Colorado has a long and important railroad history, and while the industry is no longer as lucrative as it once was, we can still experience it for ourselves firsthand, and it’s all thanks to the best scenic train rides in Colorado. However, we think it’s worth noting that these vista-filled excursions aren’t just the best scenic train rides in Colorado. They’re the best in the country!

It's official: Colorado accounts for nearly one-third of the best train rides in America, as per 10Best's Best Scenic Train Ride (2021).
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Facebook
Hand-picked by a panel of travel experts, USA Today's 10Best named the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad as their number one pick in 2021 and 2022, citing not only the train's extensive history of hauling silver and gold through the mountains but for "some of Colorado's most impressive scenery with a chance to stop and explore the historic mining town."
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Facebook
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad runs spring through fall (with a special Polar Bear Express ride in the winter). Reservations for the train can be made by visiting the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad website.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, 479 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301, USA
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Facebook

Related Stories

This Colorado Gondola Ride Leads To The Most Stunning Fall Foliage You've Ever Seen

This Colorado Gondola Ride Leads To The Most Stunning Fall Foliage You've Ever Seen

 These 3 Colorado Train Rides Were Just Named Some Of The Best In America

These 3 Colorado Train Rides Were Just Named Some Of The Best In America

 8 Epic Train Rides In Colorado That Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience

8 Epic Train Rides In Colorado That Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience
Coming in just behind the Durango and Silverton at number two is the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, "One of the most authentic steam-operated railroads in existence, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad runs for 64 miles between Chama, New Mexico and Antonito, Colorado, passing through the San Juan Mountains and the scenic Conejos Valley along the way."
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Facebook
To experience this southern Colorado/northern New Mexico beauty - which runs late-spring through mid-fall - for yourself, please visit the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad website.
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad Facebook
Last but certainly not least of the best scenic train rides in Colorado is the number six pick, The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. As per 10Best, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway (AKA the highest railway in America) is a must, as it takes guests on a 9-mile journey through stunning landscapes, such as Ruxton Creek and Deer Park.
Pikes Peak Cog Railway Facebook
Are you ready to climb aboard the Pikes Peak Cog Railway? Don't delay, make your reservation by visiting the The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway website.
The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway, 515 Ruxton Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829, USA
Pikes Peak Cog Railway Facebook

So, did you know about the best scenic train rides in Colorado? Ever been on any of the routes mentioned above? Know of any other can’t-miss Colorado train rides? Tell us!

Want to discover even more Colorado railroads? Then check out these Colorado train trips that are sure to result in some long-lasting memories.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best Scenic Train Rides In Colorado

Daniella DiRienzo | September 09, 2022

What's the most beautiful hike in Colorado?

The best scenic train rides in Colorado aren’t the only way to soak in the state’s scenic sights. There are plenty of other ways to enjoy Colorado vistas, including hiking. No stranger to great trails, Colorado is brimming with great treks. Among the state’s most popular hiking spots is Maroon Bells. Two peaks located in the Elk Mountains, Maroon Bells – and the surrounding area – boast incredible natural beauty, which comes in the form of waterfalls, lakes, and, of course, towering mountains. A great destination for hikers of all sorts, the area features a handful of trails with varying lengths and levels of difficulty.

What are the most well known parks in Colorado?

There are tons of incredible parks in Colorado; however, there is no denying that Rocky Mountain National Park is the most well known. The park spans more than 250,000 acres – every inch of which is stunning! Filled with a spectacular range of mountain environments, the park boasts meadows, sparkling alpine lakes, towering rock formations, and more. Not just easy on the eyes, the park is an adventure lover’s paradise. Visitors can explore over 300 miles of hiking trails as well as enjoy camping, wildlife viewing, and more. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is also among the most well known parks in Colorado. More than two million years in the making, the park features some of the steepest cliffs and oldest rocks in North America.

Related Articles

Explore Colorado