Quick Info
By train: Durango & Silverton Railroad (seasonal). By car from Durango: 50 miles, 1.5 hours via US-550. By car from Ouray: 23 miles, 45 min via Million Dollar Highway. Nearest airport: Durango-La Plata (DRO), 50 miles.
Silverton is remote—that's part of its charm. Reaching this mining town at 9,318 feet requires either a scenic train ride or a mountain highway drive. There's no easy way in, but both options are spectacular. Plan your route as part of the adventure, not just logistics.
By Train
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is the most memorable way to arrive. Steam locomotives have made this journey since 1882, following the Animas River through canyons inaccessible by road.
Season: May through October daily, with limited winter excursions.
Duration: 3.5 hours each way, with 2-2.5 hours in Silverton before the return.
Considerations: It's a full-day commitment (8-9 hours total). Great for day-trippers, but if you're staying overnight, driving makes more sense—you'll want a car for Jeep trails and hikes.
By Car from Durango
Distance: 50 miles. Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes.
Route: US-550 North from Durango. The road climbs into the San Juans, passing Purgatory ski area before reaching Silverton.
Road conditions: Paved and maintained year-round. Summer driving is straightforward. Winter requires caution—snow, ice, and occasional avalanche closures.
Million Dollar Highway (from Ouray)
The 23-mile stretch from Ouray to Silverton is the famous "Million Dollar Highway"—one of America's most spectacular and challenging drives.
Why the name: Theories include the cost to build it, the gold in the roadbed fill, or simply that the views are worth a million dollars.
The experience: Narrow road carved into cliff faces. No guardrails in sections. Drop-offs of hundreds of feet. Three high mountain passes. Breathtaking and nerve-wracking.
Drive tips: Uphill traffic yields. Use pullouts to let faster traffic pass. Don't look down if heights bother you. Take your time.
Winter: The highway is maintained but can close for avalanche control. Check conditions before driving. 4WD and winter tires recommended November-April.
From Airports
Durango-La Plata Airport (DRO)
Distance: 50 miles. Time: 1.5 hours.
The closest airport with commercial service. American and United fly here. Rent a car at the airport—no public transportation to Silverton exists.
Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ)
Distance: 75 miles via Ouray. Time: 2 hours.
Alternative option with more flight choices. Requires driving the Million Dollar Highway. Scenic but demanding.
Denver International Airport (DEN)
Distance: 350 miles. Time: 6-7 hours.
Only practical if you're road-tripping through Colorado. Not recommended as a Silverton-only destination airport.
Winter Access
Silverton is accessible year-round, but winter driving requires preparation and flexibility.
Avalanche closures: US-550 and the Million Dollar Highway can close for avalanche control. Closures range from hours to days. Check CDOT for current conditions.
Vehicle requirements: 4WD or AWD with winter tires recommended. Chains may be required during storms.
Silverton Mountain skiers: Stay in Silverton itself to avoid being stranded by road closures. If the highway closes, you can still ski.
Tips
Gas up before you arrive. Silverton has limited fuel options at higher prices. Fill up in Durango or Ouray.
Check road conditions. CDOT's website and app show current conditions, closures, and webcams.
Allow extra time. Mountain roads take longer than map apps suggest. Factor in photo stops and slower traffic.
The train is one-way. You can ride the train to Silverton and bus back (or vice versa) if you don't want the full round trip.
Combine with a loop. Drive in from Durango, out via Ouray (or reverse). You'll see different scenery both directions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Million Dollar Highway scary?
It can be, especially for those uncomfortable with heights or narrow roads. The views are stunning, but some passengers prefer to close their eyes on exposed sections.
Can I drive a regular car to Silverton?
In summer, yes. Any passenger car can handle US-550. Winter requires more capable vehicles and driving skills.
How far is Denver from Silverton?
About 350 miles, 6-7 hours driving. Most visitors fly into Durango instead.
Is there public transportation to Silverton?
Only the train from Durango (seasonal). No buses, no shuttles. You need a car unless you're taking the train for a day trip.
What's the best route for a first visit?
Take the train one direction to experience the historic railway. Drive the other direction to see the Million Dollar Highway. You get both iconic experiences.