Whether you’re planning a southern Colorado summer trip or an outdoor Colorado activity in the San Juan Mountains, a railbiking trip will be your new favorite adventure! My family has been coming to the Rio Grande County of Colorado since before I was born. When I heard about the Revolution Rail Company in South Fork, Colorado I knew it would offer an unforgettable outdoor experience the whole family (including the grandparents!) could experience together.
Located between Wolf Creek Pass and Creede, Colorado, this rail bike tour follows along the historic Rio Grande Railroad with amazing views of mountains and the river. From gentle family railroad bicycle rides to full-day rafting combos, Revolution Rail Colorado is one one of the most scenic and family-friendly train routes in the country. These pedal-powered railbiking tours are a perfect way to enjoy mountain air, river views, and wildlife if you’re lucky!
Plan a trip to Colorado and make sure RevRail South Fork is at the top of your list of things to do in Creede, Colorado and the surrounding areas. Here’s everything you need to know!
Jump to Your Top Revolution Rail Questions Here!
A special thank you to South Fork Revolution Rail for gifting us a rail trip. All opinions are my own, and we fully encourage you to enjoy this South Fork activity!
Affiliate disclosure: When you click and purchase a link in my post, I may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. I promise to only recommend products or places that I have personally want, used, or researched. Thanks in advance for the gallon of gas. 😉
What is Revolution Rail?
Revolution Rail Co. was founded in 2017 by New York teacher Robert Harte who turned abandoned railroad lines in his nearby Adirondack Mountains into eco-friendly, family-friendly railbike routes. With locations in New York, New Jersey, Maine, and now South Fork, Colorado, the company offers scenic, all-ages adventures using custom pedal-powered railbikes.
Operating since opening the southern Colorado location in 2021, these stunning Rio Grande River views have made it one of the best things to do in South Fork, Colorado. Combo experiences like Pedals & Paddles, which pair a railbiking trip with a guided rafting trip, make this group stand out from the other similar companies. The Rev Rail Company is known for reusing historic railways, promoting sustainability, and making outdoor fun accessible for all ages.
What are Rail Bikes?
Rail bikes are self-pedal-powered rail vehicles specially designed to ride along unused railroad tracks. Getting off the roads offers a fun and unique way to explore beautiful landscapes on your Colorado summer vacation. With a stable, four-wheeled aluminum frame and comfortable seating, rail bikes let riders pedal side-by-side—without stress. There’s no steering or balancing, so even beginner bicyclists can easily ride.
Why Choose Revolution Rail in South Fork?
Consistently ranked among the top 10% of global attractions with Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice honors, RevRail is a great experience and just another activity that makes South Fork one of the best cbcities to visit in Colorado. Here’s why.
- Unique Colorado experience: RevRail rail biking offers mountain views and a peaceful ride along the Rio Grande that most visitors can’t easily access.
- Adjustable for All Ages: Riders from infants (with harness) to seniors in their 90s can enjoy the trips as long as one person on the bike can pedal. The seats are adjustable for most sizes.
- Good for all abilities: Even kids who haven’t learned to ride bikes, can do this rail. Even grandparents who have limitations, can participate. Just pair them up with someone who can do most of the peddling.
- Easily found in downtown South Fork: Unlike many Colorado mountain adventures, this Colorado railroad adventure starts right next to downtown South Fork. You can park on site with a quick walk to the building; no 4×4 needed. It’s located close by the South Fork Visitor Center.
- Quick but fun activity: You don’t have to use up a whole day to ride this bike. Have a morning adventure and leave the rest of the day for more Colorado exploring. Railbike along the South Fork Rio Grande in the morning, and you have time to drive the Silver Thread Byway to Creede for an afternoon of shopping and theater at the Creede Repertory Theater.
~~~> If you’re visiting southern Colorado as part of your family road trip, consider making it a part of a Yellowstone road trip! Here’s all the info about our Yellowstone vacation itinerary as we travelled north from Texas; vacation planning made easier.
Rev Rail Tour Options
The South Fork railroad ride was chose was the Rio Grande Run, a scenic 3 miles in-3 miles out journey along the historic Denver & Rio Grande Railroad tracks. The trip lasted about 1.5–2 hours and is great for all abilities. While the in path to the picnic area was had our legs burning a little bit, the ride back was an easy coast.
Riders pedal custom-built railbikes beside the Rio Grande River, weaving through meadows, pine forests, and views of the San Juan Mountains. Keep your eyes open for rafters, fishermen, and animals as you go through South Fork’s Masonic Park and to views of the palisades of the San Juan Mountains.
For an upgraded experience, try the Pedals & Paddles Combo, which includes the full Rio Grande railbike ride plus a guided Rio Grande rafting —a full day of outdoor fun in South Fork. Other Colorado railbike tour options include the South Fork Shorty (a 4-mile ride), Twilight Tours for evening golden hour scenery, and private group excursions.
Colorado Railbike Trip FAQs
Can I bring a bag on a railbike?
Each railbike is equipped with a basket on the back for your backpack or adventure bag. Plan to take a small snack for the halfway point and your water bottle. Don’t plan to have constant access to water while riding; plan to put it in the basket. Remember to drink all the water you can to prevent altitude sickness!
While there are handles on the cars, your hands will be free for holding a small item unless you’re on the handbrake in the back seat. However, I wouldn’t plan on it. A small fanny pack would work great to keep things on you if needed without them falling out of your pocket.
If you’re rafting afterward, make sure you bring a wet bag (this one comes with a waterproof phone case too!) or consider leaving your keys at the train station.
Are there rest stops on the RevRail ride?
There will be at least one short break from the rail bike depending on what trip you take. On the Rio Grande Run, we had about a ten minute rest at the picnic area on our trip. The guide will turn the bikes 180 degrees on the track while you snack or rest at the picnic tables.
For a little extra learning about the South Fork and Creede area, you will get a little history and nature talk while eating your snack! Perfect for homeschool families like us who always want the extra learning opportunity.
Will my RevRail group get to stay together?
RevRail cars are available in two seats or four. Save a little money and book a four seater if you want to be close together. The staff will also accommodate to put multiple cars together if you are booked together. The cars will spread out, so you can make some distance from other groups if you want a bit more privacy.
Are there restrooms?
Nope. Make sure you use the outdoor toilet at the train depot before leaving. This also means no where to wash your hands if you want to do so before a snack, so you might consider packing wipes just in case.
Is a Railbike safe?
What if the ride goes too fast? Each rail car has one seat with two handbrakes. Put your most reliable driver in charge of this seat. The Colorado RevRail isn’t really slanted enough to get to faster speed than just your peddling.
What should I wear to rail bike?
Dress in layers and pack weather gear – that’s the secret to Colorado vacations. Mornings can be cool in the valley. As the area around Wolf Creek Pass Colorado can bring weather with frequent afternoon rainstorms, consider a rain jacket or poncho as trips run rain or shine. You can always keep extra layers in your basket, and you do need to wear closed toe shoes. You will not be able to hold an umbrella for obvious reasons. Dangerous weather may cancel tours for safety.
The railcars are not covered, and you will be in the sun for the whole trip. Bring sunscreen, a sun hat, water, and SPF lip balm—especially if combining with rafting or tubing. PS: that Rio Grande water is cold; this is definitely not a swimsuit wearing kind of raft experience. Keep covered and plan to possibly be chilly.
Remember that high altitude Colorado days mean it’s super easy to sunburn. This is a great time to pull out those SPF long-sleeved sunshirts instead of lathering in sunscreen. Don’t forget the back of your neck!
Can I take photos on RevRail trips?
Cameras or phone photos are definitely allowed. The RevRail staff will even take photos for you before departure and at the stop!
However, consider the need for dry storage and accessibility. You will need to store larger electronics in provided basket or a personal dry bags if rafting to avoid water damage.
On the rail, consider using a phone harness or fanny pack, so you don’t drop your phone on the tracks! If you need to stop, it’s easily done; just communicate with the staff.
What time should I arrive?
Plan to arrive at South Fork Revolution Rail about 20 minutes before your scheduled tour time to check in, get for pedals properly fitted, and enjoy the starting area. My family played corn hole while waiting. You will need to sign a short form of all participants.
There will be a quick instructional talk before heading out and getting on the rail bikes. If you are additionally doing the rafting trip, you will get instructions for that as well.
Are there weight or age requirements?
There is a max of 300 lb per rider seat. Kids under 25 pounds will need to ride in a harness with you as there are no lap children allowed. Older kids get their own seat with harness. Children under 15 must ride with an adult.
Of note, my 75 year old dad sat comfortably on the rail bike without extra padding, and he always complains about seats hurting! That’s saying something.
Can I make last minute reservations?
Popular runs (especially midday Saturday or Full Moon events) frequently sell out—book in advance online or by phone. However, don’t hesitate to call last minute; you never know!
~~~> Looking for more adventurous outings while visiting South Fork, consider adding a one hour trip east to the Great Sand Dunes. Read at my Sand Dunes post here.
Revolution Rail Co.’s South Fork, Colorado tours blend gentle exercise, immersive nature, and local history into unforgettable excursions through Colorado’s Rio Grande Valley. With several trail options, it’s an ideal adventure accessible to nearly every age and fitness level.
Bring your camera, dress for changing weather, hydrate, and pedal at your own pace—you’ll experience unforgettable views of wildflower meadows, the Rio Grande River canyons, and the mountains of Creede and South Fork.
Have questions about how to book or which tour is best for families or couples? I’d be happy to help! Leave a message below.
For More Reading…
- Revolution Rail Home Page
- Stories from Open Space – Pedaling Through History with Revolution Rail
Thanks for stopping by my little corner! Here’s to your next adventure.
I’m Bobbie. As transplants from Texas, my family of six is on a mission to discover all of Georgia’s amazing places, experience amazing road trips across the United States, and create a homeschool life along the way.
Want to adventure like me? Reach out! I’d love to chat. Stop by my Instagram or Pinterest page to discover more of our adventures.
Want to work with me? I’d love to work with your destination and tourism board to help other family travelers see all you have to offer.
Thanks for stopping by my little corner! Here’s to your next adventure.
I’m Bobbie. As transplants from Texas, my family of six is on a mission to discover all of Georgia’s amazing places, experience amazing road trips across the United States, and create a homeschool life along the way.
Want to adventure like me? Reach out! I’d love to chat. Stop by my Instagram or Pinterest page to discover more of our adventures.
Want to work with me? I’d love to work with your destination and tourism board to help other family travelers see all you have to offer.
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