As winter casts its annual chill over Colorado, residents and visitors alike can look forward to another season of the Winter Park Express. This Amtrak service is more than a mere conveyance between Denver and the Fraser Valley; it is a response to a clear and growing demand for alternative transportation options in the region. This year's schedule starts with holiday runs from December 19, and tickets are already on sale, beginning at the appealing price of $9, as reported by the Colorado Governor's Office.
After celebrating a successful previous season, the 2025-26 Winter Park Express aims to connect ski enthusiasts and mountain adventurers with nature's alpine bounty. Service will run four days a week post-New Year, with 57 round-trip planned for the season. According to the Colorado Governor's Office, passengers can anticipate not only breathtaking vistas from wide, reclining seats but also the convenience of bringing their snow gear aboard at no extra cost. The emphasis on accessibility and affordability comes as part of an ongoing partnership with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), which last year resulted in a ridership increase of over 150 percent.
The kickoff dates for this iconic service are the final two weekends of December 2025 and the first weekend of January 2026. Regular service begins January 8, continuing through to March 29. Those eager to lay first tracks or simply take in the majesty of the Rockies can secure their spot by booking through Amtrak's website or app. Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed excitement for the upcoming season, stating, "The Winter Park Express shows that when we offer passenger rail, Coloradans ride," as mentioned by the Colorado Governor's Office.
What sets the Winter Park Express apart is its strategic alignment with larger state transportation goals. The rail route is envisioned as the first leg of a proposed Mountain Corridor passenger rail line, extending from Denver all the way to Craig, Colorado. This project is not just a boon for skiers and snowboarders; it's indicative of a broader commitment by the state to viable, alternative mass transit. "At CDOT, we know that big ski days often mean tough drives in the mountains, and the Winter Park Express offers a great option to take a relaxing, affordable trip," said CDOT Executive Director Shoshana Lew, as obtained by the Colorado Governor's Office.
