We'll be spending about 3 days in Durango with our 11yo children in August.

I would like to take the Silverton rr one way - is it better to take it to Silverton from Durango and then bus back? Or the reverse? Where do we see the better scenery? Any other tips about the railroad experience?

We also would like to do some whitewater rafting...is that good to do in Durango or is it better to do when I'm up in Aspen where I'll be for a few days?

Any other musts for Durango and or Ouray? We'll be in Ouray for a day and was told to do a jeep tour.

Thanks for any input!!

Link to the railway: http://www.durangotrain.com/
Are you going to see Meas Verde NP?

Yes - we are going to spend a day at Mesa Verde.

It really doesn't matter which way you go for a one way ride on the train. If you go from Durango TO Silverton, sit on the right side of the train. Conversely, if you take the train from Silverton TO Durango, sit on the left side of the train.

I would try to go so that you won't have to eat in Silverton. It is a small town, with limited restaurants that will be packed with people that have come up on the train. They are not all that good and are pretty pricey.

While summer dictates light colored clothes, soot can sometimes be an issue so dress accordingly.

This has been another pretty dry summer, so by August, you may or may not have much more than a float trip in Durango. Not sure if Aspen will be any better. You can call the rafting companies closer to your visit and ask what the water levels are at that time.

http://mild2wildrafting.com/

A visit to Box Canyon Falls in Ouray is highly recommended. As nice soak in the hot springs is nice too.

http://www.ouraycolorado.com/ouray-a...Falls-Park.php

http://www.ouraycolorado.com/discove...rings-pool.php

Eating in Ouray:
Bon Ton Restaurant
Buen Tiempo Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

We like: http://stelmobonton.com/dev/ to stay. I think they have suites that will sleep 4.

I think I have already mentioned Mesa Verde NP as a must??

http://www.fodors.com/community/unit...by-debitnm.cfm

I would keep my eye on the major fires currently burning in the area.

Ouray--a Jeep tour is a must. You can either drive yourself if you feel comfortable or have a guide. Box Canyon Falls was pretty non existent last summer because of lack of run off. This summer is just as dry or dryer.

Silverton--Pickle Barrel Restaurant has pretty good sandwiches.

Good plan taking the train one way.

www.soaringcolorado.com

I've been on several ziplines. Nobody even comes close to this place. It includes your ride on the train(the most scenic section)and lunch. The only way to get to it is by the train or by helicopter. Very expensive. We would certainly do it again.