Durango Silverton Train

The Durango Silverton train is one of the most scenic and historic railroads in America. When it was built in 1882, the route was nailed and blasted through an undeniably dramatic stretch of the Rocky Mountains, all for the purpose of moving passengers and ore from Silverton’s thriving mines to Durango’s smoky smelter.  

Today, the locomotive continues to chug through the largest wilderness in Colorado, following its original imposing route along high line cliffs, dramatic gorges, and lush forests of the roaring Animas River Canyon. A ride on this 140-year-old narrow gauge is an absolute must for anyone who visits Southwest Colorado.

One Way Train Options:

Most folks who have ridden the Durango train say a one-way ride is enough to get the full experience.

Many prefer to use the scenic Skyway Shuttle to or from Silverton, or the Trails & Rails package for a fuller experience of the train’s amazing history and the San Juan Mountains. 

Trails & Rails Package:

This package combines a scenic shuttle to Silverton, a Silverton Jeep Tour, and a one-way train ride back to Durango. Your shuttle guide will provide a wealth of insight about the area, as well as your Jeep guide, who will take you into the mountains that surround Silverton and up to the mines that created the town in the first place. Trails & Rails Trips

Lasts from 8 AM to 6 PM. See the full itinerary and details below!  

Scenic Roundtrips:

A roundtrip from Durango to Silverton is approximately 9+ hours. The train ride itself is around 3.5 hours, with 2 hours to enjoy Silverton. Scenic Roundtrips

Steam Train (early May – late October) : Departs 9 AM, Returns ~6 PM 

Diesel Train (late May – early October) : Departs 8:15 AM, Returns ~5:15 PM 

Cascade Canyon Express:

For those who want to take a shorter roundtrip journey on the Durango Train, the Cascade Canyon Express is a great option as it takes just over 5 hours. Cascade Canyon Trips 

May – August: Depart 9:45 AM, Return 3:00 PM

November – May: TBH

Best Seats on the Train:

When riding the train from Durango to Silverton, you’ll want to sit on the right side for a front row set to the expansive views. Alternatively, when you’re chugging back to Durango, sit on the left side.

For the car options, locals and previous train riders tend to favor the Open Air Gondolas for better views, fresh mountain air, and the powerful sounds of the train.

Train Car Options from Least to Most Expensive: 

Coach Class: The standard option in an enclosed coach with functional windows to open and close as you please. 

Open Air Gondola: Highly recommended! The option comes with bench-style seating facing out to the vistas. Bring layers for high-elevation temperature changes and sunglasses to protect your eyes from the soot. Also, consider wearing dark colors!

Deluxe Class: An enclosed coach that features extra roomy, overstuffed and face-to-face seating. Enclosed deluxe cars offer face-to-face seating (flippable to forward-facing on the San Juan). 

Deluxe Rio Grande Gondola:  Open-air car that features outward-facing extra-padded row style seating with waist high side walls that are open from waist to ceiling and a full roof to protect you from the elements.   

First Class (All Ages): All first-class cars include an onboard attendant, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, morning pastry, souvenir mug, and one Durango & Silverton tote bag per couple/group. Seating options vary by car and include either table and padded chair configuration or overstuffed forward-facing (flippable) seating.

First Class (21+): Same as the first class option for all ages, but with adults only!