Story by Kathryn R. Burke
All content © San Juan Publishing Group, Inc, All rights reserved.

SILVERTON AND SAN JUAN COUNTY: we’re talking high, way up there. From the summits of many of the county’s highest passes, seems like you’re at the top of the world. (See Alpine Loop). From anywhere in the county, you’re in the midst of some of North America’s most ruggedly scenic country. And looking down and out from numerous perches, you’re at 14,000 feet or higher, making this also America’s highest scenic country.

Silverton is the county’s main town. Once the county seat and teaming with people during the mining days, it’s still the largest “city” for miles around, with a whopping winter population of about 400 people (double or triple that when the trains are in town, related story.). There are a few other populated spots and a plethora of ghost towns. And vast tracts of open country. All of which makes this county unique.

San Juan County is, quite simply, a not-to-be-missed, scenic alpine adventure. And Silverton itself is like no other town in the “lower 48” (United States). We make that comparison, since many compare and contrast Silverton with places in Alaska where boomtown history combines with outdoor adventure.

No matter how many times you visit, or how long you’ve lived there, each day brings a new scenic feast. Hang out in town and you can’t help but look up at the mountains. And wonder... where does that road go? How long will it take me to get up there? Work in town, and you’ll miss a few days’ work following that wanderlust. Visit town, and before you know it, you’re packing a lunch, grabbing your walking stick (or mountain bike) and heading up into those irresistible vistas. The high country beckons: “Come, climb up here and partake of my magic”

Silverton, although small, has a year-round population, with year-round outdoor activities. (Recreation stories, events.)