Royal Gorge Bridge by Rail: The Royal Gorge Route Railroad
- Runs the canyon floor along the Arkansas River, directly beneath the bridge.
- About one hour and 50 minutes return, with no walking at all.
- An open-air car for photographs, and food and drink to buy on board.
- Departs from the historic Santa Fe Depot in Cañon City, not the park.
- The gentlest way to see the gorge, and the one that suits limited mobility best.
The canyon from the floor
This is the gentlest way to experience the Royal Gorge: a roughly two-hour scenic train that rides the canyon floor along the Arkansas River, passing directly beneath the Royal Gorge Bridge. There is no walking or paddling – just the canyon unfolding outside comfortable cars, with access to an open-air car for photos and food and drink available to buy on board.
It is a separate outing from a park visit: the train departs from the historic Santa Fe Depot in Cñon City, not from the bridge, so it pairs well with a park ticket on the same trip rather than replacing it. It suits travellers who want the scenery without effort, families with a range of ages, and anyone for whom mobility is a consideration. Dining and drinks are additional to the ticket price.
Who the railroad is for
This suits you if:
- you would rather sit than walk or paddle
- you want the gorge from below, which is a completely different view
- you are travelling with someone for whom the rim is hard going
When it is the wrong choice
This is not for you if you want to stand on the bridge — the train passes underneath it and never stops there. It is also not suitable for wheelchair users, despite being the least strenuous option, because of how the cars are boarded.
If you want the bridge itself, buy the park entry ticket instead.
What the fare covers
- Scenic train ride through the Royal Gorge
- Access to the open-air car
- Access to the Santa Fe Depot boutique and café before and after the ride
Not included
- Food and drinks (available to purchase on board)
Know before you go
- It departs from the Santa Fe Depot in Cañon City, not from the bridge or the park. Allow for the drive between the two if you are doing both on one day; they are not walking distance apart.
- Meals cost extra on top of the ticket. Decide before you board. There is food and drink to buy, but it is not folded into the fare.
- It is not suitable for wheelchair users. Contact the operator about access and assistance before booking, because boarding varies by car.
- Free cancellation runs up to 24 hours before departure. Book early and change later if you need to; summer departures fill well ahead.
What passengers said
The train gave us the Royal Gorge from an angle you can't get any other way. The wait staff and the food were great.
Fran, United States · family with teens, 2026
Didn't expect it, but we spotted bighorn sheep along the canyon – a real bonus on a relaxing ride.
Dennis, United States · family with teens, 2026
A relaxing ride and the scenery was worth it – just note that meals cost extra on top of the ticket.
Cynthia, United States · couple, 2026
Questions about the railroad
Is the railroad the same as the Royal Gorge Bridge?
How long is the train ride?
Is food included?
Where does it depart from?
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Does the train stop at the bridge?
Compare all Royal Gorge Bridge tours, or see visitor information and frequently asked questions.