Now designated a National Historical Landmark, Silverton looks today much as it did a hundred years ago. Mining has always been the town's lifeblood. Four whistle blasts tell me it's time to reboard for the return to Durango. As we leave Silverton behind, clouds build, and an afternoon thunderstorm provides a roof-pattering diversion. The downpour tapers to a drizzle.
Someone notices a rainbow.
Cameras, which had been stowed, re-emerge. Those of us on the slow track relax to the gentle sway of the train and clicking of rails. Lost in our thoughts, we watch as the arc varies position, shade and intensity. Reservations for the train are best obtained months in advance. Seating may be requested in open-sided gondola cars or closed coaches.