Riding the Rails Through Colorado’s Royal Gorge: A Scenic Train Adventure

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers travelers a front-row seat to one of Colorado’s most dramatic natural wonders, the Royal Gorge. This historic train journey follows a 150-year-old route along the Arkansas River, winding through sheer granite cliffs that rise over 1,000 feet above the tracks. Writer Sarah Kuta recently experienced the ride, highlighting how the train’s open-air cars and glass-domed observation decks provide unparalleled views of the gorge’s rugged beauty. Passengers can spot wildlife, rafters on the river below, and the famous Royal Gorge Bridge, one of the highest suspension bridges in the world. The railroad, based in Cañon City, Colorado, operates year-round and offers a range of experiences, from gourmet dining cars to family-friendly excursions. This scenic route not only showcases Colorado’s geological history but also supports local tourism, drawing visitors from across the globe. For those seeking adventure without the hike, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad delivers a memorable journey through a landscape carved by millions of years of river erosion. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best way to see nature’s grandeur is from the comfort of a historic train car.