Originally constructed in 1882 to haul silver and gold ore from Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, people soon realized it was the view that was truly precious. Today, this scenic railroad has garnered a reputation for being one of the world’s top 10 most exciting train rides. Passengers have their pick of several different seating options. In presidential class, the Victorian splendor of a bygone era awaits you on the Cinco Animas, one of the most legendary and historic private cars to ever grace the narrow gauge rails. Two elegant appointed seating areas are available in this class, along with an exclusive outdoor viewing platform. First class cars offer plenty of comfort and style, along with custom amenities, while deluxe cars provide roomy seats in vintage coaches or open-air gondolas. Standard-class is the best bet for budgetminded folks. For those interested in learning about the scenery and the historical significance photos in this page Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Photo by Yvonne Lashmett
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of the area, the historic narration coach is the place to be. Narrators dressed in period clothing will relate tales in firstperson storytelling as they assume the persona of an actual individual involved in the settling of the West. You’ll relive the sights and sounds of yesteryear as you ride the train along the Animas River through wilderness inaccessible by any road. The railroad winds amid impressive and breathtaking canyons in the remote wilderness of the two-million acre San Juan National Forest for a memorable year-round adventure. It’s Colorado at its best, as you take in roaring waterfalls and majestic peaks, along with the occasional glimpse of wildlife roaming in the verdant forests. You’ll be traveling on the same tracks that miners, cowboys and settlers of the Old West took over a century ago. If you go: www.cumbrestoltec.com www.durangotrain.com