Georgetown Loop Railroad: A Ride Through History

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Ride a historic narrow-gauge railway through the Rocky Mountains and experience Colorado's mining history on the Georgetown Loop Railroad.

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Georgetown Loop Railroad

Experience a piece of Colorado's mining history aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a narrow-gauge railway that climbs through the scenic 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
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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.

Check the Georgetown Loop Railroad's official website for the most up-to-date schedule and ticket prices, especially for seasonal events.
Consider booking tickets in advance, particularly during peak season, to secure your preferred departure time.
Arrive early to allow time for parking and exploring the gift shops and visitor facilities.
Bring a jacket or sweater, as the mountain weather can be unpredictable, even in summer.
Combine your train ride with a tour of the Lebanon Silver Mine for a more immersive experience.

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Getting There

Driving

The Georgetown Loop Railroad is located near Interstate 70. 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. Be aware that parking may be limited, especially during peak season. From Denver, the drive is approximately 45 miles west on I-70. From Frisco, the drive is about 28 miles east on I-70. There are no tolls on I-70 between Denver and Georgetown or Frisco and Georgetown.
Public Transport

From Denver, you can take the Bustang West Line bus to Idaho Springs. From Idaho Springs, transfer to the Clear Creek County Roundabout bus, which is free, to reach Georgetown or Silver Plume. The Roundabout operates Monday through Saturday. The Bustang from Denver to Idaho Springs costs approximately $6-$50. The Clear Creek County Roundabout is free.

Discover more about Georgetown Loop Railroad

The Georgetown Loop Railroad, completed in 1884, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of 19th-century railway engineering. 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 with over 600 feet of elevation difference. The solution was a remarkable "loop". The track winds for 4.5 miles, crossing the 95-foot-high Devil's Gate High Bridge, allowing trains to ascend the challenging grade. The Georgetown Loop quickly became a popular tourist attraction, offering breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and a glimpse into Colorado's silver mining boom. After a period of decline and eventual dismantling in 1939, the Georgetown Loop was reconstructed in the 1970s and reopened in 1984. Today, visitors can once again experience this historic railway, riding vintage steam or diesel locomotives through the stunning mountain landscape. An optional tour of the Lebanon Silver Mine adds another layer to the experience, allowing visitors to explore a real mine tunnel and learn about the life of a 19th-century miner.