In the heart of the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers one of America’s most iconic and scenic train journeys. Originally constructed in the 1880s to haul silver and gold, today it stands as a beloved historic and recreational attraction that transports visitors back in time with vintage steam locomotives and breathtaking landscapes.
A history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, planning your journey on this heritage railway involves more than just buying a ticket. From choosing the best time to visit and securing tickets, to exploring nearby attractions and places to visit in Durango, this guide covers everything you need to make the most of your trip on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
Durango Silverton Railroad Tickets
Securing tickets for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is fairly simple but requires early planning, especially during the peak travel seasons such as summer, fall foliage, and winter holidays. This iconic train ride through the majestic San Juan Mountains is extremely popular, drawing visitors from all over the world.
Tickets can be purchased conveniently:
- Online via the official Durango Train website,
- By phone through their customer service line, or
- In person at the Durango Depot, located in the historic downtown district.
There are different ride options available, including:
- Round-trip from Durango to Silverton, which takes you on a full-day scenic journey through breathtaking canyons and forests.
- One-way trips with bus return options, which offer more flexibility for travelers with tight schedules or those who prefer to drive one leg of the trip.
- Shorter seasonal excursions, like the Cascade Canyon Express, which are perfect for families with younger children or visitors short on time.
Some trains also feature special themed rides like:
- The Polar Express (during the holiday season), a magical ride for families with hot cocoa, cookies, and a visit to the North Pole.
- Romance on the Rails, designed for couples, often featuring champagne and scenic sunset departures.
- Fall Colors Express, popular in September and October, when golden aspens light up the mountainside.
Many trains also have open-air gondola cars, perfect for photographers or anyone wanting to immerse themselves fully in the crisp mountain air and stunning views.
Tip: Book at least 1–2 months in advance during summer, autumn, or winter events to secure your preferred departure time and seating class. Popular dates and first-class options tend to sell out quickly.
Durango Silverton Train Prices
Ticket prices for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad vary depending on several factors such as the season, seat class, route, and whether the ride includes any special events or themed experiences. While pricing is subject to change, here’s a general breakdown of current fares to help you plan your trip:
- Standard Coach Class: Starting around $105–$115 per adult (round-trip). This is the most economical option, offering authentic vintage passenger cars and a classic train experience.
- Deluxe Class: Ranges from $130–$150 per adult, depending on the time of year and availability. These cars offer more spacious, comfortable seating and enhanced scenic views.
- First-Class/Parlor Car: Prices typically range from $180–$225 per adult. This premium option includes upgraded seating, panoramic windows, complimentary beverages and snacks, and onboard attendants for a more luxurious experience.
- Children (Ages 4–11): Discounted rates apply, usually ranging between $60–$90, depending on the class and route.
- Children under age 4: Ride free when seated on an adult’s lap. If a separate seat is desired, a child fare will be charged.
Additional Costs and Considerations
- Special Events: Themed rides such as The Polar Express, Romance on the Rails, and the Fall Photographer Special may carry higher seasonal rates or additional activity fees. These events are in high demand and tend to sell out weeks in advance.
- Upgrades: Optional upgrades (e.g., open-air gondola access, reserved seating, onboard snacks, or souvenir packages) can be added to enhance your journey.
- Booking Fees: Small processing or convenience fees may apply, especially for online or third-party bookings.
Money-Saving Tips
- Group Discounts: Groups of 20 or more may qualify for discounted group rates with advance reservation.
- AAA Members: Check for special offers or promo codes through your AAA membership.
- Military & Veterans: Active-duty military personnel and veterans may be eligible for discounted pricing with valid ID.
- Combo Packages: Some local hotels and tour companies offer bundled packages that include train tickets + lodging or other regional attractions (like Jeep tours or rafting trips), which can be more economical.
- Shoulder Season Savings: Consider traveling during spring (April–May) or late fall (October–early November) for lower fares and fewer crowds.
Best Time to Visit Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The best time to ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad truly depends on the type of scenery and atmosphere looking for. Operating year-round, this historic steam train offers unique seasonal experiences, each with its own charm, weather conditions, and special events.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect throughout the year:
Summer (June–August)
Summer is the busiest and most popular season for the Durango train, thanks to the warm weather and vibrant greenery across the San Juan Mountains.
- Ideal for full-day excursions to Silverton, where you can visit the mining town, dine at local restaurants, and enjoy hiking or shopping.
- Expect daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s (°F), perfect for sightseeing and photography.
- Family-friendly events and children’s activities are often scheduled during the summer months.
- Tip: Due to the high demand, especially around holidays and weekends, it’s best to book your tickets and accommodations 1–2 months in advance.
Fall (September–October)
If you’re a fan of fall foliage, this is arguably the most scenic time to ride the train.
- The surrounding mountains transform into a sea of golden aspen trees, offering breathtaking photo opportunities.
- Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make it a comfortable and peaceful experience.
- The railroad often operates special Fall Foliage Trains, which are timed to coincide with peak color change—typically late September through early October.
- Great time for couples, photographers, and anyone seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
Winter (November–February)
Winter rides offer a magical experience with snow-draped peaks, icy waterfalls, and a crisp mountain breeze.
- The Cascade Canyon Winter Train runs instead of the full Silverton route due to snow-related closures at higher elevations.
- Families and children especially enjoy the Polar Express Train Ride, which includes storytelling, hot chocolate, holiday music, and even a visit from Santa Claus.
- Cozy train cars, festive lights, and themed décor create an enchanting holiday mood.
- Tip: Dress warmly and arrive early for holiday rides, which tend to sell out quickly in November and December.
Spring (March–May)
Spring is often overlooked, but it’s a great time to experience the ride with fewer people and better availability.
- Early spring may still feature snow-capped mountains, while later spring brings blooming wildflowers and melting streams.
- Budget-conscious travelers can often find better deals on lodging and train tickets.
- Ideal for those who prefer quiet landscapes, mild weather, and spontaneous travel plans.
- Note: Depending on the snowmelt and maintenance schedules, full-service trips to Silverton typically resume in mid to late May.
Things to Do in Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
While the scenic train ride aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is the main highlight, the journey offers much more than beautiful views. From rich historical narratives to thrilling outdoor experiences, this adventure through the San Juan Mountains is filled with unforgettable moments that immerse visitors in the spirit of the Old West and the raw beauty of Colorado.
Onboard Activities
The train ride itself is a journey back in time, offering more than just transportation—it’s a storytelling experience with a front-row seat to nature’s grandeur. Onboard narrators provide engaging insights into the 140-year history of the railroad, the region’s silver mining legacy, and the engineering feats required to carve a rail line through such rugged terrain. Passengers are treated to panoramic views of the Animas River Gorge, towering cliffs, pine-covered forests, and snow-capped peaks, all visible through large windows or from the open-air gondola cars.
The train often slows down at key scenic points, giving photographers ample time to capture the breathtaking landscape, especially along the dramatic highline section. Depending on your seating class, food and beverages may be available, along with mobile souvenir carts offering locally themed merchandise, snacks, and keepsakes.
At Silverton
When the train arrives in Silverton, a designated National Historic Landmark, passengers step off into a well-preserved mining town that feels frozen in time. Wooden boardwalks and vintage storefronts set the stage for a classic Western experience. Visitors can enjoy attractions like the Silverton Museum and Old Jail, where authentic artifacts and exhibits reveal the gritty frontier life of miners, sheriffs, and outlaws. Silverton is also home to some beloved eateries like Handlebars Saloon and The Bent Elbow, offering hearty meals and local craft beer in atmospheric surroundings.
During the summer months, the town becomes a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Guided jeep tours ascend into the majestic San Juan Mountains, while hiking trails, alpine lakes, and family-friendly gold panning adventures offer something for every traveler. For those who enjoy a bit of mystery, evening ghost tours through the historic streets share haunting tales and local legends that add a thrilling twist to your visit.
At Durango
Durango, the starting point of the railroad, is a vibrant and welcoming mountain town packed with culture, charm, and outdoor activities. Its historic downtown area is a delight to visit, with Victorian-era architecture, eclectic shops, art galleries, and restaurants offering everything from gourmet cuisine to Southwestern comfort food. One of the town’s standout attractions is the free Durango & Silverton Railroad Museum, located at the train depot.
Here, visitors can step inside vintage locomotives, view historical artifacts, and even visit a recreated roundhouse used for train maintenance. For adventure lovers, Durango doesn’t disappoint. You can go whitewater rafting on the Animas River, zipline through lush forests, or hit the trails on horseback or mountain bike. If you’re looking to unwind, nearby Trimble Hot Springs provides the perfect place to soak and relax, while wellness centers in town offer massages and spa treatments.
Depending on the time of year, visitors can also catch local festivals such as the Snowdown Winter Festival, Iron Horse Bicycle Classic, or the Durango Cowboy Poetry Gathering, all of which bring the community’s vibrant spirit to life.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Nearby Locations
The region surrounding Durango and Silverton is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and outdoor adventure, making it ideal for extending your trip. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full-fledged vacation, these nearby attractions offer plenty of reasons to linger longer in Southwest Colorado.
1. Mesa Verde National Park (45 minutes from Durango)
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the best-preserved Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings in North America. Visitors can tour sites like Cliff Palace and Balcony House, hike through scenic canyons, and centuries-old structures carved directly into the rock. Ranger-led tours provide deep insights into the lives of the people who inhabited the region over 700 years ago, making it a must-visit for history and archaeology lovers.
2. San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway
Often called one of the most scenic drives in America, this 236-mile loop connects Durango, Silverton, Ouray, and Telluride. As you wind through mountain passes and charming towns, you’ll witness panoramic vistas, cascading waterfalls, and colorful wildflowers in summer or brilliant fall foliage in autumn. There are plenty of scenic pull-offs, hiking trails, and photo opportunities along the way, making this drive an adventure in itself.
3. Ouray – The “Switzerland of America”
Tucked into a narrow valley and surrounded by 13,000-foot peaks, Ouray offers stunning alpine views and a unique small-town charm. Known for its natural hot springs, visitors can relax in mineral-rich pools after a day of exploring. Adventure seekers will enjoy the Ouray Ice Park in winter or the famous Million Dollar Highway that leads there from Silverton, featuring steep cliffs and dramatic turns with no guardrails.
4. Purgatory Resort (30 minutes from Durango)
This family-friendly resort offers year-round activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to mountain biking, ziplining, and alpine sliding in the summer. With cozy mountain lodges, dining options, and regular events, Purgatory is a perfect stop for travelers looking to add action-packed recreation to their itinerary. The resort also hosts festivals and live music during the warmer months, making it a lively destination beyond just outdoor sports.
5. Vallecito Lake
Located northeast of Durango, Vallecito Lake is a serene alpine escape surrounded by pine forests and rugged mountains. Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or casting a fishing line, it’s a quiet retreat perfect for couples and families alike. There are numerous hiking trails in the area, cozy cabins and campgrounds, and the chance to spot local wildlife like deer, bald eagles, and even the occasional bear. It’s a peaceful spot for a picnic or to simply unwind after a day of exploration.
FAQs
1. What is the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad?
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a historic steam-powered train that runs between Durango and Silverton, Colorado. Built in the 1880s to transport silver and gold from the San Juan Mountains, it now offers scenic passenger excursions through the breathtaking Animas River Canyon.
2. How long is the train ride from Durango to Silverton?
The round-trip journey takes approximately 9 hours, including about 3.5 hours each way on the train and 2 hours of free time to the town of Silverton. Shorter seasonal options, like the Cascade Canyon Express, are also available and last around 5.25 hours round-trip.
3. When is the best time to ride the train?
Each season offers a unique experience. Summer has lush green landscapes and full trips to Silverton. Fall is famous for its golden aspen foliage. Winter offers scenic snow-covered mountains and themed rides like the Polar Express, while spring provides a quieter, budget-friendly ride with fewer crowds.
4. What types of seating are available?
There are several seat classes, including Standard Coach, Deluxe Class, and First-Class/Parlor Cars. Open-air gondola cars are also available for those who want unobstructed views and fresh mountain air. Each class offers a different level of comfort, service, and amenities.
5. Are food and drinks available on the train?
Yes. Snacks, drinks, and limited food options are available onboard, especially in higher-class cars. Some trains offer bar service. You can also bring your own snacks or purchase meals at restaurants during the layover in Silverton.
6. Can children ride the train?
Absolutely! The experience is very family-friendly. Children aged 4–11 receive discounted fares, and those under 4 ride for free on a parent’s lap. Special events like the Polar Express are especially popular with kids.
7. Is the train wheelchair accessible?
Some of the cars are wheelchair accessible, and there are ramps at the Durango Depot. Not all routes or train cars can accommodate wheelchairs. It’s best to call ahead and notify staff when booking to ensure proper accommodations.
8. What should I wear or bring for the ride?
Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day and at different elevations. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a camera for photos. Also consider packing water, snacks, and motion sickness aids if you’re sensitive to movement.
9. Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Yes, especially during peak summer months, fall foliage season, and for special events like the Polar Express. Tickets can sell out weeks in advance, so it’s highly recommended to reserve early through their official website or by phone.
10. Are there discounts available?
Yes! Look for AAA discounts, senior and military rates, and group pricing. Sometimes local hotels and travel packages also offer bundled savings. Be sure to ask when booking or check the website for promotional codes or seasonal deals.
