Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

About

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad serves as a transportation hub for hiking and backpacking in the San Juan National Forest. Located in Durango, Colorado, at an elevation of 6,515 feet, the railroad provides access to the Weminuche Wilderness through specific flag stops. The primary drop-off points are Needleton and Elk Park. Needleton connects to the Needle Creek Trail, which leads toward Chicago Basin and peaks including Eolus, Sunlight, and Windom. Elk Park provides access to the Elk Creek Trail and the Colorado Trail. The wilderness access service operates seasonally from May 19 to October 17. Hikers purchase a specific wilderness access ticket to board the train, choose their drop-off stop, and schedule a return pickup. The 8:15 am Silverton excursion services all short stops during the peak season, while the 9:45 am excursion serves them from September 8 to October 11. The train slows at these stops to allow passengers to disembark with their packs. Parking is available in Durango for those driving to the station. The trails are generally moderate in difficulty, though summit attempts require mountaineering skills due to precipitous terrain and afternoon thunderstorms. Cell phone service is limited in the area. The railroad has operated continuously since 1882 and carries passengers behind historic steam and diesel locomotives.