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    Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

    4.3 (427 reviews)
    Closed 7:00 am - 6:30 pm
    Updated 3 months ago

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    Yankee Girl is the name of this car first class travel
    Victor M.

    This review is long overdue! We were in Durango in early June and we enjoyed every minute of the ride, the weather couldn't have been any better in Durango, Silverton is higher at over 9K feet or about 3000 feet higher than Durango. It was a bit chilly but we were prepared and our car was covered so we had no need to buy the 50 dollar souveblankets The Customer Service at the Durango Station is amazing and I bet is just like it was years and years ago, we purchased 2 parking passes and once we got there we figured we wouldn't need the one for the RV because we were going to ride the Trolley so the day before we were in the area and I thought to myself if I ask for a refund I might get lucky, lo and behold the lady at the window understood and gave us a refund, no questions asked The ride was amazing and our attendant was a sweet lady that didn't stop talking giving us a complete description of the railroad and the important historical elements along the years. We rode Yankee Girl, covered car with all the conveniences, no food needed since we were going to have lunch in Silverton It is an all day experience and well worth the price

    My son enjoying the view of the steam engine and mountains
    Krystan H.

    Absolutely wonderful experience. Jessie was our hostess on the Silver Vista and we couldn't have asked for a better person to educate us. The amount of knowledge and personality she had was fantastic as she answered and shared many stories about the San Juan National Forest and how Shaun White may or may not have saved Silverton. I downloaded Yelp just to give her this review because she was that great. Shout out to our Conductor as well, great food recommendations and outstanding at his profession!

    Karla H.

    Amazing views and experience! Nevada was very knowledgeable and friendly! Silverton car is the way to go!!

    Flory W.

    We've been on three railroads this trip, and I think, this is the best we've had (as far as scenery), comfort, and restroom. I was able to lift open the window. The cushions were comfortable (for me), but one lady was complaining about her back, already, she had surgery . . . that's her review, this is mine and I'm sticking to it. Sure, the windows with glass are narrow, and the people on another car were open and fresh air but they're more in the sun, too. So you can't have it both ways. The whistle is a bit loud, I wore ear plugs (provided by our hotel), most of the time. I have sensitive ears. I'd like to come back, just to experience it with the grandchildren.

    Nicole L.

    This was such a cute and scenic train ride from Durango to Silverton! We chose the steam engine open-air cabins to really soak in the breathtaking views -- highly recommend! Just a heads-up: dress for all kinds of weather. It got so cold after a few hours, even in the sun. We grabbed the $12 unlimited souvenir cup for hot cocoa, and it was absolutely worth it. Perfect for staying warm and sipping along the ride. The full train ride is about 3.5 hours each way. It was super fun the first time through, but the return trip left us exhausted. If we were to do it again, we'd take the train up (make sure to sit on the right side for the best views!) and maybe take the bus back down to rest a bit. Definitely a must-do if you're in the area -- just plan ahead and dress in layers

    Irene E.

    This is a 19th century narrow gauge railroad, traveling between SilvertonDurango in the San Juan National Forest, alongside of Animas River, a 126-mile-long (203 km) creek/river in the west, a tributary of the San Juan River, part of the Colorado River System. The D&SNG was founded by Charles E. Bradshaw Jr. (1930-2013), of Florida, owned by AHR (American Heritage Railways) since 1998. The 40+ miles long rail takes nearly 4 hour to cho cho. For context, 50 mile record: Charlie Lawrence set run record at 4:48:21 in 2019; and Marcin Bialoblocki set bike time at 1:30 in 2018. Granted, this isn't about speed but for nostalgia. The slow mo has enclosed compartments which is where we're, and gondola, without windows, side seating. There is a bar toward the end, and at least a bathroom is in the front of the train, spacious and clean. The five-man staff on board consists an elder conductor who has been on the job, on this line for 29 years; a driver, an engineer and two brakemen. A few more at the concession selling drinks and snacks. Ryan is the new kid on the block, who begins his job today (May 22, 2025) as brakeman. He has been in training for the past three weeks. Growing up around railroads, he feels this would be a good fit. "The owner happens to be in Silverton today to see him off ..." what a welcoming gesture and wonderful start. Best of luck kid! Population wise, Durango has 19k and Silverton 622. The ride is mostly for the tourists, if not entirely. The train runs year around. The winter doesn't do much damage, except rarely the snow block the switches. If an engine breaks down, all they have to do is to get a new one from the near by station: not a big deal. The scenery is beautiful, at times, can be a little hairy: cliffs, and trees & rocks are at arm length. Although both sides of the train are good but I feel the left for south bound train has better views. The aqua green water color is from sediment composition: The San Juan River, which flows through parts of the San Juan National Forest, travels through sedimentary rock like sandstone, siltstone, and shale. These can be easily eroded, and the fine particles released into the water can influence its color. Sunlight reflection may adds to the vivid color as well. Two hours into the ride at Tacoma Flagstop, the train stopped to pick up six youngster who were white water rafting near by. They just waved, like hailing a taxi, pay the fare and sit in the dinning car. The tour manager bought us a drink ... after an hour, everyone seems to have enough. I love train but yes, 4 hours is bit too long. Left Silverton at 2:38, and pulling into Durango station at 6:41pm - finally, we arrived.

    Erin R.

    We did the Durango to Cascade Canyon ride on Sun 2/22 and it was worth every penny! We were lucky in that it had just snowed in Durango a couple days before, so the entire ride was just beautiful, all fresh snow. We were able to take our own lunch onto the train, which was great. My only complaint is that the coach seats were SUPER tight - we somehow landed in what I think was the tightest row and my 6'5" husband literally had to put his knees out in the aisle. Kind of wished we'd sprung for first class but it's pretty pricey. Great day though!

    Caryn C.

    This is an amazing trip. It starts in a cute little town "Silverton". Lots of restaurants and shops. The 4 hour trip will give you some amazing mountain and river views. You end in Durango which has a lot of options for just about anything

    Silverton
    Mike G.

    Took the train yesterday from Durango to Silverton and back. It's easy to make reservations online, and everyone is very friendly. We ended up on the first row on the right side, which was great because we had extra legroom. The bathrooms on the train were actually better than you'd expect, and concessions were also more reasonably priced than you'd expect as well. 3.5 hours each way plus 2 hours in Silverton. We could've used more time there, but that's not the train's fault. I think we'll attempt to drive up one day this week. This was a lot of fun, and I'd definitely recommend it for any train enthusiast or anyone who just wants to spend a day looking at some of the beauty Colorado has to offer.

    Jennifer Y.

    This is a great all day train ride. It's about 9 1/2 hours long. We were in a private car which was nice because we had our own private hostess named Nevada. I believe there were 15 tables in our car. She told us ghost stories, facts and history about the train and railroad, things of interest along the way. She was funny and energetic. She always had a smile and something fun to say. The layover in Silverton was about 2 hours and that is plenty of time to see what the town has to offer. It's super tiny. Mostly restaurants, ice cream shops and gift shops. It's cute but tiny. It's a must do if you're looking for something to do with the family.

    Kat H.

    BUCKET LIST ! Our train ride was really fun. We rode in the Yankee girl car. We sat at a table of four and met two couples and had lots of conversation all the way up and back. The ride itself was very informative due to the train attendant/ teacher who also taught school. He knew so much about the history of the train and the mountain along the way! The ride itself is what you expect a train to be , bumpy in some areas and smooth in others ... real train ride! The train car , the Yankee girl was very authentic and Victorian themed. There is a bathroom on board and also free drinks , such as water, soda, etc., and libations to purchase . The train attendant was very attentive to everyone's needs. It's about a 3 1/2 hour one-way trip and very beautiful the time of year that we went, which was late July.! Loved it !

    Conductor keeping us all safe
    Tammy P.

    There's just something magical about stepping onto this historic train and feeling like you're about to time travel through the wild, rugged heart of Colorado. This was our third time riding the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, and somehow, it still managed to blow us away. We treated ourselves to the adults-only club car and honestly? Best decision ever. Comfy seating, panoramic windows, and a back platform that lets you stand outside while the train winds its way along the cliffs and riverbanks. It's the kind of experience that sticks with you--mountains rising all around, the Animas River rushing below, and views that had us saying "just look at that" every five minutes. Our guide, Ellie, made the trip even better. She was smart, funny, and had the kind of storytelling style that makes history come alive. She even gave us great tips for what to do once we got to Silverton, which was super helpful. You get a little over two hours to explore Silverton before heading back, and we made the most of it--our friends hiked up to the Christ of the Mines Shrine (steep, but totally worth it for the view), and we wandered through shops and picked up some handmade souvenirs. It's a quirky little town with a ton of character. The full trip is a commitment--about 7 hours round-trip, plus the time you spend during the layover in Silverton--but it never feels long. Between the scenery, the stories, and the fresh mountain air, time kind of melts away. If you're even thinking about going, do it. And if you can, splurge on the club car. That back deck alone is worth the upgrade. Already dreaming about ride number four...

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    Get the best view of Durango and Silverton with this train with open air or enclosed spaces.

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    Page 1 of 11

    Ask the Community - Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

    What the best side to sit on to enjoy the veiw?

    Sit in the right side on the way there. Left on return. If u are able to stand on the outside… Read more

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    Review Highlights - Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

    Occasionally we would see rafters riding the rapids of the gorgeous Animas River that paralleled most of our trip.

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    Hermosa Tours - Day 2 camp

    Hermosa Tours

    3.4(11 reviews)
    0.4 mi

    We booked the self guided tour of the Kokopelli trail with Hermosa Tours and had an excellent…read moreexperience. The booking process was easy and update emails were sent prior to the start informing us of who our guide would be and where to meet him. Your guide (sherpa extrodonair) Glen Shoemaker was phenomenal and made sure that we knew where we were going each morning by doing a route review for us. He selected prime camping locations and had all our gear out of the trailer and ready for us to set up when we arrived. The tour provided amenities were set up and waiting for use, including a cleaned and stocked fire pit. Trailer and tent placement were carefully selected to maximize protection from prevailing winds and the intense sun. Overall this was an excellent experience! Matt, Glen deserves a raise! ;-)

    Rode the Arizona Trail-Flagstaff to Grand Canyon . The…read moretrail it self is excellent , the views are great and scenery is wonderful. Would I ride the trail again yes, Make sure you have a map and GPS . With Hermosa Tours NO! The campsites were fine no issues, and the waste management was no issue. Then why 2 stars ? Contacting Matt , has been less the desirable. I was leaving country for 2 weeks before the ride and returning with 5 days to prep. So I called a couple times before I received a return call with questions on the meeting ,location and parking - I was told don't worry about it -read your packet when you receive it. We ask Matt to cater , charge $280.00 per person -Not a great cook -And we still have a food bill to pay . I have done other self supported rides were the food was included in the price , some cook for you some you cook your own . Charges a lot and does not include food . But he takes part in eating food we paid for . We brought beer and offered it to the guides , But when I drank 1 of theirs I heard about for 2 days , My ice box , I paid the food bill , you ate the food -Get Over It ! Our mistake ! Matt would give a briefing about the ride every morning , not very accurate. I wounder if he really rode the trail. When we had some maintenance issues with the bikes , He did not step forward and offer any help . The other guide Roger jumped in - Great Job. Matt seem to be irritated when questions were ask in reference to the trail , his answers left us questioning his knowledge of the ride . What I have learn from this if the guide service seems flaky or they seem more interested in the greenback . Then in quality of the customer service and customer experience , Lesson learned .

    Photos
    Hermosa Tours - Day 3

    Day 3

    Hermosa Tours

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    Strater Hotel - Meatloaf

    Strater Hotel

    3.7(199 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$

    Honestly, we almost skipped this place because the Google hours made it seem closed, but we decided…read moreto try the door anyway -- luckily, they were open. Definitely glad we checked. This is the kind of charming, historic Durango experience you hope to find downtown. The atmosphere inside the hotel and restaurant feels authentic and welcoming, with old Western character throughout. The bartender was even dressed in theme, which added to the experience without feeling gimmicky. We stopped in during April while wandering downtown Durango during the off-season, when many places were either closed or only opening later for dinner service. We just came in for drinks, but it ended up being a really enjoyable little break from exploring. Since the restaurant is part of the historic hotel, even walking to the restroom gives you a chance to see some of the beautiful vintage details and history of the property. Our bartender -- a gentleman in a hat -- was attentive and friendly, and a lady in costume shared some interesting history about the hotel and building. Great little pit stop whether you're staying at the hotel or just passing through downtown. Would absolutely stop in again.

    We just celebrated our anniversary at the Strater Hotel in Durango, and it was exactly what a…read moreromantic getaway should be. From the moment you walk through the doors, you feel like you've stepped into another era--in the best way possible. The Victorian charm, the historic details, the creaky wood floors, the antique furnishings... it all creates this warm, intimate atmosphere that you simply don't get at modern chain hotels. It feels authentic, not staged. Our room was cozy and beautifully appointed, with thoughtful touches that made it feel special rather than standard. The entire property is impeccably maintained, and the staff made us feel genuinely welcome. Everyone we interacted with was friendly, attentive, and clearly proud of the hotel's history. The location is perfect--right in the heart of downtown Durango--so you can stroll to shops, restaurants, and along Main Avenue without ever moving your car. That made the whole weekend feel relaxed and easy. If you're looking for a place with personality, history, and romance, the Strater delivers. It was the perfect setting to celebrate our anniversary, and we're already talking about when we can return.

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    Strater Hotel - The place to stay in Durango!

    The place to stay in Durango!

    Strater Hotel - 2d Floor

    2d Floor

    Strater Hotel - Outside

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    Outside

    Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours - Class 3 Rapids Mid August 9am Start time

    Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours

    4.7(232 reviews)
    2.8 mi

    Fantastic free flowing white water rafting experience in the upper Animas river! I was expecting a…read morelittle more class IV rapids than what we had, but the experience was epic! We paddled through sun, rain, and hail, all in one trip! Epic, I tell u!! Our guides, Marcus and Robby were the best! Super cool dudes who were super knowledgeable! They kept us safe and made the experience such a blast! Colorado had the lowest snowfall this past winter so the river was really low and rapids were on the slow side. Make sure to check river flow and CSF levels if u decide to book this adventure so that u're not surprised by the low flow. The river only clocked in at 620 cfs when we ran it, so we didn't have too many big rapids and drops, but it was a very technical run and such a blast to experience this ultimate and wild experience with my hubby!!

    Our group had the time of our lives floating down the Animas riv with our elite guide Kaia, who was…read morein charge of the whole trip. Kaia was knowledgeable, organized, accommodating, and could have shepherded us down the route completely by herself if necessary. River guiding is clearly in her blood and the generations of river guides in her family must be proud. She is equal parts expert guide and fun banterer. If you're 8 or 80 or somewhere in between like us, you'll appreciate how Kaia gets down. No disrespect to any other river guides, but if Kaia doesn't win MVP of the week, they got to scrap this system and build back from the bottom up. On the other hand, there was one guide reportedly named ZB that was a complete vibe killer. If that guy wins, they also need to revamp this whole operation. Hope he enjoys a nice Dante's Inferno from Barber and the Bookcase and rethinks his approach to River guideship.

    Photos
    Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours - Smiling guests rafting on the Lower Animas

    Smiling guests rafting on the Lower Animas

    Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours - Class 3 Rapids Mid August 9am Start time

    Class 3 Rapids Mid August 9am Start time

    Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours - Our little family on the river

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    Our little family on the river

    Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad - trains - Updated July 2026

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