Day Trip: Durango to Silverton Train Excursion

Alpen Rose RV Resort, Durango, Colorado    H72  L 51

Durango, Colorado was founded by the Denver & Rio Grande Railway in 1879. The railroad arrived in Durango on August 5, 1881 and construction on the line to Silverton began in the fall of the same year. By July of 1882, the tracks to Silverton were completed, and the train began hauling both freight and passengers.

The line was constructed to haul silver & gold ore from Southwest Colorado's San Juan Mountains, but passengers soon realized it was the view that was truly precious.

This historic train has been in continuous operation between Durango and Silverton since 1882, carrying passengers behind vintage steam locomotives and rolling stock indigenous to the line. It is a family-friendly ride sure to create memories that will last a lifetime while offering a view of Colorado's mountain splendor  inaccessible by highway.

The train ride to Silverton was one of “the must do’s” on our list of things to get done before we return to AZ. Last Friday Judy and I and fellow workampers Bruce and AJ got around to it.  We opted to take the round trip, so it was a long day. The scenery was indeed spectacular.  Durango is at an elevation of 6512ft and Silverton is at 9300 ft.

The steam engine required 7000 LBs of coal (hand fed) for the trip up and three water stops.  Since the trip back was down hill, only 2500LBs of coal was required along with one water stop. The train was used in the film Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Three other scenes were also filmed along the route, including the famous “jump off of the cliff” scene.

Here are a few pics. Don’t forget to “click” to enlarge.

All Aboard, leaving Durango.

    

Passing Alpen Rose RV Resort

    

Views along the way

   

    

      

 

    

That is all for now.  Thanks for stopping by.

Next blog: in a week or so