The Royal Gorge was Pullman-built in 1950 for Denver & Rio Grande Western. Later it was designated as Pennsylvania Railroad 1148, Penn Central 4448, and Amtrak 3361. It has been owned by California Rail Tours since 1985.

The Royal Gorge features an intimate lounge, with a small musician's platform. It has a kitchen, and a serving counter.. Every seat is adjacent to a picture window to insure that all passengers have an unparalleled view of the world as it quietly glides by.