All Aboard for Memory Lane: Colorado's Historic Train Rides for the Young at Heart

Folks, let me tell you a secret - there's nothing quite like the rhythmic chug of a train to make you feel like a kid again. As someone who's spent more years than I care to admit exploring the nooks and crannies of Colorado, I've found that our historic train rides are the perfect ticket for those of us who prefer our adventures with a side of comfort.

So, grab your conductor's hat and join me on a whistle-stop tour of the Centennial State's most charming rail journeys.

The Georgetown Loop Railroad: A Mountain Marvel

Picture this: you're chugging along a narrow-gauge track, winding through the Clear Creek Valley, when suddenly you're crossing a devil of a bridge 95 feet in the air. That's the Georgetown Loop for you, a true feat of 19th-century engineering that'll have you grinning like it's 1884 all over again.

Pro Tip: Book the parlor car for extra comfort and a complimentary drink. Trust me, nothing beats sipping a local beer while the aspens quake outside your window. (More Information)

Pikes Peak Cog Railway: To the Top of America's Mountain

Now, if you're like me and your mountain-climbing days are firmly in the rearview mirror, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway is your ticket to the top. This little engine that could has been huffing and puffing its way up to 14,115 feet since 1891. And let me tell you, the views from up there? They'll take your breath away - and not just because of the altitude!

Insider Scoop: They've just given the whole shebang a multimillion-dollar facelift. New tracks, new trains, same jaw-dropping views. (More Information)

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: A Slice of the Old West

Imagine yourself as a silver baron of old, winding through the rugged San Juan Mountains. The Durango & Silverton line has been running this route since 1882, and by golly, it's like stepping into a time machine. The best part? You can choose from trips as short as 2 hours or go for the full-day adventure.

Word to the Wise: Pack a light jacket. Even in summer, it can get chilly in those mountain passes. (More Information)

Royal Gorge Route Railroad: Dining with a View

Now, here's a train that combines two of my favorite things: stunning scenery and good grub. As you glide along the Arkansas River, through the Royal Gorge, you can tuck into a gourmet meal. It's like the world's most scenic restaurant, only it moves!

Chef's Kiss: Spring for the Vista Dome car. The panoramic views are worth every penny. (More Information)

Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad: A Tale of Two States

Last but not least, we have the granddaddy of them all - the longest and highest narrow-gauge railroad in America. Straddling the Colorado-New Mexico border, this 64-mile journey takes you through terrain so rugged, the train is still the best way to see it.

Nugget of Knowledge: Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. I once saw a bear ambling alongside the tracks, cool as you please. (More Information)

Tips for Us Young-at-Hearts:

• Most of these trains offer accessible seating, but book early - those spots fill up faster than a steam engine's boiler.
• Bring a cushion for extra comfort. Those historic seats can be a bit, well, historic.
• Don't forget your camera! Your grandkids won't believe the views (or that you went somewhere without them).

Wrap-up:There you have it, friends - a roundup of Colorado's finest iron horse adventures. These aren't just train rides; they're time machines, history lessons, and nature tours all rolled into one. And the best part? You can enjoy all this without having to worry about your knees complaining or your back giving out.

So next time someone tells you to "act your age," just smile and tell them you're off to ride the rails. After all, age is just a number, but these memories? They'll last a lifetime.

All aboard, and happy trails!

‍