Durango was founded by the Denver & Rio Grande Railway in 1879. The railroad arrived in Durango on Aug. 5, 1881,
and construction on the line to Silverton began in the fall of the same year. By July 1882, the train began hauling both passengers
and freight.
Visitors now enjoy a scenic historical train ride through the San Juan Mountains between Durango and Silverton. The coal-fired locomotives (circa 1923-25) are maintained in original condition. Passenger coaches offer restrooms and are heated in winter. Open gondola cars provide panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains. Ticket reservations are highly recommended.