The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad carries passengers between Durango and Silverton in southwestern Colorado using a vintage steam locomotive train. We took the train and it was a blast!
The train has been running on steam between the two cities for over 130 years. The journey is about 45 miles long.
You can choose to take a one-way ticket from Durango to Silverton, or take the train both ways.
Beautiful San Juan Mountain Scenery
This is a unique way to see the beautiful scenery of the San Juan National Forest.
Hunters’ Camp
You’ll travel through parts of the mountains that you can’t see by car.
We passed by this remote hunters’ camp in a valley in the San Juan mountains. The only way in is by horseback. You can see the mules tied up outside the white tents.
Animas River
The train passes along several cliff faces that parallel along the Animas River, which create gorgeous vistas that can be seen from the coal-powered train. Some parts of the trip really exciting as you look down at the water below!
Fall Colors
We took the trip in the fall and the colors were beautiful.
Old Mines
Just outside of Silverton, you’ll be able to see this old mine. Silverton got its name from silver mining that took place here in the 1800s.
Silverton
Once in Silverton, passengers have about a two hour layover, so Silverton is a great place to find a lunch spot.
The train turns around in Silverton and heads back to Durango along the same tracks.
Final Thoughts on Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
If you get the chance, take the scenic ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. You will capture some amazing scenery so be sure to bring your camera!
Silverton is one town along the Alpine Loop, which is a 63-mile road in the San Juan mountains. You need a special off-road vehicle to do the drive, but you can rent one in Silverton. It is considered to be one of the world’s most beautiful alpine drives.
