photos by David Halterman

Based on the bestselling childrens Christmas book by Chris Van Allsburg, the Durango and Silverton Railroads Polar Express is on track and rolling for the North Pole. Hot cocoa helps keep hands warm for the long ride north, where Santa greets the passengers and hops on board for a ride back down to town. Along the way, Ol St. Nick greets every passenger, and hands out a special gift for all the good girls and boys .

Kasi Montoya, held tightly by her father Andres, keeps an eye on Santa as he boards the train at the North Pole. A childs face is illuminated by a camera flash upon arrival at the North Pole. The train blows of some steam before departure. The Man in Red greets the passengers. Chef Donna Walters leads one of the cars in carols during the ride back to town. Santas elves help with greeting the passengers as Santa makes his way from car to car. Kolbi Montoya, 6, waves at traffic as the train makes its way out of town and up to the North Pole (*wink*).