Being a longstanding member of the “bucket list brigade,” I have made it my goal to ride as many scenic trains as possible over the years. So while being in Ouray in such close proximity to the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway, it was not a matter of “if,” but “when.” I did a lot of research online to figure out which car, which seats, which route etc. would offer me the most pleasurable experience during peak tourist season. But then Bobbie sent me off on a different rail path altogether when she mentioned the Durango bi-annual Blues Train. Live blues bands? On a train? How could I resist?
The line-up would be eight cars on the railway, plus the coal-fired, steam locomotive engine. Two cars on each end would carry the larger bands, and have no seats to allow for dancing. Moving inward, two cars would be seating only. And the remaining four cars would carry a different solo/duo act set up on the middle of the car, with seating all around. The train would pull out of the station at 7:00pm, go up to the Highline Scenic overlook, and be back in Durango by 11:00pm. Beer and wine would be served on the train.
Going solo in restaurants or tourist attractions never really bothers me, but I draw the line at bars. I am not comfortable sidling up on a bar stool as a single woman. So this Blues Train was on the cusp of my comfort zone. But it seemed like such a fun venue, it seemed worthy of a little “Party of one?” discomfort. People were very friendly, and after a few trips from one end of the train to the other, I settled in to enjoy the music, a cold beer, and the people-watching parade of intoxicated women trying to navigate a narrow gauge rail car in high heels.
Of the four solo/duo acts, I find two that are to my musical liking, so I grab a seat in that car, and enjoy the show. My favorite musician was a guy named Konrad West, whose act was called “Possessed by Paul James.” He did indeed seem possessed at times as he ran through instruments and a repertoire like a mad man. He went from rhythm guitar to acoustic guitar to the banjo to the fiddle to the voila and back again. And when the train stopped and Konrad temporarily lost power to his rhythm guitar, he set the instrument down and used his “beat box body parts” and wooden platform beneath his feet to finish the song, never missing a beat. The rail car was literally rocking from side to side as he belted out “Older in my body than my heart.” That’s one young heart!
It was quite a novelty being on a train with so many blues acts, as well as entertaining to watch the musicians adapt. (Mid-song, “Hey!! We’re moving!! AAAGGGHH!”) But the Blues Train did not travel as far as the most scenic section of the gorge, cut deep by the Animas River. And it was a cloudy night, leaving me with only a half an hour of light to enjoy the scenery. In other words, it was a fun “musical experience,” but not the “scenic train experience” I was seeking. So it only stands to reason, I should go again!
Coming up….the full experience of the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway.
How fun! We loved the Durango Silverton Train. Beautiful trip. The train out of Chama (New Mexico) about 50 miles from Pagosa Springs is another great scenic train.
Karen, I would have loved to take this train also, but I just didn’t have time this trip. I will put it on the list for my next CO visit, or even NM! Thanks!
After the recent death of my husband Wayne I’ve been pretty well “holed up” but today I’m hitting the road for my first solo road trip. I’m heading to CO – one of my favorite states since my family vacationed there when I was a kid. I’m not taking the camper this time but some day I hope to return for some mountain camping. I appreciate your perspective as a single full-timer and have the Durango train ride in my scope too. This blues train is also right up my alley but I hadn’t heard of it before. Now it’s in my list too. Keep the posts coming. You are my inspiration and give me hope that I can do this solo. Thank you!
Rhonda – you can do it!
Oh, Rhonda, I don’t know why I just now put two and two together that you are Wayne’s wife. I followed his blog, and was so sad to read the news when he passed! I am sorry I have not reached out sooner. Sending you a private email shortly…
Well that certainly is a unique experience! My respect and admiration go out to you and Rhonda (reader above) who are traveling solo. I want to have the courage and spirit to continue adventuring in the world if and when I find myself in a similar situation.
Thanks, Lenore. I have been traveling solo for so long that sometimes it is the crowds, like rallies and parties that require courage I have trouble mustering. It’s a trade off for sure. A few awkward moments are the down side, but the beauty is always being insured of getting to do exactly what you want to do! 😉
What a clever idea for the train! Yes, now you need to do the scenic tour:)
One scenic tour, coming right up! 😉
What a great train. I saw a TV programme along the same lines a while ago about a train that had lots of very good groups on it [ Mumford & sons] and it was virtually a non stop party. Here’s the link https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Railroad_Revival_Tour. Right up my street.
Dave, now that does look like fun! Love the tribute to Woody Guthrie!
What an awesomely cool experience!
Nina
It was indeed, Nina! Combining some of my favorite things…trains, beer, and blues!