Trip Recommender
Only 45 minutes from Denver, Colorado in Idaho Springs, the Georgetown Loop Railroad offers an exciting and historical opportunity to experience Colorado history. Ride on the original steam-powered or diesel-powered locomotive through Georgetown, learning about Colorado’s rich mining history and enjoying stunning scenery just outside Denver.
Completed in 1884, this spectacular stretch of three-foot narrow-gauge railroad was considered an engineering marvel for its time. The thriving mining towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume lie two miles apart in a steep, narrow mountain canyon.
To connect them, the railroad’s builders designed a “corkscrew” route that traveled twice the distance, slowly gaining more than 600 feet in elevation. Today, the Georgetown Loop Railroad brings Colorado history to life in a fun adventure that will thrill the entire family!
Visitors also have the opportunity to maximize their experience with a train ride and mine tour package offered in the warmer months of April through September.
Location: Idaho Springs, CO VIEW MAP
Activities: Train Rides
Duration: 1/4 Day
Difficulty: Level 1
Minimum Age: 0 years old
The train ride lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes during the peak season and about 55 minutes from October through January. Parlor cars (holiday season only) offer complimentary on-board snacks and drinks, while passengers in coach cars may bring a sack lunch for the journey. There are restrooms at both stations and at the mine. There is a gift store at both stations that offers novelties, as well as light snacks and drinks.
