Everything To Know About The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad In Colorado

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has been in continuous operation for over 140 years. It originally transported silver and gold between mining towns, and is still in service today thanks to the thousands of visitors who ride the train each year.

This steam train, a National Historic Landmark, follows the Animas River through the rugged and beautiful San Juan Mountains. The winding ride offers incredible views not accessible to vehicles.

I’ve had the pleasure of riding the historic train multiple times, below I’ve laid out everything to know about riding the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. 

This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and will be an excellent addition to your Colorado vacation!

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Rides

Below are the ride options available on the Durango-Silverton trail. The first two, Scenic Round Trip Silverton Train and Cascade Canyon Express, are the most popular routes.

Scenic Round Trip Silverton Train

The Scenic Silverton Train is the railway’s most iconic route.

This historic train ride takes passengers through some of Colorado’s most beautiful scenery.

The 3.5 hour each way ride allows passengers to relax and enjoy the journey while experiencing breathtaking views of Animas Canyon and Rocky Mountains.

The tour includes a 2 hour layover in the historic mining town of Silverton. Here passengers can take in the sights, grab a bite to eat, and browse the shops. (For more ideas of what to do in Silverton, check out What To Do With One Day In Silverton.)

The Scenic Round Trip Silverton Train requires 9 hours and 15 minutes and runs seasonally, summer – fall. There are various departure times available throughout the season.

Cascade Canyon Express

The Cascade Canyon Express is a modified version of the above route.

This 5 hour excursion also departs from the Durango Depot and takes passengers deep into the scenic wilderness, offering spectacular views along the same route as mentioned above.

This route, however, does not go all the way to Silverton, but instead stops in Cascade Canyon.

In Cascade Canyon riders can enjoy a picnic lunch along the river. There are no services here, just the train passengers and nature. You’ll be on the train for 2 hours each way, with a 1 hour layover in Cascade Canyon.

Cascade Canyon Express requires 5 hours and 15 minutes and is in service during summer months only. There is one train departing in the morning.

Cascade Canyon Winter Train

For a winter version of the ride listed above, there’s the Cascade Canyon Winter Train.

This follows the same path as Cascade Canyon Express, with passengers enjoying the view from heated coaches.

The ride even includes a 60 minute layover, where you can enjoy a fire-side lunch and incredible photo opportunities.

This is an especially unique way to take in the winter wonderland surrounding Durango.

Cascade Canyon Winter Train requires 5 hours and 15 minutes and runs on select dates November through early May. There is one train departing in the morning.

Durango Silverton Train Special Events

For an especially unique experience, book a special event train ride! These themed rides occur only a handful of times each year and are sure to entertain just about anyone.

Some of the most popular events include the Polar Express Train Ride, Fall or Winter Photography Special, Durango Blues Train, Cowboy Poetry Train and Wine & Rails.

Additionally, there are holiday-specific rides such as Romance on the Rails for Valentine’s Day and Shamrock Express for St. Patrick’s Day.

To book a special event head on over to Durango Silverton Train Events, remember these need to be booked well in advance.

The Polar Express Train Ride

Durango Silverton Train’s most popular annual event is undoubtably the Polar Express Train Ride.

This is the perfect holiday activity for families and kiddos!

Get in the Christmas spirit as you depart Durango Depot for the North Pole, delighting in hot chocolate and treats along the way.

At the North Pole you’ll enjoy a light show and Christmas music. Santa will, of course, be picked up at the North Pole, then visit each coach and hand out gifts.

The total ride time is only 65 minutes but plan for 2 hours to enjoy the full experience. Cars are heated, but layers are encouraged since you’ll be stopping at the chilly North Pole.

The Polar Express runs most days from mid-November through end of December with 4:55 pm, 6:30 pm, and 8:00 pm departure times.

Pricing ranges from $56 – $101/ person.

Popular dates sell out very quickly, so this is something you need to book well in advance, especially for larger groups.

You can book online through Durango Silverton Train Polar Express.

Adventure Packages & Tour Packages

If you want to add extra excitement to your historic steam train ride, consider an adventure or tour package.

Instead of riding the train to and from Durango, with adventure tours you’ll spend part of your day rafting, ATVing, or ziplining, then returning to Durango via train.

There’s also options to enjoy the train first, then raft or snowmobile for example, back to Durango.

The adventure tours are a bit of a splurge but undoubtedly a great way to enjoy some of the best Durango has to offer.

Tour packages and adventure packages can be booked through Durango Silverton Train Packages or over the phone at 1-877-872-4607.

The zipline adventure and train combo can be booked here: All Day Zip Line Tour With Train Ride

Hotel Packages

Finally, Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway also offers hotel packages for those who’d like to spend a night in historic Silverton.

This hotel package includes lodging at the fully refurbished 1882 hotel, Grand Imperial Hotel. Most will spend just one night in Silverton, but there are options for extending your stay.

If a 9 hour day seems a bit daunting, this is a wonderful way to break up the train ride without missing out on the full experience!

Pricing starts at $669 for two people and must be booked over the phone at 1-888-872-4607.

Also check out Hotels In Silverton: Best Places To Stay.

Wilderness Access

The Chicago Basin, located in the Weminuche Wilderness, is a popular backpacker destination thanks to beautiful views and proximity to three 14ers.

Luckily, the remote area is relatively easy to access with the help of the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Backpackers have specific instructions for booking and flagging the train, for example, you must book the diesel trains, steam trains do not make short stops, etc. You can find more information at Durango Silverton Train Wilderness Access.

Wilderness bookings are available only in summer and must be made over the phone at 1-888-872-4607.

How Much Does The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Cost?

Most routes ranges from about $120-300 per person. This depends on which route you choose and which class you book.

Rates for children are less expensive in most cases. 

Children under 4 are free if sitting on a lap, except during special events. However, be aware that during summer, the outdoor cars get hot, which is something to consider if planning to have a child sit on your lap.

Adventure packages and special events vary in price, ranging from roughly from $60 to $300+ per person.

Class Options 

The train class options available are: Presidential (21+ only), First Class, Deluxe Class, and Standard Class.

Presidential Class & First Class

Presidential and First Class offer more space, as well as an onboard attendant, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, and a morning pastry. 

Additionally, Presidential Class offers a private outdoor viewing platform. This is a really great feature and one that’s definitely worth the splurge.

Deluxe Class & Standard Class

Deluxe Class has no attendant and no unlimited drinks, but offers more space and comfortable seating than Standard Class.

Standard Class offers indoor coach seating and open air gondola seating. This class has the most availability.

My Experience With The Class Options

I’ve ridden in both Deluxe Class (Historic San Juan Coach) and Standard Class (Open Air Gondola).

Deluxe Class was to Silverton and back, Standard Class was the Cascade Canyon Express.

I loved the view and experience of being in the Standard Class open air gondola. However, it does get very warm in summer and the seating is uncomfortable.

Deluxe Class was much more comfortable, but I preferred the open air view previously mentioned. There is an Open Observation option for Deluxe Class, which provides the best of both worlds in terms of uninterrupted views and comfort.

Presidential and First Class also offer open air options, in terms of either windows removed in summer or a private viewing platform. If booking either of these classes, I would choose a car with one of the open air options.

When Should You Reserve Your Tickets?

Tickets need to be reserved in advance. Exactly when to book depends on time of year and how large your group is.

If planning a trip during peak summer season, over the holidays, or on a weekend, you need to book your trip a few months in advance.

Additionally, if you’re traveling with a large group and would like to sit together, you need to book a few months in advance. 

Conversely, those traveling in shoulder seasons, on weekdays, and in very small groups, can likely snag a last minute ticket. 

When I rode in Deluxe Class with 4 others, the tickets were booked about 2 months in advance. When I rode by myself in Standard Class, I booked the ticket about 2 weeks in advance.

Note: Special Event tickets need to be reserved well in advance.

How To Book The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Most people book online, you can do so through Durango Silver Train Tickets. Additionally, you can book over the phone 1-877-872-4607.

In addition to the above booking options, Durango to Silverton Round Trip First Class tickets can be booked here: Durango Round Trip Tickets To Silverton (First Class).

Groups of 20 or more or those with special needs (ADA) need to book their reservations over the phone at 1-877-872-4607. 

When booking online, you’ll first choose your route, such as Scenic Silverton Train or Cascade Canyon Express. You’ll then see an option for diesel or steam train.

I recommend the steam train, it’s more of an authentic experience and it makes less stops than the diesel. 

Additionally, if booking Silverton, you have round trip and one-way options. A large majority of riders will purchase round trip tickets.

There are, however, alternative ways of getting back to Durango from Silverton. You can take a shuttle bus, have someone drive you, etc.

You can even stay overnight in Silverton and book a one-way ticket for the next day. 

If booking a special event, head on over to Durango Silverton Train Events.

If booking a hotel or adventure package, call 1-877-872-4607 or check out Durango Silverton Train Packages.

Where To Sit On The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Upon booking, you’ll choose seating for everyone in your party.

Which car to book depends on personal preference.

Do you want to be close to the concessions car? Do you want to be up front? Photographers often prefer the back of the train for the best photography, etc. Additionally, the further back you sit, the farthest from the train exhaust you’ll be.

If you book Presidential, First Class, or Deluxe Class, your car will be pre-assigned.

Note: From my experience, it wasn’t clear where each car is located. From the online seating chart, I thought I was booking something at the back of the train. It turned out my car was much closer to the front. If you’re very particular, call and ask for clarification. 

No matter which car you sit in, the right side of the train offers the best views. The train does turn around, so those on the left side will see the best views during the return trip, but it’s not quite the same when returning to Durango.

What To Expect The Day Of Your Train Ride

Where Does The Train Depart?

All rides depart from the Durango Depot, which is centrally located in downtown Durango, Colorado.

The address is 479 Main Ave., Durango, CO.

When To Arrive

Plan to arrive about 1 hour before your train departs. Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to departure time.

If bringing luggage — backpackers and those spending the night in Silverton — you need to arrive even earlier. Bags must be checked at least 45 minutes prior to departure.

While waiting for boarding, there are restrooms and a gift shop in the small train station. Additionally, there’s indoor and outdoor bench seating.

Durango Silverton Train Parking

The Durango Depot has a parking lot located a short walk from the station, the exact address will be included in your booking confirmation.

Parking is $10 per car and needs to be reserved when your train tickets are booked. A parking attendant will provide a pass upon your arrival. 

Note: Parking in the area is limited. I recommend utilizing their paid lot as opposed to finding parking on your own in the morning.

What To Bring On The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Food & Drinks 

Outside food and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed on the train.

Additionally, there is a concession car serving hot food, snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and alcohol.

This train ride makes for a long day, be sure to bring snacks, lunch, and plenty of water. Otherwise, plan to purchase everything you need from the train.

There are no meals served in any class. Presidential and First Class include a morning pastry plus unlimited non-alcoholic beverages.

During my recent experience on the Cascade Canyon Express route in Standard Class, I noticed those who got food and beverages from the concessions car experienced long lines.

What Food & Drinks I Brought On The Durango Silverton Train

When riding the 5 hour Cascade Canyon Express route, I brought the following food and drink items:

• 40 oz water bottle.
• Bottle of Pure Leaf tea.
• Sandwich, for lunch during the stopover.
• Snacks for the ride, Pringles, nuts, dried fruit.

During summer, the outdoor cars can get really hot so bring plenty of water. A Gatorade, or something like that, would’ve been nice to have as well.

I packed all my food and drinks in a small drawstring bag, which I held at my feet during the train ride.

I noticed some people brought soft Yeti coolers, which is a great idea, especially for families or groups. The Hopper Flip 12 Portable Soft Cooler is the one I saw the most during my train ride.

What To Wear

I recommend comfortable clothing and closed toe shoes.

It’s a long day of sitting on the train so a comfortable outfit is most practical.

Once you’ve arrived in either Silverton or Cascade Canyon, you’ll want shoes which are easy to walk in. This is especially the case in Cascade Canyon, where there are no services, no paved paths, just nature.

If riding in summer, you will likely experience hot, sunny weather. Be sure to pack sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses, especially if you’re in the open air gondola. 

Additionally, afternoon storms are common during summer, so it’s best to bring a light jacket just in case. Colorado experiences monsoons, which are brief but intense thunderstorms, often occurring during late afternoon.

If traveling outside summer, you’ll need warm layers. The cabins are heated, excluding the open air gondola. 

Are Pets Allowed On The Durango Silverton Train?

No animals are allowed on board except service animals.

Emotional support animals are not allowed.

Additional Information About The Durango-Silverton Train 

• The train has many restrooms. Think ‘airplane bathroom’ in general size and functionality, but nicer. 

• There is a concessions car with snacks, hot food, water, juice, soda, coffee, and alcoholic beverages. Warning, the line gets long!

• The motion of the train may may give some the sensation of car sickness or sea sickness. It can also make you quite sleepy.

• Regardless of which class you book, there are many helpful attendants on board to provide assistance or answer questions. 

• Following the train ride, be sure to stop by the D&SNG Museum. This free museum is located at the Durango Depot and tells the story of railroad history in North America, especially Durango’s role.

When Does The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Run?

The train runs year-round, although each route only runs seasonally.

Summer offers the most route options and frequent departure times throughout the day.

When Is The Best Time To Ride The Durango Silverton Train

Summer is the best season, due to variety of routes.

This time of year, visitors can ride either the Scenic Silverton Train or Cascade Canyon Express, with various departure times.

In regards to departure time, I recommend booking the earliest available departure. Afternoon storms are common in Colorado, it’s best to be off the train earlier, if possible.

Where Does The Train Go?

The train departs from Durango, Colorado at the Durango Depot.

The most popular route takes you to the small town of Silverton, about 45 miles north.

Durango to Cascade Canyon is a shorter option at 26 miles each way. 

How Long Is The Train Ride?

Durango to Silverton and back is an 9 hour trip. This includes 3.5 hours on the train each way and 2 hours in Silverton.

Durango to Cascade Canyon and back is just over 5 hours. This includes a 2 hour train ride each way and a 1 hour stop in Cascade Canyon.

If riding the Silverton line, there are options to shorten your day. For example, you can book a one way ticket to Silverton then return to Durango on a bus, shuttle, or via a river rafting excursion. 

Note: The train does make stops between Durango and Silverton, and also between Durango and Cascade Canyon. You can opt to get on at one of these stops, if you’d prefer.

Special events range from 1 to 9 hours.

Should I Book The Silverton Train Or Cascade Canyon Express?

I’ve done both the Scenic Round Trip Silverton Train and the Cascade Canyon Express – both were great.

The Scenic Silverton Train is the most iconic route, and I really enjoyed it, but it’s a very long day. I may have napped on the way back to Durango.

The Cascade Canyon Express is a modified version of the above option. It follows the same route, passing many of the same famous landmarks, but stops in Cascade Canyon, about half way to Silverton.

I booked this option during my second train ride because I did not have 9 hours, I needed a shorter ride, and Cascade Canyon Express offered the perfect solution.

Note: If traveling with young kids, the shorter Cascade Canyon route may be an easier option for them.

What Is There To Do In Silverton?

This once booming mining town is quite small, but still offers some great options for your 2 hour layover.

While you’re here, enjoy the following:

• Explore the shops in downtown Silverton.
• Take in the incredible surrounding views.
• See historic landmarks such as city hall, the Grand Imperial Hotel, and old county jail.
• Grab a bite to eat from popular spots such as Pickle Barrel, Eureka Station, Shady Lady, Kendall Mountain Cafe, and many more.
• Enjoy a local pint from Golden Block Brewery.
• Refuel with some coffee from Coffee Bear Cafe.

For more ideas, check out One Day In Silverton, CO Guide or Top Things To Do In Silverton In Summer.

Silverton Hotels

The 9 hour day on the train can be really long.

For those wishing to break up the journey consider booking a hotel in Silverton for the night, then returning to Durango the next afternoon.

To do this you’ll simply book a one way to Silverton and a one way back to Durango when you’re ready to return. It’s easiest to do this booking over the phone.

For those interested, consider staying at the following hotels:

• Grand Imperial Hotel
• The Wyman Hotel
• Teller House Hotel (I stayed here and had a great experience!)

For more, check out Hotels In Silverton: Best Places To Stay.

How Fast Does The Train Go?

The train reaches speeds up to 18 mph but averages about 5 mph.

Does Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Charter?

Yes, the train can be chartered. Call 1-877-872-4607 or initiate a request online Durango Silverton Train Group Event Request Form.

D&SNG Yard Tours

Interested in learning more about the Durango Silverton Train?

During summer, guided tours are available for those wishing to learn about the inner workings of the yard.

During the tour you’ll get a better understanding of train operations and witness the machine shop, roundhouse, and rolling stock, all while learning about the depot’s history.

The 1.5 hour guided tours are $15/ adult.

What’s The Oldest Train Car?

Concessions Car #212 was built in 1879.

The oldest locomotive is No. 42, built in 1887 and is on display in the D&SNG Museum.

The coal-fired steam engines used today were built between 1923 – 1925.

Durango Silverton Train History

The railroad arrived in Durango in 1881, just a year after the town was founded by the Denver & Rio Grande Railway.

In July of 1882, following a year and a half of construction, the line between Durango and Silverton was complete.

The narrow gauge railroad cuts through rugged terrain and steep canyon walls, connecting the two former mining districts.

The line was primarily used to haul gold and silver from the San Juan Mountains. Although, it was also promoted for passenger service as a “scenic route” from the very beginning.

The D&SNGRR has transported over $300 million dollars in precious metals over its 140+ year history.

The train’s future was uncertain during the decline of rail use following WWII. Despite financial instability, they continued to operate thanks to tourism.

Ultimately, Hollywood movies kept the Durango Silverton Train in the forefront of people’s minds. These were with films such as Ticket to Tomahawk, Across the Wide Missouri, Denver & Rio Grande, Around the World in 80 Days, and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

Each of these films featured the train, and kept visitors curious to visit Durango and ride the train.

In the 1960’s, the Durango-Silverton was registered as a National Historic Landmark and awarded a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark.

In the 1980’s, train service began to resemble what we see today. Cars were weatherized for winter use, routes were added, including Cascade Canyon, and major reconstruction occurred.

Today, the Durango & Silverton is owned and operated by American Heritage Railways and sees over 100,000 passengers each year.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is one of the best trains for scenic views in the United States.

Don’t miss out on this amazing excursion during your time in Durango and Southwest Colorado!

Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media.

Looking for more ideas? Below are additional Durango and Colorado guides or head on over to Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad!

More Information For Your Durango Vacation:

• Durango, Colorado: Things To Do In Summer
• Durango Weekend Itinerary For Summer
• One Day In Durango Itinerary
• Hotels In Durango: Best Places To Stay
• All Durango Guides

More Information For Your Visit To Silverton:

• Summer In Silverton: Things To Do
• One Day In Silverton: Top Things To Do
• Hotels In Silverton: Best Places To Stay
• All Silverton Guides

Additional Colorado Guides:

• Colorado Travel Guide (everything you need to know!)
• All Colorado Guides