Summer Activities in Silverton
Summertime is when Silverton shines! Enjoy the endless recreational possibilities in our beautiful mountain town. Please see Backcountry Updates for information on rules and regulations.
The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers you an unforgettable, once in a lifetime experience through the beautiful San Juan Mountains. This historic, coal-fired, steam-powered, scenic railroad runs May through October with service to Silverton and November through April with service to Cascade Canyon. For more information on options, including staying overnight in Silverton and returning another day, or taking back a late bus to Durango, check Attractions.
D&SNGRR's Website
Explore the peaks, traverse the trails, be engulfed in beautiful high alpine wildflowers and discover much more! With 89% of The San Juan Mountains being public lands, there is a plethora of hiking opportunities, catering to all skill levels and preferences. Each hike promises awe-inspiring vistas that will leave you craving more. For additional information, visit the Silverton Visitor's Center at 414 Greene St. or the San Juan Public Lands Office at 1428 Greene St.
Silverton Visitor's Center
From May through October, we provide stunning camping experiences for tents and RVs. Primitive campsites at South Mineral Creek and Molas Lake Park boast breathtaking panoramas and secluded spots. Feel free to explore in any direction to discover your own slice of paradise on BLM and USFS public lands. If you prefer modern amenities, Silverton offers several campgrounds with full-service hookups, showers, and restrooms available throughout the summer season.
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Silverton and San Juan County have some of the most amazing single track trails to ride on! What's even more exciting is our trail system is growing and becoming a world class mountain biking destination. Please check out our local mountain bike group's website, Silverton Single Track Society, for specific trail information.
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The San Juan Mountains provide crystal, clear waters for dropping a line. Many rivers and streams are within easy reach from Silverton and the high alpine lakes offer up excellent pan-size trout. Town-owned Molas Lake Park, 4 miles south of town, is a popular spot to cast your line.
Colorado Parks & Wildlife's brochure has printable fishing maps and important information on ways anglers can protect their fisheries from illicit stocking and aquatic nuisance species.
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World-class upper Animas River whitewater rafting right out of Silverton. At peak flows this is one of the most demanding commercial whitewater runs in the U.S. During the rest of the season, which is 80-90% of the time, this is a trip for most anybody with a sense of adventure and a love for the outdoors. Lower Animas River rafting also available.
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An exciting way to see the San Juan Mountains is by horseback. You'll find several stables and outfitters in the area to help. Let these guides also show you into the backcountry for summer thrills, spectacular wildflowers and big-game hunting during the fall.
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Some of the country's best four-wheel drive roads are found in the area around Silverton. Whether you are exploring ghost towns and mining camps left over from the 1800s along the Alpine Loop or taking in the beauty of the mountains, Silverton is the perfect base camp. Jeep rentals are available if you want to explore these roads on your own. If you prefer to ride along, several guide companies will be happy to take you into the high country.
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See Jeeping above. OHVs are available for rent in San Juan County . Please see Backcountry Updates for file to download on information on rules and regulations, and on Staging Areas. OHV access is only in San Juan County and the Town of Silverton does NOT ALLOW OHV traffic. Park at the end of town and it is an easy walk in!
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Seventy-five miles of road carve through the breathtaking mountains of San Juan County connecting the towns of Silverton, Telluride, Ophir, Ouray, and Lake City. These routes follow ancient paths worn by the Native Americans and later the miners looking for precious metals. Plan your trip accordingly!
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