Silverton, Colorado was originally established as a mining camp during the late 1800s after gold and silver were discovered along the Animas River. During it’s prosperous years, 2,000 people claimed residency in the town, including miners, families, and inhabitants of the red light district. Although most of the town today relies on tourism from Colorado jeep tours and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, you can still feel the past all around you. So how do you make the most of your day in Silverton?
Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour
The perfect way to visit the roots of this town, this hour long mine tour will bring you back to the time of the miners. Equipment demonstrations will show you how mining was done, while an authentic mine train ride will showcase the minerals and colors within the mine walls. At the end of your tour, you can pan for real gold, silver, and copper. The best part is you get to keep what you find as a souvenir!
Colorado Jeep Tours
Silverton was not the only mining town within the San Juan Mountains. Explore abandoned towns in the surrounding area on one of the beautiful, guided, interpretive Colorado jeep tours. Professional guides point out Colorado wildlife and vegetation of the area (you might see a bear or moose!), as well as tell you the history of the area. Make sure your camera is charged and the memory card is empty. You’ll want to capture every moment while on one of these Colorado jeep tours!
Hiking
You can never go wrong with a hike around the Silverton area. Whether it’s a multi-day excursion or an afternoon jaunt, any trail you take will provide you with incredible sights. Be sure to stop in the welcome center to find the best hike for your ability before going out on your own.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is often a must do when visiting the area. An inside secret is to get on the train from Silverton to Durango in the afternoon, as you will get the best lighting for photos at the sun starts to set. Travel along the Animas River and through wooded forests on this coal-powered train and relive the past. Combine a train ride with one of the Colorado jeep tours on a Trails & Rails package trip!
Notorious Blair Street
Formerly part of the red light district, Blair Street houses historic shops and restaurants. Many of the buildings were once saloons, dance halls, or bunkhouses. You can still see the original architecture standing. Although cleaned up from its original days, you can still find traces of the original street.
Winter Bonus
Coming in the snowy months of the year and want world class side country skiing? Check out Silverton Mountain. Not for the faint of heart, this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss out on.
Regardless of what you decide to do in Silverton, whether it’s one of the stunning Colorado jeep tours, a ride on the train, or another excursion, it will be time well spent. While there, be sure to remember you are at high altitudes. This means you will need to drink plenty of water and bring layers in case the weather changes. Get out there!