Royal Gorge Route Railroad

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad, located in Cañon City, offers a scenic rail experience through the dramatic landscape of the Arkansas River Valley. The railroad runs two-hour excursions along a historic 24-mile stretch of track. The route follows the path of the former Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad, navigating the steep-walled Royal Gorge, where high walls of igneous rock rise over 1,000 feet above the river.

Visitors board historic trains, including a distinctive 1950s-era domeliner, to view the natural beauty of the region. The railroad’s rolling stock includes locomotives with a rich history, such as the modern GP-40 series, which was originally built for freight and later rebuilt for passenger service. The fleet also features iconic EMD F7 diesel-electric locomotives, adding to the vintage charm of the journey.

The railroad operates as a family-owned business, emphasizing a personal touch to the travel experience. The excursion allows passengers to observe the rugged terrain and the geological features of the area from the comfort of the train. This heritage railroad serves as a popular destination for those interested in both the natural landscape and the history of rail transport in Colorado. The experience combines the tranquility of the river with the historical significance of the railroad’s development in the region.