Picture this: a train slowly chugging through a snow-covered landscape, winding its way up a towering mountain while passing through a serene forest, past striking rock formations, and even alongside a breathtaking waterfall. It’s the kind of scene that feels like it belongs to a bygone era, evoking both nostalgia and wonder. And the best part? It’s not just a figment of your imagination. The Pikes Peak Cog Railway, known affectionately as “The Cog,” offers a real-life winter journey that brings this picture to life, and it’s the top-rated winter train ride in the United States.
This iconic train ride is located in Manitou Springs, Colorado, and has been whisking travelers up to the summit of Pikes Peak since 1891. Known as “America’s Mountain,” Pikes Peak reaches an elevation of over 14,000 feet, and the journey aboard the cog railway offers sweeping views of the Continental Divide and the majestic Rocky Mountain Range. It’s an experience like no other, where visitors are treated to nature’s finest winter displays.
One of the most thrilling aspects of the Pikes Peak Cog Railway is its route, which takes passengers through some of Colorado’s most stunning landscapes. As the train climbs higher, it cuts through dense national forests, traverses a steep canyon, and passes by fascinating rock formations and a roaring waterfall. The scenic ride also offers a chance to catch glimpses of local wildlife, including elk, deer, and even bighorn sheep, who are often spotted along the way.
The journey to the top typically takes around an hour, with passengers enjoying a comfortable and scenic ride. Once at the summit, they have time to stretch their legs and take in panoramic 360-degree views. The sight of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and the expansive wilderness below is nothing short of magical, especially during the winter months when the landscape is blanketed in white.
The Pikes Peak Cog Railway earned its spot as the number one winter train experience in the United States, and its impressive ranking comes with good reason. JR Pass, a company that analyzes the world’s best winter train rides, gave the railway an index score of 8.28 out of 10. The Cog’s flawless 5-star TripAdvisor rating and its abundance of Instagram-worthy moments have helped secure its place as a must-do experience for those looking to explore the beauty of Colorado during the colder months.
The full round-trip journey lasts around three hours, giving passengers plenty of time to take in the sights. For those looking for a bit more adventure, one-way tickets are available, allowing visitors to hike or bike down the mountain after reaching the summit. The journey costs $59.50 for adults, which is a small price to pay for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
While the Pikes Peak Cog Railway is the undisputed leader in the U.S., it is part of a select group of renowned winter train experiences worldwide. Following closely behind in the JR Pass rankings are the Aurora Winter Train in Alaska and the Polar Express with the Adirondack Railroad in Utica, New York.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone seeking a unique winter adventure, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers an unforgettable experience that combines breathtaking views, rich history, and the magic of a winter train ride. It’s a journey that will stay with you long after the snow melts and the tracks fade into the distance.
