D&SNG Silverton Bridge - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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Old Ruins

About D&SNG Silverton Bridge

The Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad's Silverton Bridge is a steel truss bridge that spans the Animas River in San Juan County, Colorado. The bridge was built in 1893 to connect the town of Silverton with the rest of the D&RGW railroad network. At the time of its completion, it was the highest railroad bridge in the world, with a height of 365 feet above the river. Today, the Silverton Bridge is still an important part of the D&RGW network, carrying both freight and passenger trains.

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Things to Do at D&SNG Silverton Bridge

D&SNG Silverton Bridge, San Juan county, colorado is the perfect place to visit for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, the area is renowned for its beautiful scenery and endless opportunities for adventure. There are numerous hiking and biking trails to explore, and the nearby Animas River provides a perfect playground for kayaking and rafting. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are plenty of scenic drives to enjoy, and the town of Silverton offers a range of shops and restaurants to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a peaceful getaway or an action-packed adventure, D&SNG Silverton Bridge is the perfect destination.

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History of D&SNG Silverton Bridge

The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a historic train line that runs between the towns of Durango and Silverton in southwestern Colorado. The line was originally built in 1882 to transport silver and gold ore from the mines in Silverton to the smelters in Durango. In addition to being a vital link for the mining industry, the train also became a popular tourist attraction, offering passengers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains. In 1981, the line was added to the National Register of Historic Places, and today it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Colorado. The Silverton Bridge, which spans the Animas River, is one of the most iconic features of the train line. The bridge was built in 1893 and is one of the longest and highest railroad bridges in North America. It is truly an engineering marvel, and it is no wonder that it has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Colorado.

Best Time to Visit D&SNG Silverton Bridge

The best time to visit is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny and the crowds are thinner. However, the fall months are also a good time to visit, as the leaves change color and the temperatures are cooler.

Tips for Visiting D&SNG Silverton Bridge

  1. Dress for the weather. The temperature can vary significantly at different times of year, so be sure to pack accordingly.
  2. There are many hiking trails in the area if you're looking for a little adventure. Be sure to pick up a map before you head out.
  3. If you're visiting with young children, there's plenty for them to do in Silverton too. The park has a playground and a variety of kid-friendly activities.
  4.  There are several restaurants and cafes located nearby if you need to grab a bite to eat or want to take a break from sightseeing.
  5. Be mindful of the weather conditions. If it is windy or rainy, the bridge may be closed for safety reasons.
  6. Do not attempt to cross the bridge if it is flooded. The river can rise quickly during thunderstorms, so please use caution when visiting after heavy rains.
  7. San Juan county has some of the darkest skies in Colorado, so if you're visiting at night, be sure to look up! You might see some incredible stars and even the Northern Lights if you're lucky.

Interesting Facts and Trivias About D&SNG Silverton Bridge

  1. The D&SNG Silverton Bridge was built in 1882 and is the only way to get across the Animas River.
  2.  It is a truss bridge, meaning that it has a series of interlocking beams that support the weight of the bridge and keep it from collapsing.
  3. The bridge is 1,587 feet long, making it the longest bridge in the state of Colorado.
  4. The bridge has been used in several movies and TV shows, including "Thelma & Louise" and "Breaking Bad." 
  5. The D&SNG Silverton Bridge is an essential part of life in San Juan County, providing both a connection to the outside world and a beautiful view of the Animas River valley."
  6. The Silverton Bridge is one of the most popular hiking and photography spots in Durango. 
  7.  In 2000, the bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at D&SNG Silverton Bridge

The maximum time required to explore the D&SNG Silverton Bridge is 2 hours.

How to Reach D&SNG Silverton Bridge

The best way to reach it is by car. From Denver, take I-70 west to Silverton. Take the first exit for US 550 south. Follow US 550 south for about 12 miles until you reach the bridge. There is a parking area on the east side of the bridge.

Entrance Fee of D&SNG Silverton Bridge

Admission to D&SNG Silverton Bridge is free, but there is a charge for parking. You can find more information on the bridge's website.
 

Opening Hours of D&SNG Silverton Bridge

The bridge is open all year round, but hours may vary depending on the season. Check ahead of time so you don't miss out on any of the fun.
 

Attractions Near D&SNG Silverton Bridge

Silverton

Silverton

2.59km from D&SNG Silverton Bridge

Silverton is a town in San Juan County, Colorado. It is the county seat and former capital of the silver-mining district of northwestern San Juan County, which produced more than $300 million worth of silver at its peak in the late 1870s. Silverton no longer exists as an incorporated municipality, but still maintains a small town feel with many Victorian-era wooden homes and commercial buildings. The town is a popular destination for tourists visiting the nearby San Juan Mountains and so more.

Kendall Mountain Recreation Area

Kendall Mountain Recreation Area

2.68km from D&SNG Silverton Bridge

Kendall Mountain Recreation Area is located in San Juan County. The area includes a variety of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. There are also several picnic areas and camping sites available. This is a popular spot for wildlife watching, as the area is home to a variety of animals including deer, elk, bears, and mountain lions. The recreation area is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing in the winter months.

Sultan Mountain

Sultan Mountain

3.19km from D&SNG Silverton Bridge

Sultan Mountain is located in San Juan County, Colorado. The mountain is a popular destination for hiking and camping, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Sultan Mountain is home to a variety of plant and animal life, and is a popular spot for bird watching. The mountain is also home to a number of historical sites, including an old mining town. Visitors to Sultan Mountain can explore the many trails, go bird watching, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views.

Animas Canyon

Animas Canyon

4.18km from D&SNG Silverton Bridge

Animas Canyon is a scenic canyon located in San Juan County, Colorado. The canyon is home to a variety of plant and animal life, and it is a popular destination for hiking and camping. The Animas River flows through the canyon, and there are numerous hiking trails that wind along the river. The canyon is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, and bighorn sheep. In addition to its natural beauty, Animas Canyon also has a rich history.

Molas Pass

Molas Pass

6.26km from D&SNG Silverton Bridge

Molas Pass is a high mountain pass in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. The pass is located on the continental divide at an elevation of 10,910 feet above sea level. It is traversed by U.S. Highway 550 between the towns of Silverton and Ouray in Ouray County. The pass is named for the abundance of molas, a type of sunflower, that grow in the area. The pass provides access to the San Juans from the north side and is a popular starting point for hikes into the Weminuche Wilderness.

Old Hundred Gold Mine

Old Hundred Gold Mine

8.25km from D&SNG Silverton Bridge

The Old Hundred Gold Mine is located in San Juan County, Colorado. The mine is a former underground gold mine that operated from 1872 to 1991. The mine is now a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can take tours of the underground tunnels and see the equipment used in the mining process. The Old Hundred Gold Mine is also home to a museum, which displays artifacts from the mining era. The mine is open to the public from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Discover More Attractions in San Juan County, Home of D&SNG Silverton Bridge

San Juan County

San Juan County

29 attractions

San Juan County, located in the southwest corner of Colorado, is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. The county is home to several popular National Parks and Monuments, including Mesa Verde National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Hovenweep National Monument. In addition, the San Juan Mountains offer ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing. Thanks to its abundant natural beauty, San Juan County is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colorado. In fact, the county w

Location of D&SNG Silverton Bridge

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