Durango, approximately a 7 hour drive from Denver, is a great choice for a trip if you have a long weekend on your calendar.
The town began as a supply hub to the gold and silver mines, but is now known for its outdoor experiences. Whether you want to go mountain-biking, kayak, ride horses, hike, camp, or fish, Durango is an ideal spot.
For families, the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is unforgettable. Your kids will not be able to stop talking about that experience.
And if you’re a fan of Jeeping (we certainly are!), the nearby mountains are perfect for wheeling and camping. Durango is the gateway to the San Juan Mountains; with the mining towns of Silverton, Ouray, & Telluride about an hour’s drive north.
Don’t forget to budget time in downtown Durango, where you’ll enjoy Victorian charm, fine dining, and a vibrant art scene. One local gallery, the Toh-Atin Gallery, offers Navajo art and weavings, and other great gifts.
A short drive north of Durango you’ll find the ski resort of Purgatory — recently named one of the top 10 ski resorts in North America by Condé Nast. Purgatory boasts a variety of year-round outdoor activities.
No trip to Durango would be complete, of course, without a trip to Mesa Verde. Founded in 1906, the park’s mission is to preserve the archaeological heritage of the Ancestral Pueblo people. To fully experience Mesa Verde, we recommend a full day, but if your travel schedule allows, two full days would provide time to camp at the park.
For lodging, consider two of Durango’s most famous hotels — the Historic Strater Hotel, and the General Palmer Hotel.
The Strater Hotel prides itself on its historic knowledge of Durango, and the hotel itself is part of the city’s colorful history. The hotel is over 130 years old, and throughout its history, the Strater has been known as the social hub in the city.
The General Palmer is a Victorian hotel that combines the historic feel of Durango with all of the modern luxuries. The General Palmer is more than 120 years old, and invites guests to experience all of Durango’s nostalgia. The knowledgeable staff are ready to assist with trip planning as well.
Durango is the perfect mix of Old West charm with modern amenities, and makes an ideal staging area for an extended stay in the region. The nearby mountains are full of places to explore in one of our adventure ready rigs, and that’s why this gem should be high on your travel bucket list.