In order to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Winter Park, Amtrak revived the Ski Train for a single weekend. Originally they were planning for a Saturday only run, but when that sold out in 10 hours, they agreed to run Sunday as well (which sold out in 4 hours). It sounds like this might also be a viability check for further runs next year. I think the sell outs are a good omen for that!
Amtrak was kind enough to put the Veteran’s unit on the point of the train. The Amtrak staff was very proud of the train and had it shining nicely before they left town. I shot the train on Friday night by Union Station, Saturday morning by the Big Ten curves and Sunday morning near Plain. Additionally, there are some bonus shots of an oil empty on the line and the California Zephyr.
I was on board Sunday…it was a great ride! The folks from ColoRail were telling everyone that talks are underway to revive the train as a regular run next year. Fingers crossed!
Paul, the original Ski Train stopped right at the base of the Winter Park ski area, just outside the west portal of the Moffat Tunnel. I presume Amtrak’s revival also stopped there, however, their Cal Zephyr stops at Fraser, about 4 miles away, although ATK calls that station “Winter Park” also.
People think that all of Colorado is a winter wonderland…far from the truth. The Front Range (the I25 corridor, Denver/Colo Springs/Pueblo) is a semi arid climate on the dry side of the mountains. It certainly can and does snow here, but it usually melts fairly quickly.
Amtrak Ski Train at Denver Union Station by Christopher J. May, on Flickr
Amtrak Ski Train at Denver Union Station by Christopher J. May, on Flickr
Amtrak Ski Train at Denver Union Station by Christopher J. May, on Flickr
Amtrak Ski Train at Denver Union Station by Christopher J. May, on Flickr