Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The railroad once carried $300 million in gold and silver ore from Silverton to Durango. A ride of this train brings back the romance of the railroad days when coal-operated locomotives rode the rails through the San Juan Mountains. It winds through some of the West's most dramatic country and a climb over the spectacular Molas Pass.
Daily tours leace from Durango or Silverton.
Call 1-970-247-2733
Durango
Surrounded by the San Juan Mountains and located in the Animas River Valley, Durango is near the Four Corners National Monument where Arizona, Colorado, Utah and New Mexico meet. Its name comes from the Basque "urango" meaning "water town."
Call 1-800-525-8855
Moab
Moab is neighbor to two national parks: Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Famous for its desert scenery and outdoor adventure, the region offers biking on slickrock, jeeping, whitewater rafting, hiking and spectacular vistas and petroglyphs. Moab is located 130 miles, approximately 2.5 hours, from Telluride.
Call 1-800-635-6622
Ouray
A National Historic District since 1983, this former mining town is full of natural wonders: the spectacular Box Canyon Falls, natural hot springs pool and vapor caves. The rugged Imogene Pass/Tomboy Road 4WD route connects Ouray and Telluride in late summer and fall.
Call 1-800-228-1876, 1-970-325-4746
San Juan Skyway
If byways could claim royal lineage, this one would probably rule them all. Base yourself in Telluride and explore the exquisite views on this gorgeous loop. This Scenic and Historic Byway is one of six All-American Roads recognized for outstanding scenic, geologic and historic sites. Plan on a leisurely eight-hour drive where numerous points of interest allow you to pull off, stretch your legs and expand your mind.
Call 1-970-247-4874
Silverton
Originally named Baker's Park, Silverton boasts the earliest gold and silver finds in the region. Few new buildings have been constructed in this small town since 1910, so Silverton remains an authentic turn of the century Victorian scene, designated a National Historic District.
Call 1-800-752-4494, 1-970-387-5654
Unaweep/Tabeguache Scenic & Historic Byway
This scenic route between Grand Junction and Telluride is made up of highways 141 and 145. Follow Unaweep Canyon’s red sandstone walls down a historic path that dates back to Precambrian times and has hosted everything from dinosaurs to miners. Stop and see a hanging flume from the 1880’s and the remains of Driggs Mansion, built for a wealthy New Yorker in the early 1900’s. Located 161 miles, approximately 3.25 hours, from Telluride.
Call 1-800-4byways or Visit
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