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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 the one of the highest standard gauge crossing 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 through 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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