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Combine an open-air 4x4 into the San Juan high country with a historic train ride through the Animas River Canyon. This full-day Durango-to-Silverton package pairs rugged jeep roads, mining-era history, and sweeping mountain views.
Combine an open-air 4x4 into the San Juan high country with a historic train ride through the Animas River Canyon. This full-day Durango-to-Silverton package pairs rugged jeep roads, mining-era history, and sweeping mountain views.
Morning light hits the Durango train platform and the day stretches uphill: a scenic drive along the San Juan Skyway, a switch to open-air 4x4s, and a return by rail through the Animas River Canyon.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours · Durango, Colorado
Morning light hits the Durango train platform and the day stretches uphill: a scenic drive along the San Juan Skyway, a switch to open-air 4x4s, and a return by rail through the Animas River Canyon.
The route traces two transportation stories—historic mining roads and a 19th-century narrow-gauge railroad—both cut into the rugged San Juan volcanic terrain. Geology here is bold: eroded volcanic calderas, steep ridgelines and alpine basins that feed the Animas River. Silverton itself grew from a 150-year-old mining boom; you’ll see rusted timbers, stone foundations and small-town storefronts that recall its extraction-era past.
On the jeep portion, expect rough, often rocky high-country roads that climb from Durango’s ~6,500 ft up toward Silverton (~9,300 ft), with a net elevation change around 2,700–2,800 ft depending on stops. Open-air Jeeps expose you to wind, sun and sudden weather shifts; meadows and mining relics sit beside steep escarpments and panoramic peaks that top 14,000 ft. Guides provide regional history, route context and safety briefings.
After a lunch and an hour to browse Silverton, the train leg delivers a different perspective—low along the Animas River, threading tight canyon walls and giving views of the Weminuche Wilderness few roads reach.
Practicalities: the full experience is a long day (~10–11 hours), parking at the Durango meeting point carries a $10 fee, and you must purchase the train ticket separately. Layered clothing, sun protection, sturdy shoes and hydration make the day comfortable. Arrive early, carry ID and expect cellphone gaps when you leave the valley.
No—the package covers the jeep and shuttle to Silverton only; you must purchase the Durango & Silverton train ticket separately through the railroad's website.
Yes—infants and small children can ride in strollers for portions, but expect uneven jeep terrain and open-air seating; check with the operator for age or seating restrictions.
Cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund; same-day cancellations are non-refundable per the operator's stated policy.
Durango starts around 6,500 ft and Silverton is near 9,300 ft; mild altitude effects are possible—stay hydrated, eat, avoid alcohol before the trip and notify guides if you feel unwell.
Mild to Wild Rafting and Jeep Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Morning light hits the Durango train platform and the day stretches uphill: a scenic drive along the San Juan Skyway, a switch to open-air 4x4s, and a return by rail through the Animas River Canyon.
Morning light hits the Durango train platform and the day stretches uphill: a scenic drive along the San Juan Skyway, a switch to open-air 4x4s, and a return by rail through the Animas River Canyon.
The route traces two transportation stories—historic mining roads and a 19th-century narrow-gauge railroad—both cut into the rugged San Juan volcanic terrain. Geology here is bold: eroded volcanic calderas, steep ridgelines and alpine basins that feed the Animas River. Silverton itself grew from a 150-year-old mining boom; you’ll see rusted timbers, stone foundations and small-town storefronts that recall its extraction-era past.
On the jeep portion, expect rough, often rocky high-country roads that climb from Durango’s ~6,500 ft up toward Silverton (~9,300 ft), with a net elevation change around 2,700–2,800 ft depending on stops. Open-air Jeeps expose you to wind, sun and sudden weather shifts; meadows and mining relics sit beside steep escarpments and panoramic peaks that top 14,000 ft. Guides provide regional history, route context and safety briefings.
After a lunch and an hour to browse Silverton, the train leg delivers a different perspective—low along the Animas River, threading tight canyon walls and giving views of the Weminuche Wilderness few roads reach.
Practicalities: the full experience is a long day (~10–11 hours), parking at the Durango meeting point carries a $10 fee, and you must purchase the train ticket separately. Layered clothing, sun protection, sturdy shoes and hydration make the day comfortable. Arrive early, carry ID and expect cellphone gaps when you leave the valley.