19) also occur on those selected dates; grounds open 9:00–5:00, rides between 10:00–3:00 p.m.
Prices:
• Ride ticket only (on train): $4 for adults, $2 for ages 2–17, $4 for age 60+
• Admission only: $10 adults, $5 ages 2–17, $8 age 60+
• Admission + ride (bundle) / special steam-up pricing: e.g. $14 adults, $7 ages 2–17, $12 for age 60+ (which includes ride + admission) on steam-up days
Psst… This is close to Denver, so it’s good for a shorter trip. However, rides are only on selected fall dates, not daily.
Leadville Railroad Fall Leaf Rides
The Leadville Railroad is two hours from Denver and lasts roughly 2 to 2 ¾ hours. It is incredibly beautiful, with hillsides of fall mountain colors. The route runs up to 10,000 feet in elevation through alpine forests, colorful golden aspen trees, and Colorado’s mining district. There are views of Colorado’s two tallest peaks, Mt. Elbert and Mt. Massive. The train offers open, semi-closed, and lounge cars, so you can choose your favorite depending on the weather and temperature.
On their fall “Oktoberfest” rides, you can opt for hot cider, hot cocoa, local beers, and cozy up with blankets. Check their “Leaf Tracker” feature on their website to find when the aspens are peaking.
Website: https://leadvillerailroad.com
Address: 326 E. 7th Street, Leadville, CO 80461
Hours / Schedule:
• In the fall, they run “Fall Special Weekend Rides” as leaves change.
Prices:
• Coach tickets: ~$59 for adults; ~$36 for children (exact ages vary)
• Lounge class / upgraded seats: ~$86 (regardless of age)
Royal Gorge Route Railroad
The Royal Gorge train travels through the dramatic Royal Gorge, a deep canyon with sheer rock walls up to 1,000 feet high. You’ll pass under the Royal Gorge Bridge, through tunnels, and alongside the rugged Arkansas River. Fall season is stunning with the changing gold, orange, and red-colored trees. As trees become barer, it’s easier to spot wildlife like bighorn sheep too.
Oktoberfest rides run September–November with German-style food, local brews, and a festive atmosphere. Evening and dinner trains let you enjoy the canyon under the dusk of fall evenings. The “laser light show” event projects special lighting effects on the canyon walls. The Vista Dome car has large windows and offers the best views of trees and rugged canyon walls. The route is about 24 miles roundtrip from Cañon City to Parkdale.
Website: https://www.royalgorgeroute.com
Address: 330 Royal Gorge Blvd, Cañon City, CO 81212 (the Santa Fe Depot)
Hours / Departure Times / Schedule:
• There are typically four daily departures: about 9:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m.
• Morning and afternoon departures are about 1.5 to 2 hours roundtrip.
• Evening departures (6:30 p.m.) are longer, about 2.5 to 3 hours.
• Some journeys are seasonal or subject to modifications; check the “Journeys” section on their site.
Prices / Fares:
• Ride ticket pricing ranges from $79 to $249 for coach, Vista Dome, dining, and first-class options.
• For the “Lunch Train / First Class” option: pricing starts at about $49 for children and $49 (or more) for adults, depending on the train and class.
• For “Coach Class” rides:
– 9:15 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. departures: ~$49 adult, ~$44 child (ages 3–12) (taxes/fees extra)
– Evening (5:00 p.m, 6:30 p.m.) 2.5-hour trips: ~$49 adult, ~$44 child
• Food is included with dining and first-class tickets. Other seat classes (Coach, Vista Dome) can order from the onboard menu for an additional charge.
Folks of any age enjoy the nostalgia of a train ride. There’s nothing like the sound of a locomotive heading down the track. Add in the stunning fall color-scape, and you’ve got an incredible day in Colorado. There is a train experience for every sort of family. So book your tickets now to enjoy the beautiful leaf-peeping colors! You’ll want to reserve tickets in advance, as seats fill up fast.
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