Nestled amidst the majestic San Juan Mountains, Durango, Colorado, is a playground for adventurers and a haven for those seeking a slower pace of life. Here, the echoes of the Old West mingle with the vibrant energy of a modern mountain town, making for a bevy of opportunities for all types of travelers.

Here is your guide to exploring the best things to do Durango, Colorado has to offer!

1. Ride the Durango Train

One of the most iconic experiences in Durango is riding the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Established in 1880, this historic train originally served to transport mining ores from the San Juan Mountains. Today, it stands as a National Historic Landmark, featuring vintage steam locomotives from the 1920s that take you on a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in Colorado.

The Durango train operates year-round, offering themed excursions like the Polar Express during the winter, which adds a magical touch to the scenic ride. With heated coaches, the train ensures comfort, it’s the perfect way to enjoy Colorado’s panoramic vistas.

2. Explore Mesa Verde National Park

A visit to Durango wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Mesa Verde National Park, a short 40 minutes west of town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its well-preserved ancient ruins, offering a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who once inhabited the region.

The park is home to some of the most impressive cliff dwellings, including the famous Cliff Palace and Square Tower House.

Ranger-led tours will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the history and architecture of these ancient structures. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Balcony House tour offers a challenging climb up steep ladders and through narrow tunnels, providing a hands-on exploration of ancient architectural practices.

For those looking to go off the beaten path, the park offers backcountry tours to explore less accessible cliff dwellings. Keep in mind, reservations are necessary for all tours.

3. Visit the Historic Downtown Durango

Historic Downtown Durango is a vibrant hub of activity, blending rich history with modern charm. Adding to the ambiance – the Animas River, also known as "River of Lost Souls," runs through the heart of downtown Durango, giving the city its Basque-derived name, "water town."

As you stroll along, you’ll be greeted by a mix of unique shops, art galleries, and vibrant restaurants that offer a taste of local culture. The historic architecture of downtown provides a scenic backdrop, with views of the mountains adding to the picturesque setting.

Take your time exploring Main Avenue, the heart of downtown, where you can browse through boutiques and galleries, each offering something unique, from Good Karma’s global goods to The Sparrow Mercantile’s bespoke apparel.

4. Go on an Adventure at Purgatory Resort

Purgatory Resort is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities throughout the year. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and scenic snowcat tours, making it a perfect destination for snow lovers.

When the snow melts, Purgatory Resort transforms into a mountain biking paradise, featuring professionally designed trails suitable for all skill levels. The Purgatory Flow Trail – Durango’s longest downhill flow trail – provides an exhilarating experience for mountain biking enthusiasts.

5. Go Dog Sledding at Durango Dog Ranch

Durango Dog Ranch offers thrilling dog sled tours year-round in Hesperus just outside of Durango. In the winter, experience the exhilaration of being pulled through the snow-covered landscape by Siberian and Alaskan huskies. During warmer months, the dogs can pull you on scooters, all-terrain vehicles, or carts.

The ranch also provides summer kennel tours and cart rides, offering breathtaking views of the La Plata Mountains. For a more hands-on experience, you can participate in race training and dryland runs, helping mushers train the dogs. After your exhilarating ride, you’ll have the chance to interact and cuddle with the friendly sled dogs.

6. Rent an E-bike and Explore the Animas River Trail

The Animas River Trail is a paved, shared-use path that stretches approximately 7 miles through the city of Durango alongside the Animas River. The trail winds through town, over some bridges, and under others as it follows the river's path with easy downtown access.

For a delightful (and less exerting!) way to experience Durango's scenic beauty, consider renting an e-bike and exploring the trail. Several local shops like Go Play Durango offer e-bike rentals, providing a boost to help you effortlessly glide along the paved path!

7. Try Guided Fly Fishing with Duranglers

Duranglers has been a staple in Durango since 1983, offering expert-guided fly fishing trips that cater to all skill levels. The Animas River features ‘Gold Medal’ waters, making it an exceptional location for anglers looking to reel in a big catch.

All necessary fishing equipment is provided by Duranglers, allowing you to travel light and focus on enjoying the experience. With experienced guides leading the way, you’ll learn the best fishing techniques and discover the prime spots along the river.

8. Raft the Animas River

Rafting the Animas River offers a thrilling and refreshing way to experience Durango's landscape. From gentle floats perfect for families to more adventurous whitewater sections, there's a rafting experience for every skill level. The Lower Animas features Class II and III rapids, suitable for families and those seeking a milder adventure.

Several reputable tour operators provide guided rafting trips on the Animas, including:

• Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours
• Durango Rivertrippers & Adventure Tours
• 4Corners Riversports

These companies offer a range of options, from half-day excursions to full-day adventures, with lunch included.

9. Sample Durango’s Local Breweries

Durango boasts a vibrant craft brewing scene with a history dating back to the late 1800s and a resurgence in the 1990s.

• Breweries like Ska Brewing, founded in 1995, are iconic, known for their Ska music-inspired branding and beers like the Modus Hoperandi IPA and Mexican Logger.
• Steamworks Brewing Co. is another cornerstone recognized for its innovative brewing and sustainability.
• Carver Brewing Company, established in 1988, was the first in the Four Corners region since Prohibition.

Many of these breweries also provide tours and tastings, allowing you to get a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and sample some delicious beers.

Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or just looking to unwind, the local breweries in Durango offer a welcoming atmosphere and a chance to experience the town’s vibrant brewing culture.

10. Go Mountain Biking on the Alien Run

Alien Run, a mountain biking trail just off Highway 160, west of Durango, weaves a captivating tale into its very terrain. Legend has it that in 1948, a UFO crash-landed on a nearby mesa, its metallic remains and alien occupants spirited away by the military.

Today, the trail's three stacked loops offer a diverse riding experience, from smooth, flowing sections to challenging, slick rock and technical features. Riders can expect to navigate arroyos, traverse cliff edges, and test their skills on natural obstacles.

The Outer Limits Trail, the furthest loop, ramps up the difficulty with rocky climbs, steep descents, and winding paths through dune-like landscapes, providing a thrilling adventure steeped in both natural beauty and local lore. These trails are best suited for intermediate to advanced riders.

11. Explore the San Juan Mountains by ATV

Durango serves as a prime gateway to the San Juan Mountains for ATV enthusiasts, offering a plethora of trails and scenic vistas. From here, riders can venture into the expansive San Juan National Forest, exploring routes like La Plata Canyon, known for its diverse terrain and stunning views, or tackle the challenging Bolam Pass, a high-altitude trail requiring experienced drivers and high-clearance vehicles.

Missionary Ridge provides breathtaking panoramas of the Animas Valley, while further afield, the iconic Alpine Loop, a 65-mile backcountry byway, offers a multi-day adventure through historic mining towns and rugged landscapes.

This is the perfect way to experience the untamed beauty of Colorado's backcountry in a way few others experience! Try San Juan Backcountry or Outlaw Tours for guided excursions.

12. Visit the Durango Dog Ranch

The Durango Dog Ranch, established nearly three decades ago by Gregg and Gretchen Dubit, offers an exhilarating dog sledding experience. Guided by experienced mushers, the tours take you through picturesque landscapes with stunning views of the Colorado mountains.

Whether you're seeking the thrill of a dog sled ride through pristine winter landscapes, the excitement of a summer scooter tour, or simply the joy of connecting with energetic and friendly huskies, this ranch delivers.

13. Dig In To Durango's Farm to Table Dining Scene

Direct access to ranches and farms is the cornerstone of Durango's authentic farm-to-table food scene. This close proximity allows chefs and restaurant owners to forge strong relationships with local producers, ensuring a consistent supply of fresh, seasonal ingredients. All of this lends itself to the authentic taste of Durango’s cuisine.

Some notable mentions in this realm include James Ranch Grill, which sources its ingredients directly from the James Ranch, and Sage Fresh Eats for a more formal dining experience.

14. Take the Million Dollar Highway Driving Audio Tour

The Million Dollar Highway is a must-do for anyone visiting Southwest Colorado. Stretching 25 miles, this scenic highway is renowned for its breathtaking views and historical significance. The drive takes you through the San Juan Mountains, with the highest point being Red Mountain Pass at an elevation of 11,018 feet.

A self-guided driving audio tour allows you to explore at your own pace, with plenty of stops to take in the sights and learn about the area’s history. One of the highlights along the way is the historic mining town of Silverton, which adds a cultural touch to your journey.

15. Explore Lake Nighthorse

Lake Nighthorse, located just two miles from downtown Durango, is a popular destination for outdoor fun. Covering over 1,500 acres, the lake offers a variety of activities, making it a great spot for families and adventure seekers alike.

Fishing enthusiasts will find the lake well-stocked with Kokanee salmon and rainbow trout, providing excellent opportunities to reel in a big catch. The calm waters of Lake Nighthorse are also ideal for stand-up paddleboarding, offering a serene way to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

During the summer, the Wibit Aqua Park at the lake’s swim beach provides fun activities for all ages, with a floating waterpark that operates from May to September. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation and the City of Durango, Lake Nighthorse is a well-maintained and enjoyable destination for everyone.

16. Take the Kids to The Powerhouse

When the weather in Durango takes a turn, The Powerhouse offers a fantastic indoor escape for families, but it's more than just a place to escape a rainy day. This interactive science center, housed in a historic 1893 coal-fired AC electric plant, became home to one of the earliest AC electric plants in the world when Durango Light and Power Company embraced this then-fledgling technology.

After being abandoned, this once-handsome building underwent a metamorphosis and became a modern-day Powerhouse. It now provides hours of engaging fun for all ages, with hands-on exhibits covering diverse topics from electricity to space. Kids can explore, learn, and play, making it a perfect destination to keep everyone entertained and stimulated, all while learning about the building's fascinating past.

17. Visit the Pinkerton Hot Springs

Located near Highway 550, Pinkerton Hot Springs is a hidden gem in the Durango area. Pinkerton Hot Springs, named for pioneer James Pinkerton, harkens back to Durango's 19th-century spa era. Once a sought-after health retreat, the springs drew visitors seeking the purported healing powers of its warm waters. Though the historic spa is gone, the natural springs still flow, offering a glimpse into Durango's past.

Concealed behind a colorful rock formation, these springs feature mineral-infused water that creates vibrant colors. Minerals such as iron and sulfur give the water its vivid hues, making the springs a unique natural attraction.

Pro Tip: The best time to visit is during the warmer months when the colors are most striking.

18. Take a Scenic Drive to Fox Fire Farms

Located just southeast of Durango, Fox Fire Farms, nestled between Durango and Pagosa Springs, is the region's only commercial vineyard and winery. They are known for growing cold-climate hybrid grapes at high elevations (6500 feet), including Marquette, Traminette, Brianna, Vignoles, Corot Noir, and Petite Pearl.

Fox Fire welcomes guests for wine tastings and offers tours from mid-May through October, Thursday to Sunday. They also host events like Friday Nights, which include live music and food, and a Taste of Spring festival on Memorial Day weekend.

19. Float the Animas River by Paddleboard

Stand-up paddleboarding along the Animas River offers a fantastic way to experience Durango's natural beauty. As you glide along the water, you'll be treated to views of lush riverside vegetation, including cottonwood trees and willows. The river reflects the surrounding landscape, providing glimpses of the towering red cliffs and the Animas River Trail winding along the bank.

You'll find several access points for SUP along the river in Durango, including Santa Rita Park, 33rd Street, 29th Street, High Bridge, and Dallabetta Park. Equipment can be rented with Durango Recreation Rentals.

Stay and Play in Durango, Colorado

As your Durango adventure draws to a close, remember that the perfect home base awaits. From cozy cabins nestled in the woods and mountain view rentals offering breathtaking vistas to luxurious vacation homes and pet-friendly accommodations, the Vacation Rental Collective has something for every traveler.

Don't just dream about your Durango getaway – make it a reality. Book your ideal retreat with the Vacation Rental Collective today and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime.