Categories: TRAVEL

Holiday Trains in Colorado

Santa trains, holiday trains and even “The Polar Express” are Xmas excursions offered on the historic railroads of Colorado. The festive trains travel through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. Inside the trains, passengers are delighted by visits with Santa and warming refreshment. Following are some of the Holiday trains in Colorado.

Polar Express, Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Colorado. The historic Denver & Rio Grande Railway was founded in 1879. The line was built to haul silver and gold from the San Juan Mountains, but it was the view was truly precious. The train has been in continuous operation for 126 years. Vintage steam locomotives and rolling stock carry passengers through the scenic mountain passages.

Polar Express, Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad announces to the”North Pole” The Polar Express ride is based on the Warner movie based on the book written by Chris Van Allsburg. Tom Hanks starred in the contemporary Christmas classic. Guests on this magical Christmas train ride get to drink hot chocolate and nougat while a storyteller reads the story. When the train reaches the “North Pole,” Santa and his reindeer will be waiting. Santa will board the Polar Express, greet each child and give them a sleigh bell. On the return trip the sound of Christmas Carols will fill the air. Children are encouraged to wear pajamas for this fantasy-like trip. The train departs from the Durango depot. Tickets: Adults $26, Children (2-11) $18. 1-877-TRAIN-07.

Santa Express, Royal Gorge Route Railroad. Historic railway has been operating since 1879. Considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world, The Royal Gorges takes passengers on a 214 mile journey through the 10,000 foot deep Royal Gorge. Travel along the raging Arkansas River. Along the way there are Bald Eagles, Blue Heron, Mule Deer Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep and the flora native to the gorge.

The Santa Express on the Royal Gorge Railroad features Santa Cause and stories for kids. The Santa Express Train runs every weekend through December 9. the train runs daily from December 15 -24

Santa Train, Pike’s Peak Cog Railway, Manitou, CO. The Santa Claus Special Train will run twice day on Saturdays and Sundays on the first four weeks of December. The round tip is a two hour excursion that goes halfway up pikes Peak to Four Mile Siding. Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with the merry elves, will be on each train. The train will stop at Four Mile Siding for approximately an hour, for visits with Santa. The elevation is about 10,000 feet, so dress warmly. Hot Chocolate, cider and Christmas cookies will be served. Tickets $16 per person. Seating is limited, so reservations are recommended. 719-685-5401.

Cinder Bear Christmas Express, Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, ‘America’s highest and longest narrow Gauge Railroad.” Scenic Railroad runs between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado. Christmas Train Adventure runs from Chama, NM on December1. The Christmas Train runs from Antonito, CO on December 8. Fares: Adults $20, Children $10. 1-888-286-2737.

Model Train Exhibits

Holiday Tran Show, Museum of the West, Grand Junction, CO. Train lovers are in for a treat. The Museum of the West and the Western Train Collectors present their annual Holiday Train Show. The 40′ toy train layout in Western Colorado features antique and American Flyer trains. Tickets; Adults $5.50, Seniors $4.50, Children $3. November 23-December 29. 970-242-0971.

Rosebud Railroad, Englewood, CO. Model Train exhibit. November 23 -January 3. Free. 303-761-4990.