Luke’s Wish: Trains, Rapids, and Big Dreams in Colorado

What began as a simple wish to ride a train turned into a whirlwind adventure full of laughter, courage, and lifelong memories for Luke and his family.

A Young Dreamer with a Big Imagination

When 3-year-old Luke shared his wish, it was clear and heartfelt: he wanted to ride a train through the mountains of Colorado. His fascination with trains had been growing for months and Make-A-Wish CWNC was thrilled to help make that dream come true. What followed was a journey full of joy, discovery, and the kind of magic that only a wish can bring.

The Magic of the Railroad

The highlight of Luke’s wish trip was the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad—a historic steam engine that winds through the breathtaking Colorado mountains. From the moment the train pulled into the station, Luke was captivated. He eagerly climbed aboard, eyes wide with excitement as the whistle blew and the journey began. He was so enchanted, in fact, that his family rode the train twice. The rhythm of the tracks, the old-fashioned charm, and the sweeping views made an indelible impression. Since that day, Luke proudly tells anyone who asks that he wants to be a train engineer when he grows up.

Rapids, Cheers, and Superhero Moments

Another standout moment came on the river. Luke’s family had the opportunity to go white-water rafting—a bold adventure for a toddler. But from the first splash, Luke was all in. The guides cheered him on, calling out his name and celebrating his bravery with every wave they conquered.

Luke beamed with pride, soaking up every second. The rafting team treated him like the star of the day, and Luke embraced the role with the kind of confidence only a superhero can summon.

A Wish That Sparked Something Bigger

At the heart of Luke’s wish was something more than trains and travel—it was time. Time for his family to slow down, reconnect, and see the world through Luke’s eyes. This wish gave them the space to simply be together, immersed in joy and imagination.

Luke returned home with a heart full of dreams and a new aspiration: to one day become a train engineer. His family returned with gratitude, laughter, and a deep appreciation for what a single wish can do.