Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is one of America's last authentic steam railroads. Coal-fired locomotives have made this 45-mile journey through the San Juan Mountains since 1882, originally hauling silver ore, now carrying tourists through some of Colorado's most spectacular scenery.

The train departs Durango in the morning, follows the Animas River through canyons inaccessible by road, and arrives in Silverton for a 2-hour layover. Then it returns to Durango by late afternoon. It's a full-day commitment, but the engineering and scenery make it unforgettable.

The Experience

The route: The train climbs from Durango (6,500 feet) to Silverton (9,300 feet) along the Animas River. You'll cross trestles, pass through narrow canyons, and gain views impossible to see any other way. Highlights include the Highline—track carved into sheer cliff faces—and views of the Needle Mountains.

Steam power: Real coal-fired steam locomotives, some over 100 years old. The smell, the sound, the authentic experience of 19th-century railroading. Nothing else like it in Colorado.

The coaches: Choose between open-air gondolas (best views and photos, but exposed to cinders and weather) and enclosed coaches (more comfortable, still scenic). Premium classes offer bar service and better seating.

Seating Classes

Standard Coach

Enclosed vintage coaches with reversible bench seats. Windows open for photos. Comfortable but basic. The most popular and affordable option.

Open-Air Gondola

Converted freight cars with bench seating and no roof. Best for photography and the full sensory experience. You will get cinders in your eyes and clothes—it's part of the authenticity.

First Class

Climate-controlled cars with larger windows, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages. More comfortable seating. Worth the upgrade for a relaxed experience.

Presidential Class

The premium option with bar service, catered meals, and private outdoor viewing platform. Book far in advance—limited availability.

Time in Silverton

The train arrives mid-morning and departs mid-afternoon, giving you roughly 2-2.5 hours in town. That's enough time to:

Walk Greene Street: The historic main street with shops, restaurants, and saloons. Browse for souvenirs, grab lunch, sample the saloons.

Visit the museum: The San Juan County Historical Society Museum covers mining history in the original 1902 county jail building.

Explore: Wander the side streets to see unpaved roads and Victorian buildings in various states of preservation.

What you can't do: Jeep trails, the Old Hundred Mine tour, or serious hiking require staying overnight. The train schedule doesn't allow it.

Booking & Tickets

When to book: Summer trains sell out 4-8 weeks in advance. Book as soon as you confirm travel dates. Weekends are tightest.

Prices: Adults $99-329 depending on class, children around half price. Premium classes sell out fastest.

One-way options: You can ride the train one direction and bus the other. Useful if you want to stay overnight in Silverton or don't want the full 7-hour round trip.

Winter trains: Limited "Polar Express" and holiday runs operate November-January. The track closes when avalanche danger is too high.

Tips

Sit on the left leaving Durango. That side faces the river and the best canyon views. On the return, sit on the right.

Bring layers. Morning starts cool, midday warms, and the open cars can be cold in shade. Temperature swings are significant.

Wear old clothes for gondola class. Cinders from the steam engine will land on you. Dark colors hide the soot better.

Pack lunch. Silverton restaurants get crowded when the train arrives. A packed lunch gives you more time to explore.

Stay overnight in Silverton. The train crowds leave by 3pm. The town transforms—quieter, more authentic. You'll have time for Jeep trails and hikes.