The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is one
of the last surviving lines that use coal-powered steam engines. In this age of
ecological awareness it is something that needs to be experienced - you can't
really describe it in words. There you are - behind a giant engine belching dark
black smoke. Particles are swirling in the air from the coal that is providing
the power, and after a trip of several hours you are guaranteed to take some of
them home with you on that favorite t-shirt of yours!
You are seated in a railroad car approaching the century mark in age and riding
the way your great grandparents may have traveled. Forget the air conditioner -
open the window! If you want to experience the out-of-doors even more you
can reserve a seat in the open air gondola car. Even if you haven't got a
reservation for this car, chances are that you will be able to squeeze in when
you want.
During the 45 mile trip the train will stop several times. A couple of these
stops will be to take on more water. It takes a bunch to power this behemoth
from 6,000 to almost 10,000 feet! Other stops will be made for backpackers. Also
watch for wildlife! We were fortunate enough on our ride in August, 2005 to spot
deer, elk and one bear.
Of course the main reason that most of us make this trip is for the scenery, and it is everything that you can imagine - it's spectacular. Shortly after departing Durango the train enters the San Juan National Forest. Modern roadways and traffic disappear, and the territory must look very much as it did when this line was first laid to reach the mining district around Silverton. The cars snake slowly along the Animas river - sometimes right next to it, and sometimes on rocky ridges hundreds of feet above it. Mountains rise on both sides to almost 14,000 feet, and some of them - like the one known as "King Kong" take on shapes that you will remember for many years after the ride is over.
feedback: travels@mary-and-joe.com