Imagine riding a steam train through the beautiful San Juan Mountains on your way to Cascade Canyon. Now imagine picking out and cutting down your very own White Fir Christmas Tree before warming up by a fire with a hot beverage or walking along the foot bridge over the Animas River. This whimsical experience can be yours if you ride the Christmas Tree Train this year. Best of all you’re helping the forest at the same time!

The San Juan National Forest has located an area near the tracks by Cascade Wye that needs “hazardous fuel reduction.” Volunteers from the San Juan Mountains Association (SJMA) will be on board selling $8 permits that will allow your to cut one tree per family up to 20 feet tall. Additional volunteers from Firewire of Southwest Colorado will be on board to help you identify and safely cut down your very own Christmas Tree!

At Cascade Canyon you can warm up by a fireplace located in the warming cabin or walk to the foot bridge that runs over the Animas River. Take in the stunning scenery and then ride back down to beautiful Durango. Create new family memories while also helping the environment!

Winter train fees in addition to the tree permit apply. This special train ride takes place on December 4,5,11,12,18,19. Schedule is as follows:

9:45 am – Depart Durango

11:50 am – Arrive Cascade Canyon

12:45 pm – Depart Cascade Canyon

2:45 pm – Arrive back in Durango

Call 888-872-4607 to speak with a representative from the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Museum to reserve your spot. Remember to dress for cold winter conditions and of course don’t forget to book your room today at the Quality Inn Durango, where guests are family.