Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

All aboard for an unforgettable adventure on America's most scenic historic train! The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad takes families on a breathtaking 45-mile journey through the rugged San Juan Mountains, with vintage coal-fired steam locomotives chugging through narrow canyons, alongside the Animas River, and past wilderness areas inaccessible by car. Kids are mesmerized by the authentic 1880s train cars, the power of the steam engine, and the chance to spot wildlife while traveling the same rails miners rode over a century ago.

• ✓Watching the authentic coal-fired steam locomotive in action with billowing smoke and powerful engine sounds
• ✓Riding through the narrow High Line section with sheer cliffs on one side and dramatic drop-offs on the other
• ✓Open-air gondola cars that let kids feel the mountain breeze and get unobstructed views
• ✓Exploring the historic mining town of Silverton during the layover with Old West charm and kid-friendly shops
• ✓Spotting wildlife like elk, bighorn sheep, and eagles along the route through remote wilderness

1. 1.Book the Cascade Canyon Express (shorter 2-hour round trip) if you have younger children who might not manage the full 9-hour round trip to Silverton
2. 2.Sit on the right side of the train heading to Silverton for the best canyon and river views; upgrade to open-air gondola cars in summer for unobstructed photos and fresh mountain air
3. 3.Bring layers and jackets even in summer,mountain temperatures drop significantly, and the open cars can be chilly and smoky from the coal engine
4. 4.Arrive 30-45 minutes early to explore the train yard, watch the locomotive preparations, and let kids see the engineers at work before boarding
5. 5.Pack snacks and activities for the ride; while there's a snack bar on board, having your own supplies keeps costs down and little ones occupied during the longer journey

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the most departures and best weather, with mid-week trips being less crowded than weekends. Morning departures are ideal for families as kids are fresh and alert for the spectacular scenery. September offers beautiful fall colors with fewer crowds than peak summer months.

Round-trip tickets to Silverton range from $99-$229 for adults and $59-$119 for children depending on seating class, with the full journey taking about 9 hours including layover time in Silverton. Shorter Cascade Canyon trips are available for families with younger children. The depot has parking, restrooms, and a gift shop; snacks are available onboard but bringing your own food is permitted.

The railroad operates late April/early May through October, with the most frequent departures during summer months (June-August). Winter operations feature limited holiday-themed trains including the Polar Express experience in November-December. Heavy snow occasionally causes schedule changes in early spring and late fall. Book well in advance for summer weekends and all holiday trains.

In Durango, try Carver Brewing Company (family-friendly brewpub with great burgers and kids' menu) or Steamworks Brewing Company (another local favorite with pizza and casual fare). In Silverton during your layover, Handlebars Restaurant & Saloon offers kid-friendly American fare in a fun Old West atmosphere.