Nestled amidst the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, the charming town of Georgetown, Colorado, offers a perfect day trip destination for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike. From riding the historic Georgetown Loop Railroad to strolling through the picturesque downtown area, this small town holds a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
My family and I visited during the summer months and although it was a beautiful blue sky day, I would love to go back during the fall for another loop ride!
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The Georgetown Loop Railroad: The Georgetown Loop Railroad, a renowned heritage railroad, is the perfect starting point for your day trip. As you board the vintage steam locomotive, you'll embark on a memorable journey through the rugged Colorado mountains, witnessing breathtaking views of deep canyons, towering pine forests, and the shimmering Clear Creek. The train ride takes you on a loop, passing through the Silver Plume mining town before returning to Georgetown, providing a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical significance. They have scenes set up to view during the ride so you can picture just what it would have been like back in the days of steam trains!
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The Devil's Gate High Bridge: One of the highlights of the Georgetown Loop Railroad is the Devil's Gate High Bridge. Spanning across Clear Creek, this impressive engineering marvel offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. As the train crosses the bridge, you'll feel a rush of excitement and awe as you take in the panoramic vistas below.
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Exploring Historic Georgetown: After your scenic railroad journey, head over and explore the quaint and historic downtown area of Georgetown. With its preserved Victorian-era architecture, this charming town exudes a captivating old-world charm. Take a leisurely stroll along the main street, where you'll find an array of charming shops, art galleries, and local eateries housed in beautifully restored buildings.
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Hamill House Museum: To delve deeper into the town's history, pay a visit to the Hamill House Museum. This impeccably restored Victorian mansion offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the silver mining era. Step back in time as you tour the rooms filled with period furniture, decorative arts, and fascinating artifacts, gaining insights into the lives of the influential Hamill family and the town's early days. This wasn't open when we visited but it's on my list for our next visit!
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Guanella Pass Scenic Byway: If time permits and you're up for more adventure, take a scenic drive along the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway. This picturesque mountain road offers breathtaking views of alpine meadows, towering peaks, and cascading waterfalls. It's likely one of the best scenic byways to explore in Colorado. This byway is about 22 miles long and takes about an hour to drive.
A day trip to ride the Georgetown Loop Railroad and explore their quaint downtown area is an extraordinary experience that combines natural beauty, rich history, and small-town charm. From the captivating train ride through the mountains to the leisurely stroll along the historic streets, this adventure promises memories that will last a lifetime. It certainly made memories that our family will cherish forever!
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