The 1880 Train

We were urged while in the mountains to take the 1880 Train, which runs up through them from Keystone to Hill City. 

It was a very pretty ride--lots of nice views. It goes past an old tungsten mine which was active during WW2. And a Baptist camp for kids which is still in use. Susan went there growing up, as did Katie and probably other Mansons and Gilberts. 

And it's fun riding in something which is literally 100+ years old, and still going strong.

Josh got wind of the train ride while we were still back on the way to the Hills. He said, "Train ride?" Susan told him we weren't there yet. Josh, ever hopeful, said, "Another train?", as if it were just a matter of choosing a different train leaving from wherever we were.

The ride was one hour each way with 15 minutes in between.  The first hour was perfect for Josh. The second was not, and so wasn't perfect for anyone. Josh was so unhappy being confined that he at one point demanded the train go off in a different direction. When Susan suggested it really can only go where there are tracks, he was unconvinced.

The steam engine and cars are all vintage. The conductor even appears to be from a century ago, except for the watch.

The cars have all been meticulously restored. Nothing but wood and metal and glass. The windows even have a green stained-glass panel.  Sadly, they frowned upon hopping from car to car during the ride. Or even walking around. Or letting your toddler stand up.