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Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (D&SNGRR) is a historic steam-powered train that operates between Durango and Silverton, Colorado.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Durango, CO

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a narrow-gauge heritage railway originally built to transport silver and gold ore from the mines in Silverton to Durango. Today, it is a premier tourist attraction, providing scenic train rides with vintage steam locomotives and restored passenger cars. The route covers approximately 45 miles between the two towns, with the journey taking about 3.5 hours each way.

D&SNGRR offers a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Rocky Mountains, including rugged canyons, forests, and the Animas River Valley. This heritage railroad is a living piece of history, delighting passengers with an authentic 19th-century rail experience.

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Check out the latest Upcoming Events at the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad in Durango, Colorado.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Take a Train Ride: Choose from various seating options, from open-air gondolas to luxury first-class cars, for a scenic ride through the mountains.
  • Explore Historic Silverton: Spend time in the charming town of Silverton, which features shops, restaurants, and Old West-style buildings.
  • Photography: Capture stunning views of the San Juan Mountains, Animas River, and historic railcars.
  • Winter Trains: During winter, special train rides, such as the Polar Express Train Ride, create a festive experience for families.
  • Museum Visit: Visit the D&SNG Railroad Museum in Durango to learn about the railroad’s history and view vintage railcars, engines, and artifacts.
  • Hiking: Some train packages allow passengers to disembark mid-route for hiking or backpacking in the San Juan National Forest.
  • Durango: This lively town offers a vibrant downtown with shops, restaurants, breweries, and cultural attractions like the Powerhouse Science Center.
  • Silverton: A historic mining town with Victorian-era buildings, mining tours, and off-road adventures.
  • Mesa Verde National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient Puebloan cliff dwellings, located about an hour from Durango.
  • Purgatory Resort: A year-round mountain resort offering skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, situated along the train’s route.
  • San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway: A beautiful drive connecting Durango, Silverton, Ouray, and Telluride, with unparalleled mountain views.

The railroad was completed in 1882 by the Denver & Rio Grande Railway to transport silver and gold ore from the San Juan Mountains. The narrow-gauge track, which is only 3 feet wide compared to standard 4 feet 8.5 inches, allowed the railway to navigate the steep and winding terrain.

As mining declined, the railroad shifted its focus to passenger service, capitalizing on the stunning scenery to attract tourists. In 1969, the line was officially designated a National Historic Landmark, and it remains a symbol of Colorado’s rich mining and railroading history.

Today, the D&SNGRR continues to operate with vintage steam locomotives, preserving its legacy while offering modern comforts for passengers.

The round trip between Durango and Silverton takes about 7–8 hours, including a layover in Silverton.

Yes, the train operates year-round with special seasonal rides like the Fall Colors Train and the Polar Express Train Ride during winter.

Snacks and drinks are available on board, and there are dining options in Silverton during the layover. Some ticket classes include food service.

Yes, the trains operate in various weather conditions, including snow. The steam locomotives are designed to handle the rugged terrain year-round.

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