South Fork, Colorado is a location rich in beauty, inspiration, and history. It is also home to a Revolution Rail community that is repurposing historic railroads, sharing local folklore and facts in entertaining and educational ways, inspiring confidence, and fostering inclusivity.

Presented by:

Revolution Rail Co., an outdoor recreation pioneer founded in 2017, operates one-of-a-kind railbiking adventures in New York, New Jersey, Maine, and Colorado. Within their focus on historic railways is a respect for the land, celebration of people’s differences (and similarities!), environmental stewardship, and collaboration with like-minded organizations who want to make the outdoors accessible to everyone.

“Railways are an important remnant of the past, they are the gateways to exploration and connection,” said Revolution Rail CEO Robert Harte, a passionate advocate for sustainable tourism. “Our Colorado location has seen dramatic growth and increased demand each year of our three-season tenure in the state.”

Rev Rail has been recognized as a “Travelers’ Choice” with Trip Advisor four years in a row.

Yesterday, today

The recreational pursuit of pedaling on train tracks, dating back to the 19th century, has seen a resurgence the last couple of years that continues its steady momentum. Today’s unused railways have become railbike byways where riders traverse historic (mostly flat) terrain amid beautiful scenery. It is a “soft adventure” for all ages and abilities that combines the nostalgia of train travel with recreational cycling that everyone can enjoy, guided by some of the best in the hospitality business. These men and women have a wide range of experiences, from rafting to snowboarding, teaching, acting and public speaking. Their appreciation for history, the railroad, and land are contagious!

Pedal power!

Custom-designed two- and four-seat Rev Rail railbikes, manufactured in Vermont and built for a quiet ride (the better to hear nature!), allow for the independent pedaling of up to 40 people per trip. Safety is a priority, with adjustable seatbelts as part of the equipment. A two-to-one gear ratio makes for relaxing rotation, and while your legs are working, your hands will be free to take photos of your 180-degree view, capturing multiple moments to remember.

When you arrive at the depot, you will meet your Tour Guides and co-riders, have a safety briefing, and be off on your great adventure!

Cool options for one of the best ways to see the Rio Grande include:

• Rio Grande Run.
• Silver Bridge Run (requires some exertion) – You will want to go longer and further!
• Pedals to Paddles (railbiking and rafting).*
• Weekend Tubing & Railbiking.*

*With Rev Rail Partner Rocky Mountain Ski and Raft

Breathe in the fresh air and commune with nature as you appreciate her wide-open spaces! Set a leisurely pace to enjoy your surroundings. Wildlife is commonly seen (bull moose, anyone?!), and you are sure to see something different in each direction, as well as every time you take a tour.

Prices range from $90 for a double bike to $160 for a four-seater. The maximum weight is 300 pounds per railbiker.

Be prepared!

As with any activity, you will want to make the most of your time outdoors. So, with your comfort in mind, the following items are recommended for your railbiking adventure:

• A camera
• Insect repellent
• Snacks
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat
• Outerwear and wickable (cotton, wool, or specialty fabrics) layers of clothing (based on the weather report)
• Water
  
  

After the adventure … other adventures await!

Revolution Rail is about a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Colorado Springs, Colo. Plan on spending a few days in the South Fork area, checking out a few small towns with a lot to offer.

After your railbike tour in South Fork, why not experience a hot spring in nearby Pagosa Springs, 45 minutes southward? The laid-back town also has art festivals throughout the year, a lively downtown, exceptional art galleries and more. It’s a great place to have dinner (surely you’ve worked up an appetite!), and stay overnight in a cabin, bed & breakfast, hotel or motel, inn, or resort and spa.

The next day, head back to South Fork, a town surrounded by nearly 2 million acres of national forest, for more outdoor activities, from off-roading to watersports, golfing, fishing, biking and horseback riding. There are also historical and cultural attractions for your enjoyment. Summer-specific events include the South Fork Rodeo and Logger Days in July, and the Alder Ass Race in August, with The Market at South Fork on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the season for fresh food and crafts.

Then, head to Creede — just a half-hour northwest. There you will find the Underground Mining Museum, and historical museum and library, plus the world-class Creede Repertory Theatre to take in a show. When you are ready to call it a night, lay your head on a pillow found from a wide assortment of accommodations in Creede or South Fork.

Sounds like a wonderful time, doesn’t it?

Join in the fun!

Ride with Rev Rail from May to October. The adventure is perfect for families, friends, and groups (including bachelor and bachelorette parties). You will never have so much fun learning … or know how much you could accomplish under your own steam!

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Rev Rail is at 97 Ponderosa Drive in South Fork, Colo., 81154.

Learn more online or call 888-738-0123.