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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers or fall colors

Leadville Colorado & Southern Railroad
Best Time
Wildflowers or fall colors

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride through Colorado's highest peaks on a historic train, with stunning Arkansas River Valley views.
"One of the best railroad experiences in Colorado!"

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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Arkansas River Valley Views
Along the route
Panoramic vistas of Colorado's highest peaks and lush forests, especially beautiful during fall foliage.

Historic Train Experience
The train itself
Ride in comfortable coaches with knowledgeable guides sharing local history and facts.

Seasonal Specials
Various times of year
Enjoy unique rides like the 'Wildflower Special' or festive holiday trains for a memorable experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Dress for the Altitude
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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:
Choose Your Seat Wisely
Left side facing away from station offers best views. Covered cars can be loud. :seat:
Dog-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved dogs are welcome aboard! Great for pet owners. :dog:
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. :ticket:
Layer Up!
Leadville is high altitude. Bring a coat & gloves, even in summer. :coat:
Choose Your Seat Wisely
Left side facing away from station offers best views. Covered cars can be loud. :seat:
Dog-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved dogs are welcome aboard! Great for pet owners. :dog:
Upgrade for Comfort
Consider a lounge car upgrade for chilly weather. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
The Leadville Railroad station is located at East 7th Street in Leadville, Colorado.
Yes, parking is generally available at the station, but it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons.
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.
The drive to Leadville is considered very beautiful, with stunning mountain scenery. It's a pleasant journey, especially if you enjoy scenic routes.
🎫 🎫 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.
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Leadville Railroad website. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular dates.
While specific coupons might be rare, keep an eye on their website or local tourism sites for potential package deals or seasonal promotions.
The train ride typically lasts about 2.5 hours, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery and learn about the area.
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.
🎫 🚝 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.
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.
Yes, there are restrooms, but be prepared for a rustic experience in that part of the train.
Yes, the aisles between seats and the doors/stairs are wide, making it a comfortable experience for plus-size individuals.
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.
🍽️ 🥨 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!
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.
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.
The pretzels served on the Leadville train are described as 'super good' by passengers.
Yes, drinks are typically available for purchase or may be included with certain ticket packages. It's best to confirm when booking.
📸 📸 Photography
The left side of the train, facing away from the station, offers the most scenic views. Open-air cars provide unobstructed photo opportunities.
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.
Morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for capturing the best landscape photos, but the views are stunning throughout the day.
Yes, there are standing areas that add extra fun and can provide better vantage points for photos.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, large professional equipment might require special arrangements. Always check with the railroad if you have extensive gear.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Pack snacks and drinks, though pretzels are a popular onboard treat. 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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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. Remember to bring extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll want to capture every moment of this scenic journey.
❤️ Couples & Anniversary Trips
Enjoy the journey together, perhaps sharing some of the famous onboard pretzels. 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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Leadville Railroad Experience
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.
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.
Choosing Your Ride and Seats
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. If you're traveling during cooler months, an upgrade to a lounge car is often recommended for added warmth and comfort. 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.
Best Times to Visit for Scenery
In spring, the 'Wildflower Special' ride highlights the blooming flora of the Arkansas River Valley, painting the landscape with vibrant colors. 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. This makes the fall train ride an unforgettable experience for photographers and nature lovers alike.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit