There is something about trains that I really love. Can’t really put my finger on it but whenever I see a train, I want to photograph it and ride on it. I’ve been on some memorable train rides including the Rocky Mountaineer that goes from Vancouver, British Columbia to either Banff or Jasper, Alberta. One of my favorites is the train ride from Durango, Colorado to Silverton, Colorado. The train is a narrow gauge, which is better suited to navigate the sharp curves of the mountain terrain. It was used to haul silver and gold ore from the Silverton area as well as supplies and workers. Today, the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is used as a tourist attraction.
The train leaves Durango for a 3.5 hour, 45 mile trip trip through the rugged San Juan Mountains. The scenery along the way is outstanding. It arrives in the town of Silverton for a two hour layover. Silverton is a small old-time mining town which has been designated as a National Historic District.
This shot was taken as the train was readying to head back to Durango. It is a HDR from a single photo.
Click for information about the train’s history and schedule.
Very effective leading lines taking us down those tracks and beyond! Love the smoke stack and steam near the left edge; an extra bonus for our travels around the frame. Stunning colors!
I share your passion for trains and would love to ride this one.
Outstanding processing, Len. That smoke and steam brings the image to life.
Really like the contrast between the old red car and the brightly painted yellow one. Great scene!
Wonderful shot Len - the composition really works for me, excellent processing too… superb!
Very nice Len
sweet! wonderful shot, and I love trains (and train stations) too! well done Len!
Awesome man, just completely awesome.
Just beautiful Len. The HDR processing is amazing I love the steam coming out at the front of the train.
Very nice. I’m headed to Durango next week. I’ve ridden this train before and you are correct about the scenery.
Awesome, awesome, awesome! I, too, LOVE to photograph trains, they are so full of textures and interest… this is just a wonderful photo Len, absolutely incredible.
i love tracks and trains too. love the processing for this.
Great job Len! I love historic places like this. Wonderful processing.