Silverton, Colorado, is one of those places that grabs you the moment you arrive. Tucked high in the San Juan Mountains, this former mining town is equal parts rugged adventure hub and living history museum. If you’ve been searching for the best things to do Silverton CO, you’re in the right spot.
From scenic train rides and ghost towns to extreme heli skiing and laid-back community parks, Silverton offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else. This isn’t just another Colorado mountain town—it’s a destination where the past lingers on every street corner, and the outdoors is always just a step away.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the top attractions, hidden gems, and outdoor adventures that make Silverton unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or a full-on mountain getaway, here’s everything you need to know before you go.
1. Welcome to Silverton, Colorado – Where History Meets Adventure
Let’s set the scene. Silverton, Colorado, isn’t your average mountain town. It’s rugged, historic, a little eccentric, and absolutely unforgettable. Nestled high in the San Juan Mountains, Silverton looks like it belongs in an old Western movie—except here, the stories are real. This tiny town, with fewer than 1,000 residents, used to be one of the richest mining communities in Colorado. Today, it’s a hub for outdoor adventurers, history buffs, and travelers who prefer charm over crowds.
If you’ve been searching things to do Silverton CO and found endless lists that repeat the same three attractions—trust me, there’s a lot more waiting for you. Whether you’re here for the mining history, breathtaking alpine trails, or the adrenaline rush of heli skiing, Silverton delivers big. And the best part? It still feels authentic, not commercialized.
I’ll walk you through the best experiences—historic, scenic, and just plain fun—that make Silverton, Colorado, worth every mile of mountain road it takes to get here.
2. Downtown Silverton – A Stroll Through Living History
Walking into downtown Silverton feels like stepping into another era. Imagine wooden boardwalks, colorful Victorian buildings, and saloon-style façades—all framed by snowcapped peaks.
This isn’t just a backdrop; it’s real history. Many of these buildings date back to the late 1800s, when Silverton was booming with gold and silver mining. The town has kept its old-West charm without turning into a cheesy tourist trap.
Highlights Downtown
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The Grand Imperial Hotel – Built in 1882, it’s the crown jewel of Silverton. Even if you don’t stay overnight, step inside to admire the architecture, chandeliers, and walls filled with mining-era photos.
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Historic Shops – From antique stores to quirky mountain outfitters, downtown is full of treasures. If you’re into unique souvenirs, you’ll find handmade jewelry, leather goods, and local crafts.
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Local Dining – Hungry? Try Handlebars Food & Saloon, where the walls are lined with mining relics and taxidermy, or grab a hearty breakfast at Kendall Mountain Café.
💡 Pro Tip: Stroll through downtown in the evening, when the mountains turn pink at sunset and the town lights flicker on—it feels like a painting come to life.
3. Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad – A Historic Train Ride
This is the experience that put Silverton on the map for many visitors. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a living piece of Colorado history and one of the most scenic train rides in America.
What to Expect
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The train takes you on a 45-mile journey from Durango to Silverton, winding through deep canyons, forests, and alongside the Animas River.
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The ride lasts about 3.5 hours each way, so you can spend a day exploring Silverton before heading back to Durango.
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The vintage steam locomotives date back to the 1880s, and yes, you’ll hear the whistle echoing off the mountains.
Parking & Travel Tips
If you’re wondering about Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad parking, don’t stress. There’s a large parking lot at the Durango station, and in Silverton, you can simply walk around town once you arrive.
💡 Pro Tip: Book early during summer and fall—the fall foliage rides are especially popular. And if you’re into photography, grab an open-air gondola seat for the best views.
A wonderful way to spend the day in the Durango area. The views are amazing. We rode in the open air domed car. Our attendant, Maria, was a wealth of knowledge about the train and the area. Service on board was excellent. We enjoyed a couple of hours in Silverton before heading back to Durango. What a great day!
👉 Check reviews of the Durango & Silverton Railroad on TripAdvisor
📍 Explore on Google Maps: Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
4. Silverton’s Mining Heritage – Ghost Towns & Museums
Silverton was built on mining, and you can still feel that history everywhere you go. From old mine shafts clinging to the mountainsides to ghost towns that look frozen in time, the past isn’t just preserved—it’s alive.
Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour
Want to see what life was like underground? At the Old Hundred Gold Mine, you can take a real tour inside the mountain. You’ll ride a mine cart deep into the tunnels, watch demonstrations of mining equipment, and even try panning for gold yourself.
Mayflower Mill & Mining Museum
The Mayflower Mill, a National Historic Landmark, is the only intact mill left in the San Juan Mountains. Here you’ll see how ore was crushed and processed into precious metals.
Ghost Town Adventures
Scattered around Silverton are ghost towns like Animas Forks, where abandoned cabins sit high in the mountains. Driving there is an adventure on its own, with rugged roads and panoramic views.
💡 Pro Tip: Bring a 4×4 if you plan to explore Animas Forks. The journey is half the fun, and the photo ops are unbeatable.
DO NOT CARVE YOUR STUPID NAME INTO THE HOUSES/ WOOD!!!!!! Nobody and I mean nobody, cares if you were there. Stop ruining things! It is a beautiful little town. Stop vandalizing it! You people who do this are the reason nothing can be preserved and kept nice. Grow up.
Coming from a 21 year old.
👉 Read traveler reviews about Animas Forks
📍 Explore on Google Maps: Animas Forks Ghost Town
5. Scenic Drives – The Million Dollar Highway
If there’s one drive that captures the wild heart of the San Juan Mountains, it’s the Million Dollar Highway. Part of U.S. Route 550, this stretch of road runs between Silverton and Ouray, and it’s not just a highway—it’s an adventure carved into the mountainsides.
Why It’s Famous
The name itself has a few legends. Some say it cost a million dollars a mile to build in the 1920s. Others claim it’s because of the million-dollar views. And a third story? That the fill dirt used to construct parts of the road still contains gold ore worth millions. Whichever version you believe, the experience is priceless.
What You’ll See
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Sheer cliffs with no guardrails (yep, it’s thrilling).
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Sweeping views of valleys, peaks, and waterfalls tumbling down rocky walls.
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Lookouts where you can pull over, snap photos, and just breathe in the thin mountain air.
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Wildlife: elk, mountain goats, and sometimes black bears make surprise appearances.
💡 Pro Tip: Drive during the fall. The aspens along the route light up in gold, turning the entire valley into a glowing masterpiece.
Safety Tips
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Take it slow—the curves are tight, and the drops are serious.
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Avoid driving in heavy snow unless you’re experienced in mountain conditions.
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Start from Silverton heading north. That way, you’re on the “inside” lane (closer to the mountain, not the drop-offs).
📍 Explore on Google Maps: Million Dollar Highway
This is one of those magical places we all must visit to truly understand the vast beauty this part of America holds.
👉 Read TripAdvisor reviews of the Million Dollar Highway
6. Hiking & Outdoor Adventures
Silverton isn’t just about looking at the mountains—it’s about getting into them. The trails here are rugged, scenic, and varied enough for both casual walkers and hardcore hikers.
Kendall Mountain
Right next to town, Kendall Mountain Recreation Area offers family-friendly hiking trails in summer and skiing in winter. The summit trail gives you a panoramic view of Silverton nestled in the valley below.
Ice Lake Basin Trail
If you’re up for a challenge, the Ice Lake Basin Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in Colorado. It’s about 8 miles round-trip, with a steep climb that rewards you with turquoise alpine lakes surrounded by jagged peaks.
Columbine Lake
Another favorite is Columbine Lake, a 7.5-mile hike that takes you to a brilliant blue lake high in the mountains. It’s strenuous but worth every step.
Jeep & ATV Trails
Silverton is also famous for its off-road trails. Rent a jeep or ATV and explore alpine passes like Engineer Pass and Ophir Pass. These routes take you through ghost towns, wildflower meadows, and high mountain ridges.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re not comfortable driving these trails yourself, book a guided jeep tour. Local guides know the routes, the history, and the best stops for photos.
7. Winter Sports – Skiing, Heli Skiing & Skijoring
When the snow starts falling, Silverton turns into a playground for thrill seekers.
Silverton Mountain Ski Area
This is no ordinary ski resort. Silverton Mountain is known for extreme, backcountry-style skiing. There’s just one chairlift, and from there you’re dropped into ungroomed runs with guides leading the way. It’s skiing for serious adventurers, not beginners.
Heli Skiing
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try Silverton Colorado heli skiing. You’ll be flown by helicopter to untouched peaks, then carve your way down powdery slopes that most skiers can only dream about. It’s pricey, but ask anyone who’s tried it—it’s unforgettable.
Skijoring
Here’s something you probably haven’t seen before: skijoring. Imagine being pulled on skis behind a horse while racing through town streets. Yes, it’s real, and yes, Silverton does it during winter festivals. It’s wild, a little chaotic, and pure mountain fun.
Had an epic day doing lift accessed guided runs. We had a great group of 8 with similarly decent fitness levels and were able to get in 6 runs and a bunch of fresh tracks. Our guide, Dustin, was awesome all around. I’ll definitely do this again!
👉 Check reviews of Silverton Mountain Ski Area on TripAdvisor
📍 Explore Silverton Mountain on Google Maps: Silverton Mountain Ski Area
8. Community Parks & Dog Parks – Silverton’s Local Hangouts
Not every adventure in Silverton has to be extreme. Sometimes the best memories come from slowing down and hanging out where the locals do. That’s where Silverton’s community parks, skateparks, and dog parks come in.
Memorial Park – A Local Favourite
Located right in town, Memorial Park is the kind of spot where families gather for picnics, kids run wild, and everyone enjoys the mountain views. In summer, you’ll often see community events here—concerts, outdoor movies, or just families tossing a frisbee around.
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Playgrounds & Open Space – Great for kids to burn energy.
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Picnic Tables – Pack lunch or grab takeout from downtown and enjoy an easy meal outdoors.
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Mountain Backdrop – The views from here remind you you’re still in the San Juans, even in the middle of town.
Silverton Community Skatepark & Dog Park
Yes, even this tiny town has a skatepark and a dedicated dog park.
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Skatepark – Small but well-maintained, this spot is a hit with local teens and traveling skateboarders alike. If you’re road-tripping with kids, it’s a great break from museums and hikes.
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Dog Park – Silverton’s furry residents and their humans love this space. If you’re traveling with a pup, this is a perfect spot to let them stretch their legs, socialize, and burn some energy before the next adventure.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re RV-ing or camping with pets, Silverton is surprisingly dog-friendly. You’ll find trails, cafes with outdoor seating, and even a few shops that welcome well-behaved pups.
📍 Explore on Google Maps: Memorial Park Silverton CO
9. Festivals & Local Events – Small Town, Big Spirit
Silverton may be small, but it knows how to throw a party. The town’s events and festivals reflect both its mining heritage and its quirky mountain personality.
Hardrock 100 Endurance Run
Every July, Silverton becomes the center of the ultrarunning world with the Hardrock 100, a grueling 100-mile race through the San Juan Mountains. Runners climb over 33,000 feet of elevation, passing by ghost towns, alpine lakes, and some of the toughest trails in the Rockies. Even if you’re not running, watching the athletes and soaking up the atmosphere is incredible.
Silverton Skijoring Festival
Held in winter, this is one of the most unique events in Colorado. Horses gallop down Blair Street while skiers hold on to ropes, weaving through jumps and gates. It’s loud, fast, a little wild, and an absolute must-see if you’re in town at the right time.
Fourth of July in Silverton
Silverton goes all out for Independence Day. There’s a classic small-town parade, live music, and one of the most impressive fireworks displays you’ll ever see—made even better by the mountain backdrop.
Other Events
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Silverton Arts Festival – Local artists and craftspeople showcase their work.
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Mining Heritage Celebrations – Tours, lectures, and exhibits honoring the town’s past.
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Local Farmers Markets – Seasonal markets with fresh produce, crafts, and homemade goodies.
💡 Pro Tip: Always check Silverton’s local events calendar before visiting. You might just stumble onto a festival you didn’t know existed and end up making your best travel memories.
👉 See Silverton’s event schedule here
10. Where to Eat & Drink in Silverton
After a long hike, a train ride, or a powder day, nothing hits like good food and a cold drink. Silverton might be small, but it has an impressive lineup of places to refuel.
Handlebars Food & Saloon
Probably the most famous restaurant in town. The walls are covered in mining artifacts, antlers, and quirky décor. The menu? Classic American comfort food—burgers, steaks, ribs, and hearty portions.
Kendall Mountain Café
Perfect for breakfast or brunch. Big portions, strong coffee, and the kind of friendly service that makes you want to come back the next day.
Avalanche Brewing Company
Yes, Silverton has its own brewery. Craft beers brewed on site, a cozy atmosphere, and great pub-style food. Try the Avalanche Amber or the IPA if you’re into hops.
Eureka Station
A newer addition to Silverton’s food scene, with an elevated menu featuring local ingredients and creative dishes. A good choice if you want something beyond casual eats.
Coffee & Sweet Spots
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Coffee Bear – Great espresso and fresh pastries.
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Rocky Mountain Funnel Cake Factory – If you’re craving something sweet and indulgent, this is the place.
💡 Pro Tip: Many restaurants in Silverton are seasonal. If you’re visiting in winter, double-check opening hours before you go.
I eat funnel cake pretty much wherever I go, one of my favorite desserts and this was hands down the best one I have ever had. We walked by here just shopping on the street and I highly recommend!
👉 Read restaurant reviews in Silverton on TripAdvisor
11. Day Trips Around Silverton – Expand Your Adventure
One of the best parts about Silverton is its location. While the town itself is packed with history and adventure, it also makes the perfect base camp for exploring other gems in the San Juan Mountains. If you have a few extra days, here are some unforgettable day trips you can tack onto your Silverton itinerary.
Ouray – “The Switzerland of America”
Just 23 miles north via the Million Dollar Highway, Ouray is famous for its hot springs and jaw-dropping mountain scenery.
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Ouray Hot Springs Pool – Soak in natural geothermal waters with mountain views all around.
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Box Canyon Falls Park – A powerful waterfall crashing into a narrow canyon—it’s short but spectacular.
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Downtown Ouray – Quaint shops, art galleries, and plenty of places to grab a bite.
💡 Pro Tip: Drive the route both ways. The views look completely different heading north vs. south.
Durango – A Larger Mountain Town with Energy
About 50 miles south, Durango has a more bustling vibe than Silverton. It’s home to Fort Lewis College, giving it a youthful energy, and it’s also the starting point for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
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Historic Downtown – Packed with restaurants, breweries, and art galleries.
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Animas River Trail – A paved path along the river that’s perfect for biking or walking.
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Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa – A modern hot spring complex for some relaxation after a busy day.
Telluride – The Glitzy Mountain Neighbor
About two hours west, Telluride is a mix of rugged mountain scenery and upscale charm.
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Telluride Gondola – Free, scenic, and perfect for a quick ride into Mountain Village.
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Bridal Veil Falls – The tallest free-falling waterfall in Colorado.
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Downtown Telluride – Boutique shops, luxury restaurants, and a buzzing arts scene.
💡 Pro Tip: Visit Telluride as a contrast to Silverton. It’s polished and glamorous, while Silverton is raw and authentic. Experiencing both gives you the full San Juan flavor.
Scenic Lakes Near Silverton
If you’re short on time, you don’t even need to leave the area to find alpine beauty.
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Clear Lake – A pristine mountain lake accessible by 4×4. The reflections of the peaks here are breathtaking.
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Columbine Lake – Reachable by a challenging hike, but the color of the water will blow your mind.
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Ice Lake Basin – A turquoise gem that’s worth every step of the hike.
📍 Explore Clear Lake on Google Maps: Clear Lake Silverton CO
Faith is a fantastic tour guide kind, compassionate and so informative. There. Was no rush and we were able to enjoy our friends. I have lived in Ukiah since 1988 and had never been on this fantastic tour. I highly recommend Eyes of the Wild tours. Will be going again♥️♥️♥️♥️🌞😂🌞🌞♥️♥️Kathie Smith.
👉 See reviews of Clear Lake on TripAdvisor
12. Final Thoughts – Silverton’s Timeless Charm
Silverton, Colorado, isn’t polished. It doesn’t pretend to be a resort town. And that’s exactly why travelers fall in love with it. Here, history and adventure live side by side. You can ride a train that feels like it’s from another century, ski untouched powder, wander through ghost towns, or simply sit on a porch watching the sunset turn the mountains gold.
If you’ve been wondering about the top things to do Silverton CO, the answer is this: slow down, stay curious, and let the town surprise you. Every alley, every trail, and every festival adds a layer to the story. Silverton may be small, but the memories you make here will feel larger than life.
🗺️ Downloadable Itinerary – Silverton in 3 Days
Here’s a quick sample plan you can adapt to your trip:
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Day 1: Arrive in Silverton, explore downtown, visit the Grand Imperial Hotel, enjoy dinner at Handlebars.
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Day 2: Ride the Durango & Silverton Train, hike Kendall Mountain in the afternoon, grab a local brew at Avalanche Brewing.
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Day 3: Take a jeep tour to Animas Forks and Clear Lake, or drive the Million Dollar Highway to Ouray. End the day with a soak in hot springs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Summer (June–August) is perfect for hiking, jeep tours, and exploring ghost towns. Fall brings spectacular foliage. Winter is best for skiing and unique events like skijoring. Spring is quiet but beautiful as snow melts into rushing rivers.
Yes! While the extreme skiing is for adults, families will love the train rides, parks, ghost towns, and easy hikes like Kendall Mountain.
Most visitors arrive via Durango (50 miles south) or Ouray (23 miles north). The roads are paved but steep—take your time and enjoy the views.
Definitely. Silverton has a community dog park, pet-friendly cafes, and plenty of trails. Just keep your pup leashed in town and around wildlife.
If you plan to visit ghost towns like Animas Forks or alpine lakes like Clear Lake, yes—a 4×4 is recommended. Otherwise, downtown and many hikes are accessible by regular vehicles.
