Newcomers have no idea how much the economy of Durango is dependent upon the train, but old-timers and long-time residents are thankful every day for the train and the business it generates that keeps Durango alive and thriving.

Just as one example: Look at how many wonderful restaurants we have to choose from in a town our size. They would not exist if there were not tourists coming here to ride a historic, coal-fired, narrow-gauge train.

Al Harper spends thousands of dollars making sure any fires caused by his train are extinguished immediately, including having a helicopter always on standby. As for the Polar Express and Dino trains, they only travel to the edge of Durango.

Jon & Marsha Schuetz

Durango