Tips for First-Time Riders on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad in Colorado is one of those bucket-list experiences that combines history, scenery, and a little bit of culinary indulgence. Here is one of my first Royal Gorge Route Railroad Tips: Our family booked the 9 a.m. ride in coach class, knowing we’d spend most of our time in the open-air car soaking in the breathtaking views. If you’re planning your first trip, here’s everything you should know before you board.
A Little History of the Royal Gorge Route Railroad
The Royal Gorge Route Railroad dates back to the late 1800s, when two major railroads fought for the right to lay tracks through the narrow canyon carved by the Arkansas River. The line became a vital route for transporting passengers and freight, offering a glimpse of some of the most dramatic scenery in Colorado. Today, the historic tracks are dedicated to scenic train rides, giving visitors the chance to experience the Royal Gorge the same way passengers did over a century ago—minus the competition between rail companies.
Royal Gorge Route Railroad Tips: Choosing the Best Seat for the Views
While you don’t get to choose which side of the train you’re seated on, here’s my tip: once the ride begins, make your way to the open-air car and find a spot on the left-hand side. This side offers the most sweeping canyon views and the best photo opportunities.
One important etiquette note—please do not hang objects over the rails in the open-air car. Not only does it block other passengers’ views and interfere with their photos, but you also risk dropping your belongings into the canyon. We saw this happening a lot during our trip. Large selfie sticks are not allowed on board, so plan to keep your photography gear compact.
Royal Gorge Route Railroad Tips: Understanding the Different Classes
The Royal Gorge Route offers several ticket classes:
- Coach Class is the most budget-friendly and still provides access to the open-air cars.
- Vista Dome offers panoramic glass windows above and around you for a more enclosed, all-weather scenic experience.
- First Class includes more spacious seating and upgraded meal options.
We opted for coach class because we knew the open-air car would be our main hangout. The beauty of this train is that no matter which class you choose, you can still enjoy the views from the open-air cars.
Royal Gorge Route Railroad Tips: Food and Drink Onboard
The Royal Gorge Route offers a variety of meals, snacks, and drinks during the ride. We ordered the breakfast burrito and the breakfast bagel with potatoes, plus three bottles of water and a lemonade. We especially enjoyed the breakfast burrito, but our total came to just over $50. Keep that in mind when budgeting for your trip. The ticket price does not include meals, so you pay separately on board.
Other Things to Know Before You Go
The train does not allow dogs, so you’ll need to arrange other transportation for your pets, except for service animals. Arrive early to board without rushing and to find your spot in the open-air car. We chose the 9 a.m. ride, which gave us beautiful canyon lighting and comfortable temperatures.
Final Thoughts
Riding the Royal Gorge Route Railroad is an unforgettable way to experience Colorado’s rugged beauty and history. From the moment you step aboard to the last scenic mile, it’s a journey worth taking. Go in prepared with these tips, and you’ll be ready to enjoy every moment—whether you’re snapping photos from the open-air car, enjoying breakfast as the scenery rolls by, or simply taking in the incredible engineering that made this route possible. Love train rides like we do? Check out our trip on the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad.
Sadly, this train isn’t equipped with sleeper cars (these conductors tend to frown on that), but trust me—you’ll be glad you hopped off. Colorado Springs has a bed for every kind of traveler: historic hotels with creaky charm, chic lofts steps from craft breweries, and mountain cabins so quiet you’ll hear the stars twinkle. Wherever you stay, you’re minutes from jaw-dropping trails, red rock wonders, and sunsets that look like the sky is showing off. In Colorado Springs, your ticket doesn’t end at the station—it’s just the start of the adventure. Scan our QR code for your perfect place.
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