Dillon City Hall | Dillon

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a heritage railway operating between Durango and Silverton, Colorado.

This historic train line traverses the San Juan Mountains, offering a route through rugged terrain and alongside the Animas River.

Visual Characteristics

The locomotives are steam-powered, typically black with red and gold accents. The passenger cars are constructed of wood, painted in various historical color schemes, often dark green or maroon. The track gauge is 3 feet (914 mm). The route features steep grades and sharp curves, with the train passing through dense pine and aspen forests, alongside granite cliffs, and over trestle bridges.

Location & Access Logistics

The primary departure point is the Durango depot located at 471 Main Avenue, Durango, Colorado. This is approximately 0.5km South of the Durango city center. Ample paid parking is available at the depot and surrounding downtown Durango lots. The depot is accessible via Durango Transit bus lines, with stops within a 0.2km radius.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The railroad was originally constructed by the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad Company, with the Durango to Silverton segment completed in 1882. Its initial purpose was to transport silver and gold ore from the mines in Silverton to Durango for processing and shipping. The route follows the geological formations of the San Juan Mountains, carved by glacial activity and river erosion over millennia.

Key Highlights & Activities

Passengers can experience a scenic train journey through the San Juan National Forest. Activities include photography of the mountain landscape and the steam locomotive. The train stops in Silverton, a historic mining town, allowing for exploration of its shops and museums. Specific excursions, such as the Cascade Canyon Express, offer shorter round trips.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the Durango depot and on board the train. Covered waiting areas are present at the Durango depot. Cell phone signal is intermittent along the route, particularly in canyons and remote mountain sections. Food and beverage services are available on board the train for purchase, and dining options exist in Silverton.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning light provides optimal illumination on the eastern-facing slopes, while late afternoon light is best for western exposures. The operational season typically runs from May through October. Spring (May-June) offers potential for snowmelt waterfalls. Autumn (September-October) provides fall foliage colors. High tide is not a relevant factor for this landlocked attraction.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical fact is that the railroad has operated continuously since 1882, making it one of the longest continuously operating train lines in North America. A local legend speaks of the "Ghost Train" of Cumbres Pass, though this is associated with a different segment of the original Denver and Rio Grande Western line, not directly with the Durango-Silverton route itself.

Nearby Landmarks

• Mesa Verde National Park (65km West)
• San Juan National Forest (Adjacent)
• Animas River Trail (0.3km West)
• Durango Arts Center (0.4km South)
• Fort Lewis College (3.5km South)