Colorado & Southern Railroad

The Leadville, Colorado & Southern Railroad is a tourist train that runs north from Leadville toward Fremont Pass.  It uses the track and 1884 depot built by the Denver, South Park & Pacific Railroad, which later become the Colorado & Southern.  The “High Line” track is now standard gauge and the LCS uses diesel locomotives.  Excursions run daily from Memorial Day weekend into October.

The ride winds through conifer trees and aspen groves.  The tracks run parallel to, yet well above, Highway 91 with spectacular views of Mounts Elbert and Massive, and the Arkansas River headwater in its valley filled with beaver dams and ponds.

The train stops and allows passengers to disembark and explore the historic water tower and the end-of-line, just before the Climax Molybdenum Mine boundary.  Once passengers are reloaded, the train backs down the mountain and returns to Leadville.

Each train has multiple cars, both covered and uncovered, with all seats facing the windows.  On board, there is a snack bar, restrooms, souvenir shop, historic information and narration.  Train buffs can arrange to ride in the cab or caboose. 

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