A Full Guide For A First-Timers Trip On The Royal Gorge Train (2024)

All aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad - one of America's most spectacular heritage train trips! This train journey is so spectacular that President Teddy Roosevelt said in 1905 that it is a "trip that bankrupts the English language!” The best time to ride the Royal Gorge Train is an hour before sunset, and then people understand the meaning of that exclamation. There are many excellent historic train rides out West, but few offer the level of service and fine dining of the Royal Gorge Route Railroad.

Another opportunity to relive the golden days of train travel is with the Durango-Silverton Railway, which explores the Coloradan Rockies in vintage steam trains. For a multi-day train experience, consider a train journey on the historic Rocky Mountaineer from Denver to Moab.

A Railroad Born From The "Royal Gorge War"

Riding The Royal Gorge Railroad along the Arkansas River, Canon City, Colorado

The history of the railroad dates back to the late 1870s and involved the "Royal Gorge War" - a competition (with real fight-outs) between the rival Rio Grande and Santa Fe Railroads.

In the late 1800s, there was a mining boom with the area rich in lead and silver. Both railroads sought to extend their tracks there through the "Grand Canyon of the Arkansas" - a mountain valley 50 miles long. The problem was a section where it was not possible to build two railroads. For two years, the railroads fought each other in the courts to build the railroad.

In the end, the railroad was built, but not before Wild West-style armed fights between the rival railroad construction crews (complete with sieges, bullets, and fatalities) and the "Treat of Boston" was signed between the rival railroads. Read the full tale of the Royal Gorge War on the railroad's website.

The Grand Canyon Railway in Arizona tries to preserve the Wild West heritage of these historic trains by staging 'train robberies' and other shows for the kids to enjoy.

The Spectacular Royal Gorge Railroad Today & When To Ride

Canyon Next to the Arkansas River

Today the boom years and the railroad wars are long over, and the Royal Gorge Route Railroad is a major local attraction. Its trains operate year-round from Cañon City through the breathtaking Royal Gorge. One of the highlights of the journey is going under the Royal Gorge suspension bridge.

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad is one of the most exciting historic train trips in Colorado. The 2-hour excursions run from the Santa Fe Depot through the Royal Gorge with a 1950s-era train. The trains have been running since 1879 and are a trip back into the history and heritage of the region. Follow the winding Arkansas River deep within Colorado's grandest canyon and its soaring 1,000-foot granite cliffs.

• Duration: 2-Hours
• When: Daily
• Famous For: History, Scenery, Excellent Food & Service
• Departure Times: 9.15 am, 12.30 pm, 3.30 pm, and 6.30 pm (Later On The Weekends)

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad boasts great service with delicious food - including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are up to four departures daily (a fourth departure is added on the weekends).

Related: 10 Things To Know Before Riding The Pikes Peak Cog Railway

Classes On The Royal Gorge Railroad & Tickets

Vintage Steam Locomotive at Royal Gorge Park

• Those on board the Royal Gorge Railroad are separated into classes.

Besides great dining options, the Royal Gorge Railroad has a selection of classes of services. Choose from Coach, Club, Vista Dome, as well as First Class Dinner & Murder Mystery Trains available every Saturday. The cost of riding the Royal Gorge Train starts from $79.00 and goes up depending on the class.

Coach Class:

The Coach Class is a more affordable option that has comfortable high-back seats but no tables. Passengers can gaze out at the passing scenery through the large rectangular windows.

• Cost: $79.00

Club Car Class:

The Club Car option offers comfortable table seating in a historic Club car. The service comes with a full-service bar and delicious food. This class is only for persons aged 13 years old and over.

• Cost: $109.00

Vista Dome - 1st Class:

Dig deeper in one's pockets and upgrade to the Vista Dome or 1st Class. This class is in the VIP Dome cars that boast the best views of the passing scenery that the train has on offer. The more expensive Royal Gorge Railroad tickets are arguably worth the cost.

• Cost: $189.00

There are plenty of other excellent heritage railroads that run as luxurious palaces on wheels to explore around the world. The Deccan Odyssey offers the ultimate luxury train journey in India, while the Royal Scotsman offers the ultimate train experience in the British Isles.

Related: Colorado's Brew Train Offers Great Wilderness Views While Serving Craft Beer

Dining On The Royal Gorge Railroad Is A Treat

Historic Royal Gorge Bridge over the Arkansas River in Colorado

Dining on the train in the first class includes delicious three-course (or four-course) meals. The sort of meal one can expect starts with a glass of champagne, mixed greens, and French rolls.

After that, move on to entrées such as Pork Osso Bucco, Southwest Pesto Salmon, Crusted Aioli Chicken, and Vegetarian options. The main meal may include Basil Chicken Panini, grass-fed Angus & grilled specialties served. The bars are fully stocked and are available to all classes of seating.

On the morning 9.15 am train, it offers bistro-style menus with breakfast burritos, pancakes, and omelets.

Meals are ordered onboard the train, so there is no need to decide what to eat in advance.

Seasonally enjoy a dinner and show with their evening Murder Mystery Dinner Trains and see a classic murder mystery produced and performed by Red Herring Productions.

Accommodation At The Royal Gorge Route Inns In Canon City, Colorado

Make the experience of the Royal Gorge Railroad a full experience by staying overnight in Canon City. The railroad offers their Royal Gorge Route Inns that offer the luxury and yet rustic feeling befitting the occasion.

Riding along the Arkansas River at the Royal Gorge

The Royal Gorge Route Inns offers private suites and vacation rentals in the heart of the Royal Gorge Region. They have tour excellent suites at the Greenwood Suites location - these are for up to two guests. Their Fairview Victorian home accommodates up to eight guests.

Fairview Victorian Home:

• Rate: From $395 per night
• Capacity: Up to 8 guests
• Includes: Three Baths, a Kitchen, two Parlors, Five Bedrooms

The accommodation can be booked as packages with the Royal Gorge Route Railroad.