Cripple Creek and Victor Railroad

As soon as the conductor calls, “All aboard,” waiting passengers eagerly make their seat selections on the Cripple Creek and Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad. Some head towards the front car to observe the crew shoveling coal into the steam engine while others are drawn to the rear to watch the receding rails. The popularity of open or closed cars depends on weather conditions. Choose wisely, there is no way to move between cars during the 45-minute trip.

  The train follows the old Midland-Terminal roadbed, crosses a reconstructed trestle and passes gold mine sites with lively histories. Stands of aspen frame postcard worthy views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

On an uphill grade the train slows to a mere crawl before restoking provides a burst of steam power accented by pillaring black smoke. Passengers may encounter soot or tiny coal embers; wearing white is not a wise choice.

Narration along the route relates a time when the rich Cripple Creek and Victor gold mining districts supported a population of nearly 50,000 and served as the economic and social hub of the region. At the turn of the 20^th century ladies from Colorado Springs rode the Midland train to Cripple Creek in order to shop for the latest fashions. The May Company opened their second department store here during those boom days.

Long draws on the steam whistle demonstrate how Echo Valley earned its name. Numerous reverberations work their way down valley with each toot.

Returning to Cripple Creek passengers find a gift shop filled with railroad themed items, including lots of ‘Thomas the Tank’ gear, and an array of local history books. Next door, check out the Cripple Creek District Museum in the original Midland-Terminal Depot.

The 4-mile round trip aboard the colorful Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad is a great choice for families with small children or adults with short attention spans. Plentiful aspen groves add autumn color and photographic highlights.

*Article by Nancy Yackel, first published in Buzz in the ‘burbs, a suburban Denver monthly lifestyle magazine.

Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad

Fifteen minutes after leaving the Leadville depot the debris of civilization disappears and tall white aspen trunks support a golden canopy above the Leadville, Colorado and Southern train. The Continental Divide and Colorado’s highest mountains cap the westward vista.

“Tickets,” calls Liz as she enters each car of the standard gauge, diesel-powered train. The gregarious conductor is in her 13^th year welcoming passengers to the scenic trip towards Fremont Pass. Rows of seats run the length of the cars providing unobstructed viewing. From one side riders watch the headwaters of the Arkansas River snake through the valley below; while, those on the other side scan the hillside for marmots, deer and trickling waterfalls.

A 15-minute stop at the French Gulch Water Tank allows passengers to investigate nearby French Creek, take photographs or check out the historic 47,500-gallon water tank. The crew opens the caboose for inspection and encourages climbing into the cupola.

The once traditional last car of freight trains has become a rarity. The Leadville, Colorado & Southern not only uses a caboose, they allow two riders (for an additional fee) on the return trip into Leadville. Relaxed in leather armchairs high in the cupola, caboose passengers travel at tree top level with unparalleled views of the train and route ahead. This unique experience makes a great gift for rail buffs or to share with a grandchild. Reserve caboose rides when you make reservations. Also inquire about rides in the locomotive.

*Article by Nancy Yackel, first published in Buzz in the ‘burbs, a suburban Denver monthly lifestyle magazine.

Royal Gorge Route

Rail travel and one of Colorado’s most popular destinations combine for an outstanding adventure. The Royal Gorge Route threads through the famous canyon 1,000 feet below the world’s highest suspension bridge. Twisting along the banks of the Arkansas River, trips aboard this train promise close-up views of the Arkansas River, wildlife and sheer granite walls. Two-hour trips depart from the historic Santa Fe Depot in Cañon City; traveling 12 miles to Parkdale before reversing direction.

A stop on Hanging Bridge highlights each trip; the canyon narrows at this point so much that the rails are suspended over the river. During the season, passengers watch rafters tackle the surging waters of Class V rapids. Views upward include a swath of Colorado sky and the thin ribbon of the Royal Gorge Bridge linking perpendicular canyon walls.

The streamline train consists of restored climate controlled coaches and roofless observation cars. The Sunshine Falls café and bar car satisfies hunger pangs. The Theodore Roosevelt dining car debuted on the route this summer, adding an upgrade option.

During day trips First Class seating at comfortable tables includes a class of complimentary champagne or sparkling cider, chef’s choice of hor’s dourves and a cash bar. A local Cañon City company re-outfitted the Via Rail car in rich wood paneling, sparkling light fixtures and burgundy upholstery.

For Colorado’s classiest rail trip make reservations on the Saturday night Twilight Dinner Train, offered through Oct.25^th. Upon boarding, guests find an appetizer plate and champagne at their table. A chilled salad topped with homemade Bleu cheese dressing and crisp croutons is served soon after departure. Between courses diners step out to an observation car for sunset photos or stars sprinkled across the night sky canvas.

Entrée choices are salmon with herbed wild rice and fresh vegetable or a generous roast prime rib served with baked potato and vegetables. Chocolate cake or cheesecake desserts and coffee conclude the four-course meal from chef Donovan McDonald and cheerful staff.

The Royal Gorge Route continues operations on weekends during the winter and spring months, a boost to off-season tourists and residents.

*Article by Nancy Yackel, first published September 2003 in Buzz in the ‘burbs, a suburban Denver monthly lifestyle magazine. Menu details, personnel and dates may have changed, check the Royal Gorge Route website for current details.