On the High Line. Under a long-standing slow order, DRGW K-28 #473 takes her Silverton Mixed around the High Line Horseshoe Curve at MP 469.5.
The train pictured here is a reasonably authentic re-creation of the type of service that was operated on the old Denver & Rio Grande Western Silverton Branch, from the early 20th century until the line was sold off in 1981 to the newly formed Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Prior to that time, the largest power operating on this line were the Alco, K-28 Class Engines, simply because the tight clearances and bridge designs wouldn't support anything larger. Mixed service was common, with a handful of freight cars, 2-3 passenger cars, perhaps a baggage express and a caboose. After World War II, the fleet of K-28s diminished from 10 to just 3, so the survivors (473, 476 & 478) spent much of their time here. When the line was sold off, the K-28s became property of the DSNG. In recent years, only 473 and 478 have operated, with 476 pulling duty as a museum piece. In 2016 however, the DSNG announced the need for a 7th locomotive and revealed plans to repair the issues with the 476 and put her back into service. Expect her to be part of the fleet within 12-18 months.
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.
