The history of Durango, Colorado started back in 1879 by the Denver & Rio Grande Railway.  On August 5, 1879, the construction to Silverton began and only 11 months later the rails reached Silverton, Colorado.  Both freight and passenger service soon followed.  During that time, the San Juan Mountains were yielding large sums of gold and silver, but it was the spectacular views that the historic train provided that became most famous. 

The line has continued operations with narrow gauge steam locomotives, the bright orange and silver passenger cars, and wooden freight cars for over 120 years.  The bridges and rail hang on the edges of cliffs and cross the Animas Rivers -- sometimes way below and at other times only a few feet away.  The trip can only be described as a love affair for the coal-fired steam-powered Iron Horses and vintage coaches.  When you ride this train, you will be experiencing the same 90 mile ride that the miners and visionaries had when they carved out the Rocky Mountains high above the rushing Animas River in search for gold and silver.  You will be stepping back in time and relive history again. 

The depots at both Durango and Silverton are spectacular structures that are still functioning today -- for tickets and souvenirs.  Both towns are set in the high majestic mountains. Be sure to bring a jacket or sweater, as it is cool -- you can ride in open or closed coaches.  The operating season is from May to October.