In this post, I’m going to give you a preview/tour of the Leadville and Southern Railroad which is one of Colorado’s best scenic train rides for many reasons that I’ll explain shortly.
Basic info:
- Name: Leadville And Southern Railroad
- Location: Leadville Colorado
- Ticket prices: Around $30 per person
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 from most riders
Why it’s worth going:
In my opinion, the uniqueness of the Leadville Railroad lies in its combination of spectacular alpine scenes of the Colorado Rockies and the rich mining history of Leadville itself. As you venture on this train, you’re following the original routes that silver miners took more than a century ago.
It’s not everyday that you come across an attraction that not only provides a historical glimpse but also champions the preservation of historical railways. This experience is about connecting with the past while enjoying some of the most impressive landscapes in the United States.
Ticket information:
Ticket prices are very straightforward with the Leadville And Southern Railroad:
- Adults can expect to pay around $30 for a standard ticket.
- Children’s tickets typically priced at $20.
- Seniors and military members are often eligible for discounted fares, so be sure to ask if you qualify.
- Special event rides like the Winter Express and Octoberfest can be over $50
When you’re set on a date, booking in advance is the way to go and I’d do it online through their site here. Not only will this secure your spot on one of the limited departures, but it’s also going to save you the hassle of arriving only to find out the train is at full capacity. This is especially true during peak tourist seasons when tickets can be like gold dust.
Now that you’re in the know regarding tickets and booking, let’s talk about what you’ll see along the way. Trust me, the sights are as much a part of the experience as the ride itself. So, grab your camera and let’s gear up for some of the most picturesque landscapes Colorado has to offer.
What you’ll see on the ride:
Imagine yourself winding through the Rockies, where each turn presents a new vista, that’s the Leadville and Southern Railroad experience. As the train chugs along at a leisurely pace, you’re treated to some of Colorado’s most arresting landscapes. You’ll see the headwaters of the Arkansas River, panoramic views of the two tallest peaks in the Rocky Mountains, and wildflowers or fall foliage depending on the season.
Specific landmarks along the way add to the charm of the journey. Keep your camera ready for the iconic water tower at the Halfmoon Creek, the sprawling remains of historic mines that whisper tales of Colorado’s gold rush era, and the Continental Divide, which looks close enough to touch. You might even spot wildlife like deer, elk, or eagles as they make cameo appearances along the route.
For the shutterbugs, the train’s open-air car provides unobstructed views ideal for photography. Want to capture the perfect mountain shot? I suggest using a polarizing filter to cut through the glare and bring out the deep blues of the Colorado sky. If you’re visiting in the fall, the golden hues of aspen trees make for a spectacular contrast against the evergreens, so make sure your batteries are charged and your memory cards are empty.
Generally, the excursions are around 2-3 hours long. This is the sweet spot that allows enough time for you to soak in the all the views and get a great experience out of this ride.
When to go:
While the train runs from late April through early October, each season throws its own celebration of colors and experiences onto the tracks. With the Leadville And Southern Railroad you have 2-3 seasons to consider going during which are Spring, summer and fall and here are the details of what to expect during each one:
- Spring/Summer offers lush green landscapes and vibrant wildflowers. You’ll also have greater chances of better weather conditions then (they also have tours of the wildflowers available then).
- Fall is infamous for the golden aspen glow so you will see far more variety with the colors and beauty, but on the flipside the weather conditions may not always be ideal (nor will it be very warm then).
Throughout the year, the railroad offers a variety of themed rides so I’d make sure to check their main website to see what options are available and when. You can always adjust your approach down the road, but remember that the best times often book up fast. They do have a cancellation policy but I always recommend you book a few weeks early.
I said it before and I’ll say it again: The Leadville And Southern Railroad is one of the best scenic train rides in Colorado and I’ve provided numerous examples of why, from the historical aspects of the ride to the incredible views, this is an awesome ride for families. They even offer options for pets as long as it’s within specific train cars.
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