Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

The primary departure point is the Durango train station, located at 471 East Second Avenue, Durango, CO 81301. Many visitors drive to Durango, which is accessible via US Highway 160. Denver International Airport (DEN) is the closest major airport, about a 3.5-hour drive away, or you can fly into Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO), which is about a 30-minute drive from downtown Durango.

Yes, there is parking available at the Durango train station. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It's advisable to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled departure to secure a spot. Some visitors opt for ride-sharing services or taxis if they are staying in nearby hotels.

Public transportation options directly to the Durango train station are limited. While there are local bus services within Durango, most visitors rely on personal vehicles, rental cars, or taxis/ride-sharing services to reach the station. If you're arriving in Durango via a longer-distance bus or shuttle, you may need to arrange local transport to the station.

From Denver, take US-285 S to US-160 W towards Durango. From Albuquerque, take I-25 N to US-550 N towards Durango. The station is centrally located in downtown Durango. GPS coordinates can be helpful for navigation.

Yes, shuttle services and taxis are available from Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) to downtown Durango and the train station. It's recommended to book these in advance, especially if you have a tight connection. The drive is approximately 30 minutes.

Ticket prices vary significantly based on the season, the specific train route (e.g., Silverton, Cascade Canyon), and the class of service you choose. Expect prices to range from around $100 for basic seating to over $200 for premium options. It's best to check the official Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad website for the most up-to-date pricing and package deals.

The most reliable place to purchase tickets is directly through the official Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad website. You can also buy them in person at the Durango train station. Booking in advance is strongly advised, as popular dates and classes sell out months ahead.

It's highly recommended to book your Durango train tickets as early as possible, ideally several months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during peak seasons like summer, fall foliage (September/October), or holiday periods. Some travelers report booking up to a year in advance for specific dates.

Discounts can sometimes be found for specific packages, group bookings, or during off-peak seasons. Keep an eye on the official website for any promotions or special offers. Some third-party tour operators might also offer package deals that include train tickets.

Your ticket generally includes the train ride itself. Depending on the class of service, amenities may vary. All passengers have access to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum. Some premium packages might include meals or other perks.

The choice depends on your preference! Deluxe Coach offers comfortable, enclosed seating with large windows. Open-Air Gondolas provide unparalleled, unobstructed views of the scenery but are exposed to the elements. Some travelers prefer the east side of the train for more dramatic gorge views.

The full round trip from Durango to Silverton and back typically takes about 9 hours, including a layover in Silverton. Shorter excursions, like the Cascade Canyon Express, are also available and last around 5 hours.

Silverton is a historic mining town. You can explore its charming main street, visit local shops and galleries, grab lunch at a saloon, or learn about its mining history. The layover is usually around 2 hours, giving you enough time for a brief exploration.

The railroad offers accessible seating options in some of its coaches. It's crucial to contact the railroad directly when booking to discuss specific accessibility needs and ensure they can accommodate you comfortably.

Absolutely! The scenery is spectacular. Open-air gondolas offer the best, unobstructed photo opportunities. Even from enclosed coaches, the large windows provide great views. Be prepared for changing light conditions and have your camera ready!

Yes, food and beverages are available for purchase on board the train. Options typically include snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. Some premium packages may include meals. You are also welcome to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.

Silverton offers several dining options, from casual cafes and saloons to more formal restaurants. Many visitors enjoy grabbing lunch at one of the historic establishments on the main street during the layover.

Yes, you are permitted to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages aboard the train. This can be a great way to save money and enjoy your favorite snacks while taking in the views.

Onboard concessions usually offer a selection of snacks like chips and candy, pre-made sandwiches, and a variety of hot and cold beverages, including coffee, soda, and water.

While specific options can vary, it's always a good idea to inquire about vegetarian or vegan choices when purchasing food onboard or to pack your own if you have strict dietary needs.

The Open-Air Gondolas offer the most unobstructed views for photography. The east side of the train (facing Silverton) is often cited as having more dramatic gorge and river views. Be ready for dynamic lighting as you move through canyons and open areas.

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens (16-35mm) is excellent for the expansive mountain scenery. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance sky and water colors. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions, but be mindful of space.

While not always advertised, some private tour operators may offer photography-focused excursions. It's worth checking with local photography groups or tour companies in the Durango area. Otherwise, you'll be capturing stunning shots on your own!

The golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer the most beautiful light. However, the dramatic scenery of the Animas River Gorge is impressive throughout the day. Consider the direction of the sun relative to the canyon walls when planning.

If shooting from an enclosed coach, try to position your camera lens directly against the glass to minimize reflections. A lens hood can also help block ambient light. Shooting during the day when the outside is brighter than the inside is generally better.