Ultimate Train & Trail Ride

Available June 20 - August 4, 2011

Your ultimate western adventure is just beginning as you leave Durango on the 8:00am steam train bound for Silverton. At Elk Park, one of the experienced wranglers with San Juan Sky Outfitters is waiting with horses to meet you and you will be the envy of all those left behind! You'll get to meet the horse personally chosen for you and begin your ride along the Colorado Trail deep in to the Weminuche Wilderness Area and to the top of Molas Pass. On a clear day you will see over 20 different mountain peaks on your ride to the top of the pass. About halfway to the summit you will stop for lunch at the Animas River overlook. Here, an outfitters tent is tucked among the aspen and pine trees with table & chairs, fire pit and a rustic, outdoor toilet facility. You can relax and appreciate the spectacular views while the hamburgers, hot dogs and chicken breasts are being grilled for your lunch! Chips, candy bars and soft drinks are also included. After lunch you can take some more photos before you mount and continue up the Colorado Trail along sweeping meadows, granite cliffs and a 60-ft waterfall. You’ll want to have lots of film or memory card to record this wonderful day. Once you reach the top of Molas Pass and say goodbye to your sturdy steed, your shuttle will get you into Silverton a little before 3:00pm. From there you can catch the 3:30pm steam train to arrive back in Durango at 7:00pm. Other return options include spending the evening in Silverton and return to Durango via the 9:00pm D&S bus (additional $12 fare; 10:30pm arrival); or stay overnight in Silverton with return steam train trip to Durango on any subsequent day.

REQUIREMENTS:
Minimum age is six years old.
Maximum weight limit is 225 lbs.
Riders must have closed-toed shoes.

PREPARING FOR THE RIDE:
In addition to closed-toed shoes (cowboy boots really are the best, but not necessary) a brimmed hat, light jacket and long pants will provide the best comfort for your ride. Rain slickers, sunscreen and water bottles are supplied as needed during your ride. This ride is primarily uphill, which is easier for our mountain-schooled and disciplined horses and for the rider.

FARES:
Adult (ages 12 & over) - $399*
Child (ages 6-11) - $359*
*Includes 4% Historic Preservation Fee on train ticket portion.

AVAILABILITY DATES:
June 20 – August 4, 2011 (Monday through Thursday only)

SCHEDULE:
8:00am - Train departs for Silverton
11:03am-Disembark the train at Elk Park
1:00pm - Stop for fire-grilled lunch
2:00pm -Continue ride to the top of Molas Pass
2:30pm - Meet the shuttle to Silverton
3:00pm- Board the train for the return trip to Durango

Note: If you would like to extend your visit to give you time to explore the historic town of Silverton, please ask your booking agent about the late bus (9:00pm) back or about opportunities to overnight in Silverton and return to Durango another day.

Make your plans to take this trip now!

Please call 970-247-2733 or 1-888-872-4607 for more information and to book reservations.