Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

All aboard for an unforgettable adventure! The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad isn't just a museum,it's home to an authentic steam-powered train that chugs through breathtaking Colorado mountain scenery. Kids will be mesmerized watching vintage locomotives in action while learning about the Wild West era and Colorado's fascinating mining history through hands-on exhibits and artifacts.

• ✓Riding behind a coal-fired, steam-powered locomotive through stunning mountain wilderness
• ✓Watching the train crew shovel coal and operate vintage equipment
• ✓Exploring authentic railroad artifacts, model trains, and historic photographs in the museum
• ✓Seeing wildlife like deer and eagles along the canyon route
• ✓Walking around historic Silverton during the layover on full-day trips

1. 1.Book train tickets well in advance (weeks or months ahead) as popular departure times sell out quickly, especially in summer.
2. 2.Arrive 30-45 minutes early to explore the free museum and watch the train preparations,kids love seeing the crew load coal and water.
3. 3.Bring layers and jackets even in summer, as temperatures drop significantly in the mountains and windows open for photo opportunities.
4. 4.Pack snacks and entertainment for younger kids, as the full round-trip to Silverton takes 9 hours (shorter Cascade Canyon trips available for little ones).
5. 5.Sit on the right side of the train heading to Silverton for the best canyon views and photo ops,this side faces the dramatic cliffs.

Mid-May through September offers the best weather and full schedule. Weekday trains are less crowded than weekends. Arrive when the museum opens at 7:00 AM to watch morning preparations and board early trains for optimal seating choices.

Train tickets cost extra beyond museum admission (starting around $99-250+ per person depending on route and class). The depot has free parking, a café for snacks, and restrooms on board trains. Museum admission is free if just browsing without riding.

Full operations run late April/early May through October. Limited winter schedules (Polar Express and winter trains) run November-January. Spring and fall offer fewer crowds but check schedules as some routes only run during peak summer months (June-August).

Steamworks Brewing Company (3 blocks away) offers kid-friendly burgers and mac & cheese with a casual atmosphere. Carver Brewing Co. downtown has pizzas, outdoor seating, and a relaxed family vibe perfect for post-train adventures.