Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad:

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: #473 6-11-2022. On June 11, 2022, we ventured our way to the Southwest corner of Colorado to visit one of the most looked forward to places on our bucket list: The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. We were able to chase the return trips of both steam trips for the day. The power for the day's Silverton excursion was ex. D&RGW #473.
473 was built in 1923 by the American Locomotive Company as a three-foot narrow gauge, outside frame, 2-8-2, K-28 class "Mikado" locomotive for the Denver & Rio Grande Western Railroad (D&RGW). 473 was primarily used hauling passenger trains on the D&RGW all over the system. It was retired in 1967 and eventually went to the Durango & Silverton in 1981. It was restored and placed in service hauling the excursions on the D&SNG and has remained in service ever since. She was converted to oil in May 2021.
*473 was wearing a D&RGW 3 chime.
*I was hoping for a much larger compilation of videos of the Rio Grande system for you guys, however due to the fact there was a massive drought, and many fires relatively close the region, the Durango & Silverton decided to cancel all trains after the Saturday we shot this video for the next four days with additional days likely having the same fate. This was mostly due to an order from the San Juan National Forest. Even though the order was precautionary, we completely understand why due to the smoke we saw two days later. So while disappointing, we enjoyed the time we had at the D&S.
*The fire danger was also why the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad also shut down. Of course, we also planned to see it as well, but due to the fire danger again, C&TS will be closed till July.
*So once again, sorry to everyone who was hoping for a longer video of everything, but there's nothing we or the railroads can do about it. Fire danger is a valid reason for a railroad to close temporarily especially in a dry climate like Colorado. Also, if the railroads did disregard the federal governments orders, they could risk a fine, or in the worst-case condemnation. However, obviously we will try our hardest to make our way back to Southern Colorado to see these two railroads. Thank you for understanding.