What is Railbiking and Where Can You Do it in Colorado?

Colorado's diverse terrain offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities and adventures. From hiking and skiing in the mountains, birdwatching on the prairie, biking in the city, or taking a dip in an alpine lake, the list of things to do outside goes on and on.

Railbiking is one adventurous option to try out in Colorado - but what is it and where can you do it?

Railbiking is a relatively low-impact activity that provides tons of fun for people of all ages. The experience involves riders pedaling to maneuver their way along defunct railroad tracks. Since the tracks are not in use, riders do not have to worry about trains coming at them. A hand brake helps with stopping, and bikers also have the option to click on a pedal-assist motor if they need a break or find an uphill grade too difficult.

This unique way to travel and sight-see also avoids pollution that would be put out by other modes of transportation, such as cars and trains. It's also a great way to get some exercise while enjoying Colorado's fresh air.

Colorado Railbike Adventures in Erie is one place to try railbiking. Two exciting treks depart from the Erie Depot. The primary track is the Boulder Valley Mine Route which takes about two hours and covers 4.2 miles. This trip features an uphill climb on the return so riders should expect more of a workout. The second route, which opens in Fall 2024, will continue west across County Line Road, all the way to Highway 287. Both rides provide spectacular views of the stunning Front Range. The tracks themselves date back to 1871 and are some of the oldest in the state.

Revolution Rail Co. is another company that offers railbiking. Located in South Fork, Colorado, railbikers can choose from three exhilarating rides: The Full Moon Tour, the Rio Grande Run, and the Silver Bridge Run. Each tour provides a picturesque ride through the San Luis Valley, but they are all very different. There's also an option to combine rafting with railbiking, on the Pedals to Paddles Tour.

Love being out in nature? Take one of these amazing hikes to see Colorado's beautiful wildflowers in bloom.