Pedal through scenic Colorado landscapes on the Historic Denver Boulder Valley Railroad tracks and enjoy a cool stop at a local brewery in Erie. Sunset Rails and Ales blends scenic adventure with craft beverages for a unique outdoor outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic leg strength for pedaling needed
Wildlife
History
The Denver Boulder Valley Railroad was a key transportation route in the early 1900s, now repurposed for railbiking adventures.
Conservation
Colorado Railbike Adventures promotes sustainable tourism by utilizing existing rail infrastructure and encouraging low-impact outdoor recreation.
Colorado Railbike Adventures
Pedal through scenic Colorado landscapes on the Historic Denver Boulder Valley Railroad tracks and enjoy a cool stop at a local brewery in Erie. Sunset Rails and Ales blends scenic adventure with craft beverages for a unique outdoor outing.
Colorado Railbike Adventures operates railbike experiences out of Erie, Colorado, along the Historic Denver Boulder Valley Railroad. The company offers a range of guided and self-guided trips that showcase western Boulder County scenery and local storytelling. Trips include family-friendly daytime rides, sunset outings, seasonal Christmas illuminations, community group rides, and themed evening events that blend history with atmosphere.
Riders pedal four-wheeled railbikes on preserved track sections, enjoying scenic views such as the Flatirons and curated event stops like The Handlebar Factory on the Rails and Ales Ride. Nighttime options include lantern-lit Haunted History rides and the An Eerie Erie Haunted History experience, which pair campfire ghost stories with short after-dark excursions suitable for all ages. The Rails and Ales Ride specifies a 21-and-older policy where craft beverages are served.
Booking options accommodate individuals, couples, families, and groups; Community Rides allow discounted, individually paid tickets for group outings. Seasonal offerings include an Illuminated Christmas Ride with holiday displays and a Daytime Christmas Ride featuring warm treats like hot chocolate and cookies. Each trip begins and ends at the depot in Erie, with depot activities, lawn games, and photography opportunities available on many departures.
Safety briefings, on-site staff, and clearly posted age or alcohol policies help guests prepare for each experience. Colorado Railbike Adventures emphasizes accessible outdoor recreation, memorable local storytelling, and hands-on railbiking as a unique way to explore Erie and nearby landscapes. Trip lengths vary by experience; many rides cover a 4.2-mile round trip on the rail line.
Location
Erie, Colorado
Railbiking on local historic tracks
Tours Offered
8 unique trips
Daytime, sunset, haunted, holiday, group options
Family Friendly
All ages (many rides)
Kid-friendly daytime and holiday rides
Seasonal Events
Holiday & Night Rides
Lantern-lit and illuminated Christmas displays
Reserve themed daytime, sunset, haunted, or holiday rides on the Historic Denver Boulder Valley Railroad for a memorable outdoor outing.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes
Proper footwear ensures a safe and comfortable pedaling experience on the railbike.
Bring water to stay hydrated
Carry a water bottle to stay refreshed, especially during warmer months.
Arrive early for the best light and parking
Getting there ahead of sunset ensures optimal natural light and parking close to the trailhead.
Use sunscreen and sunglasses
Protect your skin and eyes from Colorado’s strong sun rays during outdoor activity.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Protects your feet and offers stable pedaling.
Water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during your railbike adventure.
Sunscreen
Protects skin from UV rays during sunny days.
spring
Layered clothing
Allows you to adjust for changing temperatures during the ride.
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