Colorado is moving forward with plans to expand passenger rail service to Steamboat Springs, offering skiers and travelers a new alternative to the often congested I-70 corridor.
Following the success of the Winter Park Express, state officials and Union Pacific Railroad have reached a significant agreement. This deal secures long-term freight access through the Moffat Tunnel while paving the way for year-round passenger rail service from Denver to Steamboat Springs and beyond.
The new route would use Union Pacific’s existing Central Corridor rail line. It would connect Denver Union Station to Steamboat Springs with possible stops at Steamboat Resort, Hayden, Craig, and other mountain towns. The 6.2-mile Moffat Tunnel through the Continental Divide remains a critical part of the project.
While the expansion will take time to develop, it promises to reduce traffic on I-70, promote cleaner travel to Colorado’s mountains, and allow visitors to start their ski trips relaxing on a train rather than battling winter highway conditions.
With growing ridership on the Winter Park Express and state support for infrastructure, Colorado’s next ski train to Steamboat Springs is set to become a reality.