With only 4 weekends left for Winter Park Express, officials say ridership numbers are nearing record this season

Ticket sales for the Winter Park Express are currently on pace to smash the record number of riders of more than 17,600 since the service was reinstated three years ago, according to Winter Park Resort officials.

There are only nine more opportunities to enjoy the convenience of Amtrak’s Winter Park Express rail service from Denver to Winter Park this season. The train will run March 8, and then every Saturday and Sunday through March 31.

Passengers have especially enjoyed the new lounge car, which has been a popular addition this season.  There are still seats available, particularly on Sundays.

The train has an on-time or early arrival percentage of better than 90 percent this season, according to officials, meaning even more time on the slopes enjoying over 240 inches of snow. Meanwhile, traffic on I-70 and US-40 continues to deteriorate with weekend trips averaging 3.5 hours each way, including delays, during peak travel times this winter. Winter Park Express passengers are also able to avoid weather impediments, which mountain drivers experienced last weekend.

Tickets for the Winter Park Express start at $29 one-way, half-fare for children ages 13 and under.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit  http://www.Amtrak.com/WinterParkExpress.