Carrying the torch for the Rio Grande. Several generations of narrow gauge railroaders pose with two generations of D&RGW Locomotives at Silverton, Colorado in evening light. The railroaders are crewmembers from the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and the Durango Railroad Historical Society. The locomotives are Alco K-28 #473, now operated by the DSNG, and Baldwin C-18 #315, now operated by the DRHS. I find this image particularly uplifting, not only because the historic hardware has been so nicely preserved, but also because of the number of young faces I see in this group, who stand ready to carry the torch for the Rio Grande for years to come.
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.