Georgetown Loop Railroad: A Ride Through History

4.6 (4933)

Journey through time on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a historic narrow-gauge railway offering breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and Colorado's mining past.

Home
Colorado
Front Range
Georgetown Loop Railroad

Experience a piece of Colorado's mining history aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a narrow-gauge heritage railroad that climbs through the Rocky Mountains. This engineering marvel connects the towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the state's silver mining past.

A brief summary to Georgetown Loop Railroad

646 Loop Dr, Georgetown, Colorado, 80444, US
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-4:30 am
Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Georgetown Loop Railroad.

Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, as seats tend to fill up quickly.
Consider adding the Lebanon Silver Mine tour to your train ride for a more immersive experience.
Arrive early to explore the gift shops and exhibits at the Devil's Gate Station or Silver Plume Depot.
Bring a jacket, as the mountain air can be cool, even in summer.
Check the Georgetown Loop Railroad website for special events and themed train rides throughout the year.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Georgetown Energy Museum

Georgetown Energy Museum: A Powerhouse of History

Downstream Adventures Rafting - Clear Creek

Downstream Adventures: Rafting Clear Creek

Grays and Torreys Summer Trailhead

Getting There

Driving

The Georgetown Loop Railroad is located off I-70, approximately 45 miles west of Denver. Take Exit 228 for the Devil's Gate Station in Georgetown or Exit 226 for the Silver Plume Depot. Parking is free at both locations, but it may be limited. From Denver, expect about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive, depending on traffic. Consider carpooling, as parking can be scarce during peak season. No tolls are expected.
rideshare

From Denver International Airport (DIA), a rideshare to the Georgetown Loop Railroad (Devil's Gate Station) will cost approximately $75-110, depending on demand and time of day. The journey is around 65 miles and typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, traffic depending. Be sure to confirm the fare and availability with your chosen rideshare service before you start your trip.

Discover more about Georgetown Loop Railroad

The Georgetown Loop Railroad is a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of 19th-century railway engineering. Completed in 1884, this 3-foot narrow-gauge railroad was designed to connect the mining towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume, which are two miles apart but separated by a steep, narrow canyon. The solution was a remarkable loop system that extends the track to 4.5 miles, climbing over 600 feet in elevation.The highlight of the Georgetown Loop is the Devil's Gate High Bridge, a 95-foot high trestle that allows the train to cross over itself. The route includes sharp curves and switchbacks, making it an engineering marvel of its time. The railroad served to haul silver ore from the mines and became a popular tourist attraction.After a period of decline and eventual dismantling in 1939, the Georgetown Loop was rebuilt in the 1980s and reopened as a heritage railroad. Today, visitors can enjoy a scenic ride through the mountains, pulled by historic steam or diesel locomotives. An optional walking tour of the Lebanon Silver Mine allows visitors to explore a mine tunnel and learn about the history of silver mining in the area. The Georgetown Loop Railroad offers a unique blend of history, scenery, and adventure, making it a memorable experience for all ages.