15 Great Things To Do in Durango, Colorado

Nestled in the rugged San Juan Mountains, Durango, Colorado, is a dream destination for outdoor adventurers, history buffs, and those seeking a mix of both. It became one of the highlights of our summer 2020 tour, and I cannot wait to go back. From outdoor activities to rich cultural experiences and a vibrant local food scene, this mountain town is the perfect base for an unforgettable getaway. Let’s dive into all the great things to do in Durango!

Best Time to Visit Durango, Colorado

Month	Temperatures
January	39° / 11°
February	46° / 17°
March	52° / 24°
April	70° / 36°
May	70° / 36°
June	83° / 44°
July	87° / 51°
August	84° / 50°
September	77° / 43°
October	66° / 31°
November	51° / 22°
December	42° / 14°

Spring
In addition to skiing and hiking, spring is also an ideal time for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, as animals become more active after winter. Early spring can still be chilly in the mornings and evenings, but by late spring, wildflowers begin to bloom, making the trails even more beautiful. While jeep tours may start later in the season, you can still explore lower elevation trails.

Summer
Durango’s summer is perfect for mountain biking, especially with hundreds of miles of trails and the opportunity to explore the surrounding San Juan Mountains. Summer events, such as the Durango Blues Train, combine the region’s history with live music, adding to the cultural offerings. It’s also a good time to take the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for a scenic ride (one of my favorite parts of our trip. More on that soon!).

Fall
The fall colors are spectacular, and Durango is renowned for its diverse array of festivals in autumn. The Durango Cowboy Poetry Gathering and Oktoberfest are notable highlights. And you can’t miss their harvest events and, of course, enjoy the local farms and orchards.

Winter
In addition to skiing, winter activities in Durango include snowshoeing, ice climbing, and even dog sledding. Purgatory Resort, located just north of town, is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Downtown Durango also becomes festive with holiday lights and events, such as the Polar Express Train Ride.

How to Get to Durango, Colorado

From Albuquerque International Sunport

For travelers flying into Albuquerque International Sunport, the journey to Durango takes about 3.5 hours. After leaving Albuquerque, you’ll head north on I-25 before merging onto US-550, a highway that takes you through the scenic desert landscapes of New Mexico. As you travel, the terrain transitions into the rolling hills and mountains of southern Colorado. After passing through Farmington and Aztec, you’ll cross the state line and continue on US-550 straight into Durango.

From the South (Farmington, NM)

If you’re driving from the south, particularly from Farmington, New Mexico, it’s a simple hour-long drive. You’ll take US-550 North and pass through the town of Aztec before entering Colorado. From there, it’s a direct route into Durango.

From the North (Montrose, CO)

Coming from the north, such as from Montrose, Colorado, expect a stunning but more challenging 2.5-hour drive along US-550, also known as the Million Dollar Highway. This route takes you through mountain passes and towns like Ouray and Silverton, offering breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains. The road is steep and curvy in sections, so take your time to enjoy the scenery and drive safely.

What to Pack for Durango, Colorado

• Layered clothing: Durango’s weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. Bring moisture-wicking base layers, a warm fleece or jacket, and a waterproof shell to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.
  
• Sun protection: At high elevations, the sun can be intense even on cooler days. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from UV rays.
  
• Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is key, especially with Durango’s dry air and high altitude. A good reusable water bottle or hydration reservoir is essential for outdoor adventures.
  
• Snacks or energy bars: Pack some high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or dried fruit for day hikes or other activities.
  
• Map or GPS: Whether you’re hitting the trails or heading out on a scenic drive, it’s smart to have a map or GPS handy, as cell service can be spotty in the more remote areas.
  
• Altitude sickness remedies: For those not used to higher elevations, it’s a good idea to bring remedies like electrolyte tablets or ginger candies to help with mild altitude sickness symptoms.

Places to Stay in Durango, Colorado

Doubletree by Hilton

In addition to its prime location, this hotel offers easy access to the Animas River Trail, perfect for a morning walk or bike ride. The on-site restaurant, Animas River Grille, offers stunning views of the river while serving up locally inspired cuisine. For business travelers, the hotel also has meeting spaces and a 24-hour fitness center. This was a fun hotel stay on our van tour – we truly appreciated all that this hotel had to offer!

Strater Hotel

The Strater is not just a place to stay; it’s a step back in time. Brandon loved this place so much that he seriously considered getting a room here.
Guests can explore the hotel’s history through its numerous artifacts and period decor. The Mahogany Grille restaurant offers a fine dining experience with Old West charm, while the historic atmosphere extends to the saloon, making it a favorite for both tourists and locals. Famous guests include Western author Louis L’Amour, who wrote many of his novels while staying at the hotel.

Bee bus

For a truly one-of-a-kind stay near Durango, the Bee Bus is a converted school bus transformed into a cozy tiny home, perched on a mesa just 15 minutes south of town.

With sweeping 360-degree mountain views, a queen bed, full bath, kitchen, and charming decor, it’s a peaceful retreat for those wanting to unwind and reconnect with nature.

Outside, guests can relax in the hot tub or around the fire pit, gazing up at the stars. Located on the host’s private property, it offers privacy, a warm welcome from two friendly dogs, and even fresh eggs upon arrival.

BLM land

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees the Durango Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA), offering a vast array of outdoor activities in a natural, undeveloped setting.

This public land spans rugged terrain, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, with trails that weave through juniper forests and open meadows. The SRMA also provides ample opportunities for dispersed camping, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in the beauty of the high desert landscape.

Its proximity to Durango makes it a convenient escape for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the area’s natural wonders without the crowds. The Durango SRMA is also a popular destination for off-highway vehicle (OHV) use, with several designated routes for adventurers seeking a more adrenaline-filled experience.

Places to Eat in Durango, Colorado

We were only in town for about twenty-four hours, so naturally we didn’t get to do everything on the list. That’s why there are only two restaurants in Durango, actually. I’m going to throw the one in Silverton in there too, because it was the best pizza I’ve ever had —and that’s saying a lot!

Durango Coffee Company

Durango Coffee Company is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers, located just a short walk from the DoubleTree by Hilton. When I visited early in the day, the employees were friendly, and the coffee was outstanding, complete with latte art, a sign of their commitment to quality. The spacious building offers ample seating, making it an ideal place to relax or work. With over forty years in business, Durango Coffee Company takes pride in sourcing top-quality beans through long-standing relationships with farmers and importers.

Plus, they’re dog-friendly, offering pup cups for your four-legged companions!

Steamworks Brewing Co

Since opening in September 1996, Steamworks Brewing Co. has become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors in Durango. More than just a brewpub, Steamworks offers a lively and fun atmosphere, along with an impressive culinary program.

Their “gastropub” menu features regionally sourced meats, sustainable seafood, healthy salads, pizzas, and Southwestern-inspired dishes, with a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Whether you’re there to catch a game or relax with friends, you’ll find something to love on tap. I highly recommend trying their battered French fries, served with a delicious beer-infused ketchup that adds a savory umami kick.

Bonus: Golden Block Brewery- Silverton, Colorado

If you’re planning a day trip to Silverton, make sure to stop at Golden Block Brewery. Known for its wood-fired pizza and local brews, this spot hits the mark. We ordered the Snow Cat (half with jalapeños and red sauce) and the Outdoor Enthusiast, and both were delicious, featuring crispy wood-fired crusts and bold flavors. And the vibes were exactly what you’d expect for a brewery in a mountain town!

Things To Do in Durango, Colorado

Mesa Verde National park

Established in 1906 by Congress and President Theodore Roosevelt, Mesa Verde National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest archaeological preserve in the United States.

Spanning over 52,000 acres in the Four Corners region, the park is home to more than 5,000 sites, including 600 ancient cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Pueblo people. While there, you can explore incredible structures like Cliff Palace, the largest known cliff dwelling in North America, on ranger-led tours that must be reserved in advance.

The park also offers nearly 30 miles of scenic trails, showcasing breathtaking views of the canyons and mesas. It’s also dedicated as an International Dark Sky Park, giving you exceptional stargazing and photography opportunities.

Pets are welcome in certain areas of the park, including paved roads and select trails, though restrictions apply to protect the natural and cultural resources.

Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway Museum

The Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway Museum is a hidden gem for history buffs and train enthusiasts alike. Located at the Durango train depot, this free museum offers a fascinating look at the history of the railroad and the role it played in the development of the region.

When we went, we were able to explore a wide variety of exhibits, including original locomotives, railroad cars, and an impressive collection of artifacts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The museum also features a working model train, antique vehicles, and displays that highlight the importance of the mining industry to the area’s growth. It’s a great stop for families, offering both indoor and outdoor exhibits, and gives visitors a deeper appreciation for the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway’s enduring legacy.

In addition to exploring the exhibits, the Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway Museum offers Yard Tours during the summer season (May–October).

These daily tours, held at noon, give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the fascinating inner workings of the railway. On this guided tour, you’ll explore the yard, machine shop, roundhouse, car shop, rolling stock, and more while learning about the train’s impressive 142-year history. It’s a unique opportunity to see the operations of the railroad up close, making it a must-do for anyone curious about the history and maintenance of this iconic railway.

Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway

The Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway offers a scenic journey back in time through the breathtaking landscapes of the San Juan Mountains.

Originally constructed in 1882 to transport silver and gold from the mountains, the railway now serves as one of Durango’s top tourist attractions. My family and I had the opportunity to ride the train in 2020, and it was an experience we still talk about. Though we couldn’t ride the full length due to construction, we had most of the cart to ourselves. Sticking our heads out, feeling the fresh mountain air on our faces, and looking down at the rushing waters of the Animas River was unforgettable. Please note, I highly recommend taking motion sickness medication or bringing ginger chews, as the train’s winding route can be a bit bumpy at times.

Piedra River Hot Springs

For those seeking a more natural hot springs experience, Piedra River Hot Springs offers a relaxing, primitive soak in the heart of nature. Situated along the scenic Piedra River, these remote hot springs can be reached with a moderate 1.5-mile hike from USFS Road 622. The unpaved road to the trailhead is generally passable without a 4×4, as long as conditions are dry, but it’s important to note that the road is closed from November through April.

The pools, built from river stones, are nestled right by the river, with temperatures around 100°F, though the water levels of the river can affect the warmth. Early summer visitors may find the pools cooler due to snow runoff, but by late summer and fall, the springs are more consistently warm.

This period also sees more visitors, so arriving early is recommended for a peaceful soak. With no facilities and limited cell service in the area, it’s important to come prepared, bringing maps and following the “leave no trace” principles to help preserve this pristine natural site.

Your Final Things To Do in Durango, Colorado

Durango’s blend of outdoor adventure, history, and small-town charm makes it a top destination for travelers of all kinds. Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, relaxing in a natural hot spring, or learning about the area’s fascinating past, there’s no shortage of unique experiences to be had.

As you explore everything this mountain town has to offer, you’ll quickly understand why Durango continues to captivate visitors year after year. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an adventure you won’t soon forget.