The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is one of the most iconic train rides in America. This coal-fired, steam-powered locomotive has been running continuously since 1882, carrying passengers along the same route that once transported silver and gold ore from the mines of Silverton through the spectacular Animas River Gorge. Today, it's a National Historic Landmark and one of the top tourist attractions in the entire Southwest. From Sundowner Park in Farmington, Durango is just a 45-minute drive north on US-550.
The full round-trip journey takes approximately 3.5 hours each way (about 9 hours total with a 2-hour layover in Silverton), covering 45 miles of narrow-gauge track that climbs through alpine meadows, past towering cliff faces, and along ledges carved into sheer granite walls high above the Animas River. The scenery is breathtaking in any season, but fall is particularly spectacular when the San Juan Mountains explode with golden aspens and crimson oaks. Summer offers wildflower-studded meadows, while winter runs provide snow-covered mountain vistas.
Booking in advance is essential, especially during summer and fall color season (late September through mid-October). Choose between open-air gondola cars for the best photography, standard coach class, or premium classes with narration and refreshments. After the ride, downtown Durango offers excellent breweries, restaurants, and shopping — making it easy to fill an entire day before heading back to your comfortable RV site at Sundowner Park.