Get Ready for The Polar Express™ And Cascade Canyon Winter Train From Durango

Excitement is in the crisp air as it will soon be time to experience The Polar Express™ and the Cascade Canyon Winter Train in Colorado. However, there is still time to experience beautiful fall foliage on the Silverton Steam Train with Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The last of those excursions on the historic locomotive to Silverton will depart from Durango on Saturday, October 26, 2024.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad prepares for winter

From October 27 through November 21, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and the Train Museum in downtown Durango will be closed to prepare for winter. Get ready for the winter excursions from Friday, November 22 with The Polar Express™ Train Ride and Cascade Canyon Winter Train.

The Polar Express™ Train Ride

From November 22, 2024, to January 4, 2025, The Polar Express™ Train Ride is based on the best-selling children’s book of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg.

The enchanting winter train ride is fun for the whole family, including plenty of hot cocoa, storytelling, and, of course, a visit from Santa. Moreover, the train ride brings the holiday classic to life for travelers of all ages.

The roundtrip journey takes approximately 65 minutes, but guests should plan on spending at least two hours to enjoy the full experience. This includes a holiday-themed display at the D&SNGRR Railroad Museum and photos with Santa after the train ride.

As a reminder, The Polar Express™ starts on Friday, November 22, 2024, and will operate most days through Saturday, January 4, 2025, with multiple departures.

Cascade Canyon Winter Train

Running from November 22, 2024, to May 2, 2025, the historic steam locomotives depart from Durango Depot. The train takes guests back in time while heading through the remote winter landscapes of Colorado’s San Juan Mountains.

Meanwhile, the route heads out for 26 miles along the Animas River from Durango to Cascade Mountain. Along the way, guests can see the most iconic features of the journey, including the Highline, a section of track taking the train 400 feet above the river.

Moreover, the round-trip journey takes 5.25 hours in cozy and comfortable, heated coaches. It also includes a 60-minute stop in the scenic Cascade Canyon, where guests can take photos, and enjoy a fireside lunch. Alternatively, take a peaceful winter stroll along the Animas River.

Whether planning a last-minute fall train ride, booking The Polar Express™ for the family, or taking the Cascade Canyon Winter Train, bookings are available online at durangotrain.com.