The Coming Together of History and Tradition
-by Sky Ute Casino Resort & Andrea Seid

With railroad history and Native American culture being two of the main draws to the Four Corners area, it seemed natural for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, and Sky Ute Casino Resort to bring those two worlds together. While having existed in the same geographic area for many years, the railroad and the Tribe forged a more formal partnership in 2009. Recognizing the opportunity to engage in storytelling, entertain, and bring cultures together, The Native American Heritage Train: The Southern Ute Legacy debuted in August of 2009 with great success.

The oldest continuous residents of Colorado are the Ute Indians. The Southern Ute Indian Tribe opened the new Sky Ute Casino Resort in Ignacio, about 20 miles east of Durango, in 2008. With the many amenities it offers, it also opened up the opportunity to share the culture of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe with not only the local community, but visitors from around the world. In addition, to educate further regarding Southern Ute culture, the Southern Ute Cultural Center & Museum will be opening in May, 2011; located just down the road from the Casino! Native American culture is unique, fascinating, and sometimes misunderstood by non-natives. The collaboration between the railroad and the Casino has allowed walls to come down and any cultural barriers to be put to rest.

This special train takes passengers 26 miles to Cascade Canyon, along the Animas River and into the wilderness of the San Juan National Forest. Members of the Tribe ride the train and mingle with passengers, allowing them the opportunity to see their regalia, ask questions, and hear stories. Two elders from the tribe, Mr. Byron Frost & Mr. Eddie Box Jr., ride in the Deluxe-Class car to share traditional stories along the way. At Cascade, Heritage Dancers perform traditional dances, accompanied by Native drummers and singers.

This meaningful collaboration between Sky Ute Casino Resort and the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has shortened the distance between our locations and strengthened a friendship that is just waiting to be shared. The next adventure is scheduled for Sunday, June 27, 2010. Watch www.DurangoTrain.com and the Sky Ute Casino Resort's Web site for additional dates.