more. Half the roundhouse is used for the steam engines and the other half is for the museum. After RGS was scrapped in 1953, Galloping Goose No. The Skyway Tour option saves time & rewards you with equally as stunning views on the bus ride back along the San Juan Byway. [14] The railroad's coal-burning steam locomotives were suspected of sparking the "416 Fire" blaze,[15] and some area businesses and residents filed a civil lawsuit against the railroad and its owner in mid-September, 2018. Here are the current train destination routes and times for the Summer and Fall. Built in 1880, it was originally named the Hildago as Horton chair car number 25. [citation needed] No. Hop aboard to be the first to hear about upcoming events, specials, and train news. You can find the complete train schedule and associated . All rights reserved. It has a hydraulic lift for passengers in wheelchairs. All Rights Reserved. 493 was shifted around a few times on the railroad on display a few times, last ending up in the Silverton yard until May 4, 2016, when #493 was hauled to Durango from Silverton by K-36 #481. The train will cross the riverfivetimes on its journey to Silverton, offering spectacular views from both sides of the train. Ergonomically, the engines are less comfortable than the others as well, with the crew seats being farther back from the backhead and the engineer having to lean forward constantly to adjust the throttle and use the sanders. Caboose No. We've done many things in the rain and always come home with great stories about our adventures. Cars are not so precise but are well made for the price. We have spent a few weeks in Durango, which is an awesome town with lots of history, beautiful scenery, and outdoor activities. Traded to the, Previously nicknamed the "PB-II". Athearn, Robert G. "Rebel of the Rockies" Yale University Press 1962. pp. 480 has been converted to an oil burner and is operational. Around 1941, 315 made its way to Durango and became a yard switcher. It was turned into a business car in 1913. Available seven days a week from May 22 - October 31. [4] During the late 1970s, the D&RGW was actively trying to sell the Silverton branch and, in 1979, Charles Bradshaw, a Florida citrus grower, offered the railroad a legitimate opportunity to divest itself of the now-isolated route. There is some plastic elements on the cars that could be upgraded with metal for more realistic look and feel, but that will reflect the final price. Because of its popularity, there has been speculation that the D&RGW destroyed it on purpose to drive revenue down so they could abandon the line from Silverton to Antonito. It was finished in ash and seated forty-six. ), Fantastic bus ride back with a good train ride and good views. I recommend opting for a higher price package if you go as the coach was nothing better than a school bus on tracks. The engines currently use 6-ET automatic air and the secondary straight air used on regular service equipment. Durango, Colorado was founded by the Denver & Rio Grande Railway in 1880. I worried about the possibility of rain. 481 is operational and is the only remaining active coal burner left on the D&SNGs roster. Athearn, Robert G. "Rebel of the Rockies" Yale University Press 1962 pp. There is an HO train layout in the museum. It was changed to car 403 in 1885. Ride the train to a day of ziplining on the longest course in the US. The 40-square-foot (3.7m2) grate surface in the firebox is among the largest built for a narrow-gauge locomotive and is fed by hand-firing. Placed on display at the D&SNG Museum from 1999 to 2016. There are bathrooms and a concession car that people were using. II, is a 45-ton center-cab diesel built by, Diesel engine #4 is a 55-ton center-cab diesel built by, Diesel engine #5 is a 45-ton center-cab diesel built by, Diesel engine #7, nicknamed the "Big Al", is an 87-ton center-cab diesel built by, Diesel engine #9 was first acquired by the D&SNG in March, 2006 and is a 92-ton center-cab diesel built by, Diesel engine #11, nicknamed the P.B., was built by, Diesel engine #1201 is one of two custom-built type MP2000NG diesels acquired from Motive Power and Equipment Solutions in 2018, in response to the, Diesel engine #1202 is one of two custom-built type MP2000NG diesels acquired from Motive Power and Equipment Solutions in 2018 in response to the, Diesel engine #1203 is a type DE75CT diesel built by, In April, 2020, it was announced that four, Concession car 64 was originally D&RG mail-baggage 64 built in 1889. of tractive effort, superheated, and the boilers are fed by two non-lifting injectors. Or maybe just go to Cascade Canyon and back. SP No. In 1986 it was put on display at Santa Rita Park. It is a family-friendly ride sure to create memories that will last a lifetime while offering a view of Colorados mountain splendor inaccessible by highway. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad was named the NUMBER ONE NORTH AMERICAN TRAIN TRIP by National Geographic Traveler in 2010 and was named one of the World's Top Ten Train Rides by the Society of American Travel Writers in 2009. The railway is a federally-designated National Historic Landmark and was also designated by the American Society of Civil . Join us for a magical excursion onboard THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride! 119 was built in 1882. Get around Durango in style with rental vehicles. After arriving in Denver, he formulated a plan to build a 3ft (914mm) narrow-gauge railroad southward from Denver to El Paso, Texas[5] (see Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad). When you get to Silverton, go 2 blocks up and find the Main Street ( I think the only tarred one) and check that out for food. In 1957 it was converted for coach service. Immigrant sleepers had very few amenities and had little consideration for passenger comfort. On display in the Museum, out of service. Find the 2022 Durango train schedule here for roundtrips and busses to and from Silverton. Be sure to watch for a glimpse of the wildlife that, although often elusive to train travelers, abounds in the area. Your train adventure can be even more affordable than you might think with Durango train coupons and Durango train specials. Silverton steam train runs from May 7 - October 29. We did the morning trip and opted for the diesel locomotive over the steam engine as it was 5 dollars per person cheaper. We took the Express optionand thank goodness we did! The D&SNG owns four K-36s: Nos. We may earn a commission when you use one of our links to make a purchase. (The Silverton route is a bit lengthy, and you get all the scenery you're looking for on the shorter Cascade Canyon route. We still were going to buy it but then overheard the girl tell the people behind us that she was glad they don't take cash because "if she had to give one more person a quarter back, she would jam that quarter down their throat". In the Silverton depot are local artifacts. The Durango train chugs slowly out of the station and you gaze out of the window as the tranquil mountain scenery goes by. In the 2021 summer season the locomotive has been in helper service for the 15-car Silverton Train, doubleheading from Hermosa to Rockwood, and then from Tank Creek all the way to SIlverton. Plus there are open air cars you can walk to and move to either side to get a view. 3681 is an ex-D&RGW boxcar. Bolstered by the assistance of former Rio Grande operating managers and a relatively sizeable staff of new employees, Bradshaw's plans were set in motion immediately. of tractive effort. Though there are no longer any operating mines, the mining legacy pervades every aspect of the town, as a visit will show. The General Palmer was built in 1880 as a business car for the D&RG. We rode the train up to Silverton and back and it was too long - in our opinion. Site developed by Agency Tourism Marketing, Rio Grande Southern Galloping Goose #5 Excursions, K-28 100th Anniversary Fall Photo Special, Ghost Crawl: Haunted Durango Train Museum Experience. Rail camp car No. Always the best part is the scenery. 100% of travelers recommend this experience. And have dinner at the luxurious Strater Hotel, which will make your trip even better. The first class Knight Sky car is available May 7 through 20 as well as September 24 through October 29, 2022. Diesel engine #1, nicknamed the "Hotshot", is a 50-ton center-cab diesel built by, Diesel engine #2, nicknamed the P.B. 6 Reasons Your Family Will Love Spring Break at Purgatory Resort, 5 Things To Do On Your Day Off From Skiing, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Available seven days a week from May 1 - November 7, One departure daily from the Durango Depot at 9:30 am, Available seven days a week from May 22 -October 31, Two departures daily from the Durango Depot:the diesel train departure at 8:00 am;the steam departure at 9:00 am, This is a 9.25 roudtrip excursion3 1/2 hours on the train each way with a two-hour layover in Silverton. A National Historic Landmark and one of the most popular heritage railroads in North America, this train offers a unique . Deer, elk, black bear, Bighorn Sheep, mountain lions and moose are sometimes sighted as well as eagles, hawks, osprey, geese, squirrels, marmots and fox. So, book a ticket to ride on this historic railway and see some of the most stunning wilderness that Colorado has to offer! Still see beautiful scenery and not sit on the train so long. A National Historic Landmark and one of the most popular heritage railroads in North America, this train offers a unique, affordable, family-friendly travel experience that combines Colorados colorful pioneering and mining histories with unparalleled backcountry beauty. This site uses cookies for measurement, ads and optimization. The Durango Silverton train ride journey is available on over 300 days of the year and it departs from Durango, Colorado with a round trip, full day excursion. Site developed by Agency Tourism Marketing, Rio Grande Southern Galloping Goose #5 Excursions, K-28 100th Anniversary Fall Photo Special, Ghost Crawl: Haunted Durango Train Museum Experience, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Maintenance of way train in Silverton on October 25, 2012, Maintenance crane in Silverton on October 25, 2012, Speeder #9002 in Silverton on October 25, 2012. The weight of a K-28 with a full tender is 254,500 pounds (115,439kg) and a K-36 weighs 286,600 pounds (130,000kg) with a full tender. Face coverings were required to be worn by all even in the open air cars. It was given number 313, because it resembled the Silver Vista. Like most of the coaches on the D&SNG, the concession cars are good examples of how coaches were renumbered and rebuilt several times by the D&RGW. #493 ran under its own power for the first time on January 24, 2020, and has been the D&SNG's primary piece of motive power throughout 2020 and 2021. The coach indoor was pretty warm on a summer day, the scenery was minimal for the majority of the trip. The route to Silverton aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is an unforgettable journey along the spectacular Animas River. I road in late October, so chose an enclosed car. Find the most current Durango train schedule by clicking below. Save on outdoor activities, tours & rentals. "K-36" and "K-37" class locomotives were eventually restored to operating condition, and these larger classes of engines operated to Silverton for the first time ever following bridge and right-of-way improvements to the line. Im going to book for July and I am unsure of which car to book. It is pulled to Cascade Canyon Wye for elegant camping. Below are the dates that each car is available for booking during the winter months of 2022. Magazine. There are many ways you can experience the Durango train. There were 12:30p.m. and 6:00p.m. trips to Cascade Canyon. The D&SNG has two museums, one each in Durango and Silverton. Welcome to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad! While being owned by several parties between 1951 and 1982 the Fairplay was renamed the Nomad. If you call the Rail Line they can answer any questions 0505 was built in 1886 and is stocked with provisions to provide shelter and food. Sold to private individual in 2020 for eventual restoration. Heading out of town towards the 4-wheel drive Alpine Loop will take you on an excursion connecting Silverton, Lake City and Ouray through ghost towns and old mining claims. The round trip excursion will take around eight hours and there are numerous special excursions and themed trips throughout the year. Several folks did what you are thinking. If this is your first time taking a journey with us, we invite you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the unparalleled scenery along the way. Learn about the fascinating history of the area! First class train car availability differs from month to month. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. It was renumbered 350 in 1959. Its modern amenities include internet service and a twenty-inch flat paneled television. Language links are at the top of the page across from the title. 18 later arrived to Durango on lease from the Eastern California Museum in November, 2018 and it stayed until October, 2019. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById('copyright').appendChild(document.createTextNode(new Date().getFullYear())) Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. We ended up waiting until others had left to make it easier to turn around. [9], By the 1960s, a modernized D&RGW did not see the Silverton Branch as worthy to maintain and a petition was filed with governmental agencies to abandon it. Enjoy a full day on the train with a 9 hour round-trip experience beginning with a 3.5 hour journey from Durango to Silverton. Is 17 feet (5.2m) long, and was built in 1886. Converted from burning, Sold to the Royal Gorge Park for display in December, 1967. This is an option offered on their website. Its called Durango, a little town nestled in the Animas canyons and hills, And theres a little train that goes up to Silverton, which is 45 miles long, Its worth every penny to take a trip on the iconic Silverton Train, What is so neat about this railroad? You may ponder, To many people its difficult to express to others, For someone it could be the astonishing views that are on the high line, Maybe its the employees that work there that make them happy, But for many people, including me, of course, it has to be the steam trains, All of them are well-preserved and taken care of, in their little Roundhouse, And their fun museum telling you about the history of the place, So I tell you, I beg you, to stay a while and enjoy the train. The car had a closed vestibule, with steam heat, electric lights and seats for fourteen passengers. The route is varied throughout the year and offers both winter excursions and summer excursions. Witcher, Civil Engineering, March 2018, "D&RGW System Passenger Timetable - 1-Jun-1952", "Audio Portrait The last Train on the Silverton Branch", "416 Fire Information - InciWeb the Incident Information System", "Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Closed Due To 416 Fire", "Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad bolsters fleet for dry years", "Is the Durango & Silverton Railroad to blame for the massive 416 fire? We wish we had done the narrow gauge to Cascade Canyon and back. Despite being smaller than the K-36 class locomotives, older and less powerful, the engine crews tend to favor a trip on these engines because the design ALCO used was superior in balance and servicing. This historic train has been in continuous operation between Durango and Silverton since 1882, carrying passengers behind historic steam and diesel locomotives and rolling stock indigenous to the line. Except for severe weather conditions, the D&SNG runs trains as scheduled. We experience the iconic Horseshoe Curve, High Bridge and all of the Animas River Gorge including all of the spectacular views from the High Line. Downtown Silverton along Greene & Blair Streets boasts of a bold past and is designated as a National Historic District. The D&SNG operates one combination car 213 named Bitter Root Mine, it was previously named Home Ranch and was built in 1983 by the D&SNG. The train is the subject of the song The Silverton, by C. W. We normally take the steam engine. Sorry, I don't know. There was no escaping it but we didn't mind. It was later determined that the trailing truck was having trouble negotiating the curves in the Animas Canyon. Theres no bad time of year for a Durango train ride, this journey offers scenic views for all ages, all throughout the year. Beautiful colors on the way to Silverton on October 25, 2012, On the Highline above the Animas Canyon on October 25, 2012, Along the Animas River to Silverton on October 25, 2012, Approaching Silverton on October 25, 2012, The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad currently operates over 50 pieces of rolling stock. Getinformation on upcoming train events, deals on hotels plus insider information about Durango, CO delivered to your inbox weekly. After 3 1/2 hours, we arrived in Silverton which is a sleepy old mining town with dirt roads- looks like the old west with mountains in the background. It is truly an unforgettable step back in time. The Yellow Carrot is a high vibration culinary food mecca, eatery and bakery. Get around Durango in style with rental vehicles. 631 was built in 1985 and named the North Star. We enhance vitality, evolve one's spirit and plant a fire of opportunity in one's . 256, built in 1880, former RGS, purchased in 2022 and currently stored awaiting restoration. That turned us off so they lost a sale. 12-Zipline Adventure in the San Juan Mountains near Durango, Durango Rafting - Family Friendly Raft Trip, Half-Day Family Rafting in Durango, Colorado, 2.5 Hour Family Rafting in Durango with Guide, All-Day Guided Zipline Tour with Train Ride and Lunch in Durango, Durango Family-Friendly 2-Hour Rafting Trip, 6-Zipline Adventure in the San Juan Mountains near Durango, Million Dollar Highway Self-Driving Audio Tour, Durango Rafting - Animas River Adventure Day, The Cat's Meow Durango Scavenger Hunt Adventure Game. We have children so we are torn between the Knight Sky and Deluxe Rio Grande open air. 2:45 pm. There are bathrooms available on the train during the two hour trip as well. Enjoy the trip we found it wonderful. Since 2016, No. [+ More] 3206 N Main Ave Suite #1, Durango, CO 81301. It could seat 32 people and had a 300-horsepower (220kW) six-cylinder Caterpillar engine. Since then the DRHS has operated the locomotive occasionally on the D&SNG and on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad. On October 5, 1980, The Silverton made its last run under D&RGW ownership and, after operating a work train the following day, the railroad finally concluded its 3ft (914mm) narrow-gauge train operations,[11] bringing to a close an era that began 110 years earlier with its narrow-gauge railroad from Denver to Colorado Springs. On the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad youll have an amazing opportunity to take a journey back in time and experience the sights and sounds of yesteryear. I recommend the Cascade Canyon trip. Currently out of service. K-36 steam locomotive #486 and Diesel engine "Big Al" #7 in Durango on October 25, 2012. Today, #50 is now on display at the Colorado Railroad Museum in Golden, Colorado. 98% of travelers recommend this experience. This is a 9.25 roudtrip excursion 3 1/2 hours on the train each way with a two-hour layover in Silverton. The Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad (C&TSRR) owns Nos. Diesels were first introduced to the Durango Yard in the 1960s with diesel locomotive #50. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad announced this week it has purchased four new diesel engines, including these being . Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Tall Timber Legend 631 & Tall Timber Legacy 632. The ceiling of the Prospector features an enlarged route map, making it easy for passengers to follow the train's progress along the route. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad owner Al Harper is pictured at the train depot in Durango on June 21, 2019. We felt we wanted to sight see more in Durango rather than spend so much time on the train. 0540 was built in 1881 and is a mini-warehouse, carrying the most common tools and supplies. Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. All rights reserved. The museum features memorabilia from the D&RGW and other railroads. It's long enough, and not too long. Motive Power and Equipment Solutions, Inc. Acquired from Motive Power and Equipment Solutions (MP&ES) in 2018 in response to the, Restored to operating condition in 1984. In 2009 the cars were converted with overstuffed seats. We were served soft drinks (free) and were offered mixed drinks (for a fee). Following the ICC's ruling, the railroad reluctantly responded by investing in additional rolling stock, track maintenance and improvements to the Durango depot. The Durango Train is a must-do when visiting town. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. It runs daily during the summer. Free shipping for many products! The museum is open every day the train runs. We were not told this and thought the main road was the first road and had the worst lunch EVER at a place there were there looked like much better places on the tarred road. Thinking this might be a good alternative? Ride the train to a day of ziplining on the longest course in the US. 5 was built with a 1928 Pierce-Arrow limousine body and running gear, and was rebuilt in 1946-47 using a World War II surplus GMC gasoline truck engine and a Wayne Corporation school bus body. The railbus hauled hikers and fishermen into the canyon from Rockwood. Travel is through some of the most scenic areas in Colorado. Dan privately owns the engine, and on occasion brings it to various railroads to operate, including the D&SNG. 31/2 hours! We treated our daughter and grandson with a trip to fly out to meet us for two weeks.This was a bucket list item for all of us to experience this together. IMHO you can only make small talk with strangers for so long - Ha! If you have any health concerns, check with your physician for advice. In 1950 it was sold to Bob Richardson, then again in 1987 to a business in Cripple Creek. The Durango yard facilities also saw dramatic improvements. The numbers 28 and 36 designate the tractive effort (pulling force) of the locomotives in thousands of pounds. Then the D&RGW realized that it was larger than another combination car 212. Hop aboard a coal-fired, steam-powered locomotive that travels along the same railroad tracks that miners, cowboys and the early settlers of the Old West used over a hundred years ago. It was rebuilt in 1937 at the Alamosa shops. | The route winds in and out of canyons and past open wilderness affording great views. [25] During that time, it was used for oil-fired training in preparation for the D&SNG's conversion of their steam locomotives from coal to oil for fuel. While youre at the Durango Depot, dont forget to visit the free D&S Roundhouse Museuma 12,000 square foot facility situated in the railyard that houses a carefully curated collection of artifacts and exhibits that paint a picture of Colorados rich railroading and mining histories. The standard class steam Cascade Canyon excursions include a concession car on the train serving light snacks. It was rebuilt by the D&SNG in 1984 with a kitchen, a bathroom and beds. Then, in 1982, the Cinco Animas was sold to the D&SNG. The bus ride backs saves you about 2 hours and I thought was the best part of the trip although it rained the whole way so the views were not there. We were given 2 hours to check out the town and get food- but many of the shops/restaurants were closed since it was before Memorial Day. All that matters is that you meet the kind folks there who keep their trains in line. 91% of travelers recommend this experience. Grading was completed by late spring 1882.[6]. Open observation gondolas 400402 were built in 1963, equipped with passenger car trucks, steel roofs, tile floors and tramway seats. The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, often abbreviated as the D&SNG, is a 3 ft (914mm) narrow-gauge heritage railroad that operates on 45.2mi (72.7km) of track between Durango and Silverton, in the U.S. state of Colorado. Hop aboard to be the first to hear about upcoming events, specials, and train news. We are on a cross country trip. Along the way, youll be treated to stunning vistas beside the pristine Animas River San Juan Forest through wilderness inaccessible by roads. One of the most popular ways to get from Durango to Silverton is by taking the Durango train. The line was constructed to haul silver & gold ore from Southwest Colorados San Juan Mountains, but passengers soon realized it was the view that was truly precious. Hop On The Train. The answer is there isnt a bad time. No. Are there plug ins on the train for people who have portable oxygen? We bought the ticket for a round trip from Durango to Silverton. Restored back to operating condition in February, 2018. The D&SNG operates several other coaches: Animas City 323 in Silverton, October 2012. Built in 198788 winter, motorcar 1001 was named Tamarron. At the time, American Heritage Railways was headquartered in Coral Gables, Florida. Great ride and employees that like their job. We were on the Knight Sky car. 10,15. No. Being a "Narrow Gauge" railroad means that the rails are only three . [8] A short time later, the railroad adorned a locomotive and four coaches with a colorful yellow paint scheme and launched modest public promotion. All Aboard! Choose from a 9-hour round trip tour, a train/bus combination, or a train & adventure package to fit in as much fun during your trip as possible! also had a six-axle narrow-gauge diesel locomotive (#3000) for trial use in Durango in the 1950s, which saw limited use. The General Palmer is exclusively used by owner Allen Harper, his family and guests. Find the most current Durango train schedule by clicking below. Relive the Wild West on the Historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad! The 480 series, or "K-36" class 2-8-2 "Mikado" type locomotives, were ten engines designed for the D&RGW. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The price is just $15.00 and as with all of our merchandise, all proceeds go to benefit the Durango Railroad Historical Society. View the Round trip schedule & fares. We rode in the open Gondola train, so we would not miss anything but the last half hour a storm rolled in and it rained. #499 was later traded for K-36 class No. Glide along the track past the dense forests, rocky ridges and rushing rivers of the Colorado back country. For this reason, the D&SNG traded #497 to the C&TSRR in exchange for K-36 class #482. They were able to see all the spectacular scenery and views in half the time. 473, 476 and 478 operated on the Silverton Branch from the 1950s through 1980 and are still in service today. The train stops a couple times to let off or on hikers which I did not know about. The "36" stands for 36,200lbf (161.026kN). It was then bought by D&RG and became No. The railroad has a total of nine narrow-gauge steam locomotives (eight of which are operational) and ten narrow-gauge diesel locomotives, six of which were acquired within the last five years, on its current roster. In July 2015, the D&SNG and C&TSRR had announced an engine-trade propasal by which locomotive 478 would go to Chama, New Mexico, and, in exchange, the D&SNG would get K-36 class No. In July 1881, the Denver & Rio Grande reached Durango and started building the final 45-mile stretch up the Animas River to Silverton. 1923 Nash Roadster (left) and 1924 Model T Ford (right), Sears & Roebuck buggy from the 19th century. Concession car 126 was originally D&RG baggage car 27. Eureka and Palisade No. The female bus driver was great and talked the whole trip giving us a tour and filling in with great stories of her life in the area and other items. The recreation of the Silver Vista was built in 2006. After the Silver Vista was built in 2006, it became open observation car 410. Be sure to stop by the Silverton Museum, Jail and Mining Heritage Center and uncover many artifacts of San Juan Countys past. Durango & Silverton starter set. 473, 476, 480, 481, 482 and 493 are all operational. The original Silver Vista was destroyed by a fire in Alamosa in 1953.
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