Take in the Scenic Beauty of Colorado by Rail

There are many ways to enjoy the spectacular vistas of the Colorado Rocky Mountains including hiking, cycling, winter skiing, or simply driving through majestic national parks and historic towns. Among the most exciting and memorable ways to take in the beauty that Colorado has to offer is to climb aboard one of many railroads offering visitors unforgettable journeys through the Rockies.

Throughout the Summer months, many options are available for families and groups to take in train rides of varying lengths and destinations, some including snacks or entire meal service, and others providing on-board entertainment from music to western-style hold-ups. Whatever option you select, the real treat is sitting back and enjoying the beauty of the Colorado High Country, and watching for glimpses of mountain wildlife.

Rail Excursion Choices Abound in the High Country

There is a wide range of options available for picking the Colorado train ride that’s just right for your family or group:

Georgetown Loop Train Rides from Silver Plume and Georgetown

Climb aboard an open carriage pulled by an historic steam engine as you navigate loops through rugged mountain terrain and venture past former thriving gold and silver mines, and even stopping for a walking tour of a real silver mine. There is no need to worry about the weather – closed carriages are utilized in late or early seasons, or in less favorable weather conditions.

Select from multiple tour options:

• Silver Plume and Georgetown tour, with options for open coach or parlor class that includes snack and beverage, and available bar service for beer or wine
• Sliver Plume and Georgetown excursion with escorted tours of the Lebanon silver mine or Everett mine tour, each with its own special interests and additional attractions.
• Mother’s Day and Father’s Day weekends offer special additions such as a rose and chocolates for Mom, and a special surprise for Dad.
• Don’t forget Railroad Days in June, when none other than Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid join the ride with the rest of the “Wiley Bunch.”
• Combination hike and ride – hike down the mountain from the Silver Plume depot, and enjoy lunch, mine tour, and panning for gold. Then board the train at Georgetown for the return trip to Silver Plume.
• For even more adventure, 3 or 5-hour tours are available, as well as all-day tours that include a tour of the Lebanon silver mine plus lunch and shopping time in the Georgetown historic district, with a magic show performance to enthrall the kids.

Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

In continuous operation for more than 125 years, the Durango and Silverton railroad (D&SNGRR) offers passengers a scenic adventure like none other. Pulled behind vintage locomotives just like those used for over a century to transport passengers and freight through spectacular mountain scenery, vintage coaches transport passengers through spectacular scenery.

With both coaches and open-air gondolas to select from, passengers on the Durango and Silverton are assured of magnificent mountain vistas and plenty of opportunities for photos. D&SNGRR includes an impressive 45 miles of track meandering through Summit County’s unspoiled wilderness, inaccessible by any roads. Choose from a variety of service classes available from Standard open-air gondolas or vintage coaches, to the elegantly-appointed Presidential class cars.

Railroad and history buffs will appreciate the many exhibits, artifacts, and knowledgeable staff at the D&SNGRR museum. Admission is free, and guided tours are offered when pre-arranged with the facility.

Relax at Frisco Inn on Galena after Your Rail Journey

When planning your rail excursion through the Colorado Rockies, be sure to select the Frisco Inn on Galena in beautiful Frisco, CO for another unforgettable experience. The Inn is located only a few easy steps from Frisco’s historic Main Street, well-known as the “Gateway to the Rockies.”

With easy access to transportation to nearby resorts and rail destinations, the Inn is a centrally located base not only for Colorado train rides, but also for the many quaint shops and unique restaurants and activities that the historic town of Frisco has to offer.

Frisco Inn on Galena can assist visitors with arranging transportation, with a knowledgeable and courteous staff focused on guest comfort and satisfaction. Comfort is guaranteed by our many amenities including multiple options on room types and sizes. Every choice includes flat-screen televisions, access to high-speed internet and WiFi, and full access to the Inn’s many features:

• Gourmet-quality breakfast prepared by our staff chefs that includes custom-brewed espresso, specially-prepared breakfast dishes, fresh fruit, homemade breads and pastries, and much more.
• Complimentary afternoon happy hour including freshly prepared cookies and appetizers, cheeses, and wine.
• Large sun deck with majestic views of the Rocky Mountains.
• Indoor sauna and hot tub.
• Equipped game room, including board games and exercise equipment.

Regardless of the accommodations selected, every guest at Frisco Inn on Galena will enjoy exemplary service and hospitality, exceptional rooms, and truly unsurpassed value.