Durango Train & Silverton Jeep Tour Package

The Durango Train & Silverton Jeep Tour Package offers a compelling blend of scenic drives, historical exploration, and a relaxing train journey through the rugged Colorado wilderness. Priced around $234 per person and lasting 5.5 hours, this tour is ideal for those who want to experience the breathtaking landscapes of the San Juan Mountains without sacrificing comfort or convenience. With a provider rating of 4.6, you can expect professional guidance and well-organized logistics.

This tour begins with a drive along the San Juan Skyway, renowned for its dramatic mountain vistas and panoramic views of 14,000 ft. peaks. Afterward, travelers visit Silverton, where they switch to open-air 4×4 vehicles for rugged terrain exploration. The highlight is discovering 150-year-old mining settlements and alpine meadows, all narrated by experienced guides. An optional train ride through the Animas River Canyon provides a unique perspective of the remote Weminuche Wilderness. This experience suits those who appreciate scenic landscapes, historical sites, and outdoor adventure in a flexible, well-paced format.

Key Points

• Scenic San Juan Skyway drive with stunning mountain views
• Explore historic Silverton and its old mining settlements
• Ride in rugged 4×4 vehicles through alpine meadows and wilderness
• Optional train journey offers a different perspective of the Animas River Canyon
• Flexible options for return, including van or train transfer
• Provider rated 4.6, with knowledgeable guides and storytelling

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenic Drive along the San Juan Skyway

The tour kicks off with a morning cruise along the San Juan Skyway, one of Colorado’s most picturesque routes. As you ascend, expect dramatic views of 14,000 ft. mountain peaks, lush forests, and expansive valleys. This drive sets the tone by showcasing the raw beauty of the San Juan Mountains, making it an ideal start for landscape photography and nature lovers alike. The drive lasts for approximately a few hours, offering plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and take in the scenery.

What makes this segment special is the combination of mountain vistas and local storytelling. Guides share insights into the area’s geology, flora, and history, enriching the experience without overwhelming. This part of the trip is perfect for travelers who want a scenic overview before heading into more rugged terrain.

Exploring Silverton’s Mining Heritage and Alpine Meadows

In Silverton, the day shifts gears from scenic drive to rugged exploration. Visitors switch to open-air 4×4 vehicles, which navigate the rough, unpaved roads leading into the wilderness. The guides lead you through 150-year-old mining settlements, where you can imagine life during the gold and silver rushes. These sites stand as quiet witnesses to the area’s deep mining past.

Beyond history, the tour takes you through flourishing alpine meadows, where wildflowers bloom and mountain peaks serve as a stunning backdrop. The guides provide engaging stories about Silverton’s development and the mining industry that shaped it. This part of the journey demands some physical alertness for the rugged vehicle rides but offers rewarding views and fascinating local tales.

Discovering Mountain Views and Wilderness in 4×4 Vehicles

The rugged terrain exploration in open-air 4x4s is a central feature of this tour. These vehicles allow an immersive experience, giving visitors a closer look at remote wilderness areas, alpine meadows, and mountain slopes inaccessible by regular vehicles. The guides skillfully navigate the rugged paths while sharing insightful stories and background information.

This segment suits those comfortable with a bumpy but exhilarating ride. The guides’ commentary enhances the experience, making it ideal for history buffs and nature enthusiasts. The exploration of flora and fauna in this part of Colorado adds a layer of appreciation for the region’s ecological diversity.

Lunch and Shopping in Silverton

After the outdoor adventures, the tour includes a stop back in Silverton for lunch and shopping. This gives travelers a chance to stretch their legs, browse local shops, and enjoy the small-town atmosphere. Silverton’s historic storefronts and local eateries provide a relaxed setting to reflect on the morning’s explorations.

While the duration for lunch is not specified, it’s enough for a casual meal and some souvenir shopping. The town itself offers a glimpse into the historic mining era, with many shops selling mining artifacts, handmade crafts, and local products.

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The Optional Train Ride through the Animas River Canyon

The final part of the experience offers an optional train journey from Silverton back to Durango. The train ride lasts about an hour or more and provides a different perspective of the scenic landscape. Traveling through the breathtaking Animas River Canyon, the train offers views of remote wilderness that are less accessible by road.

This train segment is well-loved for its serene atmosphere and panoramic vistas. The journey runs along the Weminuche Wilderness, providing a sense of remoteness and tranquility. Travelers who opt for this ride arrive in Durango just in time for dinner, rounding out a full day of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty.

Logistics and Meeting Details

The tour departs from the Train Station Parking Lot on College Drive, located near a McDonald’s, with a $10 parking fee payable upon arrival. The exact meeting point is marked by a “Mild to Wild” sign and benches, making it easy to find. The tour operates in English, with a live guide leading the group.

Participants should check availability for specific starting times and are encouraged to reserve in advance. The booking process offers flexibility, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, and the option to reserve now and pay later.

Value and Overall Experience

At around $234 per person, this well-rated tour offers a comprehensive experience combining scenic drives, outdoor exploration, and a scenic train journey. The 5.5-hour duration balances activity with relaxation, making it suitable for those seeking a full yet manageable day trip.

The tour’s inclusion of both guided storytelling and flexible return options adds convenience. The opportunity to see mountain vistas, historic sites, and wilderness areas makes this package appealing for outdoor lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

While the tour involves some rugged vehicle rides and uneven terrain, it’s designed to be accessible for most participants with a good level of mobility. The focus on scenic views and local history ensures that travelers gain an authentic sense of the San Juan Mountains.

Silverton and Durango: A Scenic Colorado Adventure

This tour captures the essence of Colorado’s rugged beauty and historic charm. The combination of a picturesque Skyway drive, exploration of Silverton’s mining past, and a rugged Jeep adventure offers a diverse view of the region’s landscapes and stories.

The optional train ride enhances the experience, delivering a peaceful journey through wilderness areas that are hard to access otherwise. For travelers seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, outdoor adventure, and cultural insights, this package stands out as a versatile choice.

The guides’ storytelling and well-organized logistics ensure that participants enjoy a seamless, informative, and scenic day. It’s most suited for those who appreciate stunning mountain scenery, historic towns, and adventure in the wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour involves rugged vehicle rides and outdoor exploration, it generally suits families with older children who are comfortable with some physical activity and uneven terrain.

What should I bring for the Jeep adventure?
Participants should wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, bring sun protection, and possibly a camera to capture the scenic views.

Can I join the train ride separately?
The train ride is an optional addition at the end of the tour. You can choose to include it or opt for just the scenic drive and Jeep exploration.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Yes, there is a $10 parking fee payable on arrival at the Train Station Parking Lot on College Drive.

How flexible are the return options?
Participants can be returned to Durango via van or choose to take the train ride back, based on their preferences and schedule.

What is the provider’s rating?
The experience is offered by Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours, rated 4.6 out of 5, reflecting consistent quality and positive feedback.

This Durango Train & Silverton Jeep Tour Package offers an engaging way to experience Colorado’s stunning mountain scenery and historic mining towns. With a mix of guided stories, outdoor adventure, and scenic train vistas, it promises a memorable day in the San Juan Mountains.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby