San Juan County: Mining History and Alpine Experiences

A trip to San Juan County brings together several distinct themes: Silverton’s mining history, a guided underground tour, a historic narrow-gauge railroad, and activities in the mountains and on the water. When looking for a hotel, you can first decide whether to focus on historic sites, winter sports, or outdoor experiences. Several historic attractions are in Silverton; for other plans, schedules, season, access, or road conditions may each play a role, depending on the activity.

Mining History in Silverton

The Silverton Historic District in San Juan County, Colorado, was designated a National Historic Landmark on July 4, 1961. Built in 1902, the San Juan County Jail is now part of the museum complex. The two-story brick jail was built to resist fire and escapes. Its four steel cells each contained up to six canvas hammocks—a specific detail of its historic furnishings.

The Shenandoah-Dives Mill, also called the Mayflower Mill, is also a National Historic Landmark in Silverton, San Juan County. In the history of the San Juan Mountains, it was the longest-operating mill. The jail and mill thus represent different aspects of the mining heritage. The San Juan County Historical Society operates the Mining Heritage Center in Silverton. Since visitor operations may vary seasonally, check current hours before your visit.

North of Silverton, Hillside Cemetery lies on the steep lower slope of Boulder Mountain and covers 20 acres. Along with its buildings, its location brings the topography into view and complements the historic sites with a different scale from that of individual structures.

Underground and by Railroad

The Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour is a guided underground mine tour that goes 1/3 mile into 13,000-foot-high Galena Mountain. It includes a ride on a historic electric mine train. The authentic miner’s car was once used at the famous Camp Bird Gold Mine. During the tour, you can pan for real silver, copper, and gold and keep what you find; conditions may change. Check current tour times and applicable conditions in advance.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad operates a 45-mile route between Durango in La Plata County and Silverton in San Juan County. The tracks to Silverton were completed by July 1882, after which the train began carrying passengers and freight. If you include the railroad in your plans, check the current schedule, as schedules may change.

Alpine Activities and Trip Planning

Silverton Mountain offers access via a single chairlift to 1,819 acres of high-alpine terrain, with runs in every direction. Guided skiing and snowboarding are offered; in spring, holders of day and season passes can also ski unguided. Terrain and access may change, so current dates and rules are important for planning.

At Molas Lake Park, non-motorized boating from shore and paddling are possible; rentals are available on site. The Alpine Loop begins from Silverton via County Road 2. For road-trip planning, check conditions and seasonal accessibility. This offers a choice between pass- and season-dependent winter sports, activities from the shore, and a road route—three different starting points for planning your trip.

If you plan a mine tour, train ride, or seasonal activities, also take into account the current schedules, dates, and conditions for each. This will help you tailor your hotel search to the plans that matter most for your trip.

Discover more destinations: Silverton, Custer, Mesa, Summit, Park County, Eagle, Washington County, Logan.

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