COVID-19: Travel Updates and Information

As many of you have heard, La Plata County, in which Durango sits, will move into Colorado’s most restrictive COVID-19 tier, Level Red, effective Friday, November 20. This mandate has been brought about to curb and control rises in cases that seen across our state as well as many others. The railroad has diligently consulted with our local health authority, and we are happy to report that our operating plan meets with approval for us to operate as planned. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is continuing with its operations to both Cascade Canyon and also the beloved THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride beginning on Friday, Nov. 20th.

As always, the D&SNGRR remains fully committed to ensuring the health and well-being of its guests, employees, vendors, and business partners, and it fully supports all local, state and federal government health regulatory agencies overseeing COVID-19 restrictions and hygiene protocols. The company manages its Cascade Canyon excursions, special events, and all railroad facilities with strict adherence to rigorous safety practices and procedures, including high-frequency sanitation of commonly-touched surfaces; the required wearing of face masks/coverings at all times aboard the train and throughout all facilities; the strict implementation of social distancing in passenger coaches; and the operation of trains at limited passenger capacity to maximize employee and guest safety.

Traveling to Durango

• Durango and the state of Colorado have reached a phase of reopening which allows businesses like ours to remain open along with certain health and safety protocols in place.
• Regardless of where you are while in public, take care to remain at least six feet from others not in your household.
• As of May 21, face coverings are required in Durango. City of Durango order #2020-08 requires all persons to wear a face-covering when entering, waiting in line to enter, and while in the following locations within the City of Durango, regardless of whether they have a fever or symptoms of COVID-19.
• As of July 16, Colorado order D 2020 138 requires all individuals over ten (10) years old must wear a face covering over their noses and mouths when entering or moving within any public indoor space or while waiting outside in public areas for transportation services like taxis, trains, buses, etc.
• If you are sick, experiencing symptoms, or have been around those who are sick, please do not visit or travel away from home.
• Find more Durango specific guidelines here.

Enhanced Safety Measures

• Increased frequency of cleaning and disinfecting stations, seats after concluding excursions, and stricter protocols for cleaning all high-contact surfaces.
• Distributed hand sanitizer across the property.
• Sanitizing products used are all approved by the CDC and effectively eliminate the COVID-19 virus.
• Practicing social distancing (Social Distancing Protocols are in place).
• Colorado and mask mandate requires all staff and guests to wear a mask or facial covering while on property.
• Operating trains at no more than 50% occupancy with options for open air cars.
• Open windows in all cars on all current excursions.

Current Excursions and Experiences

• We’re thrilled to offer the Winter Cascade Canyon Train through April 2021! This excursion features a historic steam train traveling 26 miles each way on a 5-hour round trip train ride to Cascade Canyon. Departing from the Durango Depot, this trip takes you up into the Rocky Mountains with views of the San Juan National Forest as you travel alongside the beautiful Animas River while relaxing in heated coaches.
• Due to COVID19, we are canceling our excursions to Silverton for the remainder of the 2020 season.
• The D&SNGRR’s Downtown Durango Depot is open 7 days a week! You are welcome to relive the train’s vibrant history through our heritage museum.
• Click here to book your trip on the Winter Cascade Canyon Train!!