With Christmas just a few short weeks away, families can take a magical trip to the “North Pole” — and get an audience with Santa Claus himself — on the Royal Gorge Route Railroad’s Santa Express Train.

It takes hundreds of hours of craftsmanship to transform the Santa Express locomotive into a moving piece of holiday wonder, featuring hand-painted images of snowflakes, pine trees and Santa’s reindeer-driven sleigh flying beneath a full moon.

Up to four times daily, the train will transport passengers on a round-trip journey through the scenic Royal Gorge to Santa’s Village, and children will have an opportunity to make holiday requests of the jolly old elf, according to railroad spokeswoman Sharon Greer.

“Santa comes on board — secretly, of course — with his elves,” Greer said. “And he goes through the train cars, giving small gifts to the children. It’s my favorite ride of the whole year. The children get so excited to see Santa Claus.”

As they marvel at the scenery outside the train, families will be able to hear many of their favorite Christmas tunes and enjoy lunch or dinner. Adults will have access to a full bar as well.

For holiday revelers who wish to make the trip in a more relaxed atmosphere, the railroad offers the Holiday Train. Like the Santa Express, the decorated Holiday Train takes a round-trip journey through the Royal Gorge, but St. Nick does not come aboard, Greer said.

“It’s an option for adults who want to make the trip, but don’t necessarily want to do it on a train full of excited children, who can get a little boisterous,” she said. “Kids are welcome on the Holiday Train, but the Santa Express is geared more toward children.”

IF YOU GO

What: Santa Express

When: Up to four departures daily, Nov. 21 – Dec. 31; closed Christmas Day

Where: Royal Gorge Route Railroad, 401 Water St., Cañon City

Price: $89-119 for children ages 1-12; $99-$129 age 13+, royalgorgeroute.com

What: Holiday Train

When: 9 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.; departures on select dates throughout November and December

Where: Royal Gorge Route Railroad, 401 Water St., Cañon City

Price: $94-$124 for children ages 1-12: $99-129 age 13+, royalgorgeroute.com