Colorado's iconic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad switched to a diesel engine in light of the nearby 416 Fire. Now it's saying it will stick with diesel until at least July 12.
Amid rumors that the 416 Fire in the San Juan National Forest north of Durango could have been caused by the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad's coal-fueled steam engine, the scenic railroad attraction is choosing to keep using its diesel engine until more rain can reduce the fire danger -- hopefully by July 12.
The train had suspended service altogether beginning June 1 but resumed on June 25, switching over to a diesel-powered engine and only completing shorter trips.
Until July 12, while they hope and pray for rain, the railroad will make repairs to the track and inspect the line to make sure there is no fire-related damage.
The primary goal is to “ensure guest, employee and partner safety during protracted severe drought and fire conditions,” the railroad said in a news release.
Western Colorado's monsoon season is expected to get underway within the next couple weeks. Hopefully the heavy rains can put out the still-raging 41,000-acre 416 Fire and provide enough moisture to prevent more wildfires from occurring.
If you had already purchased tickets for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad experience, the railroad is providing refunds and alternatives. Contact them for more information.
Have Colorado's fires affected any of your summer plans? Tell us all about it in the comments below! And stay safe out there!
