Silverton Colorado
Discover seasonal activities awaiting you in Silverton, Colorado, a year-round playground.
Silverton History
- Established 1874
In 1860, Charles Baker and a group of prospectors ventured into the rugged terrain of the San Juan Mountains, seeking their fortunes. They stumbled upon rich deposits of gold and silver along the banks of the Animas River.
By 1874, the town of Silverton was laid out, quickly emerging as the epicenter of numerous bustling mining camps. Its strategic location also attracted the attention of a Denver-based railroad company.
In July 1882, the inaugural train of the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad made its historic journey from Durango to Silverton, marking the beginning of a new era.
Winter Activities
Winter ends in April 2024. Check local websites to verify dates.
Backcountry Skiing
For expert and advanced skiers and riders seeking an unparalleled backcountry experience, Silverton Mountain Ski Area delivers exceptional lift-accessible terrain. Here, you won’t find groomed runs, crowds, or condos. Instead, prepare for wide-open bowls, thrilling tree runs, and the purest natural skiing Colorado has to offer, all against a backdrop of breathtaking views.
Winter Sports (In-town)
Experience family-friendly skiing right in town at Kendall Mountain Ski Area! Bring the whole family for a day filled with downhill fun, including skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and even sledding. With a variety of activities available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Ice Climbing
Discover world-class ice climbing routes just outside of Silverton and throughout the surrounding area. Experienced climbers can challenge themselves in stunning gorges and high drainages, while beginners can receive expert instruction from top guides at the nearby Ouray Ice Climbing Park.
Snowmobiling
Explore the snowy wonderland of Silverton with a variety of snowmobiling options to suit every adventurer. The Silverton Snowmobile Club meticulously grooms miles of multi-use trails, easily accessible from town via US Highway 550, including routes at Molas Lake. For an unforgettable experience, join a guided tour with Ice Pirates, venturing into the high country to discover breathtaking mountain vistas.
Did You Know?
Due to a slow market and low demand, mining in Silverton closed down in the early 1990s. However, there’s still gold and silver in those mountains and rumor has it that mining will be back one day.
Things to do in Silverton Colorado
Perched at 9,318 feet, Silverton offers an unforgettable experience year-round, blending stunning natural beauty with captivating charm.
Million Dollar Highway
- Meander through lush pine forests to tranquil valleys, ensuring a million-dollar view at every turn.
Mayflower Gold Mill
- Experience the historic process of extracting gold, silver, and base metals from hard rock ores.
Historic Downtown
- Discover Silverton's scenic allure, rich history, quaint downtown, and hidden natural gems.
Spring Activities
Springs begins in April or May. Check local websites to verify dates.
Exploration: Jeeping, ATV, OHV
Silverton offers access to some of the nation’s top four-wheel drive roads, perfect for exploring historic ghost towns and mountain vistas along the Alpine Loop. Please note that OHV access is limited to San Juan County; the Town of Silverton does not permit OHV traffic within its limits.
Horseback Riding
Experience the breathtaking San Juan Mountains from a unique perspective – on horseback! With several stables and outfitters in the area, expert guides are ready to lead you on unforgettable adventures. Explore the backcountry for summer thrills, discover spectacular wildflowers, and embark on thrilling big-game hunting expeditions in the fall.
Whitewater Rafting
Discover the thrill of world-class whitewater rafting on the upper Animas River, just a stone’s throw from Silverton. With challenging rapids, this stretch is renowned as one of the most demanding commercial whitewater runs in the U.S. For the majority of the season, it offers an exhilarating adventure suitable for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.
Hiking & Camping
Discover the San Juan Mountains with camping from May to October. Choose from panoramic tent sites or RV spots with full hookups in Silverton. Then, hit the trails for unforgettable hikes catering to all levels. Visit the Silverton Visitors Center or San Juan Public Lands Office for more.
Fishing
Fish the pristine waters of the San Juan Mountains for a memorable experience. With numerous rivers, streams, and high alpine lakes near Silverton, anglers have ample opportunities to reel in pan-size trout. The popular spot is Molas Lake Park, just 4 miles south of town.
For valuable fishing resources and tips on conservation, Colorado Parks & Wildlife’s brochure offers essential information and printable maps.
Mountain Biking
Discover the thrill of riding through some of the most breathtaking single-track trails in San Juan County! Whether you’re a seasoned mountain biker or just starting out, these trails offer exhilarating experiences for all skill levels. For detailed trail information, insider tips, and updates, be sure to visit the website of the local Mountain Bike group.