Como Roundhouse, Northern Colorado Travel Guide

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Explore a beautifully preserved 1881 railroad roundhouse in Como, Colorado, and step back into the age of steam and narrow-gauge railways.

The Como Roundhouse is a historic railroad maintenance building in Como, Colorado, dating back to 1881. Built by Italian stonemasons, it's a tangible reminder of the Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad's importance to the region.

A brief summary to Como Roundhouse

441-463 Boreas Pass Rd, Como, Colorado, 80432, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Como Roundhouse.

Check the South Park Rail Society's website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and special events.
Combine your visit with a drive along Boreas Pass, a scenic route following the old DSPPR railbed to Breckenridge.
Explore other historic sites in Como, including the Como Depot and the Como Hotel.

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Explore Como Roundhouse on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Como Roundhouse, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

The Como Roundhouse is located in Como, Colorado, just off US Highway 285. From Denver, take US-285 south for approximately 85 miles. Como is located between Jefferson and Fairplay. Once in Como, follow Boreas Pass Road to the Roundhouse. Parking is available on site. Note that road conditions, particularly in winter, can be variable, so check before you travel.
Public Transport

While there is no direct public transportation to Como, you can take a bus from Denver to nearby towns like Fairplay or Frisco. From there, you would need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare to complete the journey to Como, which is approximately 10 miles east of Fairplay. Be aware that taxi/rideshare services may be limited in this rural area, so plan accordingly. Bus fare from Denver to Frisco is around $20-$30.

Discover more about Como Roundhouse

The Como Roundhouse stands as a testament to the vital role railroads played in Colorado's development. Constructed in 1881 by skilled Italian stonemasons, the roundhouse was a crucial part of the Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad (DSPPR). Como served as a central hub for three main rail lines, facilitating transport to Denver, Breckenridge, and Gunnison.Roundhouses were essential for servicing and storing locomotives, particularly in the age of steam. The Como Roundhouse originally had six bays, later expanded to nineteen with wooden additions by 1900, along with a machine shop capable of constructing entire steam engines. The turntable allowed locomotives to be turned around for their return journeys.With the decline of mining and the closure of the Alpine Tunnel in 1910, the railroad's importance diminished. The last train departed Como in 1938, and a 1935 fire further damaged the roundhouse. However, the original stone section of the roundhouse remains, and has been undergoing restoration since 1984. Today, the Como Roundhouse, along with the depot and hotel, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is open to the public for tours and events, offering a glimpse into Colorado's rich railroad history.Visitors can explore the roundhouse and learn about its history, as well as the broader story of rail transport in the region. The South Park Rail Society currently leases the roundhouse and is dedicated to preserving the site.