Exploring Wild Trails by Vintage Train

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Exploring Wild Trails by Vintage Train

When we think about exploring nature, we often picture driving to the trailhead, lacing up our hiking boots, and grabbing a map. However, in Colorado, the adventure can take a more exciting turn when you hop on a train, disembark miles away from the road, and embark on a journey into lands that no other vehicle can reach.

Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to learn that several train options like this have emerged across North America, allowing them to access untouched areas. These trains enable you to reach remote locations without the need for an arduous hike.

A Unique Experience in Durango

In Durango, Colorado, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (D&SNG) offers visitors the chance to soak in the breathtaking views of San Juan National Park and the Weminuche Wilderness. The on-demand stop service here is a unique way to explore these preserved lands.

The term “on-demand stop” refers to stops that aren’t official train stations—you simply request the train to halt at designated points. These stops are often located in secluded areas and were once the primary means of transport for rural residents in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Current Stop Services

Today, thanks to modern infrastructure and the development of road systems, such stop services have become rare. Most people live in areas accessible by road, and few travel solely by train. However, this service still exists, such as the Hurricane Turn train in Alaska, which continues to operate under the classic on-demand stop model in the most remote parts of this wilderness.

Similarly, VIA Rail in Canada allows passengers to request stops at any point along specific routes, provided they purchase tickets at least 48 hours in advance.

Important Considerations for Train Stop Services

In Colorado, the D&SNG stop service primarily caters to hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, helping them access wilderness areas that can’t be reached by car. This service typically operates from May to October to avoid avalanche risks in winter and uses the diesel-powered Silverton train, which has been in operation for 144 years.

If you're eager to experience an adventure in nature, keep a few important things in mind: you can’t book online—you’ll need to call the railroad’s reservation line (1-888-872-4607) to speak directly with a staff member.

Adventuring by Train

In Alaska, passengers simply wave a white flag to signal the train to stop and purchase tickets upon boarding. With VIA Rail Canada, you’ll also need to talk to staff to buy tickets and arrange your pick-up location.

While there are many preparations to make, using a train to explore the wild is indeed an exciting way for those seeking a thrill without taking too much time. So, what do you need to prepare for your train journey?

Limitations and Safety Rules

First, let someone—a friend or family member—know where you’re going and when you plan to return. Finally, consider equipping yourself with technology like a satellite phone to ensure you have access to emergency help, as cellphone signals in these areas are often weak.

If you’re traveling with pets, it’s best to leave them at home, as dogs and cats are not allowed on the train. The train only permits passengers to bring a limited amount of small luggage, as larger items like fishing rods, climbing gear, or rafts must be stored in a designated area accessible only to staff.

Passenger Experiences

This train journey offers passengers not just transportation, but also unforgettable experiences. Abigail Bliss, an experienced travel journalist in Colorado, took advantage of a short trip in Durango by hiking into the wilderness one way and returning by train.

“The train is truly a practical and often the only way to reach trailheads,” she shares. She hiked into the Weminuche Wilderness on a day trip and returned by train at Elk Park station, covering a total of 11 miles, including parts of the famous Colorado Trail.

Bliss used the AllTrails app to track her route and find her way back to the train stop, where an old sign indicated “Train Pickup.” She describes, “There was just a small sign saying ‘Train Pickup’ nailed to a tree.” Upon arrival, she found two others waiting for the train with her. In fact, being the only one waiting for the train isn’t uncommon.

Once aboard, she felt like a celebrity as other passengers continuously asked about her adventure. “The atmosphere was really fun,” she says. “Most passengers were excited about my experiences.”

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