Durango & Silverton Rwy (# 0323)

If you had asked me before this trip if I had any intention of riding a tourist train, I would have given a very resounding "NO". While I enjoy meeting and chatting with other people who are out exploring, I find that doing things with groups of tourists too often limits my ability to explore, and I find most activities where there is a guide to be frustrating. So, my general practice is to avoid areas with lots of tourists.

BUT, when I was chasing the Cumbres & Toltec trains (earlier pictures), I was surprised to find many of the people who were doing the same thing to be interesting and not typical ‘tourists’. So, I decided to risk taking one of the most famous historic trains of the Rockies – the Durango & Silverton narrow gauge.

However… when I got down to the station and saw the crowds waiting for the train, I almost turned around and left.