Drifting down to Hermosa. DSNG Locomotive #486 is just drifting down the last of the 2.5% grade from Rockwood, as she blows for the US 550 Crossing at Hermosa, Colorado. With just about 30 minutes to go before she's home, the 486 is shepherding Train 464, the last of the Silverton trains to return to Durango this day.
Those unfamiliar with the operation of the Durango & Silverton may wonder about the presence of the boxcar behind the locomotive. In addition to providing space for bicycles, and other things that passengers might bring with them, this boxcar also contains some water tanks and firefighting equipment, which could be used to contain a fire, should one be detected by the line's fire patrols. Typically the last train up from Durango, and the last train down from Silverton will have one of these boxcars in the consist.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad are all that remains of the legendary Denver & Rio Grande Western narrow gauge system. Here you'll find some of my favorites from these two beautiful railways.
