Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

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Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (D&SNGRR) arrived in Durango (now Durango train) on August 5, 1881, and construction on the line to Silverton began in the fall of the same year. By July of 1882 (amazingly, only 9 months after construction began) the tracks to Silverton were completed, and the train began hauling freight and passengers. The line was constructed to haul silver & gold ore from the San Juan Mountains, but passengers soon realized the view was truly precious. This historic train has been in continuous operation for 132 years, carrying passengers behind vintage steam locomotives and rolling stock indigenous to the line.

The Durango Train & Silverton NGRR Tours 

Scenic Round Trip Silverton Train

Departs from the Durango Depot and is a 9-hour excursion. Enjoy a leisurely round-trip adventure to yesteryear on board the historic Durango train bound for Silverton. The sightseeing is spectacular along with the route, including travel through Horseshoe Curve, High Bridge, and the Animas River Gorge. The train has a concessions car with various snacks and drinks for purchase. There is a 2-hour layover (part of the total time) in the historic mining town of Silverton. There is a one-way bus service option as well, in either direction.

Cascade Canyon Express

This is the shortest excursion the Durango & Silverton NGRR train offers but equally as stunning. The Cascade Express is 5.25 hours and perfect for those on a schedule. It travels the same route but turns around at Cascade Canyon about halfway. The train has a concessions car, or you can pre-order a box lunch.

Cascade Canyon Winter Train

Same train but in the winter. Experience the magnificent views of the Animas River and the surrounding snow-covered peaks. Winter train operates from November – May.

Durango Train Tour Packages

• The Silverton Silverlight Express
• Extended Silverton adventure Express
• Silverton Historical Mine Tour

Wilderness Access

The 8:15 am Silverton Train offers a drop-off into the San Juan National Forest and the Weminuche Wilderness for backpacking, day hikes, rafting, and fishing trips during the summer season (May thru October). Reservations required.

D&SNGRR Classes of Service

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers 15 classes of seating, everything from the most exquisite presidential coach car to open-air gondola cars. You will certainly find the comfort level to suit your style.

• Presidential Class (Age 21 and over)
• First Class
• Red Mountain
• Yankee Girl
• Alamosa Parlor Car
• Knight Sky
• Prospector
• Silver Vista
• Deluxe Class
• Deluxe Legend
• Historic San Juan Coach
• Rio Grande Open Observation
• Standard Class
• Open-Air Gondola
• Coach Seating

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad – Package Experiences

Consider more than just a train ride. The D&SNGRR makes it possible to combine the area’s activities and destinations.

Hotel Packages

Stay at the Grand Imperial Hotel in Silverton. The historic town of Silverton is truly a step back in time that will enhance your getaway vacation.

Adventure Packages:

• Snowmobile tour and a train ride.
• Guided ATV tour and a train ride.
• Jeep tour and a train ride.
• Zipline and a train ride.
• Train ride and a raft trip.

Tour Packages

• The Silverton Silverlight Express
• Extended Silverton adventure Express
• Silverton Historical Mine Tour

Signature Events

The D&SNGRR has a long list of seasonal and holiday events. They realize that families, groups or couples enjoy celebrating special times of year together, and the train goes all out to make these experiences as memorable as possible.

Group Sales

Interested in booking a group event? Group sales are available for parties requiring 20 or more seats. Give them a call at 970-385-8875 or contact them.