A Vision for the Future
Imagine a rail system that not only eases the daily commute but also offers a scenic, sustainable, and reliable mode of transportation for visitors. The Mountain Rail Coalition believes this vision is within reach. By revitalizing these rail lines, we can support our local economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance the visitor experience while preserving the natural beauty of our region.
We’re committed to utilizing over
miles of existing railway
The return of passenger rail to Northwest Colorado is more than just a nod to our past—it’s a bold step towards a more connected, sustainable future. Join us in making this vision a reality. Together, we can build a transportation system that serves our communities, protects our environment, and honors the legacy of those who built these rails over a century ago.
Our Vision
Mountain Rail Coalition’s vision is to support the creation and development of mountain rail across multiple counties. We will:
- serve as the liaison between communities along the mountain rail corridor and state and federal entities
- communicate with mountain rail communities about current studies, legislation, and opportunities for engagement at the state and federal level
- coordinate local and state efforts to ensure equitable representation of all communities
- position mountain passenger rail for federal funding
- develop opportunities for collaboration with other Colorado rail development efforts including the Front Range Rail District and the I-70 Coalition.
Mission & Objectives
Mountain Rail Coalition’s mission is to enhance connectivity between Denver, Winter Park, Steamboat Springs, Craig by introducing a sustainable and efficient passenger rail service.
Our objectives are to:
- improve mobility and multimodal travel options
- connect diverse communities with unique needs
- foster economic vitality through improved transportation equity and a Just Transition away from fossil fuels
- support environmental goals including greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction.
Mountain rail presents an opportunity to achieve several critical goals for the state of Colorado • Mountain rail presents an opportunity to achieve several critical goals for the state of Colorado • Mountain rail presents an opportunity to achieve several critical goals for the state of Colorado • Mountain rail presents an opportunity to achieve several critical goals for the state of Colorado • Mountain rail presents an opportunity to achieve several critical goals for the state of Colorado • Mountain rail presents an opportunity to achieve several critical goals for the state of Colorado •
Colorado Goals
Mountain rail presents an opportunity to achieve several critical goals for the state of Colorado:
- reduce congestion on public highways and mountain passes, providing a safer travel alternative to some of our most visited areas
- save Coloradans money by providing a transportation solution for many communities struggling with the high cost of living and workforce challenges
- enhance and increase transportation options to and from mountain communities
- provide connections between other modes of transportation such as Bustang, local transit routes, and bicycle and pedestrian routes
- build more housing connected to transit and rail opportunities, supporting greenhouse gas reduction targets needed to achieve climate goals
- provide Colorado with a unique tourism experience—a beautiful train ride that would allow visitors options for arriving at their destination without a car
- commit to a “just transition” for the coal-impacted communities of Craig and Hayden
- alleviate congestion on I-70 and spur new business and housing development
- connect multiple major ski resorts and appeal to tourists who do not want to rent a car to take advantage of Colorado’s world-class skiing
- increase summer tourism to Rocky Mountain National Park, which draws over 4 million visitors annually
- promote tourism to regional adventure and scenic attractions as well as music performances, special events, and food and wine festivals without having to drive.
