Durango, Colorado
Some days feel special from the moment you wake up.
Day 7 was one of those days — wrapped in excitement, celebration, and the kind of magic that only trains, snow, and childhood wonder can bring.
A Winter Morning Filled with Anticipation
We woke up around 6:30 AM, the room still quiet and dark outside. By 7:00 AM, I gently woke my husband and our toddler. The moment her eyes opened, excitement rushed in.
“Santa train!” she said immediately, her voice bright and eager.
I smiled and reminded her that the Santa train would be in the evening — and that in the morning, we were going on a different adventure first: the Cascade Canyon train through snowy mountains. She listened carefully, processing this information with serious toddler focus, then nodded, satisfied.
As if the day wasn’t already meaningful enough, it was also our wedding anniversary. Morning phone calls followed — my parents, brothers, and in-laws calling to wish us. Our toddler joined in the conversations, happily sharing little details about trains and Santa, her excitement spilling into every call.
Breakfast & Heading to the Train Station
After getting ready, we had breakfast at the IHG hotel, familiar and comforting. There’s something grounding about starting big days with routine.
By 9:00 AM, we arrived at the Durango & Silverton station, parked in our pre-booked spot, and walked quickly toward the platform. The air was cold and crisp, and steam lingered faintly around the tracks.
“Arriving at the Durango train station — winter air and rising excitement.”
All Aboard the Cascade Canyon Winter Train
We boarded the train around 9:15 AM, though departure was delayed by about 15 minutes. The moment the train horn sounded, our toddler lit up.
“Chu chu!” she shouted, clapping her hands.
The conductor and pantry staff walked through the coach, explaining food and drink options. The gentle rocking of the train, combined with the warmth inside, worked its magic — within 30 minutes, our toddler drifted into a short nap.
“First train moments — wide eyes, loud horns, and endless ‘chu chu’ excitement.”
Open-Air Views & Snowy Scenery
At the back of our coach was an open-air car, and once she woke up, we stepped out to take in the views.
Snow-covered trees lined the route. The river flowed quietly below. Mountains rose around us, their peaks softened by winter light. My husband spent time capturing photos, while I stood quietly, letting the cold air and scenery settle into memory.
The open-air coach grew crowded as others joined, all drawn by the same breathtaking views.
“Open-air coach views — snow, river, and mountains rolling past.”
Pantry Car Treats & A Cozy Ride Back
Behind our coach was the pantry car, where we collected our pre-ordered chicken salad and bought popcorn. The line was long, but spirits were high — everyone excited, bundled up, chatting softly.
Back at our seats, we shared popcorn and watched the landscape slide by.
The train stopped at Cascade Canyon around 11:30 AM. We stepped off, had lunch, took photos, and soaked in the stillness of the canyon. By 12:30 PM, we began the return journey.
On the way back, our toddler grew tired and slept peacefully, her head resting comfortably as the train rocked gently along the tracks.
“Cascade Canyon stop — quiet beauty and snowy stillness.”
Back in Durango — Rest & Souvenirs
We returned to Durango by 2:30 PM and stopped by the gift shop to pick up souvenirs. Our toddler chose carefully, fascinated by everything.
Hungry again, we made a quick stop at McDonald’s for a kids’ meal and sandwiches before heading back to the hotel around 4:00 PM.
We rested for about an hour — just enough time to recharge for the evening ahead.
Evening Excitement — The Polar Express Awaits
As evening approached, excitement returned tenfold.
We headed back to the station by 6:00 PM, and the moment our toddler saw other children gathering, she began shouting joyfully:
“Santa! Santa!”
“Waiting for the Polar Express — pure excitement and holiday magic.”
The Polar Express — A Toddler’s Dream
Once onboard the Polar Express, magic filled the air.
Santa’s voice echoed through the speakers, telling stories as the iconic Polar Express music played. Chefs sang, danced, and clapped — and our toddler joined in, singing and dancing right along with them.
Christmas lights glowed everywhere. We were served hot chocolate and cookies, warm and sweet.
At the North Pole, the train slowed. Outside, we saw Santa waving, elves dancing, Santa’s house glowing, and wrapped gifts everywhere. On the return journey, everyone sang Christmas carols like Jingle Bells, our toddler’s small voice blending perfectly with the others.
Santa later walked through the coach. Our toddler called out to him excitedly, we took photos, and he handed her a small bell — a moment she will never forget.
“Polar Express magic — lights, music, Santa, and endless joy.”
A Final Surprise — Reindeer & Anniversary Dinner
As if the night couldn’t get any more magical, we spotted real reindeer near the station after disembarking — calm, beautiful, and unexpected.
To end the day, my husband surprised me with an anniversary dinner at East by Southwest, a Japanese restaurant. Sushi, Japanese fried rice, chicken teriyaki — everything tasted even better knowing it was part of a carefully planned surprise.
By 10:00 PM, we returned to our hotel — exhausted, happy, and full.
“Anniversary dinner — sushi, celebration, and gratitude.”
✨ Travel Tips for Families
- Pre-book train parking — it saves time and stress
- Open-air coaches get cold; dress in layers
- Bring snacks even if you pre-order food
- Polar Express is loud and exciting — great for toddlers who enjoy music
- Plan a rest window between train rides
✨ Why This Day Was Special
Day 7 wasn’t just about trains or Christmas magic. It was about sharing wonder, celebrating love, and seeing the world through our child’s joy.
✨ Closing Reflection
This day held everything — snow, celebration, childhood magic, and quiet gratitude.
Watching our toddler sing Christmas songs on a moving train, hearing her call out to Santa, celebrating our anniversary surrounded by mountains — it all felt deeply meaningful.
Some days stay with you forever.
Day 7 was one of them.
And as we turned off the lights that night, the soft sound of bells still ringing in our hearts, we knew — this journey was becoming part of our family story.