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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.
 

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.