silverton

Location: 357 miles southwest of Denver on U.S. 550
Elevation: 9318, Population: 531

Tiny and nestled precariously between two rugged San Juan Mountain passes, Red Mountain and Molas, Silverton always survives harsh winters and a wavering economy to remain an interesting town. After all, in mining days it was known as the town that never quit.

Many tourists visit Silverton only as the northern terminus on the beautiful Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad tour. While gold planning and souvenir shops take over here in the summer, there are some great spots where you can escape the crowds. Challenging mountain biking is found all around Silverton on old mining roads that today serve as excellent jeeping routes, too. The Alpine Loop, over two passes to Ouray and Lake City, is a top jeeping excursion. Hiking trails are accessible in the surrounding San Juan National Forest, including easy access to the Continental Trail in the Weminuche Wilderness. Silverton has also revived its ski hill, Kendall Mountain, by replacing an old lift and adding a new base lodge.

Downtown a local theatre group entertains at the historic Miner Union Theatre. Locals sip cold beers at Handlebars and treat themselves to a nice dinner at The Pickle Barrel. In the morning, the Avalanche Coffeehouse is a nice nook for a cup of joe. Most of the downtown in a designated National Historic District and the San Juan Historical Society Museum, in the old county jail, is good for uncovering the past. Three other historic venues make for interesting stops: Old Hundred Gold Mine, Mayflower Gold Mill, and the Grand Imperial Hotel.

In late June, the Silverton evokes the image of a mini Telluride Bluegrass Festival during its Folk Music Festival, featuring music in a relaxing, outdoor venue and workshops on instrument technique.

Source: Colorado.com

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