Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad
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Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad

4.7
·1k reviews·Leadville, United States

Ride through Colorado's highest peaks on a historic train, with stunning Arkansas River Valley views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn

Wildflowers or fall colors

CrowdMedium
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Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad

Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad

Best Time

Spring & Autumn

Wildflowers or fall colors

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ride through Colorado's highest peaks on a historic train, with stunning Arkansas River Valley views.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"One of the best railroad experiences in Colorado!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Ahead for Fall

Aspens change early! Plan fall trips for late August/early September for peak colors. :ticket:

Layer Up!

Leadville is high altitude. Bring a coat & gloves, even in summer. :coat:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Arkansas River Valley Views

Arkansas River Valley Views

Along the route

Panoramic vistas of Colorado's highest peaks and lush forests, especially beautiful during fall foliage.

TikTok
Historic Train Experience

Historic Train Experience

The train itself

Ride in comfortable coaches with knowledgeable guides sharing local history and facts.

Reddit
Seasonal Specials

Seasonal Specials

Various times of year

Enjoy unique rides like the 'Wildflower Special' or festive holiday trains for a memorable experience.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

The Leadville Railroad offers stunning views year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly magical for wildflowers or changing leaves. Book tickets in advance, especially for popular seasonal rides like the 'Wildflower Special' or holiday trains. Instagram

Dress for the Altitude

Leadville is the highest incorporated city in North America, so expect cooler temperatures even in summer. Layers are key, and bring a warm coat and gloves for chilly train rides, especially in the open-air cars. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn
Why
Wildflowers or fall colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday Season
Why
Festive atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

What an awesome jumpstart to the Holiday season! #leadvillerailroad #leadvillecolorado #colorado #family
nursingourjourney
2 likes • 114 views

Book Ahead for Fall

Aspens change early! Plan fall trips for late August/early September for peak colors. Reddit :ticket:

Layer Up!

Leadville is high altitude. Bring a coat & gloves, even in summer. Instagram :coat:

🚂 Leadville Railroad 📍 Leadville, Colorado 🗺️ Places to visit in Colorado 🛤️ Colorado Trains 🤔 Know before you go: 🚂 Trains leaves daily 10am and 2pm ⏱️ 2.5 Hours 💵 57 adult, 34 child 4-12 💵 Booth seating 82.50 🌼 Wildflower special ride is more ☀️ Open air is hot! Sunblock/water 🎟️ Tickets on-line #leadville #train #ride #colorado #placestovisit #bucketlist
colorado.kage
580 likes • 13.1K views
You decide to take a Winter train in Colorado, and it looks like this 😍❄️🏔️ . . . . . . #colorado #coloradowinter #leadville #leadvillecolorado #leadvilletrain Winter train, colorado, winter, Leadville, content creator
dearmariajose
43 likes • 3.5K views

Choose Your Seat Wisely

Left side facing away from station offers best views. Covered cars can be loud. Reddit :seat:

Dog-Friendly Fun

Well-behaved dogs are welcome aboard! Great for pet owners. Reddit :dog:

reddit.com

All Aboard the Leadville RailRoad

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Ahead for Fall

Aspens change early! Plan fall trips for late August/early September for peak colors. Reddit :ticket:

Layer Up!

Leadville is high altitude. Bring a coat & gloves, even in summer. Instagram :coat:

Choose Your Seat Wisely

Left side facing away from station offers best views. Covered cars can be loud. Reddit :seat:

Dog-Friendly Fun

Well-behaved dogs are welcome aboard! Great for pet owners. Reddit :dog:

Upgrade for Comfort

Consider a lounge car upgrade for chilly weather. Reddit :moneybag:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently rave about the Leadville Railroad's stunning scenery, knowledgeable staff, and comfortable ride. Many highlight the unique seasonal experiences and the welcoming atmosphere, even for pet owners. Some note the rustic nature of the restrooms and the potential for noise in certain cars.

"This is a pretty cool thing to do. It takes about two and a half hours but you get to go on a nice train ride and the announcer is very well informed on everything about the town and surrounding areas. The seats are pretty comfortable which is nice. The staff on the train was very friendly and willing to help with anything you needed. You learn a lot of factual things on the strain right also. Lots of very cool scenery on this trip"

Joseph Downing

"We had an amazing time on the Leadville Railroad with friends. The views were stunning, the warm coach seats were perfect for the chilly October weather, and the full glass windows made the scenery easy to enjoy. They serve food to your table, and the standing area adds extra fun. A truly unforgettable experience!"

naga swathi

"Recently enjoyed a train ride on a sunny October day to celebrate our 21st anniversary (we rode it on our honeymoon). This adventure is worth every penny, but bring your coat and gloves! We highly encourage the upgrade to a lounge car in chilly weather but be sure to check out the concession care even though you have an attendant. Great photos and other surprises to explore. The bathrooms are an adventure unto themselves, so be prepared for a rustic experience in that part of the train."

C H

What People Like

Breathtaking mountain views
Informative and friendly staff
Comfortable and accessible seating

What People Dislike

Rustic restrooms
Noisy open-air cars

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The drive from Denver to Leadville is about 2 hours and is scenic. You can also consider public transport options to Denver and then a shuttle or rental car to Leadville. Reddit

The Leadville Railroad station is located at East 7th Street in Leadville, Colorado. Reddit

Yes, parking is generally available at the station, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

While direct bus routes might be limited, you can often find bus services to nearby towns and then arrange local transport or a taxi to Leadville. Check regional bus schedules for options. Reddit

The drive to Leadville is considered very beautiful, with stunning mountain scenery. It's a pleasant journey, especially if you enjoy scenic routes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary by seating and season. Adult tickets are around $57, and child tickets (4-12) are about $34. Booth seating is $82.50. Check their official website for current pricing and special offers. Instagram

Tickets can be purchased online through the official Leadville Railroad website. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular dates. Instagram

While specific coupons might be rare, keep an eye on their website or local tourism sites for potential package deals or seasonal promotions. Reddit

The train ride typically lasts about 2.5 hours, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery and learn about the area. Instagram

Yes, dogs are allowed on the Leadville Railroad, which is a big plus for pet owners looking for activities to do with their furry friends. Reddit

🎫 🚝 Onsite Experience

For the best views, sit on the left side facing away from the station. Covered cars without windows offer great scenery, but cars with windows can be loud. Reddit

Dress in layers! Leadville is at high altitude, so it can be chilly. A warm coat and gloves are recommended, especially for open-air cars. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are restrooms, but be prepared for a rustic experience in that part of the train. Reddit

Yes, the aisles between seats and the doors/stairs are wide, making it a comfortable experience for plus-size individuals. Reddit

You'll see panoramic views of the Arkansas River Valley, forests, and Colorado's highest peaks. The scenery is particularly stunning in spring and autumn. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🥨 Food & Dining

Yes, food is served to your table in some cars, and there's a concession car. They are known for their tasty pretzels! Reddit

While specific policies vary, it's generally a good idea to check with the railroad beforehand if you plan to bring your own food. They do offer snacks and meals onboard. Reddit

Leadville has a charming downtown with various restaurants and cafes offering local cuisine. It's a great place to grab a bite before or after your train adventure. Reddit

The pretzels served on the Leadville train are described as 'super good' by passengers. Reddit

Yes, drinks are typically available for purchase or may be included with certain ticket packages. It's best to confirm when booking. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The left side of the train, facing away from the station, offers the most scenic views. Open-air cars provide unobstructed photo opportunities. Reddit

Full glass windows in some cars make scenery easy to enjoy and photograph. However, covered cars can be loud, and reflections can be an issue. Reddit

Morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the best landscape photos, but the views are stunning throughout the day. Reddit

Yes, there are standing areas that add extra fun and can provide better vantage points for photos. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, large professional equipment might require special arrangements. Always check with the railroad if you have extensive gear. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Leadville Railroad is a fantastic family outing! Kids will love the excitement of riding a real train, and the guides make the journey engaging with stories and facts. TikTok The 2.5-hour duration is manageable for most children, and the option to bring dogs adds to the fun for families with pets. Reddit Consider booking a holiday-themed train for an extra special treat. TikTok

Pro-tip: Pack snacks and drinks, though pretzels are a popular onboard treat. Reddit Ensure everyone has layers of clothing, as mountain weather can change quickly. The wide aisles and entrances also make it comfortable for families with strollers or for larger family groups. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Leadville Railroad offers a unique opportunity to capture stunning mountain landscapes. The best views are typically found on the left side of the train when facing away from the station, overlooking the Arkansas River Valley. Reddit Open-air cars provide unobstructed shots, but be mindful of the noise. Reddit

Timing is key for optimal lighting. Consider morning or late afternoon rides for softer light and fewer harsh shadows. The changing seasons also offer diverse photographic subjects, from spring wildflowers to vibrant autumn foliage. Reddit Remember to bring extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll want to capture every moment of this scenic journey. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Anniversary Trips

Celebrate a special occasion with a romantic train ride on the Leadville Railroad. The stunning mountain scenery provides a beautiful backdrop for a memorable anniversary or date. Reddit Consider upgrading to a lounge car for added comfort and a more intimate experience, especially during cooler weather. Reddit

Enjoy the journey together, perhaps sharing some of the famous onboard pretzels. Reddit The historic charm of the train and the picturesque views create a perfect atmosphere for connection and relaxation. It's a unique way to experience Colorado's beauty hand-in-hand. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Leadville Railroad Experience

The Leadville Railroad offers a unique journey through the heart of Colorado's stunning mountain landscape. This historic train ride takes you along the Arkansas River Valley, providing breathtaking views of forests and the state's highest peaks. It's more than just a scenic tour; it's an immersive experience into the region's natural beauty and history. TikTokReddit

Travelers often praise the knowledgeable guides who share fascinating facts about Leadville and its surroundings, making the 2.5-hour journey both educational and entertaining. The comfortable seating, whether in warm coaches or open-air cars, ensures an enjoyable ride for everyone. The railroad is also known for its seasonal specials, such as the 'Wildflower Special' in spring and festive holiday trains, adding extra magic to the experience. TikTokInstagram

For those planning a visit, remember that Leadville is the highest incorporated city in North America, so dressing in layers is crucial. The altitude means temperatures can be cooler than expected, even in summer. Bringing a warm coat and gloves is highly recommended, especially if you plan to ride in the open-air cars. InstagramReddit

Choosing Your Ride and Seats

When booking your Leadville train ride, consider the different seating options and car types available. While the standard coaches offer comfort and good views through full glass windows, some passengers prefer the open-air cars for an unhindered connection with nature. Reddit However, be aware that these cars can be loud due to the train's mechanics. Reddit

For the most spectacular scenery, aim for seats on the left side of the train when facing away from the station. This orientation typically offers the best vistas of the Arkansas River Valley. Reddit If you're traveling during cooler months, an upgrade to a lounge car is often recommended for added warmth and comfort. Reddit The railroad also accommodates various needs, with wide aisles and entrances making it accessible for plus-size individuals and even allowing well-behaved dogs to join the adventure. Reddit

Best Times to Visit for Scenery

The Leadville Railroad is a year-round attraction, but certain seasons offer particularly spectacular views. Many travelers recommend visiting in spring or autumn for the most breathtaking scenery. Reddit

In spring, the 'Wildflower Special' ride highlights the blooming flora of the Arkansas River Valley, painting the landscape with vibrant colors. TikTok Autumn, however, is a prime time for those seeking the iconic Colorado fall foliage. The Aspen trees begin to change color as early as late August and into September, transforming the mountainsides into a sea of gold. Reddit This makes the fall train ride an unforgettable experience for photographers and nature lovers alike. Reddit

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