OffBeat Pathfinder Basecamp

Durango is what happens when wild west vibes and adrenaline get tossed together in the Rockies. Rolled into town for the Silverton train, left with a soaked backpack, a minor sunburn, and stories that sound made up.

**Railroads:** The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is more than just a train ride—it’s a time machine with cinders. I grabbed an open-air car, stuck my head out, and got a faceful of soot. Worth it for the mountain views, even if you’re picking ash out of your hair for days. Conductors tell better stories than any podcast.

**Whitewater:** If you’ve never rafted the Animas River, buckle up. It’s wild in spring—lost a shoe, kept my dignity, and laughed so hard I nearly swallowed the river. Guides here are half comedian, half lifeguard.

**Town:** Durango’s historic downtown has breweries, art galleries, and enough live music to keep you up all night. Ate more green chili than should be legal, finished with a scoop from Cream Bean Berry (try the whiskey pecan if you’re feeling bold).

**Hiking & Biking:** Trails right from town—did Horse Gulch at sunrise, legs still not speaking to me. Locals swear by the views from Smelter Mountain.

Who else has braved the rapids or caught a sunset on the rails? Any pro tips for the next “Ruckus” seeker?

Silverton train rocks! Sat next to a retired miner who claimed he could smell gold in the wind.

Durango Brewing’s IPA and river tacos = unbeatable. Saw a dog wearing sunglasses at the bar.

Hiked Animas Mountain trail—nearly got blown off the top by the wind. Totally worth it for the view.

Anyone try ziplining? Did it last trip—yelled the whole way and got applause at the end.

Mountain biking Hermosa Creek trail was epic—almost collided with a deer. Trail mix flew everywhere.

Camped on the river, woke up to hot air balloons floating past—felt like I was still dreaming.

Came for the trains, stayed for the ice cream. Still have dust in my boots. See y’all next round!