The magic of the holiday season in Southern Colorado recently took center stage on KDVR Fox 31 during a Great Day Colorado segment spotlighting one of the state’s most beloved winter traditions, the Santa Express Train aboard the Royal Gorge Route Railroad.
In the feature, Kelly Pascal Gould, Chief Marketing Officer of the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, joins the Great Day Colorado crew to share what makes the Santa Express the #1 Christmas train experience in Colorado. Now celebrating its 20th year, the Santa Express has become a cornerstone of the holiday season, welcoming more than 50,000 guests each year aboard for a festive journey through the Royal Gorge.
The segment highlights how the Santa Express blends holiday magic with one of Colorado’s most breathtaking landscapes. As the train winds through towering canyon walls rising more than 1,000 feet above the Arkansas River, families experience what Kelly describes as “our own little slice of Rocky Mountain heaven.” Snow-dusted cliffs, winter light, and the stillness of the gorge create a setting that feels both magical and timeless.
Great Day Colorado also showcases what sets the Santa Express apart from traditional holiday attractions. This is not just a train ride, it’s a fully immersive experience. Guests are welcomed into festively decorated railcars filled with twinkling lights, cheerful hosts, holiday music, and special moments with Santa himself. Every detail is designed to create lasting memories for children and adults alike.
Beyond the Santa Express experience, the segment touches on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad’s elevated onboard offerings, including the Gourmet First Class Dining Experience. Guests seeking a more refined holiday outing can enjoy exceptional cuisine, attentive service, and panoramic canyon views, all while traveling through one of Colorado’s most iconic natural landmarks. From family traditions to luxury dining, the railroad offers something for every type of holiday guest.
The Santa Express continues to draw visitors from across Colorado and beyond to Cañon City, reinforcing the region’s reputation as a premier winter destination. As Great Day Colorado highlights, the combination of historic rail travel, unforgettable scenery, and holiday storytelling makes the Santa Express a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
To watch the full Great Day Colorado segment and see the Santa Express in action, view the complete feature here:
Board the Santa Express Train to the North Pole – KDVR Fox 31
Ready to experience the magic for yourself? Visit the Royal Gorge Route Railroad booking page to explore Santa Express dates, classes of service, and availability. We look forward to welcoming you aboard for one of Colorado’s most cherished holiday traditions.
