Rio Grande Scenic Railroad

The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad excursion train rides take you through breathtaking mountain valleys and passes over miles and miles of historic trails. These vintage diesel trains transport you to charming and historic western towns from Alamosa, Colorado, the heart of the San Luis Valley.

 

Mountain Rails Live: On select dates in summer, enjoy live music at 9,400 feet! This one-of-a-kind experience includes a train ride through the scenic San Luis Valley to the top of La Veta Pass, performances by acclaimed western folk musicians, down-home BBQ prepared by local caterers, spectacular mountain views on and off the train and a concert venue run on clean energy – wind and solar power.

Excursion Train: The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad’s Excursion Train takes passengers over a historic mountain pass with dramatic views of the Rockies in vintage passenger cars from the longest and highest standard gauge railroad in Colorado. La Veta Pass is a majestic mountain pass with tight curves, untouched natural beauty, and wildlife as it was meant to be seen.

Valley Sunset Dinner Train: Experience train nostalgia aboard the all new Valley Sunset Dinner Train with vivid sunset views of the San Luis Valley and a peaceful twilight return. Guests begin their journey with cocktails, appetizers and conversation in our art deco styled Illinois Central club cars with bar and lounge seating. As we move along the tracks guests convene to the dining cars for a freshly prepared crudité tray, salad and entrée all with moving scenery from your window seat. The return ride leaves plenty of time for dessert, coffee, aperitifs, and mingling. Try something far from ordinary this summer aboard the Valley Sunset Dinner Train.

Annual Rails & Ales Brewfest!
The last Saturday in June welcomes a truly unique brewfest on the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad. Dozens of local breweries haul their craft up to our mountain concert site for the only train, concert, and brewfest in Colorado.

Tour operators booking groups of 15 or more guests will receive 20% off retail rates.
Complimentary tickets and payment are provided for tour leader and driver. A deposit of 25% is due at the time of booking. Final guarantee is due 10 days prior to visit.
The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad offers its cars for private events, parties or photo opportunities. Our historic engines and immaculately kept rail cars will show your group why private excursions are considered the premier way to travel by rail. No matter the occasion, excursions can be tailored to your specific needs.

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The largest full-service city in the historic San Luis Valley, Alamosa is the place to stay when visiting nearby attractions, driving up from New Mexico or enjoying a “Colorado Rails” tour driving in from North, East and West. Alamosa, which means “cottonwood” in Spanish, is the hub of the San Luis Valley for retail and services featuring hundreds of hotel rooms and more than 35 restaurants. Choose from regional Mexican fare, locally brewed beer, and charming fine dining.

Nearby attractions include The Great Sand Dunes National Park featuring the tallest sand dunes in North America, and the city-owned Cattails Golf Course, a cottonwood-lined 18 hole course along the Rio Grande River. Unique destinations such as the Colorado Gator Farm and the storied UFO Watchtower offer special touches to a group itinerary.

Special events in Alamosa include “Summerfest on the Rio” in June and Alamosa Roundup Rodeo Weekend in June, Crestone Music Festival in August, and the “Early Iron Festival” Car Show in September.