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Excursion Train |
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The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad operates The San Luis Express
between La Veta and Alamosa. It was carved out of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains
over 100 years ago. The last regular passenger train was discontinued in 1953,
and now travelers are privileged to see one of the highest standard gauge
crossings of the Front Range in regular operation. There are daily departures
between Alamosa to La Veta, taking passengers around "Horseshoe Curve", along
the San Isabel National Forest, through two tunnels and into historic
and scenic areas of southern Colorado.
On weekends, a westbound San Luis Express departure is available,
leaving La Veta in the morning. Powered by a diesel-electric, the La-Veta to
Alamosa train allows two hours for lunch and shopping in downtown Alamosa, with
many cafes, restaurants and stores available. Or, you can select an optional
side trip to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, via a motorcoach connection at
Blanca, allowing about two hours at the Dunes (motorcoach and park admission
included in fare). The train returns to La Veta at 5:45 pm. With the weekend
trip from La Veta, several short trips from either Alamosa or La Veta to the top
of La Veta Pass at Fir station, and return; total trip time is about three
hours. Morning and afternoon departures are available from either Alamosa or La
Veta. All trips are powered by steam in one direction and diesel in the other
direction.
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The San Luis Express also leaves daily from historic Alamosa and winds
through country ranging from agricultural flatlands to colorful foothills to
cliff-sided mountains on its way to 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 2:15pm and arrives back in downtown
Alamosa by dinnertime. The Alamosa to La Veta San Luis Express is powered
daily by a vintage, turn-of-the-century steam engine, either the SP-1744 or the
LS&I-18, with its haunting whistle and churning wheels sure to bring back great
memories for some, and make great memories for everyone. And, the San Luis
Express features fine full-length dome cars, at a small additional charge,
providing incomparable views of the mountains, the wildlife and the train.
For times go to the train schedule page. |
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