Georgetown Loop Railroad

A journey into the past begins on a platform where history comes alive: the Georgetown Loop Railroad is a legendary narrow-gauge line that has become one of Colorado's most iconic engineering landmarks. Located in the town of Georgetown, this unique site is more than just a transit route—it is a true open-air museum that transports guests back to the era of the Silver Rush in the USA.

The railway's main feature is its incredible "corkscrew" design. Over just 4.8 km of track, the train navigates steep mountain slopes with dizzying curves. The route's signature landmark is the majestic Devil's Gate High Bridge, which towers 29 meters above the gorge, offering passengers breathtaking panoramic views of Clear Creek.

As a classic example of a 19th-century mountain railway with a track gauge of just 914 mm, this route is now recognized as an outstanding engineering achievement. A ride here is a rare opportunity to see authentic steam locomotives and vintage railcars in action, carefully restored for modern travelers.

To check the schedule and book tickets, you can use the official contact channels. It is recommended to check the information in advance, especially during holidays.

The main event of any visit is, of course, a ride on a vintage train. You can choose open-air gondolas to feel the fresh mountain air and enjoy unobstructed canyon views, or take a seat in cozy historic coaches. The rhythmic clatter of wheels and the steam whistle create a unique 19th-century atmosphere, turning a simple trip into a thrilling adventure.

Beyond the train ride itself, guests are invited to descend into the depths of the earth. Guided tours of restored mines show the conditions in which miners worked in past centuries and reveal the secrets of extracting precious metals. It is a great opportunity to touch history with your own hands.

For those dreaming of their own big find, interactive zones are set up where you can try your hand at panning for gold and gems. This activity is incredibly popular with families. Also, do not forget to visit the museum exhibits at the stations to see rare equipment and historical artifacts from the days of the Rocky Mountains' exploration.

Reaching the historic station is quite quick: the Georgetown Loop Railroad is located just 70 kilometers west of Denver. A drive along the scenic I-70 highway takes about one hour. Follow the highway to the exit for Georgetown, after which signs will easily guide you to the parking lot near the departure station.

If you do not plan to rent a car, you can use taxi services from the city center or book a seat on one of the many tour buses that regularly depart from Colorado's major cities. The journey through the mountain roads is a pleasant addition to the main program in itself.

The history of this engineering marvel began in 1884. The railway was designed to connect two booming mining settlements—Georgetown and Silver Plume. Although they were just over 3 kilometers apart as the crow flies, the massive 183-meter elevation gain required an unconventional approach. Engineers created a complex system of loops and curves, nearly doubling the track's length so that trains could conquer the steep climbs.

In its heyday, the railway served not only to transport silver ore but also became a popular tourist attraction. However, by 1938, operations ceased, and most of the structures were dismantled. It seemed the story of the legendary "corkscrew" was over, but interest in the heritage of the Silver Rush era proved stronger than time.

A massive restoration began in the 1970s through the efforts of the Colorado Historical Society. The work culminated in the reconstruction of the famous Devil's Gate High Bridge in 1984—exactly 100 years after the opening of the original route. Today, it is more than just a transport facility; it is a living monument to 19th-century American engineering genius.

To fully enjoy the ride and explore all the interesting locations at a leisurely pace, visitors are recommended to set aside 2 to 4 hours. This is the optimal amount of time to travel the route both ways, visit the local museum, or browse the gift shop.

If your plans include an expanded program, such as a tour of an old mine or a stroll through the town's historic streets, it is best to plan for a half-day visit. This will allow you to immerse yourself in the 19th-century atmosphere and take impressive photos against the backdrop of mountain scenery without any rush.

Please note that the railway operates on a seasonal schedule—usually welcoming visitors from May through October. During the winter, trips may be limited or scheduled for special holiday events.

Since the exact train schedule depends on weather conditions and the day of the week, we strongly recommend checking the information on the official website before planning your trip to ensure you secure a seat on the train.

The area around the railway is steeped in the atmosphere of the Old West. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to dive deeper into mining history and see beautifully preserved Victorian-era architecture.

Many local attractions are within walking distance or a short drive away, making the town an ideal spot for a full-day historical tour.