Durango: Round-Trip Train Ticket to Silverton

Imagine rolling through rugged Colorado mountain landscapes aboard a vintage train, with windows framing one jaw-dropping view after another. That’s the essence of the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad experience — and, based on plenty of traveler reviews, it’s a memorable way to see some of Colorado’s most iconic scenery.

While the experience radiates charm and offers extraordinary vistas, it’s worth noting that the ticket price leans toward the higher end of the scale, especially when you consider additional expenses like food or souvenirs. This journey is best suited for travelers who appreciate history, stunning landscapes, and a touch of luxury in their day.

What we love about this tour is the deluxe train cars that provide a cozy, first-class feel, and the opportunity to see Colorado’s rugged wilderness without sacrificing comfort. On the flip side, some travelers have expressed disappointment over the value for the price and minor technical hiccups, like train breakdowns. This trip appeals most to those seeking a leisurely, scenic escape with plenty of photo opportunities and some local flavor.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains and Animas River Gorge.
• Comfortable, first-class train cars with amenities for a relaxed experience.
• Historic route through a terrain that’s been traveled since 1882.
• Two hours in Silverton to explore the charming town at your own pace.
• A bit pricey compared to other scenic tours, but many find the experience worth the cost.
• Great for photography and scenic lovers, especially with stops at Horseshoe Curve and High Bridge.

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An Immersive Ride through Colorado’s Mountain Majesty

The journey begins early, with boarding at Durango Depot at 7:45 am, for a sharp 8:15 am departure. The fact that they specify the boarding time highlights how punctual and well-organized this experience tends to be — a plus for travelers who dislike surprises. You’ll hop aboard the red “Tall Timber” train car, which offers a glimpse into Colorado’s historic railroading past, but with modern comforts.

From the moment the train starts rolling, the scenery takes center stage. We loved the way the route guides you through the San Juan National Forest, an expansive stretch of wilderness that’s as untouched as it is breathtaking. The train slowly winds along the Animas River Gorge, giving you countless opportunities to snap photos of the white-water rapids and crystal blue waters that seem almost surreal. Several reviews mention how spectacular the views are — one traveler said, “The scenery on the train trip was amazing, especially when we were above the gorge,” capturing just how memorable this part of the journey can be.

The Highlights: What Makes This Trip Special

Scenic Vistas to Treasure

Most travelers cite the Horseshoe Curve, High Bridge, and the Animas River Gorge as the trip’s standout features. The Horseshoe Curve lets you see the train twist through the mountains, a feat of engineering that’s been fascinating since 1882. Many reviews mention how these sights are perfect for photography, with some describing the river’s waters as “crystal aqua blue” and the landscape as “spectacular.”

Wildlife and Mountain Terrain

Beyond the stunning scenery, the ride offers glimpses of local wildlife and rugged terrain. Travelers have reported seeing big horn sheep, and some have appreciated the chance to observe hikers and zip-liners at various points along the route. The untouched nature provides a genuine feel for Colorado’s wilderness, not just a touristy backdrop.

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Silverton: A Town Steeped in Mining History

The train arrives in Silverton after 3.5 hours of travel. This historic mining town, with its preserved buildings and welcoming vibe, provides about 2.5 hours to explore. Travelers love wandering the town’s quaint streets, checking out local shops, and tasting the local cuisine. One reviewer called Silverton “a fun little town,” noting its charm and the opportunity to learn about Colorado’s mining past.

The Return Journey

The ride back offers the same spectacular views, with many participants remarking that the return trip is equally scenic. It’s a leisurely 2-hour journey, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery and reflect on the day. The entire experience spans about 7 hours — long enough to feel like a full adventure, but compact enough to fit into a day trip.

Practical Details: What to Expect

Cost and Value

The ticket price is listed at $299 per person, which many see as an investment in a memorable experience. The ticket includes round-trip travel in a deluxe-class train car, which is a step above standard coach seating. Travelers consistently mention the comfortable, cozy seating and luxurious ambiance — a plus if you want a relaxing, scenic journey rather than just transportation.

However, some reviews highlight that the value for money may not satisfy everyone, especially given the cost. For example, one traveler paid $750, felt the experience was “not worth the price,” and was disappointed with the lack of extras like free food or guided commentary. Others appreciated the deluxe class and felt it justified the expense.

Amenities and Extras

The train features a concession car selling food, drinks, and souvenirs, which travelers recommend purchasing if you’re hungry or want a keepsake. Restrooms are available on the train, making for comfortable travel. Note that food and drinks are not included in the ticket price.

Timing and Logistics

The tour starts with boarding at 7:45 am for an 8:15 am departure. The trip is 3.5 hours each way, so plan for a full day. The return to Durango is around 5:30 pm, giving you enough time in Silverton to explore, eat, and shop before heading back.

Important Considerations

• No smoking, alcohol, or drugs are permitted on the train.
• The train may experience delays or mechanical issues; reviews mention a train breakdown and a 30-minute delay on the return leg.
• Cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled up to 3 days in advance, adding some peace of mind.

How Travelers Feel: The Real Experiences

Based on reviews, this journey tends to evoke positive emotions. Several travelers appreciated the scenic beauty — “The scenery was amazing” and “Great photos,” are common sentiments. The Silverton visit is often described as “quaint” and “beautiful,” with food and shopping adding to the charm.

However, there are some criticisms. One traveler expressed disappointment about the price and lack of extras, feeling that the experience could be better value for money. Others mentioned train delays or the absence of detailed historical commentary during the ride, which could enhance the experience for some.

What People Love Most

• The unmatched mountain views and photo ops.
• The comfortable, first-class train cars.
• The opportunity to wander Silverton and enjoy its nostalgic charm.
• The ease of travel — no need to drive or navigate mountain roads.

What Could Be Improved

• Better value for the price, perhaps with included food or guided commentary.
• Consistent train operation without breakdowns or delays.
• More historical or informative narration during the trip.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is ideal for scenic lovers, history buffs, and those seeking comfort while exploring Colorado’s wilderness. If you’re someone who values high-quality views and a relaxed pace, you’ll enjoy the deluxe train experience. It’s particularly appealing if you’re visiting Durango and want a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of driving.

Conversely, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer independent exploration, this might feel pricey. Also, travelers who expect detailed commentary or guided tours may find the experience somewhat lacking in educational content.

Final Thoughts

The Durango to Silverton train ride offers an authentic way to take in Colorado’s rugged beauty with a touch of luxury. The panoramic views, historic route, and charming town make it a worthy addition to any Colorado itinerary — especially for those who love photography, nature, and a bit of nostalgia.

While the price may not be for everyone, many travelers find the scenery and comfort justify the expense. It’s a relaxing, scenic adventure that captures the spirit of Colorado’s wilderness and history, all from the comfort of a vintage train car.

If you’re prepared for occasional delays and the cost, this journey promises a day filled with stunning vistas and memorable moments in the Colorado Rockies.

FAQ

Is this a full-day trip?
Yes, it lasts about 7 hours, from early morning boarding at Durango to returning in the late afternoon, with around 2.5 hours to explore Silverton.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers a round-trip train ride in a deluxe class car from Durango to Silverton, including passage through scenic areas of the San Juan National Forest.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is a concession car on the train where you can purchase snacks, meals, and souvenirs.

What are the main sights I’ll see?
Expect stunning views of Horseshoe Curve, High Bridge, and the Animas River Gorge. The scenery is a major highlight, along with the chance to see local wildlife.

What should I know about Silverton?
It’s a quaint, historic mining town where you’ll have about 2.5 hours to walk around, shop, or grab a meal before returning.

Is there a good chance of delays?
While generally well-organized, reviews mention the possibility of delays or train breakdowns, so it’s advisable to be flexible.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 3 days in advance, offering some peace of mind.

To sum it up, this scenic train adventure offers a comfortable, visually stunning way to experience Colorado’s mountains and history. It’s best suited for travelers who value luxury, scenery, and a touch of nostalgia. With a bit of planning and patience, it promises a memorable day in the Rockies that’s hard to match for beauty and charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: