Durango--Silverton Railroad

Description

Trains on this railroad are powered by coal and run on rails just three feet apart to better navigate the sharp curves of the San Juan Mountains. Completed in 1882, the railroad originally hauled gold and silver ore along with passengers; it received new life in the mid 20th century with appearances in movies such as Around the World in 80 Days and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Now it carries train buffs on a scenic 3 1/2-hour ride from Durango to Silverton. Prairie dogs sit up alongside the tracks and watch you pass, rocks in the Animas River sparkle in the sun, and mule deer peer from the foliage. There are cars of several classes---from the Presidential to open-air standard---a concession car, and restrooms. You'll have about three hours in Silverton to eat and maybe do some shopping or visit the freight yard museum. Alternatively, you can return to Durango by bus, a 1 1/2-hour trip.