Story: Durango & Silverton Narrow Guage Railway
Presenter: Trevor Cochrane
Broadcast Date: 14 June 2025

An authentically old west day in downtown Durango. Starting with a walk to the train station to board the iconic steam-engine train and ending at an old west saloon inside a historic hotel.

• Founded in 1880 by the Denver & Rio Grande Railway, Durango is a charming mountain town perched at 6,512 feet. With its rich Western roots and Victorian heritage, it’s a place where the past still feels very much alive.
• The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway is a true must-do. This historic steam train winds its way through the San Juan Mountains, alongside the Animas River, all the way to the secluded Cascade Canyon. Expect jaw-dropping views, snowy forests, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.
• Settle into warm, comfortable carriages with big viewing windows—or brave the open-air carriage for that fresh mountain air and unbeatable scenery. The journey recreates the golden age of rail travel, with passionate staff bringing over a century of history to life.
• The Animas River flows right through Durango, and the Animas River Trail follows its path for over seven miles. It’s perfect for walkers, runners, cyclists and families out for a stroll, with the stunning backdrop of the San Juan Mountains all around.
• You might recognise this train—it’s featured in classics like Butch Cassidy & the Sundance Kid, True Grit, Around the World in 80 Days, and The Prestige. With scenery like this, it’s no wonder filmmakers keep coming back.
• Once used to haul silver and ore in the late 1800s, the engines have been updated with cleaner steam technology. It’s the same timeless experience, just a little more environmentally friendly.

For more information:
Durango.org