Colorado has a new way to celebrate the holiday season, and it is unlike anything else in the state. The Royal Gorge Route Railroad has launched a brand new Aurora Borealis laser light experience for the 2025 Santa Express Train, and it is already becoming one of the most talked about holiday attractions in Colorado. This glowing display sits deep inside the Royal Gorge and turns the entire canyon into a living, breathing holiday scene filled with color, movement, and pure magic.
A Canyon That Glows With Holiday Color
The Royal Gorge is one of Colorado’s most dramatic landscapes. Its walls rise more than one thousand feet above the Arkansas River and surround the Santa Express Train as it travels to the North Pole. This year, the canyon itself becomes part of the show. Riders see the walls light up in waves of green, blue, pink, and white as high-powered lasers create a soft Aurora Borealis effect that stretches across the rock faces.
The colors ripple slowly and then change again. It feels peaceful and warm, almost like the Northern Lights came to visit Colorado for the season. The effect fills the entire gorge and creates a moment that feels natural and magical at the same time. It is the kind of sight that stays with you long after the ride ends.
New Woodland Creatures and North Pole Magic
The North Pole inside the gorge also received a complete refresh for 2025. The team added new woodland creatures and animated elements. Reindeer, penguins, and winter animals appear along the tracks as the train approaches Santa’s Village.
More than one hundred thousand lights brighten the scene. Visitors see color, movement, and playful characters as the train slows down. The new lighting feels larger, brighter, and much more immersive. It is a fantastical moment for families, kids, and anyone who loves holiday displays.
Colorado has a new way to celebrate the holiday season, and it is unlike anything else in the state. The Royal Gorge Route Railroad has launched a brand new Aurora Borealis laser light experience for the 2025 Santa Express Train, and it is already becoming one of the most talked about holiday attractions in Colorado. This glowing display sits deep inside the Royal Gorge and turns the entire canyon into a living, breathing holiday scene filled with color, movement, and pure magic.
A Canyon That Glows With Holiday Color
The Royal Gorge is one of Colorado’s most dramatic landscapes. Its walls rise more than one thousand feet above the Arkansas River and surround the Santa Express Train as it travels to the North Pole. This year, the canyon itself becomes part of the show. Riders see the walls light up in waves of green, blue, pink, and white as high-powered lasers create a soft Aurora Borealis effect that stretches across the rock faces.
The colors ripple slowly and then change again. It feels peaceful and warm, almost like the Northern Lights came to visit Colorado for the season. The effect fills the entire gorge and creates a moment that feels natural and magical at the same time. It is the kind of sight that stays with you long after the ride ends.
New Woodland Creatures and North Pole Magic
The North Pole inside the gorge also received a complete refresh for 2025. The team added new woodland creatures and animated elements. Reindeer, penguins, and winter animals appear along the tracks as the train approaches Santa’s Village.
More than one hundred thousand lights brighten the scene. Visitors see color, movement, and playful characters as the train slows down. The new lighting feels larger, brighter, and much more immersive. It is a fantastical moment for families, kids, and anyone who loves holiday displays.
A Train Wrapped in Lights From Nose to Tail
One of the biggest improvements this year is the fully illuminated exterior of the Santa Express Train. The entire consist shines with bright holiday lights that run from end to end. The 602 engine also glows at the front of the train, which creates a stunning arrival at the depot before every departure.
When the train begins its journey into the gorge, the lights reflect on the rock walls and shimmer across the water of the Arkansas River. It feels warm and cheerful in a way that is hard to describe until you see it in person. Guests often stop for photos before boarding, because the train truly looks like a moving holiday display.
Warm Holiday Fun Onboard
The Santa Express Train offers more than lights. The inside of every railcar feels cozy and festive. Visitors enjoy hot cocoa, fresh baked cookies, and holiday music that fills the train as it makes its way through the canyon. Santa’s elves walk through the cars, greet riders, and lead carols and games for younger guests. Folks sit back and relax and enjoy the view while kids look through the windows with excitement as they anticipate their arrival into Santa’s Village.
Guests are invited to indulge in our special 403 Grill Menu that features delicious dining and warm comfort food during the ride. Our full bar is at the ready with mocktails, cocktails, wine and Colorado microbrews.
Santa Awaits at the North Pole
The highlight of the trip comes when the train reaches Santa’s Village. The North Pole glows with bright lights and cheerful characters. Santa & his elves welcome the Santa Express Train, then climb aboard. They make their way through the train where they greet every child personally, gifting them a special bell reminding them of the magic of Christmas.
Guests often describe this moment as a cherished memory, one their kids talk about all year long.
A Holiday Tradition Worth Experiencing
The Santa Express Train is already one of Colorado’s most popular holiday attractions, and the new Aurora Borealis effect makes it even more exciting. The combination of natural scenery, festive lighting, and family-friendly fun creates a winter experience that feels special and unique to the Royal Gorge.
Book Early Before Dates Sell Out
The Santa Express Train runs daily through December 31. Tickets often sell out early, especially during peak weekends and the week before Christmas. For schedules and reservations, visit RoyalGorgeRoute.com.
