Railway Experience
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
A historic 19th-century steam railway climbing through Colorado’s San Juan Mountains on a narrow-gauge line.
Railway Experience
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
A historic 19th-century steam railway climbing through Colorado’s San Juan Mountains on a narrow-gauge line.
About This Experience
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (D&SNGRR) is a heritage steam railway in southwestern Colorado that runs on 3-foot (914 mm) narrow-gauge tracks for about 45 miles between the town of Durango and the old mining camp of Silverton. For over 140 years it has carried passengers through the remote wilderness of the San Juan National Forest, offering high-mountain scenery and a journey into Colorado’s mining past. The line and its vintage equipment are designated a National Historic Landmark and a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark for their significance and preservationen.wikipedia.org.
Founded by the Denver & Rio Grande Railway in the early 1880s, the route was originally built to haul gold and silver ore from the San Juan Mountains and transported an estimated $300 million worth of precious metals over its lifetimedurangotrain.com. At the same time, it was promoted as a scenic passenger line – a role it continues to fulfill today. Remarkably, trains have run continuously on this mountain railroad since 1882, making it one of the few places in America with unbroken steam locomotive operation for well over a century. This living history appeals to railfans, historians, and travelers alike.
Featured Video
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Colorado | Historic Steam Train Cascade Canyon Express 4K
In this video we take the Cascade Canyon Express route on the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The route begins in Durango, Colorado and heads north into San Juan National Forest along the Animas River, and riding on the edge of 1,000+ foot drop offs in the canyon. The train turns around up in Cascade Canyon and after a 1 hour lunch heads back down to Durango. For this trip we took one of the historic steam locomotives and restored coach from the late 1800's. Riding the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is an absolute must for anyone visiting Durango and is a one of a kind experience.
Why Visit
Enthusiasts visit the D&SNGRR for an authentic turn-of-the-century railroading experience. The railroad still operates vintage coal- and oil-fired steam locomotives from the 1920s and maintains original rolling stock, immersing visitors in sights, sounds, and smells of the steam era. Railfans can admire the classic Mikado-style locomotives (2-8-2 wheel arrangement) that once hauled heavy freight over the Rockies – today these iron horses are lovingly restored and pull passenger trains up steep grades. The line itself is an engineering marvel, climbing nearly 3,000 feet in elevation with a maximum grade of 2.5% as it winds through the mountainsasce.org. This combination of narrow-gauge technology, historic equipment, and challenging terrain makes the D&SNGRR a mecca for railway enthusiasts.
Beyond the equipment, the scenery is spectacular. The journey takes you deep into the San Juan Mountains alongside the Animas River, often on a slim ledge blasted into sheer canyon walls. One famous segment, the “High Line,” finds the train clinging to a cliffside hundreds of feet above the river – an iconic photo spot. Passengers are treated to panoramic views of rugged peaks, forests, and waterfalls in areas reachable only by traindurango.org. The route crosses high bridges and horseshoe curves, offering vistas that change with every mile. In autumn, the landscape erupts in golden aspens; in winter, steam billows against a backdrop of snow. For railfans and photographers, the D&SNGRR provides endless unique vantage points in a dramatic alpine setting.
What to Expect
A trip on the D&SNGRR is a full-day adventure. The standard excursion is a round-trip from Durango to Silverton, about 3½ hours each way by train, with a 2-hour layover to explore Silverton’s historic downtown. Trains depart from the 1882 Durango depot in the morning and ascend slowly into the mountains, reaching Silverton around lunchtime. At a top speed of 18 mph, it’s a leisurely ride – time to relax and soak in the experience without modern distractions (there is no cell service in the Animas Canyon)durangotrain.com. You’ll hear the locomotive’s whistle echo off canyon walls and feel the engine working hard on uphill stretches. The coaches are open-air or have windows you can slide down, so expect occasional smoke and cinders drifting back from the steam engine, adding to the authentic atmosphere of old-time rail travel. On the return trip in the afternoon, the train follows the same route back to Durango, often arriving by early evening.
On board, seating is assigned in various car types, from standard bench coaches to premium parlor cars. Open gondola cars (roofless coaches) are popular in warm weather for their unobstructed views and fresh air – though you may get a bit of soot, it’s worth it for photographers. Enclosed coaches provide protection from the elements and have large windows. All trains include at least one concession car selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs during the ride. The coaches are equipped with restrooms, and in winter they are heated for passenger comfort. Despite carrying hundreds of passengers (summer departures often run full), the vibe on board is friendly and fun – families, railfans, and tourists mingle while leaning out to snap photos or wave at onlookers. The conductors and staff, dressed in period-style uniforms, are approachable and often share historical tidbits. Overall, you can expect a nostalgic journey with spectacular views, the rhythmic sounds of a steam locomotive, and plenty of chances to create unforgettable memories.
How to Plan Your Visit
Season and Schedule
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad operates year-round with varying routes by season. It offers a full route to Silverton in warmer months and a shorter excursion in winter, along with special events throughout the year.
- Operating Season
- Year-round
- Full Route Schedule
- Early May through late October
- Winter Excursion
- Cascade Canyon excursion, about 26 miles each way
- Special Events
- The Polar Express in November–December
- Departure Frequency
- Multiple departures in peak summer months
Ticket Information
Advance booking is highly recommended for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, especially during peak times. The railroad offers various classes of service with different seating and amenities.
- Booking Methods
- Online, by phone, or in person at the Durango depot
- Refund Policy
- Cancellations allowed up to a few days before the trip with a small fee; no refunds within 5 days of departure and none for no-shows
- Classes of Service
- Standard, Deluxe, First Class, Presidential
- Age Restrictions
- First Class and Presidential Class limited to adults 21+
- Children's Policy
- Children under 4 years old may ride free on an adult's lap in standard coaches
Accessibility Details
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad accommodates guests with disabilities by providing an ADA-accessible coach and assistance for those with mobility needs. Visitors are encouraged to communicate any special requirements in advance for a smooth experience.
- ADA-accessible coach
- Yes
- Wheelchair lift
- Yes
- Accessible restroom
- Yes
- Service animals allowed
- Yes
- Pets allowed
- No
- Emotional support animals allowed
- No
What to Bring
When visiting the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, it's important to dress in layers and bring essential items for comfort and protection against the elements. Be prepared for varying temperatures and conditions.
- Elevation Durango
- approx. 6,500 ft
- Elevation Silverton
- approx. 9,300 ft
- Clothing Recommendations
- Dress in layers; bring a light jacket or sweatshirt in summer, warm coat, gloves, and hat in winter
- Eye Protection
- Wear sunglasses or glasses with clear lenses
- Sun Protection
- Apply sunscreen and consider a brimmed hat
- Hydration
- Bring a bottle of water and snacks
Photography Tips
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers excellent photography opportunities for enthusiasts, especially from open gondola cars. Key locations and tips for capturing stunning images along the route are provided.
- Best Photography Side (Northbound)
- Right-hand side
- Best Photography Side (Southbound)
- Left-hand side
- Signature Locations
- High Bridge, Horseshoe Curve
- Best Time for Fall Foliage
- Late September
- Photo Run-by Excursions
- Available on special event weekends
Travel Information
By Air
Durango–La Plata County Airport is the nearest airport to Durango, offering direct flights from several major hubs. For more flight options, travelers can consider Albuquerque International Sunport or Denver International Airport.
- Nearest Airport
- Durango–La Plata County Airport (DRO)
- Distance to Nearest Airport
- 15 miles southeast of Durango
- Direct Flights From
- Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, Phoenix
- Seasonal Flights From
- Houston
- Closest Major International Airport
- Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)
- Distance to ABQ
- 215 miles
- Distance to Denver International Airport
- 360 miles
By Train
Durango is not directly served by Amtrak, but travelers can reach it via nearby Amtrak stops and car or shuttle transfers. The Durango & Silverton is a tourist railroad that operates independently of the national rail network.
- Closest Amtrak Route
- Southwest Chief
- Distance from Albuquerque to Durango
- approx. 215 miles
- Distance from Grand Junction to Durango
- about 170 miles
- Shuttle Services
- Available from Albuquerque, Gallup, or Grand Junction stations to Durango
By Car
Driving to Durango offers beautiful scenery, especially via the Million Dollar Highway. Various routes are available depending on your starting location.
- Main Highways
- US Highway 550 and US Highway 160
- Distance from Denver
- 360 miles (580 km)
- Driving Time from Denver
- 7+ hours
- Distance from Albuquerque
- 215 miles
- Driving Time from Albuquerque
- 3.5 hours
- Driving Time from Flagstaff
- ~5.5–6 hours
- Winter Road Conditions
- Check CO Department of Transportation updates
- Gas Availability
- Sparse on some stretches, no fuel between Durango and Silverton
Parking
Parking for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is available but can be limited during busy periods. The official parking lot is located near the train yard in downtown Durango.
- Official Parking Lot Location
- 209 West College Drive, Durango
- Parking Fee
- $10 per vehicle for the day
- Payment Options
- Purchase pass online or by phone; cash on the day if space is available
- Parking Lot Opening Time
- Well before the first departure
- Street Parking in Silverton
- Free street parking available
Local Transportation
Durango offers various local transportation options, including a trolley and transit buses, while Silverton is easily walkable with no public transit. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad provides a motorcoach service for one-way train travelers.
- Trolley Frequency
- every 20 minutes
- Trolley Hours
- approximately 7:00 am to 8:40 pm daily in summer
- Trolley Fare
- $1 (often free for tourists)
- Bus Fare
- $1–$2 per ride
- Airport Transportation
- best to pre-schedule a service
Nearby Lodging
Find places to stay near Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
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Nearby Attractions
- Mesa Verde National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its ancient cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Puebloan people. Visitors can tour stunning stone villages built into canyon walls (like Cliff Palace and Spruce Tree House) and learn about the Native American history of the region. About 35 miles west of Durango (approximately a 1-hour drive)
- San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway
A 236-mile loop road dubbed “America’s Most Beautiful Drive,” connecting Durango, Silverton, Ouray, Telluride, and Cortez in a grand tour of the San Juan Mountains. The route includes the Million Dollar Highway with its hairpin turns and jaw-dropping vistas. Driving the entire loop takes about 6–7 hours (not counting stops), but shorter segments (like Durango to Silverton to Ouray) make a great day trip. The Skyway passes through Silverton (where the train goes) about 50 miles north of Durango.
- Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad
Another legendary narrow-gauge steam railroad and a “sister” heritage line to the D&SNGRR. The Cumbres & Toltec runs 64 miles between Antonito, Colorado, and Chama, New Mexico, crossing the 10,015-ft Cumbres Pass (the highest railroad pass in the US) and passing through spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery. It offers day-long steam trips much like Durango & Silverton, with open cars and historic locomotives. Located about 110 miles east of Durango (drive approx. 2 hours to Chama, NM, the nearer end)
Photos
John Fowler
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Mike McBey
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Mike McBey
Attribution License
Stefan Serena
Public Domain Dedication (CC0)
Mike McBey
Attribution License
David Pirmann
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daveynin
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scott1346
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More Videos
Durango and Silverton Oil Fired Steam Trains
The Durango and Silverton is one of the premiere tourist railroads in the United States. In 2019, the railroad began a project to convert all of its steam locomotives to burn oil as a fuel source rather than coal. In this video, we'll take a look at trains on the Durango and Silverton pulled by some of these converted oil fired steam locomotives.
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Quick Information
Country
United States
Region
Colorado
City
Durango
Best Season
Many visitors consider fall the most magical season to experience the Durango & Silverton. In late September and early October, the aspen forests along the route turn brilliant gold – creating a stunning contrast with the evergreen pines and the dark canyon walls. The train was even named one of the “5 Irresistible Fall Train Trips” by the New York Times for its autumn beautyen.wikipedia.org. Fall days are usually crisp and sunny, perfect for photography, and the summer crowds have begun to thin out.
