Silverton ColoradoATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Silverton, Colorado.
1. Million Dollar Highway
BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN SCENIC DRIVE
Million Dollar Highway is a scenic mountain drive through rugged landscapes that features dramatic vistas and steep drop-offs. Travelers can enjoy numerous pull-offs for wildlife spotting and photography along this spectacular route. The highway ranks as one of Silverton's top attractions according to visitor ratings and reviews.
2. Ice Lakes Trail
STUNNING ALPINE LAKE HIKE
Ice Lakes Trail is a breathtaking 7-mile round-trip hike that takes adventurers from 9,900 feet to over 12,200 feet elevation. The strenuous trail features many steep switchbacks, waterfalls, and sweeping views as it traverses awe-inspiring meadows surrounded by tall mountain peaks. Hikers gain 2,430 feet on their way to the stunning Ice Lake, with an optional 1.5-mile extension to reach Island Lake.
3. San Juan County Historical Society
LOCAL MINING HISTORY MUSEUM
San Juan County Historical Society is a historical museum set in a former jail that showcases the rich mining heritage of the region. The museum displays an extensive array of mining artifacts and minerals through engaging exhibits on miners' lives and local history. Visitors can immerse themselves in Silverton's past while exploring this well-preserved historical site.
4. Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour
UNDERGROUND MINING ADVENTURE
Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour offers visitors a chance to journey deep inside towering Galena Mountain aboard a vintage mining cart. The tour provides a unique glimpse into Silverton's bustling mining past, showcasing antique mining equipment used a century ago to mine the silver and gold that gave the town its name. As a bonus, visitors can pan for real silver, copper, and gold at no additional cost before relaxing at the covered picnic area.
5. Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
HISTORIC STEAM TRAIN JOURNEY
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a historic steam train experience through the spectacular San Juan Mountains. This vintage railway has been in continuous operation since 1882, taking visitors on a journey through breathtaking landscapes that were once only accessible by train. The historic train ride serves as both a living museum and an exciting way to experience the region's natural beauty.
6. Kendall Mountain Ski Area
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WINTER RECREATION
Kendall Mountain Ski Area is a family-friendly winter destination offering affordable skiing and snowboarding just minutes from downtown Silverton. The area features gentle slopes perfect for beginners and families, along with a warming hut and rental equipment available on site. During summer months, the mountain transforms into a recreational area with hiking and mountain biking opportunities.
7. Silverton Mountain
EXTREME ADVANCED SKIING
Silverton Mountain is Colorado's highest and steepest ski area, catering exclusively to advanced and expert skiers seeking challenging terrain. The mountain offers an unparalleled backcountry experience with guided and unguided options across its 22,000 acres of skiable terrain. For those seeking even more adventure, Silverton Mountain also offers heli-skiing packages that access remote powder stashes.
8. Animas River Rafting
THRILLING WHITEWATER ADVENTURE
Animas River Rafting provides exhilarating whitewater adventures through the spectacular canyons near Silverton. Rafters can choose from various difficulty levels, from family-friendly floats to challenging Class IV and V rapids for experienced adventurers. The crystal-clear waters of the Animas offer not only excitement but also stunning views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains.
9. Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway
EPIC 4X4 MOUNTAIN TRAIL
The Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway is a 65-mile scenic 4x4 route connecting Silverton, Ouray, and Lake City through the heart of the San Juan Mountains. This rugged trail passes abandoned mining towns, crosses high mountain passes above 12,000 feet, and offers spectacular alpine scenery. The loop requires a high-clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle and typically takes a full day to complete, rewarding adventurers with some of Colorado's most dramatic mountain landscapes.
10. Handlebars Food & Saloon
HISTORIC WESTERN DINING EXPERIENCE
Handlebars Food & Saloon is a beloved Silverton institution housed in a historic building dating back to the mining boom era. The restaurant serves hearty Western fare including steaks, burgers, and local game dishes in an authentic saloon atmosphere complete with original antiques and mining memorabilia. Visitors can enjoy the outdoor patio during summer months or warm up by the wood stove during winter while soaking in the genuine Old West ambiance.
11. Silverton Outdoor Learning and Recreation Center
YEAR-ROUND OUTDOOR EDUCATION
The Silverton Outdoor Learning and Recreation Center offers guided experiences and educational programs focused on the natural environment of the San Juan Mountains. The center provides seasonal programming including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and hiking led by knowledgeable local guides. Visitors can learn about the area's unique ecology, geology, and cultural history while enjoying outdoor recreation in a spectacular mountain setting.
12. Mayflower Gold Mill National Historic Site
PRESERVED MINING TECHNOLOGY
The Mayflower Gold Mill National Historic Site preserves one of the San Juan Mountains' most significant historic mining operations. Visitors can take guided tours of this remarkably intact mill that once processed gold, silver, lead, zinc, and copper ores from nearby mines. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th century industrial technology and the engineering innovations that made Silverton's mining industry possible.
13. Eureka Mining Ghost Town
ABANDONED MINING SETTLEMENT
Eureka Mining Ghost Town is a preserved mining settlement located along the Alpine Loop a short distance from Silverton. Visitors can explore the remains of this once-thriving community that was abandoned when the mining industry declined in the early 20th century. The site features several deteriorating wooden structures, mining equipment remnants, and interpretive signs that tell the story of the hardy pioneers who once called this remote mountain location home.
14. Silverton Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Silverton Farmers Market brings together local growers, artisans, and food producers in the heart of historic downtown during summer months. Visitors can browse stalls offering fresh mountain-grown produce, handcrafted items, locally-made foods, and unique souvenirs while enjoying live music and community atmosphere. The market provides an authentic taste of local culture and an opportunity to connect with residents of this remote mountain community.
15. Ouray Hot Springs Pool
MINERAL SPRINGS MOUNTAIN SOAK
Ouray Hot Springs Pool offers a rejuvenating natural hot springs experience in a stunning mountain setting just a short scenic drive from Silverton. The large public pool contains various soaking sections with different temperatures, ranging from 88 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, perfect for relaxing after a day of mountain adventures. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains while soaking in the therapeutic mineral waters that have attracted wellness seekers for generations.