The Durango Silverton, Colorado Rockies

The night before, we gathered at the railroad yard, a place where history still breathes in the hiss of steam and the clang of metal. The yard was an impressive sight—there was the massive turntable, an old steel giant that rotated the trains for maintenance and direction changes, a ritual that hasn’t changed for over a century. The smell of oil and coal hung in the cold air, mixing with the snow that blanketed the ground. These trains had lived through decades of history, from their golden age in the late 19th century to the present day. Here, in the yard, you could feel the weight of that history. The engines, meticulously maintained, seemed to hum with life, as if ready to carry us into the past with every puff of smoke.

The next morning, snow still clinging to the trees that lined the tracks, we boarded the train, cameras in hand, eager to capture this rare moment. The train, a powerful black engine, exhaled thick clouds of steam as it slowly made its way through the quiet mountain landscape. There was a coldness in the air, but it was invigorating, a reminder that this moment—this experience—was something unique, fleeting.

The landscape around us was one of breathtaking beauty. As we chugged through the San Juan Mountains, the white snow on the ground gave way to towering cliffs, frozen rivers, and endless stretches of pine forests. It was a winter wonderland The train itself was a character in the landscape, as much a part of the scenery as the snow-capped mountains. Every time the engine roared to life, its steam billowing into the crisp air, it seemed to wake up the entire valley, as if reminding the mountains and trees of their own history.

The Durango-Silverton Railroad has a long and storied history.
Originally built in the late 19th century to transport silver and gold from the mines in Silverton, the railroad played a pivotal role in the economic growth of the region. Over time, the trains became a symbol of the West, an integral part of the landscape. Today, the Durango-Silverton Steam Railroad, still using its historic steam engines, offers one of the most scenic and unforgettable train rides in the world.

As the train continued its journey through the rugged terrain, I found myself reflecting on how rare these experiences are. The train, the landscape, the snow—all of it seemed so ancient, yet so alive.

The Durango-Silverton Steam Railroad is more than just a train ride through the mountains—it’s a living, breathing piece of history. And for those who are fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of it, either through the lens of a camera or the experience of the ride itself.