Georgetown Loop Railroad

This heritage railway operates between the mountain towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume in Colorado. Built in the 1880s, the narrow gauge line was originally designed to transport silver and miners through the rugged terrain. Today, it serves as a popular tourist attraction for families and history enthusiasts. The short journey provides a look into Colorado mining history while navigating steep mountain grades. Passengers can opt to add a silver mine tour to their train ride for a more detailed historical experience. It is a great option for those looking into train travel with kids because the ride is relatively short and highly engaging.

The ride

The journey on the Georgetown Loop Railroad takes passengers through a steep Rocky Mountain canyon. The route connects the towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume using a series of sharp curves and elevation changes. The most famous feature of the line is the Devil's Gate High Bridge. This structure stands about 95 feet above Clear Creek, giving passengers a clear view of the water and the surrounding pine forests.

Because the line is narrow gauge, the train cars are smaller than standard passenger trains. The train climbs the valley slowly, allowing plenty of time to look at the rocky landscape and the rushing creek below. Passengers who choose to include a silver mine tour will disembark along the route to walk through an old mining tunnel. Guides explain the harsh conditions miners faced in the 1880s and demonstrate the tools they used to extract silver from the rock. The train then returns to pick up the tour group and complete the journey. The open air cars provide excellent visibility during the summer months, while enclosed cars offer protection from the mountain weather.

Planning your visit

The railroad operates from spring to autumn, with special holiday trains running later in the year. Mountain weather changes rapidly, so you should bring layers of clothing even during the summer months. Open cars can be chilly, especially when the train crosses the high bridge. You should book tickets in advance, as summer weekends and holiday trains often sell out. When planning your trip, consider the best time of year for train travel to ensure comfortable weather.

General accessibility is available, but the historic nature of the cars means space is limited. Wheelchair users should contact the railroad directly before booking to confirm accommodations. The optional mine tour involves walking on uneven ground and may not be suitable for all passengers. Check the railroad's website for current schedules, accessibility details, and booking information.

Getting there without a car

There are no mainline passenger train routes that travel directly to Georgetown or Silver Plume. The nearest Amtrak station is Denver Union Station, which is served by the California Zephyr. From Denver, the Georgetown Loop Railroad is about an hour's drive west on Interstate 70. Because there is no public transit connecting the Amtrak station to the heritage railway, you will need to rent a car or book a private tour to reach the site.