The standard gauge Zinc Branch was built in 1902 by the Rio Grande, Pueblo & Southern (under the control of the D&RG) from the D&RG Pueblo-Trinidad Main at Zinc Junction 3 miles east to a zinc smelter at Blende. The RGP&S was absorbed into the D&RG in 1908. The branch lasted until 1939, when the smelter closed for good.

Zinc Branch Timetable