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Georgetown Loop Railroad: A Ride Through History

Experience a ride through history on the Georgetown Loop Railroad, a narrow gauge railway offering breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

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The Georgetown Loop Railroad is a historic narrow gauge railway that climbs through the scenic Rocky Mountains, connecting the towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume, Colorado. Built in the 1880s, this engineering marvel features steep grades, sharp curves, and the iconic Devil's Gate High Bridge, offering visitors a glimpse into Colorado's mining past and breathtaking views.

A brief summary to Georgetown Loop Railroad

  • 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

Local tips

  • Check the Georgetown Loop Railroad's website for the most up-to-date schedule and special event information before planning your visit.
  • Consider booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on the train.
  • Dress in layers, as the mountain weather can be unpredictable, and temperatures may vary throughout the day.
  • Arrive early to allow time for parking and exploring the gift shops and exhibits at the Georgetown or Silver Plume depots.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Denver, take I-70 west towards Georgetown. The Georgetown Loop Railroad is located near exit 228. Follow the signs to the Georgetown Loop Railroad. Parking is available at both the Georgetown and Silver Plume depots. Parking costs vary but expect to pay around $5-$10 for the day, depending on the lot and season.

  • Public Transport

    From Denver, take the tram from Auraria West Station to Federal Center Station W. Transfer to a bus towards Idaho Springs. From Idaho Springs, a taxi or rideshare can take you to the Georgetown Loop Railroad, which is approximately 10 miles away. The taxi fare will be around $25-$40.

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Discover more about Georgetown Loop Railroad

The Georgetown Loop Railroad, completed in 1884, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and ambition of 19th-century railway engineering. Conceived to link the mining towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume, which are just two miles apart but separated by a daunting 600-foot elevation difference, the railroad was a vital transportation artery during the Colorado silver boom. The railway's route is a marvel in itself, stretching 4.5 miles with a series of loops, horseshoe curves, and switchbacks to navigate the steep mountain terrain. The highlight is the Devil's Gate High Bridge, which loops 100 feet over itself. This design allowed trains to manage a challenging 4% grade, making it possible to transport ore, supplies, and passengers between the two towns. As mining declined in the early 20th century, the Georgetown Loop faced dwindling use, and the line was dismantled in 1939. However, the growing tourism industry in Colorado spurred restoration efforts in the 1970s, and the Georgetown Loop was successfully rebuilt, reopening to the public in 1984. Today, the Georgetown Loop Railroad is a popular heritage railway, offering scenic journeys through the mountains and optional mine tours, providing a captivating glimpse into Colorado's rich mining history. Visitors can experience the thrill of riding vintage locomotives, explore historic mine sites, and immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

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