There’s something undeniably magical about swapping highway traffic for railroad tracks, and in Colorado, that magic comes with front-row views of mountains, rivers, and canyons you simply can’t reach by car. In fact, Colorado.com notes that many of the state’s most remote and scenic landscapes are only accessible by rail, making train travel feel less like transportation and more like the adventure itself.

For a quick and easy outing from the city, hop on the Denver Trolley, a charming open-air ride along the South Platte River that passes landmarks like Confluence Park and Empower Field. It’s short, scenic, and perfect for a low-key summer afternoon. If you’re craving something a bit more immersive, the California Zephyr offers daily service from Denver to Glenwood Springs, which is roughly a five-hour ride, delivering sweeping views of canyons and the Colorado River along the way. Visit Denver highlights this route as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the country.

Looking for a true “wow” moment? The Royal Gorge Route Railroad winds through a dramatic canyon with 1,000-foot granite walls, offering a two-to-three-hour ride complete with optional dining. Visit Denver notes this is “…considered by many to be the most spectacular stretch of rail in America.” Or, head to Georgetown (just under an hour away!) for the historic Georgetown Loop Railroad, a short but thrilling ride that climbs steep terrain via bridges and tight curves, gaining over 600 feet in elevation in just a couple of miles.

For those ready to turn a day trip into a full-on experience, the Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway climbs to the 14,115-foot summit of Pikes Peak in about three hours round-trip, including a 40-minute scenic stop at the top, making it one of the most unique high-altitude journeys in the world. And if you’re dreaming bigger, the luxury Canyon Spirit offers a Rockies to the Red Rocks Route with multi-day journeys from Denver through Glenwood Springs to Moab, complete with glass-domed cars and overnight stays.

Whether it’s a quick trolley ride or a bucket-list rail adventure, these trips prove that sometimes the journey really is the destination, especially when the views are this good!