Thomas the Tank Engine chugs along the tracks.

Smokey Bear greets guests at Cascade Canyon on the Mountain Express Train.

Alpine Slide riders roll down the mountain for over half a mile. Each sled has a control stick that regulates the speed of descent, and there are two tracks running side by side.

Just for Kids

June 17-20 – Day Out With Thomas: This family event offers aspiring engineers and their families a unique opportunity to ride with the storybook favorite Thomas the Tank Engine on a real steam engine at a heritage railroad. Enjoy a 25-minute ride with the little blue engine. Kids can also meet Sir Topham Hatt and enjoy storytelling and live music. Call (888)TRAIN-07 or visit: www.durangotrain.com

June 27-Aug. 11 – Mountain Express Train:Learn about native flora, wildlife and fire ecology on this half-day wilderness adventure train. Smokey Bear will be at the Cascade Station to educate and meet guests. Goodie bags are provided for all youth on-board. Call (888)TRAIN-07 or visit www.durangotrain.com

Durango Mountain Resort: The ski area at Purgatory is open for the summer season. Family fun includes an alpine slide, human maze, mini golf, mountain biking, chairlift rides, hiking, and beautiful views. Call (800) 525-0892 or visit: www.durangomountainresort.com

Durango Nature Studies: This 140-acre nature center located 12 miles south of Durango offers a wide variety of hands-on workshops, classes and guided hikes, plus a summer day camp. Call (970) 382-9244 or visit: www.durangonaturestudies.org

The Children’s Museum of Durango offers hands-on, interactive exhibits and workshops that stimulate the mind and imagination. Craft or science activities are offered Wednesday through Sunday. 802 E. Second Ave. Call (970) 259-9234 or visit: www.childsmuseum.org

Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour: Ride the mine train underground and see how gold mining was really done, including demonstrations with authentic equipment. Free gold panning included. Call (970) 387-5444 or visit: www.minetour.com

Durango Community Recreation Center has an indoor toddler pool, lap pool, water slide, hot tub and outdoor splash pad. Kids can also try the climbing wall and other sports. Daycare available. Located at 2400 Main Ave. Call (970) 375-7300.

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Tours: Visitors can get free passes to tour the factory in Durango and see how chocolate is made. Tours are available from June through August. Stop by
the store in downtown Durango at 561 Main Ave. and try the treats (right), or call (970) 259-1408.