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Historic railway · Durango, Colorado
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
A narrow-gauge steam railroad, operating since 1882, that climbs from Durango to Silverton through the Animas River canyon in the San Juan Mountains.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The Durango to Silverton train runs about 70 km on the narrow-gauge railroad built in 1882 to carry gold and silver from the San Juan Mountains. It has operated almost continuously since then, with steam locomotives pulling vintage cars.
The route departs the downtown Durango station, crosses the Animas valley and enters the canyon, where the tracks run on a shelf cut into the rock, well above the river. In Silverton, at roughly 2,800 meters, the train stops for a few hours, enough time to walk the dirt streets and see the buildings of the old mining town.
Each leg takes about three and a half hours. There is the option to go by train and return by bus. In winter the train runs a shorter route to Cascade Canyon. Next to Durango’s station, a museum displays locomotives and the railroad’s history.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day for a round trip; with a bus return, about seven hours.
Best time
May to October, when the train reaches Silverton. In late September the canyon aspens turn yellow.
How to get there
The station is downtown at the end of Main Avenue.
Tip
Buy seats in advance for summer. On open cars, soot and sparks from the locomotive fall on passengers: wear clothes that can get dirty and use eye protection.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
How long is the train ride to Silverton?
About three and a half hours per leg, with a few hours in Silverton; a full day round trip.
Does the train reach Silverton in winter?
No. In winter it runs a shorter route to Cascade Canyon.
Can you return from Silverton by bus?
Yes, there is the option to go by train and return by bus, which shortens the day.