Durango: Round-Trip Train Ticket to Silverton

Taking a scenic train ride through Colorado’s rugged San Juan Mountains has become a bucket-list staple for many travelers. This particular journey, offered by Soaring Tree Top Adventures, is a luxurious, first-class experience that combines comfort, breathtaking scenery, and the charm of Silverton’s historic streets. While it’s not the cheapest way to see the mountains, the views and ambiance make it a worthwhile splurge for those who value a relaxed, scenic adventure.

What we love about this trip is how it offers a deluxe way to see the Rockies without the hassle of driving. You get to sit back in comfort and enjoy the ride, with some truly stunning vistas along the way. Also, Silverton, with its old-time mining charm, provides a perfect complement to the train journey — a chance to stretch your legs and soak in local history. The only potential downside? The price tag—at $299 per person, it’s a premium experience, and some reviews mention feeling it may be pricey relative to the length or extras included. Still, for those who appreciate high-quality scenery and comfort, this tour fits well.

This trip appeals primarily to travelers who love scenic journeys, historic towns, and a touch of luxury in their outdoor adventures. If you’re seeking an authentic, memorable way to explore Colorado’s mountains in style, this could be perfect.

Key Points

• Comfort and Luxury: First-class train cars provide a cozy, upscale experience.
• Spectacular Views: You’ll see the Animas River Gorge, Horseshoe Curve, and High Bridge.
• Authentic Town Visit: Silverton’s historic mining town offers shopping, dining, and photo opportunities.
• Flexible & Convenient: Round-trip service simplifies planning with a set schedule.
• Incredible Scenery: The ride through San Juan National Forest offers unforgettable mountain vistas.
• Value Consideration: The experience’s quality and scenery often outweigh the cost for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Durango to Silverton Train Experience

Starting Point and Departure

The adventure begins bright and early at the Durango Depot. You’re asked to arrive by 7:45am for check-in, with boarding at 8:15am sharp. The train departs on time, so punctuality is key. The meeting point outside the red “Tall Timber” train car is easy to spot, and train staff are on hand to direct you to your seat.

This early start means you get to enjoy the mountain light and quiet morning air. While some travelers might find the departure time a bit early, it’s a small price to pay for an entire day of scenic beauty.

The Journey: 3.5 Hours of Scenic Splendor

Once onboard, you’ll settle into your deluxe-class seat — a step above standard coach, offering more comfort and a quieter atmosphere. The train itself has been running since 1882, making it a historic and iconic Colorado experience. The deluxe cars are designed for a relaxed day, with large windows to maximize your viewing pleasure.

The route takes you through some of Colorado’s most striking landscapes. As you glide along, you’ll pass the Animas River Gorge, with its white water rapids and crystal-clear waters. Travelers have commented on how the scenery is “spectacular” and how they loved spotting wildlife like big horn sheep clinging to the cliffs. The Horseshoe Curve offers a dramatic bend in the track, perfect for photos and awe.

The High Bridge is another highlight—a towering structure that spans the river gorge, providing a sense of the scale and ruggedness of the region. We loved the way these features showcase the engineering marvels that helped build this historic line through such challenging terrain.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your ticket covers the round-trip journey in deluxe class, passing through the San Juan National Forest and over the High Bridge. There are no meals included, but on board, you’ll find a concession car selling food, drinks, and souvenirs. The bathrooms are on the train, which is convenient for a 7-hour journey.

The return trip is about 3.5 hours, with a break in Silverton of approximately 2.5 hours. During this stop, you can explore the town’s shops, historic sites, and have lunch at local restaurants. Silverton retains its old mountain-town charm, with colorful storefronts and rustic cafes — a perfect place for photos and soaking in the local atmosphere.

More Great Tours Nearby

Silverton: A Charming Mountain Town

Recent reviews rave about Silverton’s quaint ambiance. “The town’s shops and restaurants are delightful,” one traveler noted, highlighting how the visit adds a tangible sense of place to the scenic ride. You’ll likely find plenty of opportunities to photograph old mining buildings, narrow streets, and mountain vistas from the town itself.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $299 per person, many will consider this a premium experience. But the quality of the scenery, the comfort of the train, and the historic charm of Silverton tend to justify the cost. Reviewers frequently mention that the scenery alone makes it worthwhile, with many saying it’s “a beautiful scenic experience” and “worth the expense” despite some feeling it’s a bit pricey.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

The train’s long history and the scenic stops create an authentic feeling you won’t get from a bus tour or a simple drive. The fact that the train has been running since 1882 lends a sense of connection to Colorado’s past, and many travelers appreciate the nostalgic feel of the ride.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

Some reviews note the long return trip can be tiring, especially if the train is delayed, as Gino from Italy observed, mentioning a 30-minute delay on the way back. Others felt that the value for money was not perfect, as one reviewer, Laura, expressed frustration over the cost and perceived lack of extras.

Plus, no food or drinks are included, so if you’re hungry or thirsty, be prepared to purchase what you need on board or in Silverton. For some, this is a minor inconvenience; for others, it’s an extra expense.

Accessibility and Practicalities

This trip is suited for those comfortable with several hours of train travel and walking around Silverton. The train is a group experience—likely to be a mix of families, couples, and train enthusiasts.

The cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled at least three days in advance, adding flexibility. However, it’s worth noting that smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not permitted onboard, maintaining a family-friendly environment.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This train ride appeals most to travelers craving scenic beauty combined with comfort. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing day in Colorado’s mountains, this trip offers a memorable perspective on the region’s natural and historic charm. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a deluxe, hassle-free experience over the rough-and-tumble of adventurous off-road trips.

The Sum Up

The Durango to Silverton train journey offers a luxurious yet authentic way to see Colorado’s stunning San Juan Mountains. The combination of spectacular scenery, historic charm, and comfortable First Class seating makes this a worthwhile splurge for many travelers. While it’s not the most budget-friendly option, most reviews agree that the views, the vintage train experience, and Silverton’s charm justify the cost.

If you appreciate relaxed, scenic travel and have a fondness for mountain towns, this tour delivers a full day of memorable sights and experiences. It’s particularly perfect for travelers wanting a comfortable, picture-worthy journey that combines natural beauty with a touch of history.

FAQs

Is transportation included from my hotel to the train station?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the Durango Depot.

What time does the train leave?
The train departs promptly at 8:15am, with check-in starting at 7:45am. Arriving early ensures a smooth boarding process.

How long is the train ride?
Each way, the train ride lasts approximately 3.5 hours, offering plenty of time to relax and soak in the scenery.

Can I buy food and drinks on board?
Yes, there is a concession car with food, drinks, and souvenirs available for purchase during the trip.

What about the stop in Silverton?
You’ll have around 2.5 hours to explore the town, shop, eat, or take photos before heading back to Durango.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly mentioned, typical scenic train rides are suitable for most ages. Keep in mind the length of the trip and comfort of your group.

Is there any historical commentary during the ride?
The review mentions a desire for more train history commentary, so while some narration may occur, it might not be extensive.

What if the train experiences delays or partial routes?
Weather or landslides can affect the route, as noted in reviews. Some travelers received partial refunds for disrupted trips, but this depends on the specific circumstances.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund through the booking platform.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in Colorado’s mountains or a memorable journey through history and scenery, this train ride from Durango to Silverton offers an experience that many travelers find well worth the price. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and an appetite for stunning views.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby