Colorado is full of scenic wonders, from soaring 14,000-foot peaks to mountain lakes and meadows to dramatic cliffs and canyons. But few people have access to the truly wild and remote regions of Colorado like those found along the route of the San Luis Express as it traverses La Veta Pass – a legendary pass in railroading circles that marks the highest point at which any standard gauge rail crosses the Rockies in Colorado.

The San Luis Express leaves daily at 9 a.m. from historic Alamosa and winds through country ranging from agricultural flatlands to colorful foothills to cliff-sided mountains – much of it inaccessible by motor vehicle – on its way to the charming art town of La Veta. A leisurely, two-hour stop for lunch allows passengers to relax in the park, do some shopping and gallery browsing, or enjoy a great meal at one of La Veta’s local restaurants and cafes.

The train leaves La Veta at 2pm and arrives back in downtown Alamosa by dinnertime.

Weekend and holiday passengers are treated to the Rio Grande Railroad’s vintage, turn-of-the-century steam engine, the SP-1744, with its haunting whistle and churning wheels sure to bring back great memories for some, and make great memories for everyone.

Leaving Alamosa at 8:15 a.m. each Saturday and Sunday, the Toltec Gorge Limited heads south to Antonito to connect with the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, providing round-trip service to Chama, New Mexico. En route, the Toltec Gorge Limited passes through some of the San Luis Valley’s most historically significant country, including ranching and agricultural centers and Spanish settlements still brimming with culture and vitality. After a tour on the Cumbres & Toltec, the Toltec Gorge Limited will transport passengers back to Alamosa just in time for a great dinner at one of our more than 30 local restaurants.