Whether you chug along on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad or follow the spectacular Million Dollar Highway, when you arrive at Silverton, Colorado you are at more than 9,300 feet.

This former mining boomtown has a population of about 600 during good weather that falls to 400 in the winter. We had less than two hours there before hopping on a bus back to Durango but that allowed enough time for a quick lunch and some sightseeing.

While most people went straight for the shopping, I went looking for architecture.

This Catholic Church is lovely.

The view down the street is another church.

I liked this nice old train car.

The post office isn’t exactly what you would call a tourist attraction but I sought it out anyway.

Neither is the library but I liked it too. My only regret is that it was closed.

Meet Dale. He plays ragtime music at the hotel.

Here’s one more of the hotel.

Don’t worry. I did eventually fall prey to the touristy shops and spent a few bucks along the way.

Check out the Make the Journey Fun Facebook page for a video of one very special experience I had while there.

I took a bunch of pictures in Silverton so I suspect you’ll hear more about it in the future. Stay tuned!