Work seems to be a constant sort of busy anymore and the Labor Day Holiday was no exception. So knowing now that the 4runner was back up and running, it was great to hope in it one Thursday (my Friday) and head to the hills.

I’ve mentioned before to my pals Dan and Nancy about wanting to ride more of the trains in Colorado. So we picked a day in September to ride the Leadville Train. I made the mistake of leaving Downtown with the 4runner during rush hour. But finally past Copper, I enjoyed the open road to Leadville and a great sunset. In town, we checked into the Delaware Hotel for the night. My room was cozy and quite. After a nice dinner we settled in.

The next morning a quick stroll around downtown then Breakfast with Dan and Nancy. Dan’s parents joined us for for the mornings ride. Though not a steam train the Leadville Railroad started out as a Narrow Gage line operated by the Denver South Park and Pacific Railroad, starting in 1884. Covering 151 miles from Denver, it crossed the divide twice before arriving in Leadville.

The day spent riding the train was wonderful. Fall temps and Aspen colors perfect. After not doing much this summer, sure felt great to be out with friends, drive the 4runner and take some pictures.

After work, I headed to pick up the 4runner from storage, then fight through I-25 rush hour traffic. Finally on the open road, I was treated to a nice sunset as I made my way to Leadville. Later that evening, meeting up with friends for the night.

Once in town, I checked into the Delaware Hotel (right off main street). Once settled into my cozy room I meet up with Dan and Nancy for dinner downstairs. After, some much needed rest.

A quick morning stroll around downtown Leadville before breakfast with Dan and Nancy then a train ride:).

A fine fall morning for a train ride.

Leaving the Leadville depot and getting underway.

Not having a turnaround point, the Leadville Train backs up the hill from Leadville, then heads back down once at the end of the line.

Though just past there peak, the fall colors were fantastic.

Some pretty fantastic views of Mt. Massive from the train. At 14,427ft, it’s Colorado’s second highest 14t’r.

Soaking in the beautiful morning.

Looking down on Highway 91 as we make our way towards the Climax mine (train doesn’t stop there) and the end of the line.

Still some fantastic color even past peak.

Buckeye Siding.

Hint of red.

Dan and Nancy taking in the views.

Looking back towards Leadville.

Soaking in the fall color.

On the way back down, a stop at the old water tank. The weather was so perfect, I just sat in the open air car soaking in the sun.

Making our way back down.

And still more fine fall color.

Loved this stretch of Aspens.

Back to the rigs and homebound. A dang great morning. Dan’s parents ended up joining us for the train ride as well.

Must be a Friday afternoon. West bound I-70 traffic:(. Glad I was heading east to home.

Later that weekend, My pal Martin stopped by while on his way to the desert ( and this years Outlaws Run). Fun to have him over for a beer and show off the new digs before heading downstairs to Elway’s for a few cocktails.

Good t see Martin out with his nicely built FJ-60.