Silverton is a small town located in San Juan County, Colorado, United States. Situated amidst the picturesque mountains of the southwester…
Best for you if…
Silverton is a strong pick for outdoor activities & historical sites — plan about 3-5 days, with sights close enough to walk between. Peak season: Summer.
Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 73/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)
Compact density — Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together. (≈3.2 km span)
High season: Summer
Best months for lower-cost travel: April · May · September · October
50°F - 70°F
50°F - 70°F
70°F - 90°F
30°F - 50°F
Silverton is a charming town located in the state of Colorado, United States. Nestled amidst the stunning San Juan Mountains, reaching Silverton is an adventure in itself. Here are a few ways to get to this picturesque destination:
If you prefer flying, the nearest major airport is Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO). It is approximately 50 miles south of Silverton. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach Silverton. The drive from Durango to Silverton is incredibly scenic and takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Driving to Silverton offers a breathtaking experience as you traverse through the stunning landscapes of Colorado. If you are coming from Denver, the capital city of Colorado, take US-285 South to US-160 West. From there, continue on US-550 North, also known as the Million Dollar Highway, which will lead you straight to Silverton. The drive from Denver to Silverton takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Another unique way to reach Silverton is by taking the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This scenic train ride is renowned for its spectacular views and nostalgic charm. The train departs from Durango and takes you on a thrilling journey through the rugged mountains, crossing breathtaking canyons and bridges. The ride lasts about 3.5 hours, offering an unforgettable experience before arriving in Silverton.
If you prefer a more relaxed mode of transportation, you can also opt for bus services that operate between Durango and Silverton. These buses provide a comfortable and convenient way to reach Silverton while enjoying the scenic beauty along the way. The bus ride takes approximately 2 hours, allowing you to sit back, relax, and soak in the mesmerizing surroundings.
Whichever mode of transportation you choose, reaching Silverton promises to be an adventure filled with awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Plan your journey accordingly and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of this charming Colorado town.
Silverton is a small town located in San Juan County, Colorado, United States. Situated amidst the picturesque mountains of the southwestern region of the state, Silverton offers breathtaking natural beauty and a rich historical background. This town has a population of only about 600 residents, making it a close-knit and friendly community.
One of Silverton's notable features is its remote and isolated location. Surrounded by the San Juan National Forest and nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, this town is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The area boasts numerous hiking trails, pristine lakes, and cascading waterfalls, providing ample opportunities for exploration and adventure.
The town of Silverton has a fascinating history that is deeply rooted in the mining industry. Originally established as a mining camp in the late 1800s, Silverton quickly flourished into a bustling community with silver mines operating at full swing. Today, remnants of this past can still be seen throughout the town, with well-preserved historical buildings and museums that offer glimpses into the mining era.
Visitors to Silverton can take a step back in time by hopping aboard the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This historic train ride takes passengers on a scenic journey through the rugged mountains, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. The train also provides a unique way to access the nearby town of Durango, further adding to the charm and allure of Silverton.
Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.
7 places mapped for this destination
Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.
~1.5 km · 3 places
~0 km · 2 places
~2.1 km · 5 places
Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.
~1.5 km path
~3.4 km path
Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.
Most travelers spend about 3-5 days in Silverton, United States.
High season is typically Summer.
Travelers often find better value in April, May, September, October.
Silverton suits Outdoor activities, Historical sites, Scenic drives, Hiking.
Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together.
Don't forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent for outdoor activities.
Add Silverton and the places you want to see — your itinerary stays on this device.
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