A Journey Through Time: Boarding the Royal Gorge Train

As I stepped onto the platform at the Canon City Santa Fe Depot, a familiar sense of anticipation washed over me. The Royal Gorge Train awaited, its elegant dining car promising an experience that would transport me back to the golden age of rail travel. The gentle clinking of glasses and the soft murmur of conversation set the stage for an evening of indulgence and nostalgia.

The journey began with a glass of sparkling wine, a fitting prelude to the culinary delights that lay ahead. The dining car, with its expansive windows, offered a panoramic view of the Royal Gorge, a breathtaking backdrop that seemed to whisper stories of the past. As the train gently rolled forward, I found myself lost in the rhythm of the rails, a comforting cadence that has always been a balm to my soul.

The staff, with their warm smiles and attentive service, added a personal touch to the experience. Their knowledge of the train’s history and the gorge itself enriched the journey, weaving a tapestry of tales that connected us to the land and its legacy. It was a reminder of the timeless beauty of train travel, where every moment is an opportunity to savor the journey as much as the destination.

A Feast for the Senses: Dining in Elegance

The dining experience aboard the Royal Gorge Train was nothing short of spectacular. Each course was a testament to the culinary artistry that defines first-class dining. The wedge salad, crisp and refreshing, was a delightful start, followed by warm French rolls that melted in the mouth.

For the main course, I chose the Colorado Slow-Roasted Prime Rib, a dish that epitomized the rich flavors of the region. Cooked to perfection, it was a symphony of taste that lingered long after the last bite. My companions opted for the Atlantic Salmon and Chicken Marsala, each dish receiving accolades for its exquisite preparation and presentation.

As the train meandered through the gorge, the ambiance within the dining car was one of refined elegance. The gentle sway of the train, the clinking of cutlery, and the soft glow of candlelight created an atmosphere that was both intimate and grand. It was a dining experience that transcended the ordinary, leaving us in awe of the culinary journey we had embarked upon.

Embracing the Scenic Splendor: A Stroll in the Open Air

One of the highlights of the Royal Gorge Train experience was the opportunity to step outside into the open-air observation car. Here, the beauty of the gorge unfolded in all its majesty, a 360-degree vista that was both humbling and inspiring.

The Arkansas River rushed below, its waters a constant companion as we journeyed through the heart of the gorge. The geological formations, carved by time and nature, stood as silent sentinels, their grandeur a testament to the forces that shaped this land. It was a moment to pause and reflect, to breathe in the crisp air and feel the wind carry the echoes of eras gone by.

As the train made its way back to the depot, I felt a sense of gratitude for the experience. The Royal Gorge Train had offered more than just a journey; it had provided a connection to the past, a reminder of the beauty of slow travel, and a celebration of the art of dining. It was an experience that would linger in my memory, a cherished chapter in my lifelong love affair with train travel.