The narrow-gauge lines of the Denver & Rio Grande Western and other railroads which were built through the Colorado Rockies in the last quarter of the 19th Century. They comprised one of the most exciting facets of the romantic Old West. Virtually all, except a few preserved lines, were abandoned. However, the most famous route of all--the 45 miles between Durango and Silverton--survives as the dominant tourist attraction of the Centennial State, In June, 1986 former D&RGW 2-8-2 No. 480 headed north through Hermosa.
