Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Steam Engine Train Excursions

• Address: 479 Main Ave, Durango, CO
• Distance from Us: 0.6 miles

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has garnered international acclaim over the years, and it’s not hard to see why.

All year long, the depot offers thrilling train rides through Cascade Canyon, allowing riders to witness the majestic beauty of the Animas river and the Rocky Mountains. The company offers a number of different excursions, each with varying levels of amenities depending on which class of ticket you purchase. Most of the cars have been renovated and/or rebuilt so you can truly capture the 19th century feel. 

Most excursions last ~ 5 hours, the notable exception being the Scenic Round Trip through the San Juan mountains. This particular trip takes just over 9 hours, allowing you to unplug (as there is no cell service most of the time) and take in the view of nature untouched by man as well as the sights of Silverton.

A particularly interesting option, for those who can afford it, is offered in the winter that allows a rider to stay up front with the operators during one leg of the journey to see first hand how a steam engine operates. 

You can learn more about all of their excursion options by visiting their website.

Polar Express in Durango and Other Events

The Durango and Silverton Railroad periodically hold special events and none is more popular than the Polar Express Train Ride. Based upon the award-winning book, the polar express allows children to experience the full joy and excitement of the Christmas season as passengers travel to the North Pole to pick up Santa Claus. 

There are other popular events hosted throughout the year that appeal to varying ages, such as:

• Romance on the Rails
• Shamrock Express
• Cowboy Poetry Train
• Fall/Winter Photographer’s Special

During each of these events, you’ll be able to find special deals and/or special amenities offered to further enhance your experience.

For example, the Romance on the Rails excursion offers a love basket for sale that contains special logo glasses and chocolates as well as a complimentary flower for those in first class.

Durango and Silverton Railroad Museum

Summer Hours : Daily, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

The railroad company is also committed to education, helping visitors learn about the history of railroading in the area. With their 12,000 square foot museum, the museum staff are able to effectively convey information about both the history of railroading as well as the current affairs of the local railroad. 

Much of the artifacts on display were donated by local families and old railroad workers. Many of the exhibits are shown in reutilized stalls of a roundhouse, enhancing the exhibits with its ambience.

In addition, the Museum does offer Yard Tours from May to October, granting an in-depth education opportunity about the railroad led by an experienced guide.

Due to their commitment to education, the Durango and Silverton Railroad encourage visitors to not only visit their museum but others in the area as well. In fact, the Animas Museum offers a discount if you show your train ticket.