Georgetown Colorado Guide | Loop Railroad, Victorian Town & Things to Do

Your Guide to Georgetown

Historic railroad, Victorian charm, and alpine scenery

Georgetown is one of Colorado's best-preserved Victorian mining towns. Founded during the 1859 gold rush, it thrived on silver and retains over 200 original buildings. The town sits at 8,530 feet on I-70, about 45 miles from Denver.

The Georgetown Loop Railroad is the main attraction—a restored narrow-gauge line featuring the famous Devil's Gate High Bridge. The scenic train ride connects Georgetown to Silver Plume and includes optional mine tours.

Guanella Pass Road climbs south from Georgetown over a 11,669-foot pass, offering access to hiking and views of Mount Bierstadt, one of Colorado's easier 14ers. Downtown's shops and restaurants occupy authentic Victorian buildings without the casino overlay of Black Hawk.

Explore Georgetown

Trains, trails, and Victorian heritage

TRAIN

Georgetown Loop Railroad

Historic narrow-gauge train over Devil's Gate High Bridge. Scenic rides between Georgetown and Silver Plume with optional mine tours.

PASS

Guanella Pass

Scenic byway climbing to 11,669 feet. Access to Mount Bierstadt trailhead, fall colors, and alpine scenery.

TOWN

Victorian Downtown

200+ original buildings from the mining era. Antique shops, galleries, and restaurants in authentic Victorian setting.

PEAK

Mount Bierstadt

One of Colorado's most accessible 14ers at 14,060 feet. Popular day hike from Guanella Pass with stunning views.

MUSEUM

Hamill House

Restored Victorian mansion showing how silver barons lived. Period furnishings and architecture tours.

FEST

Christmas Market

European-style holiday market on December weekends. One of Colorado's best Christmas celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your Georgetown visit

How far is Georgetown from Denver?

About 45 miles via I-70, roughly 50 minutes. It's just before the Eisenhower Tunnel, so traffic can be heavy on ski weekends.

When does the Georgetown Loop run?

May through early January, with peak season in summer and fall. Winter holiday trains are popular. Book ahead for weekends.

Is Guanella Pass paved?

Mostly, but sections can be rough. The road is usually open late May through November. Check conditions in shoulder seasons.

Can beginners hike Mount Bierstadt?

It's considered one of the easier 14ers but still challenging—7 miles round trip with 2,800 feet of elevation gain at altitude. Start early to avoid afternoon storms.

Georgetown, Colorado