In commemoration of our cherished K-28 locomotives turning 100-years old, the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is pleased to offer a very rare and unique opportunity to experience an excursion from Durango to Silverton for an overnight and return powered by two Alco K-28s. The helper will be cut in mid-train, recreating a look and train operating scenario that harkens back to earlier decades on the Denver & Rio Grande Western.

The Silverton Train with mid train helper will operate October 16th and 17th. The two-day experience will offer the northbound mid-train helper with numerous run by opportunities to photograph and video this historical recreation. The consist will include a caboose, three coaches, gondola, concession car, and eight freight cars with livery backdated to a mid-1950s Denver and Rio Grande Western look.

Day One (October 16th): The 14-car consist will navigate the Animas Canyon for a 10-hour excursion to Silverton with plenty of locations to photograph the train from along the right of way. After a late afternoon arrival in Silverton, Durango's own and well-known author Jerry Day will give a presentation about the history of the K-28 locomotives during a special cocktail hour held at the Grand Imperial hotel. Complimentary appetizers will be served, and alcohol will be available for purchase. An organized night photo shoot will not be held in Silverton, however guests are welcome to capture images of the locomotives and consist at the Silverton depot on their own accord throughout the evening.

Day Two (October 17th): For the southbound return trip back to Durango, our K-28s will power two separate trains, one freight and one passenger, for the return trip to Durango. Again, there will be ample photo run by opportunities offered throughout the day.

A box lunch for each guest is included for both days of the excursion.

Overnight accommodations are NOT included in the price, however a block of rooms is available on a first come, first served basis at the Grand Imperial Hotel in Silverton at a 15% discounted price. Rooms can be reserved by calling the Grand Imperial Hotel directly at (970) 387-5527.

While extremely unlikely, if due to any unforeseen event one of our K-28s is not available for service for the mid-train helper, that role will be filled by one of our K-36 or K-37 locomotives.

OCT 16th
Durango Departure: 6:30 AM
Silverton Arrival: 4:30 PM
Cocktail Hour: 5:30 PM

OCT: 17th
Silverton Departure 9:00 AM
Durango Arrival 6:30 PM

Fare:
$795. Coach seating (includes lunch)
*plus 8% historic preservation fee

Note: Passengers must have the ability to traverse possible rough terrain, board and de-board with photography equipment safely and expediently many times throughout the day. Although we don't exclude children, these events are designed for adult photographer enthusiasts