Christmas train rides have become one of Colorado’s most loved winter traditions. They combine the state’s scenic mountain routes with a cozy holiday experience that’s easy to enjoy for all ages. The idea started with a few heritage railroads that wanted to bring families together during the festive season, and over the years, it turned into a major part of Colorado’s Christmas celebrations. Today, these rides attract both locals and visitors from all over the country who want to see the mountains in a more relaxed and festive way. So in this blog, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about Colorado’s Christmas train rides, from their background and most popular routes to what to expect on board, ticket tips, and how to make the most of this holiday experience with your loved ones.
About Colorado’s Christmas Trains
Most of Colorado’s Christmas train rides take place on historic routes that date back to the late 1800s. These old rail lines were once used for mining or transporting goods through the Rockies. Now, they’ve been restored and turned into heritage trains that run special holiday trips each year. Riding these trains feels like stepping into the past, but with modern comfort and lots of Christmas charm added in. You’ll sit in vintage-style coaches decorated with lights, wreaths, and garlands while gentle music plays in the background.
The rides usually run from late November through December, when the mountains are covered in snow and small towns along the tracks are filled with holiday lights. It’s a calm and simple way to take in Colorado’s winter scenery, plus you don’t have to plan much either. You can just book your ticket, board at the station, and enjoy a few hours of scenic travel with festive touches.
What makes these rides special is that trains still use traditional engines while some even run on steam which adds to the nostalgic feel. You’ll often hear the whistle echo through the snowy valleys as you move along the tracks. The slower speed of these trains lets you take in the details of the landscape instead of just passing by quickly like on a highway. It’s a simple experience, but it feels different from anything else during the holidays. These rides also reflect Colorado’s small-town holiday spirit. Many of the train stations are in charming mountain towns that decorate their streets with lights and host local Christmas markets. The overall vibe here is relaxed and cheerful as it’s less about big crowds and more about spending quality time in a scenic setting.
Best Christmas Train Rides in Colorado
Colorado has a few well-known Christmas train rides that run every year, and each one offers something a little different, so if you’re planning a holiday trip, it’s good to know what each ride is like so you can pick the one that suits your schedule and location.
Durango & Silverton Polar Express
This is probably the most famous Christmas train in Colorado. It’s based on the popular story The Polar Express, and the whole ride brings the book to life. You’ll board the train in Durango, which is a small, scenic town in southwest Colorado. The coaches are decorated with Christmas lights, and the ride starts with a reading of the story as hot chocolate and cookies are served. Santa boards the train halfway through and gives each child a silver bell, just like in the story. The trip lasts about an hour and a half and runs from late November through early January. Tickets usually start around $40-$60 for children and $60-$100 for adults, depending on the class you choose. It’s a good idea to book early since seats fill up fast, especially on weekends.
Georgetown Loop Santa North Pole Adventure
If you want a shorter and simpler ride, the Georgetown Loop Railroad is a great choice. It’s located about an hour west of Denver, making it easy for day trips. The train runs on a historic loop through the Rocky Mountains and offers great views of snow-covered forests and bridges. During the holidays, it turns into a festive ride with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and carol singing. The round-trip takes about one hour, and it’s a good option for families with young kids who might not want a long journey. Tickets usually range between $35-$55, and you can choose between open-air cars or heated coaches.
Royal Gorge Route Santa Express Train
This train departs from Cañon City, about two hours from Colorado Springs. It’s one of the most scenic rides in the state, running through the Royal Gorge Canyon along the Arkansas River. The Santa Express is known for its larger windows, warm cabins, and dinner service. You’ll get a full meal or snacks, depending on your ticket type, while the train passes through the narrow canyon decorated with lights. Santa visits every table, and kids receive a small gift. The ride lasts about two hours, and prices start around $75 per adult and $65 per child, with premium seating available. It’s a bit more expensive but very comfortable and suited for couples or families who want a relaxing evening experience.
Additionally, note that all these Christmas trains start running from mid to late November and continue through Christmas Eve or early January, so it’s best to check the official websites for exact dates and ticket details since schedules can change with weather or demand.
Things to Do Near the Train Stops
The Christmas train ride in Colorado doesn’t have to be the only highlight of your trip as around each train station, you’ll find plenty of small-town attractions and holiday markets that make your visit even better.
Durango
If you’re taking the Durango & Silverton Polar Express, plan to spend a few hours in downtown Durango as the streets are lined with lights, and the old buildings give it a classic winter-town feel. You can walk along Main Avenue, which has local shops selling handmade gifts, ornaments, and winter clothing. Stop by one of the small cafes for hot chocolate or coffee like Durango Coffee Company and 11th Street Station which are local favorites. Durango also has a small outdoor holiday market during December, and you might catch live music or carolers in the evenings. If you’re staying overnight, visit the Durango Hot Springs, about 15 minutes from town, for a warm soak surrounded by snow. For families, the Powerhouse Science Center and Durango & Silverton Railroad Museum are fun, quick stops before boarding the train.
Georgetown
For the Georgetown Loop Santa North Pole Adventure, the small town of Georgetown is part of the charm. It’s an old mining town with colorful Victorian buildings and quiet streets decorated with lights and wreaths. The town hosts the Georgetown Christmas Market on weekends in December, with stalls selling crafts, food, and holiday decorations. It’s one of the oldest markets in Colorado and gives a real small-town holiday vibe. You can also visit the Hotel de Paris Museum, a historic hotel that’s open for short tours, or take a simple walk around Georgetown Lake if the weather isn’t too harsh. There are also a few cozy cafes and restaurants nearby where you can grab soup or hot cider before heading to the train station.
Cañon City
If you’re riding the Royal Gorge Route Santa Express Train, you’ll depart from Cañon City, which has a few nice spots to explore too. You can visit the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, about 15 minutes from town, which gives great views of the canyon and surrounding mountains. Some parts of the park stay open in winter, and you can walk across the bridge or just take photos of the snow-covered gorge. Back in town, check out the small local shops along Main Street, or stop at The Bean Pedaler for coffee or Le Petit Chablis Bistro for a cozy dinner. If you’re staying overnight, there are a few cabins and lodges near the river where you can relax after your ride.
Along with these places, across all these towns you’ll also find simple winter activities like ice skating, short hikes, or light displays that make the area more festive. Most of these towns are small and easy to walk around, so you don’t need to plan much. You can just explore, grab something warm to drink, and enjoy the peaceful winter setting, helping you make the most of your train ride and trip.
Conclusion
In short, Christmas train rides in Colorado aren’t just about getting from one place to another. They’re about slowing down, enjoying the snowy scenery, and soaking in the warmth of the season. It’s a simple idea that has turned into a lasting holiday tradition, combining old-fashioned rail travel with the festive beauty of a Colorado winter.