The image of a train steadily climbing a snow-covered mountain evokes a sense of nostalgia, almost as if pulled from a classic holiday storybook. While such a winter wonderland journey might seem like a fantasy, these scenic rail adventures do exist, and one of the most breathtaking is found in the United States. A recent study commissioned by JR Pass, a travel service affiliated with Japan Railways Group, analyzed various factors—including TripAdvisor reviews, social media popularity, and snowfall data—to determine the best winter train experiences worldwide. Among them, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway in Manitou Springs, Colorado, claimed the top spot in the United States and second place globally.
Operating since 1891, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway—often referred to simply as “The Cog”—has ferried passengers up one of Colorado’s tallest mountains, earning its reputation as a must-visit attraction. The train ascends to more than 14,000 feet, where visitors are met with panoramic views stretching across the Continental Divide and the vast Rocky Mountain Range. The route itself is an adventure, winding through a national forest, navigating a rugged canyon, and passing striking rock formations and waterfalls. Along the way, passengers frequently spot wildlife, including elk, deer, and one of Colorado’s largest herds of bighorn sheep. Recognized for its impeccable five-star TripAdvisor rating and its widespread popularity on Instagram, The Cog tied for second place in the rankings with Japan’s Stove Winter Train, both earning an index score of 8.28 out of 10—just behind Canada’s renowned Rockies Snow Train.
What sets the Pikes Peak Cog Railway apart is not just its scenery, but also its status as the world’s highest cog railroad. A fleet of striking red trains carries passengers up the steep incline, offering a three-hour roundtrip experience. The ascent takes about an hour, with 40 minutes allotted for visitors to explore the summit before the train begins its hour-long descent. Some travelers, however, opt for a more adventurous approach—booking a one-way ticket to either hike or bike the mountain on their own. Tickets start at $59.50 for adults, making it an accessible yet unforgettable journey for those seeking a true winter mountain experience.
The JR Pass study also highlighted other remarkable winter train experiences in the U.S. Following the Pikes Peak Cog Railway on the list were two additional seasonal rail journeys: the Aurora Winter Train operated by the Alaska Railroad and the Polar Express train ride offered by Adirondack Railroad in New York. Each of these rail adventures captures the magic of winter travel, but none quite rival the majesty of Pikes Peak, where passengers are quite literally on top of the world.
For those seeking an unforgettable winter excursion, the Pikes Peak Cog Railway offers more than just a scenic train ride—it delivers an immersive experience that blends history, adventure, and nature in a way few other journeys can. While trendy eco-tourism initiatives and high-tech attractions dominate the travel industry, there’s something undeniably special about stepping aboard a train and watching the landscape transform into a snow-draped masterpiece. As travelers continue searching for unique ways to embrace the season, it’s clear why this historic railway remains a favorite among adventurers and sightseers alike.
