Statue
Durango Statue on the Animas River Trail
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Journey through history and breathtaking scenery on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a National Historic Landmark since 1881.
Experience a historic train ride through the San Juan Mountains on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This coal-fired, steam-powered train offers breathtaking views along the Animas River, transporting passengers to another era.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Durango train ride
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Durango, Colorado, US
Monday
9 am-9:15 am
Tuesday
9 am-9:15 am
Wednesday
9 am-9:15 am
Thursday
9 am-9:15 am
Friday
9 am-9:15 am
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Getting There
Driving
If driving, navigate to downtown Durango. The Durango Depot is located at 479 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301. Limited parking is available in the D&SNGRR parking lot at 209 W College Drive, a block and a half from Main Ave. Parking costs $10 for cars, trucks, and motorcycles. It is highly recommended to reserve parking when booking train tickets. An unloading zone is available on Main Avenue near the Depot for dropping off passengers before parking.
Walking
The Durango Depot is centrally located in downtown Durango. From most downtown hotels and attractions, the depot is easily accessible by foot. Head towards Main Avenue and look for the historic train depot at 479 Main Ave.
Local tips
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Book tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date, time, and class of service.
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Arrive at least 30 minutes early to allow time for parking, check-in, and boarding.
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Bring layers of clothing, as weather conditions in the mountains can change unexpectedly.
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Sit on the right side of the train when traveling from Durango to Silverton for the best views of the Animas River.
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Consider the Skyway Tour option, which combines a train ride with a bus trip, for varied views of the San Juan Mountains.
Discover more about Durango train ride
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (D&SNGRR) is a historic train that has been running continuously since 1881. Originally built to haul silver and gold ore from the San Juan Mountains, today it serves as a tourist and heritage line, offering passengers a unique journey through time and stunning scenery.
Founded by the Denver & Rio Grande Railway in 1880, Durango owes its existence to the railroad. The tracks to Silverton were completed in July 1882, and the train began transporting both passengers and freight. Over the years, the D&SNGRR has become a National Historic Landmark and a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.
The train offers various excursions, including trips to Cascade Canyon and the historic mining town of Silverton. Passengers can choose between steam or diesel locomotives and different classes of service, some with open-air gondolas for enhanced views. The journey provides unparalleled views of the Animas River, towering peaks, and the remote wilderness of the San Juan National Forest.
Visitors can also explore the D&S Roundhouse Museum in Durango, which features a collection of artifacts and exhibits about Colorado's railroading and mining history. Special events like the Polar Express, Brew Trains, and Wine & Rails add to the experience.
A brief summary to Durango train ride
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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