Things To Do
in Silverton
Silverton is a small town located in southwest Colorado known for its picturesque setting in the San Juan Mountains. The town is rich in mining history and preserves its Victorian architecture, giving it a charming and historic feel. Silverton is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and jeep tours amidst stunning alpine scenery.
In the winter, the town transforms into a cozy getaway for snow sports enthusiasts seeking a more peaceful and laid-back experience compared to nearby ski resorts.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local cafe. Afterward, take a stroll around the historic downtown area, soaking in the charming architecture.
Visit the Silverton Historic District and learn about the town’s rich mining history. Enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery that offers local dishes.
Relax with a scenic walk along the Animas River. Have dinner at a pub known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Gear up for a morning hike at the nearby San Juan Mountains. Breathe in the refreshing mountain air while enjoying stunning views.
After your hike, grab a hearty meal at a local diner. Spend the afternoon exploring local shops for unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, head to a cozy spot for a warm cup of cocoa. Reflect on your adventurous day while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including access to outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
- Close-knit community with a friendly atmosphere.
- Rich history and cultural heritage, with attractions and events celebrating local traditions.
- Lower cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
- Access to local parks and recreational facilities.
- Limited job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Small-town amenities may not be sufficient for all residents, requiring travel to larger cities for some services.
- Harsh winters, which may not be ideal for everyone.
- Potential for limited social activities and nightlife compared to urban settings.
- Dependence on seasonal tourism can lead to economic fluctuations.
Best Activities in Silverton
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails of the San Juan Mountains, offering stunning views and diverse ecosystems for all skill levels.
Ride the exciting mountain bike trails around Silverton, featuring a variety of terrains and breathtaking landscapes.
Enjoy the great outdoors by camping at one of the nearby campgrounds, surrounded by nature and fresh mountain air.
Experience fishing in the local rivers and lakes, where you can catch brook, cutthroat, and rainbow trout.
Take a guided rafting trip on the Animas River for an adrenaline-pumping adventure through scenic wilderness.
Capture the breathtaking landscapes of Silverton, from the vibrant wildflowers in summer to the stunning fall foliage.
Explore the area’s rich wildlife, including deer, elk, and various bird species, especially during early morning or late afternoon.
Discover the rugged beauty of the region on an ATV tour, which offers thrilling rides and access to remote locations.
In the winter months, enjoy skiing and snowboarding at the nearby Silverton Mountain Resort, known for its challenging terrain.
Experience amazing stargazing opportunities in the clear mountain skies, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Silverton with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Silverton
Visit one of these nice places.
This scenic trail offers breathtaking views of the Sneffels Range and is perfect for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A high mountain pass that provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys, ideal for capturing the rugged beauty of the area.
This historic viaduct offers stunning views of the Animas River and the town of Silverton, making it a great spot for landscape photography.
Known for its stunning turquoise waters and wildflower-filled meadows, Ice Lake Basin is a must-visit for vivid nature photography.
This trail features expansive vistas of the San Juan Mountains and is particularly beautiful in the fall when the aspens change color.
With its striking red rock formations and sweeping views of the mountain range, Red Mountain Pass is an excellent location for dramatic photography.
Capture the charm of this old mining town with its rustic buildings and vibrant alpine backdrop, especially during the golden hour.
Food in Silverton
Silverton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked pork stew with green chilies, tomatillos, and spices, served with warm tortillas. A must-try dish that showcases the region's Mexican influence. Available at Elkhorn Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Fresh salmon patty grilled to perfection, topped with local greens and a zesty aioli, served on a brioche bun. This dish highlights Silverton's connection to the nearby Pacific coast. Found at Water Mountain Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Silverton better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Saturday, local farmers and artisans gather in downtown Silverton to offer fresh produce, handmade crafts, and a variety of ready-to-eat treats like kettle corn, gourmet sausages, and seasonal fruit pies. A must-visit for food enthusiasts.
For an authentic street food experience, head to Oak Street where you'll find a vibrant array of taco trucks offering traditional Mexican street tacos, elote, and other delicious snacks. Perfect for a quick and flavorsome bite on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Maintaining a comfortable amount of personal space is important in Silverton. People generally appreciate a respectful distance during conversations, so avoid standing too close.
Silverton is surrounded by nature, and it's crucial to respect the local wildlife. Observing animals from a distance and not feeding them helps to maintain the natural balance and safety.
Engaging in local events and festivals shows respect for Silverton's culture. It fosters community spirit and allows visitors to connect with residents, learning more about their traditions and values.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Silverton with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Silverton
Ensure a smooth experience
In Silverton, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a customary practice, especially in the service industry. It is generally expected to tip servers in restaurants, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The typical tip amounts range from 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service received. In some casual dining establishments, a tip may be left in a smaller range, around 10-15%, while higher-end dining expects 20% or more. It's also common to tip additional amounts for exceptional service.
Payment practices in Silverton largely align with national trends. Most businesses accept various forms of payment, including cash, credit, and debit cards. Contactless payments, such as mobile wallets (e.g., Apple Pay, Google Pay), are also becoming popular. Many restaurants and shops might have a minimum charge for credit card purchases, and there may be options for split billing. When making purchases, especially in smaller establishments, cash is appreciated, but card payments are perfectly acceptable.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Silverton.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Silverton is typically from March to May. Expect mild temperatures, blooming wildflowers, and a mix of rain and sunshine. This is a great time for hiking as the snow begins to melt and trails become accessible.
Summer, from June to August, brings warm temperatures and is the peak tourist season. Expect clear skies and vibrant green landscapes, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. However, be prepared for occasional thunderstorms in the afternoons.
Fall lasts from September to November. Visitors can enjoy cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage as the leaves change color. It's a quieter time to visit, ideal for scenic drives and photography. Early fall is also great for hiking before the snow sets in.
Winter spans from December to February, bringing snow and cold temperatures. Silverton transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. Expect snowy conditions and be prepared for winter storms.
Silverton at Night
Hiking in Silverton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning alpine basin featuring multiple lakes and breathtaking views. The hike is moderately strenuous and offers a rewarding experience for hikers looking for natural beauty.
A challenging hike that leads to one of the fourteeners in the San Juan Mountains. The summit provides panoramic views of surrounding peaks and valleys.
An adventurous hike that offers stunning vistas and varied terrain. Ideal for those looking to explore the diverse landscapes of the San Juan Mountains.
A scenic, relatively easy trail that runs along the Animas River, perfect for casual hikes, walking, and family outings.
Known for its backcountry skiing in winter, this area offers various hiking trails during summer, catering to both novice and experienced hikers.
Part of the Wilson massif, this peak can be reached via a moderately difficult trail offering spectacular views of the surrounding area.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Silverton through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Silverton by plane.
The largest airport in the United States by land area and a major hub for multiple airlines, located approximately 124 miles northeast of Silverton, CO.
A major airport serving the Salt Lake City area, located about 389 miles west of Silverton, CO.
The primary airport serving Phoenix, Arizona, located approximately 410 miles southwest of Silverton.
The main airport serving Albuquerque, New Mexico, located around 270 miles southeast of Silverton.
A key airport located in Las Vegas, Nevada, approximately 450 miles southwest of Silverton.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Silverton, typically comprising a significant majority of the population.
The second largest demographic group, contributing to the cultural diversity of the community.
A smaller but important demographic contributing to the community's cultural fabric.
Includes various Asian ethnicities, representing a smaller percentage of the population.
A less represented group in Silverton, contributing to the town's historical narratives.
Individuals identifying with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting the increasing diversity.
The Soul of Silverton
Discover the essence of Silverton through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played on a court where two teams aim to score points by shooting a ball through the opponent's hoop.
A widely-played team sport in which players aim to score goals by getting a ball into the opposing team's net using any part of their body except their arms and hands.
A bat-and-ball game played between two teams, where the objective is to score runs by hitting the ball and running around a series of bases.
A culturally significant team sport in America, where players hit a ball and run around bases to score runs.
A popular high school sport focusing on teamwork and strategy, played on a field with two teams competing to score touchdowns.
An athletic event that encompasses various running, jumping, and throwing disciplines, often held in schools and local competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Silverton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Silverton embraces vegetarian and vegan cuisine, with many restaurants offering plant-based alternatives, creative salads, and vegetable-focused dishes. Look out for menus featuring dishes like the Vegan Buddha Bowl and the Vegetarian Enchiladas.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can explore an array of gluten-free options, from pizzas with gluten-free crusts to pasta dishes made with alternative grains. Many establishments provide gluten-free bread and desserts as well.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Silverton with these cultural adventures.
