Public Television Series Great Scenic Railway Journeys To Feature Colorado's Rio Grande Scenic Railroad

ALAMOSA, Colo., June 19, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad today announced its participation in the Great Scenic Railway Journeys' television series that profiles some of the world's most historic and scenic railways. Produced by Emmy Award winner Robert C. Van Camp and hosted by storyteller David Holt, the series on "Celebrating North America's Steam Railways" airs on public television stations across the U.S. and will feature Rio Grande Scenic Railroad's historic 100-year old steam engine.

During the filming on June 23rd - 25th, Rio Grande Scenic Railroad will take passengers on rides through picturesque mountains to the majestic La Veta pass, a Colorado symbol of natural beauty and wildlife.  Film crews and passengers alike can bask in the historic symbolism of the steam engine, while participating in Rio Grande Scenic Railroad's fifth annual Rails & Ales Brewfest and Concert.

"By filming with Great Scenic Railway Journeys, we hope to bring more attention to the history of the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad and its significance as the longest and highest standard gauge railroad in the country," said Fred Hargrove of Rio Grande Scenic Railroad. "For those looking for something completely different, but still wanting to enjoy the historic Rio Grande Scenic Railroad, we've created the unique Rails & Ales Brewfest and concert series."

Rio Grande Scenic Railroad's Rails & Ales Brewfest and concert is a favorite among adventure-seekers. With over 20 breweries in attendance, at 9400 feet in a concert venue only accessible by train, it is Colorado's most unique beer festival. The Rails & Ales Brewfest and Concert is part of Rio Grande Scenic Railroad's 2012 Mountain Rails Live Summer Concert Series lineup, featuring performers Chuck Pyle and The Rifters. Concerts are hosted at an eco-conscious concert site and are only accessible by train.

For the Summer Concert Series and Rails & Ales Brewfest and Concert, tickets range from $19 to $149 depending on the class of service and departure location. Trains depart from Alamosa or La Veta and take passengers directly to the concert site at Fir - an amphitheater powered solely by wind and solar energy. For complete information on Mountain Rails Live, visit us online at www.mountainrailslive.com

The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad depot is located at 610 State Ave., Alamosa, Colo., and the La Veta Depot is located at 111 Westmoor Street, La Veta, Colo. To purchase tickets for opening weekend or for an upcoming excursion, or for more information call 877.726.RAIL or visit www.riograndescenicrailroad.com or on Facebook and Twitter.

About the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad
The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad conducts fun, nostalgic and entertainment-filled train excursions through one of the most beautiful and historic areas of the Rocky Mountain region. Founded in 1878 as the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad, it played a critical role in the region's development for decades and today provides memorable trips from Alamosa to the Spanish Peaks and the San Luis Valley in Southern Colorado. The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad will host numerous special events during 2012, including a summer concert series onboard the trains, the Rails & Ales Brewfest, special steam trains to Antonito and Monte Vista, Saturday evening dinner trains, a Photo Spectacular excursion, and much more. The Rio Grande's sister railways include the Mount Hood Railroad in the Columbia River Gorge, the Copper Spike Train in Arizona, the Saratoga and North Creek Railroad in New York State and the West Texas Polar Express(TM) and charter excursions with High Iron Travel. For more information, visit www.riograndescenicrailroad.com.

SOURCE Rio Grande Scenic Railroad