The Santa Express Train: A Magical Holiday Experience

Holiday Magic on the Rails

Every year as the holidays approach, the Royal Gorge Route Railroad transforms into the Santa Express, creating one of Colorado's most magical seasonal experiences. If you're planning a winter visit to Canon City or looking for a special holiday activity, here's everything you need to know about this beloved tradition.

What Is the Santa Express?

The Santa Express is a special holiday-themed train ride that runs from late November through late December. The vintage train cars are decorated for the season, and the journey features visits from Santa Claus, holiday music, hot cocoa, and cookies. It's a family-friendly event that has become an annual tradition for many Colorado families.

The train travels the same scenic route as the regular Royal Gorge Route Railroad, winding through the dramatic 1,000-foot deep canyon alongside the Arkansas River. But the holiday atmosphere transforms the journey into something truly special—imagine watching snow dust the canyon walls as carolers sing and Santa makes his way through the cars greeting children.

Booking and Tickets

Book Early! This cannot be stressed enough. The Santa Express sells out weeks—sometimes months—in advance. Many families book their tickets as soon as they become available, typically in early fall. If you're hoping for a specific date and time, don't wait.

Several service classes are available, from coach seating to premium dome cars. The Vista Dome provides the most scenic views and often includes upgraded refreshments. All classes include visits from Santa, so choose based on your budget and how important the elevated dining experience is to your family.

Check the official Royal Gorge Route Railroad website for current pricing, availability, and booking. Prices vary by class and date, with weekends and dates closer to Christmas typically in highest demand.

What to Expect

The journey typically lasts about 2 hours. During the ride:

• Santa visits each car to meet children (bring your camera!)
• Carolers and musicians provide holiday entertainment
• Hot cocoa and cookies are served to passengers
• The festively decorated train adds to the atmosphere
• Views of the snow-dusted canyon provide a winter wonderland backdrop

Tips for the Best Experience

Dress in layers. The train cars are heated, but you may want to step onto the outdoor observation areas for photos. The canyon can be cold in winter!

Arrive early. The depot in Canon City gets busy during Santa Express season. Give yourself plenty of time to park, check in, and find your seats without rushing.

Bring your camera. Whether it's your child sitting on Santa's lap or the snowy canyon scenery, you'll want to capture the memories. The unique lighting inside the train can be challenging—use flash for indoor photos.

Consider weekday departures. If your schedule allows, weekday trains tend to be slightly less crowded than weekend departures. The experience is equally magical but with a bit more elbow room.

Manage expectations for young ones. The 2-hour train ride is wonderful, but very young children may get restless. Bring quiet activities for downtime between Santa visits and entertainment.

Combining with Other Holiday Activities

The Santa Express makes a perfect centerpiece for a Canon City holiday weekend. Consider:

• Strolling downtown Canon City's holiday decorations and festive shop windows
• Warming up with hot chocolate at Canon City Mugs
• Driving Skyline Drive for winter canyon views (check road conditions)
• Making a day trip to Cripple Creek for additional holiday atmosphere and historic charm

Making It Special

Many families create annual traditions around the Santa Express. Some wear matching holiday pajamas for the ride. Others combine it with special breakfasts or dinners in Canon City. Whatever your approach, the combination of scenic beauty, holiday magic, and family togetherness creates memories that last a lifetime.

For information on dates, times, and tickets, visit the Royal Gorge Route Railroad website or call their reservation line. And remember—book early!