Durango Train and Silverton Jeep Tour Package

Exploring Colorado’s rugged San Juan Mountains becomes a memorable adventure with the Durango Train and Silverton Jeep Tour Package. This carefully crafted experience offers a blend of breathtaking scenery, authentic history, and outdoor excitement, all wrapped into one day. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or someone simply looking to escape into mountain vistas, this tour promises plenty of wow moments.

What we really appreciate about this package is how seamlessly it combines diverse modes of transportation—starting with a scenic drive, then switching to rugged open-air jeeps, and ending with a scenic train ride. These different perspectives allow you to soak in the landscape from all angles. Plus, the guides stand out with their local knowledge, making the journey both educational and entertaining. On the flip side, some travelers might find the logistics a bit packed or the transportation in the shuttle less comfortable than expected. Still, for those who love a full day of exploration, this tour hits a lot of high points.

This experience is perfect for active travelers who enjoy outdoors, small groups, and a variety of scenic environments. If you want a balanced mix of adventure, history, and spectacular views, you’ll find this package offers excellent value and authenticity.

Key Points

• Diverse scenic experiences with mountain drives, off-road jeep adventure, and a historic train ride.
• Knowledgeable guides who add color and context to the landscape and history.
• Small group atmosphere with a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Perfect for outdoor lovers and those interested in Colorado’s mining history.
• Efficient itinerary that packs a lot into about 10.5 hours, suitable for a full-day adventure.
• Value for money at $214.92 per person, considering the variety of experiences included.

A Complete Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point and Scenic Drive Up the San Juan Skyway

Your day begins bright and early at the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad station in Durango. The tour departs around 8:00 am, giving you a head start on the day’s adventures. From here, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned van, which is good news considering the mountain air can be crisp even in summer. The drive itself is part of the charm, offering sweeping views of the San Juan Skyway. Expect to encounter dramatic vistas of peaks rising to 14,000 feet, with plenty of opportunities for photos and just soaking in the Colorado majesty.

While some might find the drive a bit lengthy, it sets the perfect tone for the day—an introduction to the rugged, high-altitude terrain that defines this part of Colorado. The small-group size (max 14) keeps the experience intimate and allows for a more personalized commentary from your guide.

Jeep Adventure: Exploring the Heart of the San Juan Mountains

Once in Silverton, the adventure shifts gears—literally—to open-air 4×4 jeeps. Here’s where the real ruggedness of the trip unfolds. The guides lead you into the San Juan Mountains, an area known for its striking alpine scenery, historic mining settlements, and mountain meadows.

We loved the way the guides share stories about the area’s 150-year-old mining history, making the journey both educational and entertaining. According to reviews, guide Jay was especially praised for his knowledge, humor, and caring attitude, which helped make the trip memorable. Expect to see panoramic mountain views, learn about silver and gold rush history, and maybe even glimpse some local wildlife.

The jeep tour lasts around three hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Keep in mind that the terrain can be rugged—so those with mobility concerns should consider this—but for most, it’s an exhilarating adventure.

Exploring Silverton: Lunch, Shopping, and Town Charm

After the jeep ride, you’ll have about an hour in Silverton. This small mountain town, with its historic charm and old-world mining feel, offers a chance to stretch your legs, grab lunch, and browse local shops. Silverton’s main street is lined with funky shops, cafes, and galleries, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the mountain town atmosphere.

The train station is located in Silverton, so you’ll be able to easily transition from exploring the town to boarding your scenic train ride. If you’re a history or rail enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the authenticity of the vintage-style train cars and the effort to preserve this historic route.

The Scenic Train Ride Through the Animas River Canyon

The final leg of your journey is aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic train offers a completely different perspective of the surrounding wilderness, traveling through the Animas River Canyon and the remote Weminuche Wilderness.

This four-hour segment is a highlight for many travelers—offering spectacular mountain views, rushing river scenes, and the chance to relax while soaking in the landscape. The train’s vintage cars and authentic steam engine add to the nostalgic experience. The review mentions that views differ from the jeep tour, giving you a broader appreciation of the area’s rugged beauty.

While train tickets are not included in the tour price, booking your tickets separately is straightforward, and this portion alone can be a real highlight of your trip.

Dinner and Reflection

Back at Durango, you’ll arrive in the evening, completing a full day of exploration. Many travelers choose to dine locally, reminiscing about the stunning vistas and rugged terrain they’ve just experienced. The tour concludes at the same meeting point in Durango, making logistics simple.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

This package is notable for blending different types of transport—scenic drives, off-road Jeep excursions, and historic train rides—each offering unique vantage points. The small group size makes it easier to ask questions and get personalized insights. The guides’ local knowledge shines through, making history and geology come alive with stories and facts, not just dry narration.

The focus on authentic landscapes—from towering peaks to wilderness rivers—means you’ll leave with a true sense of Colorado’s rugged beauty. The included water bottles are a thoughtful touch, and the entire arrangement is designed to maximize comfort while still delivering adventure.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $214.92 per person, this tour offers a lot of variety—mountain scenery, historic towns, rugged jeep rides, and a scenic train journey—all in a single day. When you consider the cost of individual activities, guided tours, and transportation, it’s a reasonable price for the experience packed into this itinerary.

That said, some travelers pointed out the transportation in the shuttle could be rough, and the schedule is packed, meaning you’ll be on the go most of the day. The tour’s duration of about 10.5 hours makes it suitable for those prepared for a full day of exploration.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially since the tour has been popular, with over 20 bookings last month. And, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, there’s flexibility if plans change.

Summary: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for active, outdoorsy travelers who love mountain scenery and historical sites. It works well for small groups seeking a personalized experience and those eager to see Colorado’s San Juan Mountains from different angles. The combination of guided storytelling, rugged Jeep adventures, and a scenic train ride makes for a well-rounded day out.

It’s especially suited for visitors who value authentic local experiences and are comfortable with a full schedule. If you enjoy learning about history, geology, and regional lore, this tour delivers in spades. However, if you prefer a slower pace or more comfort, you might find the day a bit intense.

FAQ

What is included in this tour?
The package includes scenic drives in a small van, an open-air Jeep tour in the San Juan Mountains, and a scenic train ride through the Animas River Canyon. Guides are informative and personable, and water bottles are provided.

Are train tickets included?
No, train tickets are not included in the package, but you can purchase them separately. The train ride is a key part of the experience, offering different views from the jeep tour.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 10.5 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back in Durango in the evening.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for outdoor activities, including sturdy shoes for the jeep and layers for mountain weather, which can change quickly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the rugged terrain and full-day schedule may be better suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with outdoor adventures.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, providing a more intimate experience compared to larger tours.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Many travelers mention the knowledgeable guides and spectacular mountain views as the most memorable aspects.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility in your planning.

What is the price point like compared to similar tours?
Considering the variety of experiences and transportation modes included, the price of around $215 per person offers good value for a full-day adventure in Colorado’s scenic mountains.

Final Thoughts

The Durango Train and Silverton Jeep Tour Package offers a comprehensive, engaging glimpse into Colorado’s mountain wilderness, blending scenic drives, historic towns, and rugged off-road adventures. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll get a deeper understanding of the landscape’s geological and historical significance while enjoying some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Rockies.

It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day out and love active exploration. If you’re seeking a well-balanced mix of adventure, education, and stunning vistas, this tour provides a memorable experience worth considering. For those interested in authentic mountain scenery and a taste of Colorado’s mining past, it’s a day rich with sights, stories, and outdoor fun.