Looking for the inside scoop? Here are some local insider information and essential traveler's tips!
Submit your tip
ALTITUDE:
Let Yourself Acclimatize
Durango is situated at 6,512 feet. If you are coming from a lower altitude,
you'll want to drink lots of water to help your body adjust to the higher altitude
and dry climate. You may even feel a little lightheaded, and even nauseous
during the first part of your trip. Take it easy and give yourself time to
acclimate.
CAMPING:
Don't Drink the Water
Camping and backpacking are very popular activities in the Durango area. While
camping, even though our beautiful mountain streams, lakes, and rivers make
look pure and clean, it is never recommended to drink unfiltered water. Always
bring a water filter or purification tablets with you to avoid running the
risk of falling ill from water-born bacteria.
PLAN AHEAD:
If you're planning a camping trip, make sure to check with the local Forest
Service for current regulations on camping and any fire restrictions. They
are also a great resource for details about public campgrounds. San Juan Public
Lands Office/Forest Service: (970) 247-4874 or http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/sanjuan/
DINING
Nearly as many restaurants per capita as San Francisco...
A trip to Durango wouldn't be the complete without dining out at our unique
local restaurants. Dining in Durango is an experience for the senses, and offers
the visitor a glimpse into the unique allure of this mountain town. While you're
exploring the town, ask a local which restaurants are their
favorites, and you'll be surprised at the splendid array of choices.
The Durango area offers something for every appetite: from down to earth eateries,
cafés and brewpubs to sophisticated and award-winning dining, our culinary
offerings truly reflect the richness, creativity and diversity of the area. Click
here for a list of our restaurants.
top 
RIDING THE DURANGO & SILVERTON NARROW GAUGE TRAIN
A Journey Back in Time
A trip back in time on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (D&SNGRR)
is an essential element to a Durango itinerary.
Schedule
The D&SNGRR is in operation year-round, however during the winter months
the train does not travel the entire way to Silverton, rather to Cascade Canyon
and back. During the spring, summer, and fall months, when the train runs all
the way to Silverton, you will have a full 2 hour and 15 minute layover in
Silverton. Use this time to grab lunch and explore this quaint mining town,
which has been designated a National Historic Landmark. Click
here for information on D&SNGRR Schedule and Rates.
Pets
Durango is a very pet friendly town, however, our furry friends are not allowed
on the train. If you plan on bringing your pets with you on vacation, arrange
for them to stay in a kennel for the day. Click here for kennels in
the Durango area, or contact the Durango Area Tourism Office at 1-800-463-8726,
or VisitorCenter@durango.org .
Food & Facilities
If you plan to spend the day on the D&SNGRR, you may bring your own lunch
and beverages, purchase food from the concession car on the train (snacks),
or wait until you reach Silverton to dine at one of their local restaurants.
And don't worry, there are plenty of bathroom facilities on the train.
Clothing
Wear suitable clothing to keep you warm and comfortable as you travel through
the rugged San Juan Mountains. As you climb in elevation from 6,512 feet to
9,318 feet, the temperature drops and it can get chilly, even in the summer.
It's a good idea to dress in layers, and bring a rain jacket or waterproof
layer. Wear comfortable shoes and socks, and in the winter a heavy jacket,
and warm clothing should be worn.
HIGH SEASON
Make Your Reservations in Advance
Summer is a great and very busy time of year in the Durango area, so if you
are planning to be here between late June and August, it's always recommended
to plan ahead and make reservations.
MESA VERDE COUNTRY
Be Prepared and Leave No Trace
Mesa Verde Country is located just 35 miles west of Durango, and is the archaeological
center of America. Mesa Verde Country is home to Mesa Verde National
Park , the Ute Mountain Tribal Park , Hovenweep
National Monument , the Anasazi Heritage Center ,
and Crow Canyon Archaeological Center .
National Park Information and Tours
Mesa Verde National Park is open year-round and visitors may walk, drive,
or take a bus tour to experience thousands of archaeological sites, interpretive
loops, and scenic pullouts. Allow for a full day to explore Mesa Verde Country,
and consider including a half-day tour of Mesa Verde National Park. Although
you may walk through many of the dwellings, please remember to be respectful
and never disturb, tamper with, or destroy these artifacts of living history.
Leave no Trace
The Ancestral Puebloans lived all throughout this area, so if you are hiking
and happen across undiscovered ruins or artifacts, please do not take from
or disturb the area, and contact the proper authorities.
Clothing
Because most of your visit to Mesa Verde Country will be spent outside, make
sure you wear comfortable walking shoes, loose clothing, and a hat to protect
you from the sun. Sunscreen and plenty of water are also essential to making
your trip comfortable.
top
ROAD CONDITIONS AND HAZARDOUS WEATHER
Be Safe and Check the Details Before your Trip
Durango is situated along the scenic San Juan Skyway. If you plan to take
a trip along this route, or hike one of our many backcountry trails along the
way, it's a wise idea to check the road conditions and weather forecast before
you do. The weather in the high country is unpredictable, but taking the proper
precautions will help assure that you have a fun and safe time exploring the
area. For current road conditions call the Colorado Department of Transportation
Hotline at 1-877-315-7623, (303) 639-1111 or visit them online at www.cotrip.org ,
and click on "road conditions". For current Durango weather, click here.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Durango Area Events are Second to None
From art and music festivals, rodeos, and live performances to outdoor adventure
races, Durango hosts a plethora of special events year-round. Visit
our special events calendar, or contact the Durango Area Tourism
Office at 1-800-463-8726 or via email at VisitorCenter@durango.org for
more information.
SPECIAL PERMITS
Better Safe than Sorry
The Durango is a great place for fishing, and a popular ATV and hunting destination.
If you plan to enjoy recreation on the surrounding public lands, check with
the Forest Service first for information on any applicable permits, licenses
or fees associated with the activity. Contact the San Juan Public Lands Office/Forest
Service: (970) 247-4874 or http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/sanjuan/
WEATHER
Wear Sunscreen!
Durango boasts over 300 days of sunshine per year, which makes for plenty
of days in the outdoors. But whether you visit in the summer, winter, or any
season, don't forget the following survival necessities: sunscreen, plenty
of water, layered clothing and sunglasses. Click
here for current Durango weather.
WILDLIFE
Don't Feed the Wildlife
Although they may look soft and cute and cuddly, the wildlife you will encounter
while enjoying the National Forests and Wilderness areas of Southwest Colorado
are wild animals. Do not feed them. Feeding them will make them dependent upon
humans for food, and damage their natural habitat. And, never approach an animal
in the wild, no matter how cuddly they may appear.
Durango is also a haven for herds of deer and elk, which can often be found strolling
through neighborhoods, grazing on golf courses, and walking along side and in
the road. Although these animals can be seen all day long, they are most likely
to be more prevalent at dawn and dusk. It's imperative that you take extra precaution
while driving during these times. Where there is one crossing the road, there
are likely to be more.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Durango Statistics and Facts
Special Events
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
History/Archeology
Surrounding Areas
Recreation
General
Restaurants
Shopping
General
1. What does Animas mean?
The original name, Rio de las Animas Perdidas, translates to "the river of lost souls."
2. What museums are in Durango?
3. Where can I find a scenic overlook in Durango?
Fort Lewis College, Kennebec Pass, and Animas Overlook. You'll also find beautiful scenery simply by taking a walk around the area!
4. Do you have a long-distance bus service?
Greyhound services Durango with buses to Grand Junction and Albuquerque once a day.
5. What is the Colorado State bird?
Lark Bunting
6. About how many acres were burned in the Missionary Ridge Fire?
70,000
7. Where can I find a recycling facility?
North City Market, Tech Center Dr., and Rim Dr.
8. When is the busiest tourist season?
Memorial Day through Labor Day and the week after Christmas
9. What airlines serve the Durango Airport?
United Express (from Denver), America West Express/US Air (from Phoenix, AZ), and Delta Airlines (from Salt Lake City).
10. What museum occupies an old stone schoolhouse?
The Animas Museum, located on the north end of town on the corner of 31st Street and West 2nd Avenue. For more information on the Museum, visit www.frontier.net/~animasmuseum
11. How much are the parking meters in town?
$.25 with a 2hour limit
12. Where can I get maps of the area? Phone books, a list of hotels/motels with prices, current events calendar?
All are available at the Visitor Center in Santa Rita Park
13. Where is Santa Rita Park?
One half mile south of the 160/550 intersection in Durango.
14. Is there a bus that goes to Durango Mountain Resort and where can I get a schedule?
Yes, schedules are available at www.durangomountainresort.com
15. Where can I find a list of things to do at night?
Check the Friday edition of the Durango Herald for a full week's schedule or visit the Herald on-line at www.durangoherald.com. Also, check the local independent paper, the Durango Herald, which is distributed on Thursdays - www.DurangoTelegraph.com.
top
Submitted Tips
|
|
General
Durango Area Tourism Office
Durango, CO
USA
A trip to Durango isn't complete without some memorable meals at a few of our unique, local restaurants. As you're enjoying the sights, try something new, or ask a local which restaurants are their favorites, you'll be surprised at all the fine dining Durango has to offer.
Remember, although they may be cute, the animals you will encounter while enjoying the forests of Southwest Colorado, are still wild animals. Feeding them could make them dependant on humans for food and damage their natural habitat. And of course, you should never approach an animal in the wild, no matter how cuddly they may appear.
If you're planning to visit us during the summer, it's always a good idea to plan ahead and make reservations so you're guaranteed a nice place to stay, and you'll also be sure to see everything you want to see while you're here.
If you're coming from a lower altitude, you might feel a little woozy for the first day or so of your trip. To prevent this, it's a good idea to drink a lot of water those first few days to help your body adjust to the higher altitude.
While camping, those beautiful mountain streams and rivers may look pure and tempting, but it's never a good idea to drink unfiltered water from any stream, river, or lake. Bring a water filter of some kind with you on your trip so nothing gets in the way of your fun!
The weather here in Durango is always beautiful, but whether you come in the Summer, Winter or sometime in between, it's always a good idea to wear sunscreen, even if it's a cloudy day. You're 6,500 ft closer to the sun, so it's easier to get a sunburn.
If you're planning a camping trip, you should check with the local Forest Service for current regulations on camping and fires. Knowing about the bans and regulations ahead of time will give you ample time to plan accordingly.
If you plan to take a trip along one of our scenic byways, or to hike on one of the many backcountry trails, it's a good idea to check the road conditions and the weather forcast before you go. The weather in the high country can be unpredictable at times, so it's a good idea to know what to expect, especially in the winter.
You may not know that on top of historical sights and old west experiences, Durango also has a wide variety of shops and boutiques to satisfy your shopping bug. Be sure to check out some of these shops and get some great souvenirs to remember your trip to Durango!
If you're looking for something extra-special to do while you're here, ask the local tourism office to tell you what special events will be taking place while you're here. A complete updated list of events can be found online. You can access the events calender from the front page of our website by clicking on the "Events" link.
If you want to spend some time outside fishing, or riding ATV's, or anything else on public lands, its a good idea to check with the Forest Service to learn where permits are required and how to get them.
You don't have to venture very far out of town to see local wildlife. Herds of deer and elk can be seen in fields and pastures along the road at all times of the day, but they are most likely to be seen around dawn and dusk each day. If you're driving during these times, slow down a bit since these animals cross the roads very frequently.
Durango has a very active night life for you to enjoy while you're here. From melodramas, to chuckwagons, to fine restaurants and local breweries, there's pleny to keep you busy. But while you're enjoying all that Durango has to offer, remember to bring a jacket with you, even in the summer. Nights can get a little chilly here in Colorado!
Mesa Verde
Durango Area Tourism Office
Durango, Colorado
USA
Allow a full day to explore archeological sites and cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde, and consider including a half day guided tour. And remember, layered clothing works well for all seasons!
Mesa Verde National Park
Mancos, CO
USA
Mesa Verde is a fascinating place full of history and culture. And although you can walk through many of the dwellings, remember to be respectful and never disturb, or destroy these pieces of living history. The Anasazi Indians lived all over this area, so if you're hiking and happen to come across an undiscovered ruin or some artifacts, be sure to contact the proper authorities, and not disturb anything that might have historical value.
Most of your day at Mesa Verde will be spent outside, walking to and around the dwellings. You want to make sure you wear durable, comfortable walking shoes, loose clothing, and a hat to protect you from sunburn. Sunscreen is also a good idea since you will be outside for the majority of your visit.
Train
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Durango, CO
USA
If you plan on bringing your pets with you on your vacation, its a good idea to arrange kenneling for them for the days when your activities don't allow you to bring them along, such as riding the train.
If you plan to spend a day on the D&SNGRR you are free to bring your own lunch, purchase food from the concession car on the train, or hold off until you reach Silverton and eat at one of their fine restaurants. And don't worry, there are plenty of bathrooms on the train as well.
Preparing for an enjoyable day on the D&SNGRR should start with wearing suitable clothing to keep you warm and comfortable as you travel thought the rugged San Juan mountains. Remember that as you climb in elevation, the temperature drops, and it can get a little chilly, even in the summer. It's a good idea to dress in layers, with a t-shirt, long pants (even in the summer), a long-sleeve shirt, and a light, waterproof jacket. You should also wear comfortable shoes and socks. In the winter, a heavy jacket, sweater, thick socks and warm shoes should be worn.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad-D&SNGRR
Durango, CO
USA
You'll have a full 2 hour and 15 minute layover once the train has arrived in Silverton. Use this time to grab a bite to eat and explore the quaint historic mining town. You'll be amazed at the amount of fun you can pack into 2 hours!
During the ride up to Silverton or on your return to Durango, don't forget to take the time to walk through the train. You'll get a feel for the entire experience! Enjoy the comforts of enclosed seating (coach seats) and the excitement of the gondola seats, with roofs and seats, but open sides allowing you to breathe in the fresh mountain air. Remember to be courteous of other passengers and their assigned seats.
|
|
|
