Colorado, known for its majestic Rocky Mountains, sprawling plains, and vibrant cities, offers a unique way to experience its beauty: by train. Amtrak’s two iconic routes, the California Zephyr and the Southwest Chief, traverse the state, connecting travelers to some of its most scenic and historic destinations.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing way to avoid mountain traffic, an eco-friendly journey, or simply to soak in unparalleled views, Colorado’s Amtrak stations are your gateway. This guide provides a complete overview of each station, highlighting its location, services, and crucial distances to key cities and airports.
Understanding Colorado’s Amtrak Network
Colorado is served by two primary Amtrak lines:
The California Zephyr: This incredibly scenic route runs daily between Chicago and San Francisco, passing through the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. It serves stations from the eastern plains, through Denver, and deep into the Western Slope.
The Southwest Chief: Operating daily between Chicago and Los Angeles, this historic route cuts across Colorado’s southeastern plains, following the path of the Santa Fe Trail.
The California Zephyr Route: Mountain Majesty & Urban Hubs
The Zephyr is a favorite for its breathtaking mountain views, crossing the Continental Divide and winding through canyons.
1. Fort Morgan (FMG)
Location: Northeastern Colorado, on the plains.
Address: 101 E. Railroad Ave, Fort Morgan, CO 80701
Services: Unstaffed platform, shelter, no checked baggage.
Why Stop Here? A quiet stop offering a taste of Colorado’s agricultural plains. Good for connecting to eastern Colorado towns.
Destination
Approx. Distance (Miles)
Approx. Travel Time (Car)
Denver
80
1 hr 15 min
Denver Int’l Airport
65
1 hr
Sterling
40
40 min
Greeley
60
1 hr
2. Denver – Union Station (DEN)
Location: Downtown Denver, a major transportation hub.
Address: 1701 Wynkoop St, Denver, CO 80202
Services: Fully staffed station, ticket office, waiting area, restrooms, checked baggage, L.E.A.D. Lounge, restaurants, shops, direct access to RTD Light Rail, commuter rail (to DIA), and bus services.
Why Stop Here? Denver Union Station is a destination in itself. Step off the train into the heart of the city, with easy access to museums, breweries, sports venues, and the 16th Street Mall. It’s the primary gateway for connecting to all of Colorado.
Destination
Approx. Distance (Miles)
Approx. Travel Time (Car)
Denver International Airport
25
35 min (via A-Line Train)
Colorado Springs
70
1 hr 15 min
Boulder
30
35 min
Rocky Mountain National Park
70
1 hr 30 min
3. Fraser-Winter Park (FRP)
Location: High in the Rocky Mountains, near popular ski resorts.
Address: 17290 US-40, Fraser, CO 80442
Services: Unstaffed platform, shelter, seasonal ski train service (Winter Park Express). No checked baggage.
Why Stop Here? Your gateway to Winter Park Resort, ranked among the best ski destinations in the US. In summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the Fraser Valley.
Destination
Approx. Distance (Miles)
Approx. Travel Time (Car)
Winter Park Resort
5
10 min
Rocky Mountain National Park
40
1 hr
Grand Lake
20
30 min
Estes Park
60
1 hr 30 min
4. Granby (GRA)
Location: A small mountain town, west of Fraser.
Address: 160 E. Agate Ave, Granby, CO 80446
Services: Unstaffed platform, shelter, no checked baggage.
Why Stop Here? Close to the western entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, Grand Lake, and Lake Granby. It’s an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise for fishing, boating, and hiking.
Destination
Approx. Distance (Miles)
Approx. Travel Time (Car)
Grand Lake
15
20 min
Rocky Mountain National Park
15
20 min
Kremmling
30
35 min
Steamboat Springs
70
1 hr 30 min
5. Glenwood Springs (GWS)
Location: Western Slope, nestled at the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers.
Why Stop Here? Famous for its hot springs, adventure sports (rafting, ziplining), and proximity to world-class skiing. A perfect stop for relaxation or adrenaline.
Destination
Approx. Distance (Miles)
Approx. Travel Time (Car)
Aspen
40
1 hr
Vail
60
1 hr 15 min
Rifle
30
30 min
Grand Junction
90
1 hr 30 min
6. Grand Junction (GJT)
Location: Western Colorado, largest city on the Western Slope.
Why Stop Here? Explore Colorado National Monument, enjoy wine tasting at local vineyards, or use it as a base for exploring the diverse landscapes of western Colorado and eastern Utah.
Destination
Approx. Distance (Miles)
Approx. Travel Time (Car)
Colorado National Monument
10
20 min
Fruita
15
20 min
Moab (Utah)
115
1 hr 45 min
Telluride
130
2 hr 30 min
The Southwest Chief Route: Plains & History
The Southwest Chief offers a different perspective, showcasing the vast, historic plains of southeastern Colorado.
1. La Junta (LAJ)
Location: Southeastern Colorado, along the Arkansas River.
Why Stop Here? Home to Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site and the Koshare Indian Museum. It’s a stop rich in Native American and Santa Fe Trail history.
Destination
Approx. Distance (Miles)
Approx. Travel Time (Car)
Pueblo
60
1 hr
Colorado Springs
100
1 hr 45 min
Bent’s Old Fort NHS
8
15 min
Trinidad
70
1 hr 15 min
2. Lamar (LMR)
Location: Far southeastern Colorado plains.
Address: 102 E. Beech St, Lamar, CO 81052
Services: Unstaffed platform, shelter, no checked baggage.
Why Stop Here? Known for its proximity to wildlife refuges and historic sites along the Santa Fe Trail. A quiet stop for exploring the less-traveled parts of Colorado.
Destination
Approx. Distance (Miles)
Approx. Travel Time (Car)
Garden City (Kansas)
60
1 hr
Eads
50
45 min
La Junta
60
55 min
Colorado Springs
150
2 hr 30 min
Tips for Your Amtrak Journey in Colorado
Book in Advance: Especially for popular routes and during peak seasons, tickets can sell out quickly.
Arrive Early: Give yourself ample time to find your gate, check bags (if applicable), and board.
Enjoy the Scenery: This is one of the biggest perks of train travel in Colorado. Bring binoculars and a good camera!
Flexibility: Train travel can sometimes experience delays. Pack a book, download some entertainment, and embrace the journey.
Food & Drink: Dining cars and cafe cars are available on board, but bringing your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages is also permitted.
Baggage: Check Amtrak’s website for current baggage policies, as they can vary by service level and station.
Embarking on an Amtrak adventure through Colorado is more than just transportation; it’s an experience. From the grandeur of the Rockies to the quiet beauty of the eastern plains, the train offers a front-row seat to the Centennial State’s diverse landscapes. So, next time you’re planning a trip, consider letting the rails guide your way!
