Cascade Canyon Wye: A Winter Wonderland by Rail
Experience the magic of the San Juan Mountains on a historic train journey to Cascade Canyon Wye, a winter wonderland near Durango.
The Cascade Canyon Wye, located 26 miles north of Durango, is a scenic destination accessible via the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic train route offers breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains and the Animas River Valley, especially stunning during winter excursions.
A brief summary to Cascade Canyon Wye
- Durango, Colorado, 81301, US
Local tips
- Book your Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.
- Dress warmly in layers, especially for winter excursions, as temperatures in the San Juan Mountains can be quite cold.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery, including snow-covered peaks, frozen waterfalls, and the historic train.
- Check the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad website for special events, such as photography trains, and updated schedules.
Getting There
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Train
The primary way to access Cascade Canyon Wye is via the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The train departs from the Durango depot at 479 Main Avenue. During winter, the Cascade Canyon Excursion is the only train that goes to Cascade Canyon Wye. Check the D&SNGRR website for schedules and ticket prices. Ticket prices for the Cascade Canyon Excursion in the historic coach start at $79 for adults and $49 for children, plus a 7% historic preservation fee. Boxed lunches can be added to your reservation for an additional cost.
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Driving (Seasonal)
During warmer months, Cascade Canyon can be accessed by car via Highway 550. From Durango, take Highway 550 North. Parking is available off the side of the road near Cascade Creek. Be aware that winter conditions may make driving and parking difficult or impossible. There are no parking fees.
Discover more about Cascade Canyon Wye
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Graysill Mine
17.0 km
Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Graysill Mine in Colorado, a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking tranquility.
San Juan County Historical Society Mining Heritage Center
26.6 km
Discover Silverton's mining heritage at the San Juan County Historical Society Mining Heritage Center, where history comes alive in the heart of the Rockies.
San Juan County Historical Museum
26.6 km
Explore Silverton's rich heritage at the San Juan County Historical Museum, where the past comes alive through engaging exhibits and local stories.
La Plata County Historical
33.8 km
Discover the captivating history of La Plata County at the La Plata County Historical in Durango, Colorado, where stories of the past come alive.
Chapman Hill Ice Rink and Ski Area
35.4 km
Chapman Hill Ice Rink and Ski Area: Your gateway to winter sports and family fun in the heart of Durango, Colorado.
Animas Brewing Company
36.0 km
Discover the essence of craft beer at Animas Brewing Company, a vibrant brewery in Durango, Colorado, offering unique brews and a welcoming atmosphere.
White Rabbit Books & Curiosities
36.1 km
Explore a charming used bookstore in Durango, Colorado, filled with literary treasures and unique curiosities that inspire and delight.
Durango Sustainable Goods + Cafe & Mocktail Bar
36.3 km
Discover eco-friendly home goods and refreshing mocktails at Durango Sustainable Goods + Cafe & Mocktail Bar in the heart of Durango, Colorado.
Buckley Park
36.3 km
Explore the natural beauty of Buckley Park in Durango, Colorado, where tranquility meets community spirit in a lush outdoor setting.
Ghost Walk Durango
36.3 km
Discover the eerie tales and haunting history of Durango, Colorado, on a captivating evening Ghost Walk experience through the town's historic streets.
Durango Craft Spirits
36.5 km
Experience the unique flavors of artisanal distilling at Durango Craft Spirits in Colorado's charming town of Durango.
11th Street Station
36.5 km
Experience the best of Durango at 11th Street Station, where local flavors meet a lively gastropub atmosphere in the heart of Colorado.
Horsefly History Tours
36.6 km
Unravel the tales of the past with Horsefly History Tours, where history meets the supernatural in captivating narratives.
Carver Brewing Co.
36.6 km
Discover the essence of Durango at Carver Brewing Co., where delicious American cuisine meets a vibrant craft beer experience.
Create Art and Tea
36.6 km
Explore creativity at Create Art and Tea in Durango, where art meets the aromatic world of tea, creating an unforgettable experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
San Juan National Forest
5.7 km
Explore 1.8 million acres of Colorado wilderness: hiking, camping, fishing, and history in the San Juan National Forest.
Potato Lake Trailhead
6.5 km
Discover a tranquil mountain escape on the Potato Lake Trail near Durango, Colorado. Hike to a scenic lake with stunning views and abundant wildlife.
Bakers Bridge
15.1 km
Discover the scenic beauty and historical significance of Bakers Bridge in Durango, Colorado, a landmark with ties to the region's mining past.
Pinkerton Hot Springs
16.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and vibrant mineral formations at Pinkerton Hot Springs in Durango, Colorado, a must-see destination for nature lovers.
Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa
23.3 km
Relax and rejuvenate in Durango's natural mineral hot springs, offering a unique blend of history, wellness, and stunning mountain scenery.
Silverton
26.2 km
Explore the historic mining town of Silverton, Colorado, surrounded by breathtaking mountains and rich cultural heritage.
Animas Overlook Trail
27.3 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Animas River Valley from this easily accessible trail near Durango, Colorado.
Mayflower Gold Mill Tour
29.3 km
Explore a remarkably preserved gold mill and discover the history of Colorado's mining industry in Silverton.
Gudy's Rest
30.0 km
Hike to Gudy's Rest on the Colorado Trail for stunning views of Durango and the San Juan Mountains. A tribute to a trail visionary.
Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour
30.7 km
Experience a real gold mine! Ride a vintage train, witness mining demonstrations, and pan for gold at the Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour.
Oxbow Park and Preserve
32.3 km
Discover Durango's natural haven: riverside trails, diverse wildlife, and tranquil picnic spots await at Oxbow Park and Preserve.
Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours
32.8 km
Experience Durango's wild side with Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours: Rafting, Jeep tours, and adventure packages for all ages!
Alta, Colorado (Ghost town)
33.2 km
Explore a well-preserved Colorado ghost town near Telluride, offering a glimpse into the state's mining history and stunning mountain scenery.
Animas City Park
33.5 km
Discover a relaxing riverside escape at Animas City Park in Durango, Colorado, offering green spaces, playgrounds, and scenic views for all to enjoy.
Dalla Mountain park
33.6 km
Explore Durango's natural playground: hiking, biking, and world-class bouldering among towering sandstone formations.
Essential places to dine
Serious Texas BBQ North Durango, CO.
33.1 km
Experience authentic barbecue at Serious Texas BBQ in Durango - where flavor meets tradition in every bite.
The Yellow Carrot Restaurant
33.5 km
Discover innovative cuisine at The Yellow Carrot Restaurant in Durango, where local flavors meet creativity in a warm atmosphere.
Zia Taqueria
34.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Zia Taqueria in Durango - where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Griegos Restaurant
34.5 km
Discover vibrant flavors and authentic Mexican cuisine at Griegos Restaurant in Durango - where every meal is a celebration.
Sustainable Goods
36.3 km
Discover Sustainable Goods in Durango: A restaurant dedicated to delicious eco-friendly cuisine made from local ingredients.
PRIMI Pasta & Wine Bar
36.4 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at PRIMI Pasta & Wine Bar in Durango - where handmade pasta meets exquisite wine selections.
Taco Libre - Taqueria & Cocktails
36.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Taco Libre - your go-to taqueria in Durango for authentic tacos and refreshing cocktails.
Backcountry Gourmet
36.5 km
Discover gourmet delights at Backcountry Gourmet in Durango, where local ingredients meet creative culinary artistry.
Thai Kitchen
36.5 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine in Durango with delicious dishes served in a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for all occasions.
Rice Monkey
36.6 km
Experience a culinary journey through Asia at Rice Monkey in Durango, where vibrant flavors meet creative fusion cuisine.
Oscar's Cafe
36.6 km
Discover Oscar's Cafe in Durango for delicious breakfasts served in a cozy diner atmosphere at affordable prices.
Primus Restaurant
36.6 km
Experience innovative New American cuisine with locally sourced ingredients at Primus Restaurant in beautiful Durango, Colorado.
Himalayan Kitchen
36.7 km
Experience authentic Himalayan cuisine in Durango with flavorful Indian dishes at Himalayan Kitchen - a must-visit culinary gem.
Durango Diner
36.7 km
Discover authentic American comfort food at Durango Diner - where delicious meals meet a charming atmosphere in the heart of Colorado.
Tequila's Family Mexican Restaurant
36.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Tequila's Family Mexican Restaurant in Durango - where flavor meets tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Rose Duds An upscale consignment store
33.4 km
Explore Rose Duds, an upscale consignment shop in Durango, Colorado, where unique fashion treasures await every discerning shopper.
Dunn Deal Resale Store
33.8 km
Explore Durango's eclectic second-hand paradise at Dunn Deal Resale Store, where vintage treasures and local charm await every visitor.
Roam
35.3 km
Discover unique treasures at Roam Boutique in Durango, a charming shop featuring original items that reflect local culture and creativity.
Second Time Around
36.5 km
Discover the charm of Durango at Second Time Around, a unique consignment shop filled with vintage treasures and stylish finds.
Crystal Boutique
36.6 km
Explore Crystal Boutique in Durango, CO for exquisite handcrafted jewelry and stunning natural wonders that capture the spirit of Colorado.
Old Colorado Vintage
36.6 km
Explore unique vintage and contemporary fashion at Old Colorado Vintage in Durango, Colorado, where every piece tells a story.
Dreams of Tibet
36.7 km
Discover the unique charm of Tibetan culture at Dreams of Tibet, your go-to gift shop for authentic handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs in Durango.
Tippy Canoe
36.7 km
Explore Tippy Canoe in Durango, a gift shop featuring unique home goods, furniture, and lighting items that reflect the essence of Colorado.
Eureka Dan's
36.7 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Eureka Dan's in Durango, a boutique that embodies local style and mountain spirit.
BluesMtnSoul
36.7 km
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Urban Market
36.8 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish furniture, and home goods at Urban Market in Durango, Colorado, a must-visit shopping destination for tourists.
Barefoot Durango
36.8 km
Discover unique apparel and accessories at Barefoot Durango, the ultimate clothing store for tourists in Colorado's vibrant Durango.
Dolce
36.9 km
Explore Dolce in Durango, a boutique showcasing local craftsmanship and unique treasures that embody the spirit of Colorado.
There's No Place Like Home
36.9 km
Explore There's No Place Like Home in Durango for unique gifts, stylish women's clothing, and exquisite local jewelry that perfectly captures Colorado's spirit.
Lively (A Boutique)
36.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Union Social House
33.8 km
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Skyridge Tavern
35.6 km
Experience the charm of Skyridge Tavern in Durango, where local brews meet delicious snacks in a welcoming atmosphere.
El Rancho Tavern
36.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and local culture at El Rancho Tavern, a top bar destination in Durango, Colorado, with live music and delicious drinks.
Starlight Lounge
36.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Durango at Starlight Lounge, where craft cocktails and entertainment meet under the stars.
The Subterrain
36.8 km
Discover The Subterrain in Durango, where art, music, and exceptional wines come together for an unforgettable experience.
The Oxford
36.9 km
Discover The Oxford in Durango, Colorado: a cocktail lover's paradise offering a dynamic drink menu and a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
The Peeples Bar
37.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and expert mixology at The Peeples Bar in Durango, the ultimate destination for cocktail enthusiasts.
Orio's Roadhouse
37.1 km
Discover the lively ambiance and great drinks at Orio's Roadhouse in Durango, Colorado, a must-visit bar for all travelers.
Wild Horse Saloon
37.1 km
Discover the Wild Horse Saloon in Durango - A lively bar with great drinks, music, and a vibrant dance floor for an unforgettable night out.
Balcony Bar & Grill
37.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of exquisite cuisine and magnificent views at Balcony Bar & Grill in Durango, Colorado, a must-visit for every traveler.
8th Ave. Tavern
37.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and friendly vibe at Durango's favorite local bar, 8th Ave. Tavern, where good times and great drinks await.
Allred's Restaurant
37.9 km
Experience the best of New American cuisine with stunning mountain views at Allred's Restaurant in Telluride, Colorado.
Side Work Restaurant
38.1 km
Experience the flavors of Telluride at Side Work Restaurant, where fresh ingredients meet culinary excellence in a cozy atmosphere.
Smuggler Union Restaurant & Brewery
38.2 km
Experience the best of Telluride's culinary scene at Smuggler Union Restaurant & Brewery, where craft beer meets delectable dining in a cozy atmosphere.
Smugglers Brew Pub
38.2 km
Experience the authentic taste of Colorado at Smugglers Brew Pub, a cozy haven for craft beer lovers and food enthusiasts in Telluride.
