What the Durango & Silverton Railroad Is and Where It Goes
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a heritage train that runs between the towns of Durango and Silverton in southwestern Colorado. The line operates on narrow gauge track — rails spaced 3 feet apart instead of the standard 4 feet 8.5 inches — which was built in 1882 to move silver ore from mountain mines down to the valley. Today it carries passengers on a 45-mile round trip through the San Juan Mountains, following the Animas River for much of the route.
The train does not run year-round. Summer service (May through October) runs daily. Winter service (November through April) runs fewer days per week and sometimes closes for maintenance. The ride takes about 3.5 hours each way, so a full day trip is roughly 9 to 10 hours from the moment you board until you return to Durango.
The railroad is a for-profit business, not a government agency or museum. It is the oldest continuously operating narrow gauge railroad in the United States and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Colorado.
Key Takeaways
- The train departs Durango in the morning and arrives in Silverton in the early afternoon, then returns the same day; you cannot stay overnight on the train itself.
- Tickets cost between roughly $80 and $150 per adult depending on the season and which class of seating you choose, with children and seniors at lower rates.
- You must book tickets in advance, especially in summer; walk-up tickets on the day of travel are rarely available.
- The train runs daily May through October and on a reduced schedule November through April, with some weeks closed for maintenance.
- The ride is not wheelchair accessible — the cars have steps and no elevators, and the Silverton station has no accessible facilities.
Ticket Types and Pricing
The railroad sells tickets in four main classes: Coach, First Class, Deluxe, and Parlor. Coach is the least expensive and seats you in an open-air or partially enclosed car with basic bench seating. First Class adds a roof, windows, and more comfortable seats. Deluxe includes a meal service and a private car. Parlor is the most expensive and offers the most exclusive experience with a dedicated attendant and premium seating.
Prices vary by season. Summer peak (June through August) costs more than shoulder seasons (May, September, October). Winter rates are lower. Adult tickets in peak season range from about $80 for Coach to $150 or more for Parlor. Children (ages 5 to 11) and seniors (65 and older) receive discounts on most classes. Children under 5 ride free if they sit on an adult's lap, but they do not get a seat.
The railroad's website shows current prices and allows you to select your travel date and class. Prices are fixed once you book; there is no refund if you change your mind, though you may be able to reschedule to a different date for a fee.
How to Book Your Ticket
Visit the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad's official website and select your travel date. The calendar shows which dates are operating and which are sold out. Choose your departure time (usually one morning departure per day), your class of seating, and the number of passengers. Enter your name and payment information, then confirm your booking.
You will receive a confirmation email with your ticket number and boarding instructions. Print your confirmation or save it to your phone — you will need to show it at the station. Arrive at the Durango depot at least 30 minutes before departure. The station is located at 479 Main Avenue in Durango, Colorado.
If you prefer to book by phone instead of online, the railroad's customer service line can process reservations and answer questions about seating, accessibility, and special requests. Phone booking may have a small additional fee.
What to Expect During the Ride
The train departs Durango at 8:15 a.m. (times may vary seasonally) and climbs gradually through the San Juan National Forest. The route follows the Animas River for about 25 miles, passing through narrow canyons and over wooden trestles. Scenery includes steep canyon walls, evergreen forest, and mountain peaks. In fall, aspen trees turn gold and create a striking backdrop.
The train arrives in Silverton around 11:45 a.m. and stops for about 2 hours. Silverton is a small historic mining town with shops, restaurants, and galleries. You are free to walk around, eat lunch, and explore. The train departs Silverton at 2:15 p.m. (times vary) and returns to Durango by 5:45 p.m.
Coach and First Class passengers sit in open or semi-open cars and experience wind, noise, and temperature changes. Deluxe and Parlor passengers have enclosed cars with climate control. All classes have access to a snack bar car that sells drinks, sandwiches, and candy. Bring water and snacks if you prefer, though outside food is permitted.
Accessibility and Physical Considerations
The train is not wheelchair accessible. The passenger cars have steps to enter, and there are no elevators or ramps. The Durango depot has accessible parking and restrooms, but the Silverton station does not. If you have mobility limitations, Coach seating may be uncomfortable because the cars are open-air and have bench seating with no armrests.
The ride is physically demanding for some people. You sit for 3.5 hours each way, and the train rocks and sways. The altitude in Silverton is 9,305 feet, which may cause shortness of breath or headache if you are not accustomed to high elevation. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. The temperature at elevation is cooler than in Durango, so wear layers.
Passengers with heart conditions, back problems, or severe altitude sensitivity should consider whether the ride is right for them. The railroad does not offer refunds for discomfort or altitude sickness.
When to Go and What to Pack
Summer (June through August) is peak season: the weather is warm, the scenery is green, and trains run daily. Tickets sell out weeks in advance. Spring and fall (May and September through October) offer smaller crowds, lower prices, and dramatic scenery — aspen trees in fall are a major draw. Winter (November through April) has the lowest prices and fewest crowds, but the train runs fewer days per week, and some weeks close for maintenance. Snow may block the route in January and February.
Pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Bring a light jacket or sweater even in summer, because the temperature drops as the train climbs. Wear comfortable walking shoes if you plan to explore Silverton. Bring a camera — the canyon views are the main reason people take this ride. A small backpack or day bag is useful for carrying water and snacks.
The train runs rain or shine. Light rain does not stop service, though it reduces visibility. Heavy snow or flooding may cancel trips. Check the railroad's website or call ahead if weather is severe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get off the train in Silverton and not return the same day?
No. The railroad operates as a round-trip excursion only. You must return to Durango on the same train. If you want to stay in Silverton overnight, you would need to book a separate return trip on a different day.
Is there food on the train?
A snack bar car sells drinks, sandwiches, and candy. Deluxe and Parlor tickets include a meal service. You are welcome to bring your own food and eat in your seat. Restaurants are available in Silverton during the 2-hour stop.
What if I get motion sickness?
The train rocks and sways, especially on curves and trestles. If you are prone to motion sickness, sit in the middle of a car rather than near the ends, keep your eyes on the horizon, and avoid reading. Take motion sickness medication before boarding if that is your usual practice.
Can I bring my dog or pet?
Service animals are permitted. Pets are not. If you have a service animal, contact the railroad in advance to discuss seating and any special needs.
What happens if the train is cancelled due to weather?
The railroad will reschedule you to the next available date at no additional cost, or you may receive a refund. Check the cancellation policy on your confirmation email or contact customer service.