Ride heated lounge cars through snowy Rockies on a narrated 2-hour journey
Discover what we've curated for you
2 Hours
Roundtrip train ride, Heated cars
Ride the Leadville Railroad's Winter Express for a cozy 2-hour journey through Colorado's snow-covered high country. Settle into heated lounge or coach cars and enjoy sweeping views of the Rockies.
Only service animals performing a specific task are allowed on Winter Express. No smoking, outside alcohol, or firearms on board. Accessibility features are limited in winter; if you use a wheelchair, note it on your reservation.
Tickets are non-refundable. Changes may be made before your original date if capacity allows; $6 per ticket and must be used within 90 days. No refunds for no-shows or late arrivals. If you do not check in 15 minutes before departure, your ticket may be resold. No refunds for weather if the train still runs.
A: The Leadville Railroad Winter Express features lounge cars with table and booth seating. Seating is assigned and cannot be rearranged, though requests may be accommodated when possible.
A: Yes, the train operates in most weather conditions. Trips only stop if conditions are unsafe, and refunds are not issued if the train runs.
A: Yes, restrooms are available on board, and concessions including snacks and drinks are available for purchase. You may also bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages.
Please check in at the depot at 326 E. 7th St., Leadville, CO. Tickets are held at will call, and you must check in prior to boarding. Boarding typically begins about 30 minutes before departure. Free parking is available on site.
The crew here really makes the experience special. Visitors consistently praise the friendly, knowledgeable staff who bring the area's history to life while keeping things fun and welcoming. The train itself features vintage late 1800s style cars with large windows you can open for photos, plus open-air sections where you can grab drinks and soak in the mountain views at 11,000 feet. The depot and gift shop add to the nostalgic charm, and they offer military discounts too. The scenery is the real showstopper, with passengers calling it beautiful and perfect for that quintessential Colorado mountain experience. Most find it relaxing rather than thrilling, which seems to be the intended vibe. A few practical notes: the caboose is a highly recommended upgrade if available, and snagging a booth makes for a more comfortable ride. Some mentioned inconsistencies with seating arrangements for families, and the food pricing gets occasional grumbles for being high relative to quality. Still, with hot chocolate and pretzels available onboard, most passengers found plenty to enjoy during their journey through the mountains.
We took the Saturday 430p to 630p train ride and it was wonderful! Sites were amazing!
Christine McMahon
March 29, 2026
We took the Saturday 430p to 630p train ride and it was wonderful! Sites were amazing!
Christine McMahon
March 29, 2026