Rio Grande Scenic Railroad Announces Memorial Day Opening

ALAMOSA, Colo., May 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The Rio Grande Scenic Railroad today announced its plans to partner with the Red River Community Center for its opening day, May 25th. Those attending the Red River Motorcycle Rally, or those who want to support the Red River Community Center, can purchase tickets for a scenic train ride from Alamosa to La Veta, with a portion of each ticket sold May 25th through May 27th going towards the maintenance and upkeep of the Red River Community Center.

The Red River Motorcycle Rally will bring 20,000 bikers from around the region to Red River, New Mexico, less than 100 miles from the start of the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad. Motorcyclists who want to take a break from cycling can take a ride on America's highest altitude standard-gauge railroad and catch a glimpse of some of Southern Colorado's most breathtaking scenery.

"We are excited to partner with the Red River Community Center to raise funds to support the upkeep of such a great Red River, New Mexico community asset," said Fred Hargrove of Rio Grande Scenic Railroad. "Memorial Day weekend signals the start of a summer full of fun opportunities on the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad. From weekend excursions to weekday daytrips, we plan to offer more to visitors than ever before, and bring back favorites like concerts and our annual Rails and Ales event."

Following Memorial Day weekend, the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad will begin its 2012 Mountain Rails Live Summer Concert Series lineup, welcoming back old favorites as well as some new faces. Appearing performers will include Michael Martin Murphy and John Denver tribute artist Roy Rivers. A new microsite dedicated solely to the concerts at Fir Station has been made live as well, detailing artist bios, the eco-conscious concert site and all the fun sides of enjoying music at a site only accessible by train.

On June 23rd, the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad will host its popular Rails and Ales Brewfest and Concert. 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.

For the Summer Concert Series, 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. 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™ and charter excursions with High Iron Travel. For more information, visit www.riograndescenicrailroad.com.

SOURCE Rio Grande Scenic Railroad