The Royal Gorge Train offers "cinematographic" views - how to reserve a ride

Here is all the information you need before booking a picturesque railway trip ticket.


While skip on a flight You will usually take it faster, traveling by train can make your trip as memorable as your destination. Rail excursions like the Royal Gorge Route offer a unique way to slow down and take an impressive natural splendor - while resting comfortably in luxurious seats and enjoying delicious meals along the way. We contacted the experts so that you have all the information you need to book a trick on the most famous panoramic railway in Colorado. Read the rest so that everything knows on the Royal Gorge train and find out why it could be the perfect journey for you.

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Why the Royal Gorge train?

The Royal Gorge Train passing by a river
Trevizod / Shutterstock

You may have jumped on An Amtrak train To get between cities at a given time. But travelers turn to the Royal Gorge Railroad for a very different travel experience that is like Soaked in history As it is in natural beauty.

Like many train outfits, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad can trace its roots until the 19th century. "The Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad initially built the line in the years 1870 and 80, and the passenger service began in 1880, continuing until 1967", explains Andy Medearis , travel expert and founder of Points offers . "The freight operations took place until 1989, when the line merged into the railway of the Union Pacific."

Less than a decade later, in 1997, Union Pacific sold the 12 -thousand section through the royal gorges to preserve this panoramic route. The passenger service then resumed two years later under the direction of the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, offering modern travelers a unique experience through the magnificent landscape of Colorado.

"Today, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad is a heritage path based in Cañon City which operates a vintage passenger train from the 1950s through the impressive royal gorges," explains Medearis. "This picturesque round trip trip of two hours and 24 miles deviates from the historic Santa Fe deposit, offering runners breathtaking views on the deep canyon that he crosses. Travelers experience a unique perspective in his Like when the train sails along the throat of Granite Cliffs, offering a first row seat to this natural wonder. "

Although it is no longer a practical travel path, the relatively short trip has maintained its breathtaking beauty reputation. In fact, famous verbose president Teddy Roosevelt Once asserted that the trip was so beautiful that it "fassine the English language".

Even experienced travelers find it difficult to put the experience in words. "Imagine that you are on a train crossing a canyon so deeply that the large granite walls reach more than 1,000 feet on both sides!" Wayne Kask , travel expert and founder of Always on shore , tell Better life . "Below, the Arkansas river rushes through the rock. The sun makes dramatic shadows through the landscape. It is so cinematographic that it looks like a film scene."

5 things to know about the Royal Gorge Railroad

A wide shot of the Royal Gorge Train passing by a river
Swkrulliming / Istock

Jumping on the royal throat train is not a train trip as you remember. Here are some important facts on the experience, which is a more elegant and quiet affair than your typical railway journey.

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1. There are four daily starts

The Royal Gorge Train has acquired such a reputation that it must operate regularly to meet demand. Customers can choose from one of the Four daily starts de Cañon City: 9:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m., depending on the train website.

2. There are different seats options

A Royal Gorge Train locomotive parked in a city
Ericter / Shutterstock

A stroll on the Royal Gorge Railroad will be a memorable experience, whatever the type of ticket you are holding. But you can customize your experience by choosing from a range of seats. AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

The most elementary level is Coach Class, where travelers can buy food and drinks while admiring views. Runners can also opt for a luxury class ticket, which offers more first -class experience in a restored historic railway car serving a lunch or dinner in certain departures. The two seats come with access to the famous outdoor car in the train for a really breathtaking view.

Travelers hoping to know more about the history of railways can also choose to get forward with the engineer. This family experience includes a hat, a certificate and a photo with your ride.

But don't feel missing if you don't make madness. "Even the basic stroll through your throat will leave you surprised," said Nausheen Farishta , travel expert and founder of Gazers Globe . "As a person who has visited incredible landscapes in the world, few natural wonders can be compared to the majestic beauty of these red cliffs on each side of the train. This reminds you of the powerful and artistic side of the earth."

3. There is a Vista Dome car

A view of the Royal Gorge in Colorado
LHBLLC / Shutterstock

Do you want to secure the best views on board? Experts say that the Vista Dome experience is a must for lovers of visits. The glass roof car provides everything you will need to admire the Colorado rocks in all its glory while you ride. Customers can also choose lunch or dinner to improve the experience, which can be particularly rewarding if you timed your visit correctly.

"During a fall trip, I got into one of the dome cars while the leaves became bright colors against gray granite and blue sky," said Kask. "We went under the Royal Gorge bridge, where I was given a really unique view. But the best was dinner with several dishes celebrating the local flavors of Colorado. It is an experience that I will never forget!"

4. There are theme rides

As if non -stop natural beauty was not enough, runners can also choose to get on board during a theme ride. Guests of the option of reserving unique experiences, such as mysteries and brunch rides from Mother's Day. But the company has also become famous for its family holiday events, including the Santa Express train which has become a seasonal favorite for young runners.

"Let me say to you: sip hot cocoa aboard the holiday train while the singers entertained us in the lights and fresh snowfall? Is it pure magic that makes memories of travel for life" , said Farishta Better life .

5. You will return to the history of the railway

An antique locomotive
Stephaniefarrell / Shutterstock

History enthusiasts will appreciate that the Royal Gorge train offers an authentic way of living on the days of overwhelming travel.

"The railway operates several historic locomotives, including EMD F7 units built in 1949 and a GP-40 locomotive, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere", explains Medearis.

Faq

A train conductor on the Royal Gorge Train
Andrea Kessler / Istock

Ready to embark on a Royal Gorge Colorado adventure? There are still a few basic questions you might want to answer before booking.

How much does it cost to mount the Royal Gorge Railroad?

In addition to the class seat you choose, ticket prices for the train also vary depending on the time of the year.

"The cost of this unique adventure varies from $ 79 to $ 249, according to the service class," said Medearis.

Coach class tickets start at $ 79, while those looking for the most luxurious experience in Deluxe or Vista Dome can expect to pay between $ 99 and $ 139.

"For a truly indulgent outing, the first-class lunch or dinner options, ranging from $ 149 to $ 249, include a three-course meal prepared with high quality local ingredients," he adds.

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Is food included on the train?

For most tickets, passengers will have to buy snacks, meals, soft drinks and alcoholic drinks they would like during the ride. Customers can also pre -order menu to save on their meals.

However, customers also have the possibility of booking a first -class lunch or dinner on certain walks throughout the day - and even in the Vista Dome during certain trips. In this case, customers will receive a meal with three dishes which includes a free glass of sparkling wine, bread, a corner salad, a starter and a dessert. Customers can also buy in the train wine card with their food.

"Speaking of my experience, I recommend doing follies in first class at least once," suggests Farishta. "Of course, it's not cheap. But when you appreciate fresh regional foods and sipping wine while seeing these dramatic canyon views, it's worth every penny in my book! The good service also helps."

Is parking available?

A line up of cars in a parking lot
Laszlo66 / Shutterstock

Do you plan to drive to take your train? According to Kask, parking is easy at the start of the railway to Santa Fe Depot in Cañon City.

"There are also stores, restaurants and downtown activities nearby to make your trip a full day," he adds.

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Conclusion

The Royal Gorge Train offers more than just picturesque visit through one of the most beautiful corners of Colorado. Runners can also engage in special experiences on board or opt for a delicious meal to help increase the experience. Anyway, it is an unforgettable way to live the nature, the story and the pleasure of the family in one place. For more travel tips, visit Better life again soon.


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