Durango Train and Silverton Jeep Tour Package

If you’re dreaming of a day in the Colorado Rockies with awe-inspiring vistas, historic charm, and a bit of rugged adventure, the Durango Train and Silverton Jeep Tour might just tick those boxes. Based on glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, this experience promises a full day of exploration that combines the scenic beauty of the San Juan Mountains with a taste of local history and outdoor thrill.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it seamlessly blends different modes of travel — from a relaxing train ride through breathtaking canyon scenery to an energetic open-air Jeep tour across rugged terrain. Plus, the tour is well-structured, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. One aspect to keep in mind is the price point, which is quite fair considering the variety of sights and activities packed into the day.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the trip is not without its minor drawbacks. Some reviewers have pointed out that transportation to and from the tour, like the shuttle vans, can be a bit rough or basic, and the train tickets are an additional expense. Still, overall, this tour tends to attract travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and spectacular views, making it ideal for those wanting a balanced, scenic day that’s full of Colorado’s classic mountain charm.

If you’re someone who loves picturesque drives, fascinating local stories, and memorable outdoor activities, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day out and enjoy discovering a new landscape with a knowledgeable guide along for the ride.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery from the San Juan Skyway, with dramatic mountain vistas.
• Expert guides provide engaging stories and local insights.
• Diverse experiences: scenic train ride, rugged Jeep tour, and free time in Silverton.
• Good value considering the variety of activities and sights.
• Limited group size for a more personal experience.
• Additional costs: train tickets and meals are not included, so budget accordingly.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a good mix of guided experience and free exploration. Included are the entertaining guides, scenic drives in air-conditioned vans, and open-air Jeep tours that bring you into the thick of the San Juan mountains. You’ll also receive water bottles to stay refreshed.

On the flip side, the train ticket and meals are extra. So, if you’re watching your budget, factor in those costs. Also, the tour begins early at 8:00 am from Durango’s Main Avenue and lasts around 10.5 hours, making for a full day packed with activity.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Start: Scenic Drive to Silverton

Your day kicks off with a scenic van ride up the San Juan Skyway. This part alone is worth the price of admission — imagine winding through mountain passes with views of peaks soaring over 14,000 feet. The drive is comfortable and air-conditioned, which is a big plus on warm days. It’s an excellent way to get your first taste of the natural beauty of Colorado’s mountains.

Stop 1: Rugged Jeep Adventure

Once in Silverton, the highlight is the open-air 4×4 Jeep tour. This segment is about three hours long and takes you into the heart of the San Juan Mountains. Expect to see old mining settlements that have been around for 150 years, along with meadows and panoramic mountain views. Your guide’s stories make the experience richer, adding context about the area’s history and environment.

From reviews, we know guides like Jay have been praised for their knowledge, care, and humor. They add a personal touch that makes the rugged terrain more engaging. The Jeep ride is rougher than your typical vehicle, so be prepared for bumpy roads and fresh mountain air.

Stop 2: Silverton Town & Lunch

After the Jeep tour, you’ll have about an hour to explore Silverton — a charming mountain town with a historic Main Street. Many visitors enjoy browsing local shops and grabbing lunch, which gives you a chance to stretch your legs and soak in more of the mountain vibe.

Stop 3: Scenic Train Journey through the Animas River Canyon

The final leg is a train ride from Silverton back down to Durango. This isn’t just any train ride — it’s a trip through the Animas River Canyon, part of the Weminuche Wilderness. This stretch offers views that differ from the shuttle route, giving you a sense of remote wilderness. Expect towering mountains on either side and stunning blue waters below.

The train ride lasts about four hours. Keep in mind, the train ticket is an additional cost, but many find it to be a worthwhile splurge because of the scenery and the nostalgia of riding a historic Colorado train.

End of the Day: Return and Dinner

Your day concludes back at the Durango station, where you can enjoy dinner options or plan your next adventure. The bus/van transport back is simple, but some reviews mention the ride can be a bit rickety, so pack patience if you’re sensitive to rough roads.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One of the standout elements of this tour is the guide experience. “No Title” review from Antoinette_C called out Jay’s entertaining and knowledgeable style, describing him as “extremely caring and funny,” which elevated the entire day. This highlights how a good guide can turn a standard tour into a memorable adventure.

On the flip side, a less favorable review from AMANDA_F pointed out issues with transportation and the train ticket—specifically mentioning a “rattle trap Ford pickup” and missing train tickets. While these are isolated incidents, they serve as a reminder to be prepared for some rough rides and to double-check what’s included.

The majority of reviews are glowing, emphasizing the spectacular views and the guides’ expertise. With a 4.9 out of 5 rating from 30 reviews, it’s clear that most travelers find this tour delivers on its promises.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those who love scenic drives, mountain landscapes, and outdoor adventures but prefer to keep the logistics organized with guided tours. It suits travelers who enjoy a full, active day and are comfortable with some rougher terrain during the Jeep portion.

While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the open-air Jeep and train ride might appeal to older kids and teens interested in adventure and nature. If you value knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas, this tour offers great bang for your buck.

Final Thoughts

The Durango Train and Silverton Jeep Tour is a well-rounded way to experience some of Colorado’s best mountain scenery and historic towns. Its combination of a scenic Skyway drive, rugged Jeep exploration, and a breathtaking train journey makes for a diverse, engaging day that appeals to travelers seeking outdoor beauty and authentic local flavor.

While the costs for train tickets and meals are extra, most guests agree that the views, guide expertise, and variety of experiences make this a worthwhile outing. If you’re after a full-day adventure that offers both ease and excitement, this trip delivers.

For those who appreciate knowledgeable guides, breathtaking vistas, and a taste of Colorado’s rugged outdoors, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and a willingness to enjoy the ride — bumps and all.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the open-air Jeep ride and train journey could appeal to older children and teens who enjoy outdoor adventures, but keep in mind the Jeep ride can be bumpy.

What’s the start time?
The tour begins at 8:00 am from Durango’s Main Avenue, so it’s a full-day commitment.

Are the train tickets included?
No, train tickets are an additional cost. Make sure to purchase or reserve your tickets ahead of time if you want to ride the train.

What should I bring?
Bring water bottles, layered clothing for mountain weather, and your camera. The tour provides water, but extra snacks or small meals are up to you.

How long is the entire tour?
Approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each segment without feeling rushed.

Is transportation comfortable?
The scenic drive in air-conditioned vans is comfortable. However, some reviews mention that the transport to and from the tour, like the shuttle vans, can be a bit basic or rough, so pack accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there is free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour, making it flexible for schedule changes.

This detailed look hopefully helps you decide if this adventure fits your Colorado trip. With its mix of scenery, history, and outdoor fun, it offers a memorable way to enjoy Durango and the surrounding mountains.