Ride, Dine and Unwind Aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad!

Ride, Dine and Unwind Aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad!

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers a unique way to experience Colorado’s stunning natural landscape — for about 1 hour and 50 minutes, you’ll be riding along the winding Royal Gorge with views of the Arkansas River and the famous suspension bridge. For $139 per person, you get a ticket that includes a scenic train ride, with options to upgrade to Vista Dome, Deluxe Class, or Coach Class seating. The route is a favorite for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a touch of luxury or family fun.

What makes this experience special? First, the breathtaking views from glass-topped Vista Dome cars truly stand out — you’ll be gazing directly at the gorge’s sheer cliffs and rushing river. Second, the opportunity to enjoy made-to-order meals and fully stocked bars on the train adds a pleasurable layer of comfort and indulgence. However, keep in mind that dining and drinks are extra, which can seem a bit unexpected if you’re only used to inclusive sightseeing tours.

This tour is best suited for families, couples, or groups who appreciate scenic vistas and a relaxed pace. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy outdoor scenery combined with a comfortable, nostalgic train ride. If you’re a history buff or someone craving engaging narration, you might find some aspects less satisfying — reviews note that audio commentary was often missing or inconsistent. Still, the visual spectacle often makes up for it.

Key Points

• Unparalleled views from glass-topped Vista Dome cars
• Flexible seating options to suit different comfort preferences
• Delicious made-to-order meals and drinks available for purchase onboard
• Accessible for most travelers with minimal walking and steps
• A scenic journey alongside the Arkansas River and over the highest suspension bridge in America
• Mixed reviews on service and value, so plan accordingly

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Route and Scenery

The main attraction of this tour is the chance to see Colorado’s Royal Gorge from a new perspective. Traveling alongside the Arkansas River, the train passes through some of the most impressive canyon scenery in the country. Travelers consistently rave about the spectacular views—some say they’re “unbelievable,” and others comment that the photo opportunities are fantastic.

One of the highlights is the view of the suspension bridge, which hangs roughly 1,000 feet above the river. From the open-air car or the large windows of the vista dome, you get an almost unobstructed look at this engineering marvel. Several reviews mention that being outside in the open-air car enhances the experience, allowing a closer connection to nature — “the best way to soak in the beauty,” as one guest put it.

The Itinerary and Stops

The train journey follows a straightforward route, focusing on the scenic ride rather than multiple stops. The main “stop” is the ride itself, which snuggles along the river and through the gorge. While the itinerary doesn’t specify multiple disembarkation points, the ride includes viewing the gorge from high and low angles.

One notable point: the open-air car offers an opportunity to see and photograph the scenery up close, but note that windows in the dome cars can be dirty — several reviewers mention that windows are often smudged, which can hamper photography.

Dining and Beverage Options

A significant part of the experience is the onboard dining. The menu features made-to-order entrees — from breakfast to dinner — with the food prepared at the train’s 403 Grill. While the ticket price does not include meals or drinks, you’ll find a fully stocked bar with wine, beer, and specialty drinks. Guests can choose to enjoy their beverages at the table or on the open-air car, which adds to the relaxed, scenic vibe.

Reviews reveal that food quality varies—some say it’s “ok,” while others find it overpriced. One reviewer noted that the menu items are expensive, but that dining is a worthwhile part of the experience if you’re prepared to pay extra. The laser light show with dinner for families is a highlight for some, providing entertainment while enjoying the stunning surroundings.

Seating and Comfort Levels

The Vista Dome offers the most visually impressive experience, with glass-topped cars designed for scenic viewing. However, some reviews mention that seating arrangements can be cramped — “you might be sharing a table,” or the space is quite small. One guest was moved from the dome to the Deluxe Class after dissatisfaction with sharing a table.

Deluxe Class offers more spacious, elegant seating with an adjoining table and expansive windows, making it a good choice for those wanting comfort and a quieter experience. Coach Class is more basic, with comfy seats and large windows but no tables, ideal if you mainly want the views.

The Guides and Narration

While some guests appreciated the background history shared by staff, many note that the audio narration was often missing or not working. If you’re counting on detailed commentary, you might be disappointed — “there was no narration in our car,” according to one review. That said, guides like Michael are praised for their knowledge and facts, and if you catch them, you’ll learn quite a bit about the gorge and its landmarks.

Practical Considerations

The tour is designed for most travelers, with minimal walking required—just climbing about 10 steps at the start. Service animals are permitted, which is helpful if you’re traveling with a pet. Because dining is extra, budget accordingly if you want a full meal. Also, most guests book about 28 days in advance, so early planning is recommended to secure preferred seats, especially the Vista Dome.

Some guests mention that finding the meeting location can be tricky, so allow extra time for navigation. The Cañon City Santa Fe Depot is the designated start and end point.

The Value and Overall Impression

At $139 for the ride, some reviews feel it’s a bit overpriced, especially considering that meals and drinks cost extra. However, many find the scenic value and the experience of riding through the gorge to be well worth the price. The combination of beautiful views, comfortable seating options, and the nostalgic train ride makes it a memorable outing, particularly for those who love nature and photography.

Customer service is generally friendly, but some mention inconsistent service or that the food and drinks are overpriced. If you’re looking for a relaxing scenic tour with a chance to enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty, this tour delivers — especially when the weather is clear.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is great for families, especially those with young children who can enjoy the wide-open views and the gentle ride. It’s also ideal for scenery lovers who want a comfortable, leisurely way to view the gorge from multiple angles. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the open-air cars and dome windows offer plenty of chances for stunning shots.

However, if you’re seeking detailed narration or inclusive dining, you might find this tour less satisfying. Budget-conscious travelers should note that dining and drinks are extra, and some reviews consider the overall price high for what is included.

This tour suits those who value beautiful vistas, a relaxed pace, and a touch of luxury or family fun in one experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ticket price all-inclusive?
No, the $139 ticket covers the ride itself. Food and drinks are purchased separately onboard.

How long is the train ride?
The journey lasts about 1 hour and 50 minutes, giving ample time for sightseeing and enjoying the scenery.

Are there different seating options?
Yes, you can choose Vista Dome for panoramic views, Deluxe Class for comfort and space, or Coach Class for basic seating with good windows.

Is the experience accessible?
Most travelers can participate, and only about 10 steps need to be climbed at the start. Service animals are allowed.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are not available for last-minute cancellations.

Is narration provided during the ride?
Some guests report no audio narration was available, though guides with knowledge are often present. Prepare for limited commentary unless you catch a staff member like Michael.

The Sum Up

The Royal Gorge Route Railroad offers a memorable way to see one of Colorado’s most dramatic landscapes. The combination of stunning views, comfortable seating, and the romantic nostalgia of train travel makes it a worthwhile experience, especially if you’re keen on photography or family outings. The dining options add luxury, but they do come at an extra cost, so plan your budget accordingly.

While some reviews point out the price and occasional lack of narration, many travelers find the scenery alone justifies the expense. The open-air cars and panoramic dome views are perfect for nature lovers and those wanting something a little special.

In general, this tour works best for scenery enthusiasts, families with kids, or couples celebrating a special occasion. It’s a relaxed, beautiful, and uniquely Colorado experience that will leave you with plenty of photos and memories of the gorge’s grandeur.

Plan ahead, choose your seats wisely, and enjoy the ride through one of America’s most stunning canyons.