Durango

Travel Guide

Durango - Purgatory which includes street scenes, night scenes and a city
Durango - Purgatory featuring forest scenes, mountains and a river or creek
Durango - Purgatory which includes heritage architecture and night scenes
Durango - Purgatory which includes fall colors, mountains and tranquil scenes
Durango - Purgatory showing tranquil scenes, autumn leaves and forest scenes

This town is a wonderland for outdoor adventure lovers. Located in the middle of the Animas River Valley, it is characterized by its dramatic natural landscape.

Since its founding in 1881, the small mining community of Durango has continued to expand. Today it attracts thousands of visitors for its major archaeological and natural attractions. Durango has a tightknit community of 17,000 residents and a town center recognized for its natural beauty. Stroll along the Animas River, which runs right through the center of town. Take a short walk to reveal the majestic beauty of the Animas River Valley and the San Juan Mountains.

Embark on a rafting expedition. The Animas River offers both family-friendly guided floats over gentle rapids and Class IV and V rafting to challenge those with whitewater experience. 

Hike along the Animas River Valley. Bike the 7-mile (11-kilometer) car-free trail through downtown or mountain bike on over 1,000 miles of trails surrounding the city.

Rent fishing tackle to try your luck at fly-fishing in the deep river pools. Watch the scenery as you ride aboard the celebrated narrow gauge railway line that runs between Durango and Silverton, a historic mining town. 

Durango offers a range of accommodation, from hotels and apartments in the heart of the downtown precinct to mountain resorts nestled in the foothills of the San Juan Mountain Range. From your downtown location, enjoy sweeping views of the valley. You’ll also be within walking distance of Durango’s excellent dining options. Try traditional Coloradan fare, like trout caught straight from the river. After you eat, join locals for a chat over a drink at a friendly neighborhood bar.

Major U.S. highways connect Durango to neighboring cities. Albuquerque is a 3.5-hour drive south. Travel north to experience Colorado’s San Juan Skyway, which cuts through the heart of the mountain range. Explore the stunning Mesa Verde National Park, just 22 miles (35 kilometers) from Durango, before returning to the town.

Where to stay in Durango

Durango - Purgatory which includes street scenes, night scenes and a city

Historic Downtown Durango

The abundant dining options and stunning river views are top of the list for many visitors to Historic Downtown Durango. A stop by Durango Arts Center or Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad might round out your trip.

Historic Downtown Durango
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Columbine Lake

While Columbine Lake might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Purgatory Resort and Lake of the Pines.

Columbine Lake
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Animas River District

While visiting Animas River District, you might make a stop by sights like Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Animas River Trail.

Animas River District
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North Main District

While visiting North Main District, you might make a stop by sights like Durango Community Recreation Center and Animas River.

North Main District
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Dalton Ranch

If you're spending some time in Dalton Ranch, Animas River and Dalton Ranch Golf Club are top sights worth seeing.

Dalton Ranch
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Durango West

When in Durango West, you can plan a visit to San Juan National Forest Supervisor's Office and Historic Tram Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Durango West
Comfort Inn & Suites Durango

Comfort Inn & Suites Durango

2.5 out of 5
455 S Camino Del Rio, Durango, CO
The price is P10,489 per night from Aug 10 to Aug 11
P10,489
P11,921 total
Aug 10 - Aug 11
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Durango. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,973 reviews)
"The price was right! We enjoyed a week in Durango staying here. It's just a few minutes from downtown. A hot breakfast with many options is available every morning. Plus freshly made popcorn all day,, along with warm cookies served every afternoon. We experienced a ittle highway traffic noise in ..."

Reviewed on Jul 26, 2025

Comfort Inn & Suites Durango
Adventure Inn Durango

Adventure Inn Durango

3 out of 5
3515 Main Avenue, Durango, CO
The price is P7,180 per night from Aug 11 to Aug 12
P7,180
P8,160 total
Aug 11 - Aug 12
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star motel in Durango. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,022 reviews)
"Clean place to sleep while traveling."

Reviewed on Jul 26, 2025

Adventure Inn Durango
Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn

Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn

2.5 out of 5
400 E 2nd Ave, Durango, CO
The price is P11,383 per night from Aug 24 to Aug 25
P11,383
P12,936 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Durango. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,007 reviews)
"Beautiful scenery"

Reviewed on Jul 18, 2025

Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Leland House Suites of Durango

Leland House Suites of Durango

4 out of 5
721 E 2nd Ave, Durango, CO
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Durango. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and free bicycles on site. Popular attractions Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (71 reviews)
Awesome find
"Very convenient for train in Durango and river. Clean and comfortable!"

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025

Leland House Suites of Durango
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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