Durango & Silverton's Highline Express: All Aboard the Golden Hour Express
A sunset journey on America's "best scenic train ride."
As the late afternoon sun paints the San Juan Mountains in hues of amber and gold, a whistle pierces the mountain air. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad’s newest offering, the Highline Express, is ready to depart. This isn’t just another train ride; it’s a journey through time and terrain that showcases why this historic railroad was recently crowned the “best scenic train ride” by USA Today readers.
Imagine yourself settling into an open-air gondola, the crisp mountain breeze carrying the scent of pine and adventure. As the train chugs out of Durango’s charming depot at 4:30 p.m., you’re embarking on a three-and-a-half-hour odyssey that promises to capture the magic of the Golden Hour in the heart of Colorado’s rugged wilderness.
The Highline Express is a masterclass in efficient sightseeing. While it doesn’t make the full run to Silverton, it serves up the route’s greatest hits in a condensed timeframe. This makes it perfect for travelers with tight schedules or families with young children who might find longer journeys challenging.
The trip’s highlight comes around 6 p.m. when the train reaches the infamous Highline. You’ll find yourself teetering on a 400-foot cliff, the churning Animas River far below. It’s a heart-stopping moment that encapsulates the audacity of 19th-century engineering and the raw beauty of the Colorado wilderness.
As you round the Horseshoe Curve, a marvel of railroad design, you’ll have a chance to see your own locomotive in action – a rare treat for train enthusiasts and casual observers alike. The golden light of the setting sun makes every vista more dramatic, turning an already spectacular journey into something truly extraordinary.
For photographers, this excursion is a dream come true. The alpenglow on the peaks, the play of light and shadow in the valleys, and the steam from the locomotive create endless opportunities for stunning shots. Pro tip: bring a fast lens to capture the fleeting moments of sunset without motion blur.
The Highline Express isn’t just about the views; it’s a full sensory experience. The rhythmic chug of the engine, the wail of the whistle echoing off canyon walls, and the strolling musician playing Western tunes all contribute to an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and exhilarating.
Practicalities are well taken care of. You can pre-order a boxed meal or visit the concession car for snacks and drinks. The open-air gondola seating, while slightly pricier, offers an unparalleled immersive experience that’s well worth the extra cost.
Running only on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays until July 31, the Highline Express is a limited-time offering that shouldn’t be missed. At $89 for adults and $65 for children (plus a small preservation fee) for the open-air gondola, it’s an accessible luxury that delivers outsized memories.
As you roll back into Durango just after 8 p.m., bathed in the day’s last light, you’ll understand why this railroad has captured the hearts of so many. It’s not just a train ride; it’s a journey through the soul of the American West, set against a backdrop that no painter could improve upon.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad’s Highline Express is more than transportation; it’s time travel, nature immersion, and photographic paradise all rolled into one unforgettable evening. All aboard for the ride of a lifetime!