Our History
Completed in 1884, this spectacular stretch of three-foot narrow gauge railroad was considered an engineering marvel for its time. The Georgetown Loop Railroad was one of Colorado's first visitor attractions, with seven trains a day running out of Denver at the height of its popularity, the Georgetown Loop became Colorado's scenic "must-see." Guidebooks, pamphlets, and postcards help send the images of the steep canyons and mountain peaks finally accessible by train across the nation.
Our History
The Beginning
Gold Discovery
George Griffith discovers gold in what would become Georgetown, sparking a rush of prospectors to the Clear Creek Valley and establishing the region as a mining hub.
Silver Strike
Silver is discovered in the region, transforming Georgetown into "The Silver Queen of the Rockies" and creating demand for better transportation.
Railroad Construction Begins
The Colorado Central Railroad began construction of the Georgetown Loop to connect the mining towns of Georgetown and Silver Plume, tackling the challenging 638-foot elevation gain.
Engineering Marvel
Chief Engineer Jacob Blickensderfer designs the innovative spiral loop that would allow trains to gain elevation while maintaining a manageable grade of 3-4%.
Devil's Gate High Bridge Completed
The famous Devil's Gate High Bridge was completed, standing 95 feet above Clear Creek. The 300-foot span became an engineering marvel and tourist attraction.
First Train Crosses
On March 10, 1884, the first train successfully completed the journey from Georgetown to Silver Plume, marking a triumph of engineering over terrain.
Silver Boom & Decline
Tourism Takes Hold
The railroad becomes a tourist attraction in its own right. Visitors from around the world travel to witness the engineering feat and spectacular mountain scenery.
Peak Silver Production
The railroad transported over 2 million tons of ore annually. Georgetown and Silver Plume became two of the wealthiest towns in Colorado.
Silver Crash
The repeal of the Sherman Silver Purchase Act caused silver prices to plummet. Many mines closed, and railroad traffic declined dramatically.
Union Pacific Takes Over
The Union Pacific Railroad acquires the Colorado Central, attempting to maintain operations despite declining mining activity in the region.
Final Run
The last train makes its journey on the Georgetown Loop. The track is subsequently torn up for scrap metal during World War II.
Revival & Preservation
National Historic Landmark
The Georgetown-Silver Plume Historic District is designated a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its significance in American mining and railroad history.
Reconstruction Begins
The Colorado Historical Society begins the ambitious project of reconstructing the Georgetown Loop, using original survey maps and historical photographs.
Reopens to the Public
After 45 years of silence, trains once again traverse the Georgetown Loop. The reconstructed Devil's Gate High Bridge welcomes its first passengers.
Lebanon Mine Tours Added
The historic Lebanon Silver Mine is opened to the public, offering visitors an authentic underground mining experience alongside their train ride.
History Colorado Partnership
The Georgetown Loop Railroad becomes part of History Colorado, ensuring its preservation and continued operation for future generations.
A Living Museum
Today, the Georgetown Loop Railroad welcomes over 100,000 visitors annually, offering a window into Colorado's rich mining and railroad heritage through train rides, mine tours, and special events.
