Georgetown Loop Railroad
Historic narrow-gauge railroad offering scenic mountain rides, seasonal excursions, and mine tours near Denver.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall colors
Georgetown Loop Railroad
Best Time
Peak fall colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic narrow-gauge railroad offering scenic mountain rides, seasonal excursions, and mine tours near Denver.
"Highly recommend. It was fun enjoyable, the staff was very knowledgeable! If you love scenic adventure, this is a MUST GO TO!"
🎯 Parlor Car Perks
Opt for the parlor car for a more comfortable ride with tables and adult beverages, avoiding cinders. :wine_glass:
🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead
Secure your spot, especially for weekend or seasonal rides, by purchasing tickets in advance. :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic Mountain Views
Experience breathtaking Rocky Mountain scenery, especially vibrant during the fall with changing aspen leaves.
Historic Narrow-Gauge Train Ride
Journey through a 4.5-mile route on a historic narrow-gauge railroad, ascending 640 feet.
Themed Seasonal Excursions
Enjoy special rides like the popular Fall Colors Train, Christmas trains, and pumpkin rides.
Mine Tour & Gold Panning
Explore the historic Lebanon Mine and try your hand at gold panning for an interactive experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Dress for Mountain Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Parlor Car Perks
Opt for the parlor car for a more comfortable ride with tables and adult beverages, avoiding cinders. :wine_glass:
🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead
Secure your spot, especially for weekend or seasonal rides, by purchasing tickets in advance. :admission_tickets:
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather changes quickly; bring layers and a jacket, especially for the cool mine tours.
📸 Sit on the Right
For the best river and cliff views on the outbound journey, choose a seat on the right side.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Parlor Car Perks
Opt for the parlor car for a more comfortable ride with tables and adult beverages, avoiding cinders. :wine_glass:
🎟️ Book Tickets Ahead
Secure your spot, especially for weekend or seasonal rides, by purchasing tickets in advance. :admission_tickets:
🧥 Dress in Layers
Mountain weather changes quickly; bring layers and a jacket, especially for the cool mine tours.
📸 Sit on the Right
For the best river and cliff views on the outbound journey, choose a seat on the right side.
💰 Group Savings
Consider a Colorado History membership for savings on group tickets (4-6 people). :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Georgetown Loop Railroad for its breathtaking scenery, engaging staff, and fun, family-friendly atmosphere. The historic train ride is a highlight, especially during the vibrant fall season. While some find the souvenir shop pricey, the overall experience is considered well worth the ticket cost for creating lasting memories.
"Fun experience for all ages! This train loop lasts a little over an hour and leaves the station multiple times a day.
When you arrive, there is a large parking lot available a short walk from the main entrance. All of the staff had high energy and were engaging with every guest. They guided us to the gift shop to pick up our printed tickets, which make a memorable souvenir on their own if you don’t care to spend at the shop. I recommend purchasing tickets before arrival for weekend visits.
We arrived about 20 minutes early with a small line to both the tickets and the train. Even at full capacity, the train seating felt spacious. The train seats are communal wood benches along each side of the cars. Personally, I think there is more of a “view” on the river side of the train when you first get on. Folks move around after the stop in Silver Lake, so if you’d like both views, you can swap sides for the ride back down. The museum is small but packs plenty of history about this route.
There were fun jokes throughout the history we were provided which made the experience even more entertaining. The team is also very engaging with the kids!"
Liv R
"Highly recommend. It was fun enjoyable, the staff was very knowledgeable! If you love scenic adventure, this is a MUST GO TO! I surprised my husband with this yesterday for our 4 year anniversary. It was everything I had hoped, he had an amazing g time as well! Thank you for the breath taking experience! We’ll be back!"
Becky Dimaplas
"Well worth the price of the ticket! We did not do the optional mine tour, but the ride itself was fantastic. We were running five minutes late and luckily they held the train. Everyone was SO NICE and friendly - definitely recommend!"
Stephanie Burkett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Georgetown Loop Railroad is conveniently located less than an hour from Denver, making it an easy day trip.
Yes, there is a large parking lot available a short walk from the main entrance.
Public transportation options directly to the Georgetown Loop Railroad are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient method.
Operating hours vary by season and day. It's best to check the official Georgetown Loop Railroad website for the most up-to-date schedule.
The train departs from either the Georgetown or Silver Plume depots. The most common route is a round trip from Georgetown.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the season and any special excursions. Adult tickets are around $40, and children's tickets are about $34. It's recommended to check their website for current pricing and potential discounts.
You can purchase tickets online through the official Georgetown Loop Railroad website, or in person at the gift shop. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for weekends.
Discounts may be available through memberships like the Colorado History membership, which can save money for groups of 4-6. Keep an eye out for potential AAA or military discounts as well.
While it's recommended to book in advance, you may be able to walk up and buy tickets for the next available train, especially on weekdays.
A standard ticket includes the scenic train ride. Optional mine tours and gold panning are available at an additional cost.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The train ride itself lasts about an hour and 15 minutes, covering a 4.5-mile route.
For the best views of the river and cliffs on the way up, sit on the right side of the train. You can swap sides for the return trip. The parlor car offers a more comfortable experience with tables.
Yes, it's a great family activity! The staff is engaging with kids, and the train ride offers a fun and memorable experience for all ages.
You can explore the small museum, visit the gift shop, and take the optional Lebanon Mine tour, which includes gold panning.
Yes, the mines are kept at a cool temperature year-round, around 40°F (4.4°C), so it's advisable to bring a sweater or jacket.
📸 📸 Photography
Fall mornings offer stunning light for capturing the autumn foliage.
Expect scenic mountain vistas, historic train details, and seasonal decorations during themed rides.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, be mindful of other passengers and avoid blocking aisles.
On the outbound journey, the right side offers views of the river and cliffs. For the return trip, the left side provides different scenic perspectives.
Photography is usually permitted during the mine tour, but be cautious of the damp environment and ensure your equipment is protected.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The staff are known for being engaging with kids, adding to the fun. The mine tour and gold panning also provide interactive elements that kids often enjoy, though ensure they are dressed warmly for the mine's cool temperatures. 💑 Couples & Date Ideas
Consider booking a seat in the parlor car, which offers a more intimate setting with tables and the option to enjoy adult beverages. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+3 The historic locomotives and carriages themselves offer great subjects. Remember to bring a jacket, as mountain weather can change, and protect your gear if you plan to photograph during the mine tour. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Magic: Beyond the Fall Colors
+4 its charm extends throughout the year. During winter, the railroad transforms into a festive wonderland with its popular Christmas trains +1 and Santa's Lighted Forest. These rides are a magical way to experience the holiday spirit amidst snowy mountain scenery. Beyond the visual spectacle, the themed rides offer unique experiences. The pumpkin train is a hit with younger children, while the Christmas train brings Santa and festive cheer.
These special excursions often sell out quickly, so booking well in advance is crucial to avoid disappointment. The Historic Ride: Engineering and Scenery
The 4.5-mile route ascends a significant elevation of 640 feet, offering dramatic views of canyons, the Clear Creek River, and the surrounding peaks. The engineering marvel of this line, built in the late 19th century, is evident as it navigates the challenging mountain terrain. Travelers often highlight the scenic beauty of the journey, particularly during the autumn months when the aspen trees turn vibrant shades of gold and orange.
+4 The train's slow pace allows ample opportunity to soak in the breathtaking landscapes and capture memorable photographs. Many visitors recommend sitting on the right side of the train for the most dramatic views of the river and cliffs on the outbound trip. Beyond the Rails: Mine Tours and Gold Panning
For a hands-on adventure, the gold panning activity provides a fun opportunity to try your luck at finding some precious flakes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit