Alamosa, Colo. (Nov. 13, 2008) – This holiday season, the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad is again offering a special journey for children – filled with carols, stories, cookies and hot chocolate – with its own version of the North Pole Express. For families on a budget, the trips are the perfect way to entertain and celebrate being together, without worrying about exorbitant costs.  
 
The trips take place out of Alamosa on Nov. 28 and 29, and out of La Veta on Dec. 6, 13, and 20. La Veta is just 16 miles from Interstate 25 near Walsenburg (approximately two hours from Denver).
 
During these special rides, the train is illuminated by strands of colorful lights on the engine and in the coach cars. Children are encouraged to wear their pajamas as they enjoy the 60-minute trip reading stories, singing carols, and visiting with Santa. Each child also receives a silver sleigh bell as part of the experience. After the ride there are souvenir photos with Santa available, along with other memorabilia to purchase in the Caboose gift shop.
 
Trains depart at 6 p.m. and return at 7:00 p.m. Adult tickets are $20 and children tickets are $10. To make reservations, call 877-726-RAIL. For more information, visit www.riograndescenicrailroad.com.  
 
About the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad
Historically called the Scenic Line of the World, The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad is Colorado’s newest mountain train offering rides through breathtaking mountain valleys and over legendary La Veta pass on hundreds of miles of historic rail.