The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is how Silverton was born — and it's still how most visitors arrive today. The 45-mile steam train journey from Durango through the Animas River gorge is one of the most spectacular rail trips in America.
45 Miles
From Durango to Silverton through the Animas River canyon
3.5 Hours
Each way — with 2–3 hours in Silverton on a day trip
Since 1882
Running continuously for over 140 years — a National Historic Landmark
Arriving in Silverton
The train pulls into Silverton's historic depot after a breathtaking 3.5-hour journey — and the first sight of the town nestled in its dramatic alpine bowl, completely ringed by 13,000-foot peaks, is genuinely jaw-dropping.
Day-trip passengers have approximately 2–3 hours in Silverton before boarding the return train to Durango. That's enough time to walk Greene Street, grab lunch, and explore the museum — but many visitors discover it's not nearly enough, and return for an overnight stay.
Day Trip vs. Overnight
Day Trip (most common)
- • Depart Durango ~9 AM, arrive Silverton ~12:30 PM
- • 2–3 hours to explore town
- • Return train departs ~3:15 PM
- • Back in Durango by ~6:45 PM
- • Best for first-time visitors
Overnight (highly recommended)
- • Take the train up, stay 1–2 nights
- • Hike the alpine trails with full days
- • Experience the evening quiet (magical)
- • Return to Durango by train
- • The definitive Silverton experience
Tips for the Train
- →Book from Durango: Tickets at durangotrain.com — book months ahead for summer weekends and fall foliage.
- →Open gondola cars give the best views and the most dramatic experience — bring layers and expect cinders from the steam engine.
- →Backpackers: Disembark at Needleton (stop before Silverton) to access Chicago Basin and four 14ers.
- →Fall foliage (late September–mid October) is the most spectacular season — aspen gold on the canyon walls.
The Starting Point
Explore Durango First
The train departs from Durango — a fantastic mountain town with great hotels, craft breweries, world-class mountain biking, and the gateway to Mesa Verde National Park.
Durango Railroad Guide →
