Georgetown Loop Railroad
A narrow-gauge steam train spiraling over the 95-foot Devil's Gate High Bridge between two silver towns.
About Georgetown Loop Railroad
The Georgetown Loop Railroad runs between Georgetown and Silver Plume in Clear Creek County, about 45 miles west of Denver along I-70. The two towns are only about two miles apart, but Silver Plume sits more than 600 feet higher, so the original builders looped the line through curves and over a towering trestle to gain the elevation.
Today restored narrow-gauge trains, often pulled by historic steam locomotives, carry visitors over the Devil's Gate High Bridge, 95 feet above Clear Creek. An optional stop at the Lebanon Silver Mine lets you walk into a tunnel bored in the 1870s.
For photographers, the combination of steam, trestle, canyon walls and fall aspen makes it one of Colorado's most picturesque railroad scenes.
A narrow-gauge train ride and mining park just off I-70, 45 miles west of Denver, that recreates 1880s Colorado in a way that's genuinely immersive rather than gimmicky. Beyond the train itself, there's a real silver mine tour and gold panning on site — a solid half-day if you're traveling with people who aren't purely there for the hiking, and the train crossing the Devil's Gate High Bridge is the signature shot most people come for.
History
Construction on the line began in 1881 and the loop was completed in 1884, connecting Georgetown and Silver Plume during the silver boom. It became a famous tourist attraction, but the original railroad was dismantled in 1939 when scrap metal was in demand.
The site was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1970. Work rebuilding track on the old grade began in 1973, and the restored line, including a reconstruction of the High Bridge, reopened on March 10, 1984. History Colorado owns the railroad, and Historic Rail Adventures has operated it since 2009.
Photographing Georgetown Loop Railroad
Best light: Late September is magical, when aspen on the canyon slopes turn gold around the trestle and the railroad runs fall color trains. Cooler mornings make steam plumes show up better. The narrow valley falls into shade early, so check when the sun leaves the bridge.
Shots to look for
- Steam train crossing the Devil's Gate High Bridge from the Georgetown end, shot with a 24-70mm
- Looking down on the bridge from the train or the grade above, with Clear Creek below
- Telephoto (70-200mm) of the locomotive and steam framed by golden aspen
- Vintage depot and rail details in Silver Plume for documentary-style frames
- Long exposure of Clear Creek beneath the trestle between train runs
Photo tips
- Check the schedule first and position yourself before the train arrives; you get one pass per run
- Fall color and holiday trains sell out; book early if you plan to ride
- Not every run uses steam; confirm the locomotive if steam is what you want
- Respect railroad property and never stand on or near the tracks
- Drones over operating railroads and crowds are generally restricted; check rules before flying
Know before you go
- The railroad runs seasonally, mainly summer and fall, with special holiday trains; check current schedules
- Departures are from Devil's Gate (Georgetown) and Silver Plume stations
- The Lebanon Silver Mine tour is an optional add-on and involves walking into a cool tunnel
- I-70 traffic on weekends can add significant drive time
Prints from Georgetown Loop Railroad
Every photo is available as a print on metal, canvas, wood or fine art paper.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Georgetown Loop train ride?
The restored line covers about 3 miles between Georgetown and Silver Plume. Check the railroad for current round-trip times.
When is the best time to ride the Georgetown Loop?
Late September for aspen color is a favorite, and summer offers the most departures. Holiday trains run later in the year.
How high is the Devil's Gate High Bridge?
The trestle stands 95 feet above Clear Creek.
Featured in: Best Fall Color Spots in Colorado
Combine it with
Georgetown · Guanella Pass · Silver Plume · Loveland Pass
More Colorado spots
Sources & further reading: en.wikipedia.org · georgetown-loop-rr-new-site-vsyq9.kinsta.page · georgetownlooprr.com. Conditions, fees and rules change; check with the managing agency before you go.