Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

The Denver and Rio Grande Railway founded Durango, Colorado in 1880 and track was soon laid to haul gold and silver ore to Silverton. Eventually, the mines played out, a fire destroyed much of Silverton and later the Spanish Flu killed 10% of the town’s population. But the trains continued hauling passengers through the scenic mountains and Hollywood later discovered the railroad and used it in several movies including Around the World in 80 Days, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and others. Today, the railroad is called the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway and is a popular destination for railfans of all ages.

Today the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad continues to provide year-round train service, operating a historical train with rolling stock indigenous to the line. The locomotives used to pull today’s train remain 100% coal-fired, steam-operated. The locomotives are 1923-25 vintage and are maintained in original condition. The coaches each feature bathroom facilities and are heated during the winter months for passenger comfort. Open gondola cars provide a panoramic view of the mountains. Concessions are available on every train.