From Durango: All-Day Zipline Adventure with Train & Lunch

If you’re considering a day of outdoor fun in Colorado, the All-Day Zipline Adventure with Train & Lunch from Durango is worth a look. This tour combines two of the most exciting ways to experience Colorado’s rugged beauty: soaring across treetops on ziplines and riding in style aboard a historic train. It’s designed to be a fun, family-friendly outing that also appeals to adventure lovers and anyone wanting a taste of the wilderness without sacrificing comfort.

We love how this experience balances adrenaline with leisure. The scenic train ride offers a relaxed way to soak in Colorado’s mountains and valleys, while the ziplining adds that rush of excitement—flying through pine forests and over canyons. Plus, the gourmet lunch suspended over the river sounds like a truly memorable way to finish the day. That said, it’s not a cheap outing, and the price tag might give some pause, especially for families or travelers on a budget.

This tour seems well-suited for those craving a full, varied day outdoors—those who want a mix of scenic travel, active adventure, and good food. If you’re looking for something more laid-back or on a tighter budget, this might be a bit much. But if splurging on a special day in Colorado sounds right, it’s a pretty polished option.

Key Points

• Scenic train journey: Ride first-class on the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and enjoy the breathtaking mountain views.
• Thrilling ziplining: Cross 27 lines through the treetops, with assistance from knowledgeable guides, suitable for most ages.
• Unique dining experience: Savor a four-course gourmet meal suspended over the Animas River, with vegetarian and children’s options available.
• Educational component: Learn about sustainability and forest preservation, adding depth to the adventure.
• Duration and convenience: The full day typically lasts around 8.5 hours, including all activities and travel.
• Price point: At $648 per person, expect a premium experience—worth it if you prioritize memorable, high-quality adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at This Full Day of Adventure

Starting with the Scenic Train Ride

Your day begins aboard the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad—a historic train that has been chugging through Colorado’s mountains for over a century. Traveling in a first-class car, you get a comfortable, slightly elevated view of the rugged landscape. This isn’t just transportation; it’s part of the experience. The train’s route meanders along the canyon, crossing bridges and following the roaring Animas River, which has starred in numerous films.

Travelers consistently praise the stunning scenery visible from the train, with many noting the smooth ride and the luxury of the first-class amenities. The train helps set the tone for the day—relaxed yet filled with spectacular views. Plus, the historic aspect adds a layer of charm that appeals to those interested in Colorado’s railroad heritage.

Arriving at the Remote Zipline Location

After about 1.5 to 2 hours on the train, you arrive in a secluded part of San Juan National Forest. This spot is well away from crowds, nestled among towering pines and dense forest. It’s here that the real adventure begins. The Sky Rangers greet you, providing a quick safety briefing and instruction on how to zipline safely. They’re friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful, which is reassuring whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced thrill-seeker.

The Ziplining Through the Pines

The core activity is the zipline course, boasting 27 lines that send you flying through the treetops. The experience is suitable for most ages, making it a popular choice for families, although certain restrictions apply (not suitable for children under 4, pregnant women, or those over 264 lbs). The zipline guides stay with you throughout, assisting on platforms and ensuring everyone feels secure.

What makes this really stand out is the scenery. Flying across pine forests and canyon views, you get a real sense of Colorado’s wilderness. Reviewers mention the professionalism and helpfulness of the crew and the fun, energetic atmosphere. The feeling of gliding above the trees, with the breeze and the sounds of nature, is genuinely exhilarating. It’s a great way to get your adrenaline fix while appreciating the natural surroundings.

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Learning About Forest Sustainability

A nice touch during the day is the educational component. The guides share insights into the preservation of ponderosa pine forests, making this more than just a thrill ride. It’s a chance to connect with the environment and understand the importance of conservation efforts in this region.

The Gourmet Lunch Suspended Over the River

After the ziplining, the tour takes a luxurious turn. You’re invited to a four-course meal served on a suspended platform high above the Animas River. This isn’t your typical picnic: skilled chefs prepare a variety of dishes, including vegetarian and children’s options. Sitting here, surrounded by the sound of rushing water and the sight of forested hills, makes for a truly memorable dining experience.

The menu is designed to be gourmet, so expect a level of culinary care that elevates what might seem like a simple meal. The unique setting is often highlighted in reviews, with many praising the combination of great food and spectacular views.

Wrap-Up and Return

The entire adventure, including the train ride, ziplining, and lunch, takes roughly 8.5 hours. It’s a full day, so comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a sense of adventure are recommended. The guides and staff handle all equipment and logistics, which means you can focus on enjoying yourself without worrying about the details.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $648 per person, this tour isn’t inexpensive. But when you consider what’s included—first-class train travel, 27 zipline crossings, and a gourmet meal with stunning setting—the value becomes clearer. It’s a curated experience that combines scenic travel, active fun, and good food in one package, making it feel like a true splurge for special occasions or memorable family outings.

Some reviews note that the experience is “perfect,” though one traveler from France mentions it’s “a bit expensive,” which is fair. If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized, high-quality adventure days that cover several highlights of Colorado’s outdoors, it’s likely worth the cost.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This all-day experience is ideal for those who want a mix of scenic travel, physical activity, and gourmet dining. It suits families with older children (over 4 years) and those who don’t mind spending a little extra for a premium outing. If you’re a couple, a group of friends, or even a solo traveler looking for a memorable adventure, it offers a well-rounded day out.

However, it might not be perfect if you’re on a tight budget, prefer a shorter or more relaxed activity, or have physical restrictions (given the weight limit and age restrictions). It’s also not suitable for pregnant women, so keep that in mind.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for children over 4 years old. The guides assist in making the ziplining safe and fun for most ages, but younger children or those with certain health restrictions should check with the provider.

How long does the entire day last?
The full experience is about 8.5 hours, including the train ride, ziplining, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
All equipment, first-class train tickets, ziplining adventure, and a four-course meal are included.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the gourmet lunch offers vegetarian dishes and options for children.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

Is the train ride comfortable?
Yes, especially in first-class, which offers a more comfortable and scenic journey.

What about safety?
Guides are present throughout the ziplining course, providing safety instructions and assistance to ensure a secure experience.

Is it accessible for people with disabilities?
The provided info doesn’t specify accessibility accommodations, so it’s best to contact the provider directly if needed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are required; open-toed shoes are not allowed. Dress for the weather, and bring sun protection.

Is this experience good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. It’s a group activity, and the guides and other participants make it easy to enjoy the day even alone.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day that combines the thrill of zipping through the trees with the comfort of a scenic train ride and a luxurious meal, this All-Day Zipline Adventure with Train & Lunch offers a memorable way to explore Colorado’s wilderness. It’s a well-organized, high-quality experience that caters to those eager for a mix of adventure, scenery, and good food.

While the price may be a consideration, the overall value lies in the unique combination of activities and the chance to enjoy Colorado’s natural beauty from multiple angles. This tour is especially suited for those who want a full, engaging day in the outdoors, with plenty of chances to take in the views—and maybe even capture some great photos along the way.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a day of memorable fun, this adventure could be just what you’re looking for in Durango.

You can check availability for your dates here: