Jetsettersblog

ROYAL GORGE ROUTE RAILROAD
CONTACT: Mark Greksa
TEL: 720-641-7551
E-MAIL: mgreksa@comcast.net
WEB: www.royalgorgeroute.com

CAÑON CITY, Colorado—Active adults who want to see the vibrant colors of fall and learn more of Colorado’s colorful history are invited to take a ride with the Royal Gorge Route Railroad on the most famous portion of the former Denver & Rio Grande Western train line. The two-hour scenic and historic journey departs twice daily through October 12, and on weekends from October 12 to December 31. There will be special holiday daily departures between December 20 and December 31.

The Royal Gorge is a canyon nearly 1,000 feet deep, carved by the Arkansas River. Tourists who have seen it from the bridge only have half the story – below, the Royal Gorge Route runs on tracks that were built as part of a two-year struggle for ownership between the two largest railroads at the time. In the late 1870s, the Denver & Rio Grande and Santa Fe Railroads were battling for the right-of-way through the canyon to gain faster passage from the east to the west – but with the narrow clearance, only one would succeed. This two-year struggle between the two railroads became known as the “Royal Gorge War” – and today’s visitors can discover the engineering feats, such as the “Hanging Bridge,” where the tracks are suspended over the river along the north side of the gorge – because the canyon is only 30 feet wide.

By 1882 the Royal Gorge route became a transcontinental rail link between Denver and Salt Lake City, and was used regularly until the late 60s, when even the mail turned to other modes of delivery. The tracks remained, and in 1998 a 24 mile portion of the route was re-opened for passengers to experience the “Grand Canyon of the Arkansas.” The views from the suspension bridge high above the gorge are nothing like the views from the ground – where it is much easier to see wildlife and appreciate Colorado’s rugged and varied landscape. All passengers have access to the open-air observation cars, which allow for the best views of the Royal Gorge. Passengers may choose from many classes of service, including the “Vista Dome” cars – classic 1950s glass-topped dome cars, which offer unobstructed views from the top level. Other options include Coach, Lunch and Dinner trains, and the new Wine Express trains that feature gourmet appetizers paired with specially-selected wines.

The fall is a great time to visit this Colorado landmark you might not have had time to see – children are in school, the summer crowds have returned to work, and the autumn leaves are brilliant. The Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers five classes of service, ranging in price from $32.95 for coach class to $155 for an observation dome seat on the Wine Dinner Train, which includes five delicious courses paired with award-winning wines that compliment the meal. The railroad is easily accessible from US 50 and is less than an hour from Colorado Springs and Pueblo, and about two hours from Denver, Boulder, Limon and Gunnison. World class taste, world class service, and world class entertainment all add up to one unforgettable trip!

For more information or to make a reservation for the historic Royal Gorge Route Railroad visit www.royalgorgeroute.com  or call 1-888-724-5748.