Introduction
Julie and I ended up settling in Durango after five years of traveling full-time in an RV. Nestled in the southwest corner of Colorado, Durango, we love the mild climate with over 300 days of sunshine a year and four beautiful seasons. It’s the perfect blend of mountain and desert, with the San Juan Mountains to the north and easy access to Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico.
Durango’s prime location allows us to experience a wide range of outdoor activities in all four seasons. Whether we’re summitting peaks in the San Juans, mountain biking the many miles of singletrack, or exploring the desert landscapes of the Four Corners, there’s always something epic to do. The community is incredibly welcoming, with friendly locals and a laid-back vibe that makes us feel right at home.
In this guide, we’re stoked to share some of our favorite adventures in and around Durango – both summer and winter activities – and the best places to experience them, from our favorite mountain biking trails to the best places to cross country ski and snowshoe.
Summer Things to Do in Durango – Outdoor Activities
Durango Mountain Biking
Durango is by far our favorite mountain biking town and possibly the best in the world, with trails for every level of rider. From beginner-friendly paths, in-town rides, mid-country to high-country access, and downhill runs at Purgatory Resort, there’s something for everyone. You can even ride the Colorado Trail and bike to Denver if you want to. Talk about an epic adventure!
Our favorite trail systems to ride near town are:
- Twin Buttes
- Horse Gulch, connects to Grandview Ridge
- Overland Mountain Park, aka Test Tracks
- Dry Fork
Once the snow clears (typically July through September), the high country opens up a whole new level of riding. Expect 30–60 minute drives from Durango, and big elevation gains. Some of our favorites are:
- Pass Creek to Engineer Mountain Trail (or Coal Bank) – shuttle ride
- Colorado Trail from Little Molas Lake – can be ridden as an out and back or a shuttle ride, ending at Coal Bank or Engineer Mountain Trail
- Cascade Creek Trail – East and West trails, can be ridden as a loop (with creek crossings) or out and back
- Blackhawk Pass – a stunning segment of the Colorado Trail, this can be shuttled or ridden as a loop by climbing Bolam Pass Road
Durango Trails, a local nonprofit organization that builds and maintains trails, and the Trailforks app are our favorite resources for finding trails and checking trail conditions before heading out for a ride.
You can rent mountain bikes in Durango or take fully guided mountain biking tours with local guides to get the local beta and get out on the best trails without any research required!
Road Biking Durango
The Durango area is a dream come true for road cyclists, thanks to its mild climate, breathtaking scenery, and welcoming community. The city is surrounded by rolling hills, dramatic canyons, and historic towns, offering a diverse range of routes for every type of rider. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely cruise or a challenging climb, you’ll find plenty of options to explore. One of the highlights is the San Juan Skyway, a 236-mile scenic byway that showcases some of the most stunning landscapes in Colorado. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming towns and take in sweeping mountain vistas that make every mile unforgettable. With its rich cycling culture and endless opportunities for adventure, Durango is a must-visit destination for road biking enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.
Some of the best road biking routes are right here in Durango. The area is home to many road cycling legends and hosts the annual Durango to Silverton Ironhorse bike race. It’s a big event that draws cyclists from all over, and the route through the mountains is absolutely stunning.
Popular road bike routes in the area are:
- The Trimble Loop Easy, about 20 miles, 533′ of elevation gain
- Elmore’s Loop – Intermediate, about 23 miles with around 1200′ elevation gain
- Wildcat Canyon Loop – Advanced, around 33 miles with ~1900′ elevation gain
Grab a quality road bike rental from local favorite 2nd Ave Sports.
Cruiser Biking / Electric Biking around Town
Exploring Durango on a cruiser bike or e-bike is a blast. With lots of paved paths and scenic side streets, you can ditch the car rental and cruise around town with ease. It’s one of the most fun, low-effort ways to soak in the sights – especially when you’ve got pedal-assist to flatten out the hills.
One of the best routes in town is the Animas River Trail, a paved multi-use path that stretches 7 miles from the northern edge of Durango to the south. It winds right through the heart of town, passing parks, bridges, art installations, and plenty of spots to hop off and grab a bite. You’ll cruise past local breweries (our favorite is Animas Brewing!), with the opportunity to hop off for restaurants, shops, and even the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad station.
Whether you’re riding to the farmers market, hitting up a trailhead, or just pedaling for the views, an e-bike makes getting around town effortless – and way more fun than driving.
You can rent cruiser/townie bikes or e-bikes in Durango online in advance or join a guided bike tours of Durango for the full local experience.
Durango Hiking and Trail Running
There are hiking trails galore right outside of town and throughout the San Juan Mountains. We love hiking to waterfalls and high alpine lakes, and taking in the wildflowers in summer. Some of our favorite waterfall spots include Cascade Creek Falls and Adrenaline Falls off Lime Creek Road. The views are breathtaking, and the trails are pure bliss. For high country views, alpine lakes and wildflowers check out the Colorado Trail Twin Sisters segment from Little Molas Lake, and the Crater Lake trail from Andrews Lake.
I like using AllTrails for finding hiking trails but one thing to know is that many of the trails are closed in late spring and early summer due to wildlife migration and calving. Make sure to check for seasonal closures before you go so you don’t unintentionally impact wildlife—and always plan ahead to leave no trace.
If you don’t feel like doing all of the planning and want to explore with a local, you can opt for a guided hiking tour in Durango.
Backpacking near Durango
For those who crave a bit more adventure, backpacking the Colorado Trail or exploring the Weminuche Wilderness is a must. Chicago Basin is an incredible backpacking area within the Weminuche that’s perfect for a multi-day trek. Either hike in, or take the Durango-Silverton train to the Needles stop (advance tickets required) to shorten the hike!
Durango Whitewater Rafting and Kayaking
The Animas River runs right through the heart of Durango and offers everything from splashy family floats to wild Class III+ whitewater. It’s a must-do in spring and early summer when the snowmelt turns up the volume. Local outfitters run half-day and full-day trips, so whether you’re looking to get soaked or just kick back and enjoy the views, there’s a trip for you. Book a guided Durango rafting tour for the full send and let the pros handle the lines.
The best place to rent gear like kayaks and SUPs is 4 Corners River Sports.
Kayak and Paddleboard Near Durango
If flat water is more your style, check out the following lakes for some epic flat-water paddling near Durango:
Lake Nighthorse – ~15 minutes from downtown
Lake Nighthorse is the go-to flatwater spot right in town. With glassy mornings and panoramic mountain views, it’s ideal for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. The lake is fully equipped with SUP rentals available on-site, no reservation needed. There’s also a beach area, picnic spots, and a swim zone—making it great for families and post-paddle hangs. Entry fee is around $10 per vehicle, plus about $25/hour for SUP rentals. It does get windy in the afternoon, so we recommend heading there early!
Haviland Lake – ~30 minutes north of Durango
Nestled below the Hermosa Cliffs, Haviland Lake is a peaceful little alpine lake just off Highway 550. It’s quiet and scenic, great for a mellow paddle session surrounded by pines and wildflowers. There are no rentals available here, so bring your own gear. Day use is typically free or requires a small $7 fee depending on the season and parking lot. There’s a campground on-site if you want to make it an overnight.
Electra Lake – ~35 minutes north of Durango
Electra is a private, high-elevation lake with stunning views and calm waters, ideal for a guided paddle session. You can paddle here on your own for a $26 fee per person, but there are no on-site rentals (bring your own gear). Or you can choose a guided SUP tour of Electra Lake. Read about out our recent paddleboarding trip to Electra Lake.
Vallecito Lake – ~45 minutes northeast of Durango
Vallecito is a spacious, laid-back lake surrounded by big peaks and forested shorelines. It’s popular for both camping and paddling. There are no rentals on the lake, so bring your own board or rent one in Durango before heading out. There’s no entry fee to access most parts of the lake, but day-use parking at certain recreation areas may cost $5–$7.
Purgatory Lake (Twilight Lake) – ~35 minutes north at Purgatory Resort
Located at the entrance to Purgatory Resort, this small but beautiful alpine lake (or big pond) is perfect for a chill paddle. It’s especially scenic in the fall when the aspens pop. On-site SUP rentals are usually around $25/hour, and you don’t need a reservation. No entry fee required to access the lake, just show up and rent your gear lakeside.
If you want to head up into the high country, we recommend Molas Lake and Little Molas Lake, both of which are accessible by vehicle, and about an hour north of Durango. They are high-elevation gems perfect for a peaceful paddle. Set at over 10,000 feet with sweeping views of the San Juan Mountains, both lakes offer crystal-clear water and a serious alpine backdrop. Molas Lake has a day-use fee (around $10) and an adjacent campground, while Little Molas is free and more primitive, with no services—just a quiet shoreline and wildflower meadows. You’ll need to bring your own gear, but the views and serenity are more than worth it. Early morning paddles here are pure magic.
River Surfing on the Animas River
Just because Colorado is land locked doesn’t mean we can’t go surfing! Durango’s Animas River isn’t just for rafting — it’s become a rad spot for river surfing too. The local nonprofit Animas River Surfers is all about stoking up this community sport, especially in the shoulder seasons when flows are perfect for catching a curl. They’ve been pushing for a permanent low-flow wave and run inclusive events so surfers of all ages can get out there, improve skills, and help protect the river that makes it possible.
As one local Redditor put it, “It’s one of the most welcoming surf communities I’ve ever come across” reddit.com. Plus, with organized river clean-ups and community outreach, you’re riding for more than just fun — you’re supporting the whole vibe.
Rock Climbing and Bouldering
Durango is a hidden gem for climbers, with granite crags and sandstone boulders tucked right into the edge of town. Whether you’re roping up at X-Rock or testing your skills on the problems at Dalla Mountain Park, there’s something here for every level. The access is unreal—you can be climbing 10 minutes after leaving downtown. For those new to the sport or looking to level up, booking a guided climbing tour with a local expert is a great way to learn safely and explore the best routes. From bouldering basics to multi-pitch classics, Durango’s rock scene delivers.
Other Popular Attractions Near Durango
Visiting Mesa Verde National Park
A visit to Mesa Verde National Park is like stepping back in time. Explore ancient cliff dwellings and learn about the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans. It’s a must-see destination that’s just a short drive from Durango.
Visiting Silverton, CO
Silverton is just 50 miles north of Durango, but the drive packs in some of the most stunning scenery in the Rockies. The trip takes about 1 – 1.5 hours via the legendary Million Dollar Highway (U.S. 550)—a winding, cliff-hugging road with jaw-dropping views around every turn. This historic mining town sits at 9,300 feet and is surrounded by high alpine peaks, making it the perfect base for hiking, backpacking, wildflower hunting, or backcountry skiing.
One of the most unforgettable ways to get there? Take the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This old-school steam train chugs through deep canyons and mountain meadows, offering a slow-paced, scenic route into the San Juans that’s worth the ride on its own.
Winter Things to Do in Durango
Durango doesn’t shut down when the snow falls—it just swaps dirt for pow. Winter here is all about snowy adventures, hot springs, and cozy downtown hangs. Whether you’re chasing turns at Purg or breaking trail in the quiet backcountry, Durango’s winter playground has something for every kind of outdoor lover.
Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding at Purgatory Resort
Just 30 minutes north of town, Purgatory Resort delivers big mountain fun without the big crowds. With over 1,600 acres of skiable terrain, it’s got a little bit of everything—flowy groomers, gladed tree runs, and hike-to stashes that stay fresh for days. It’s super beginner-friendly too, with mellow green runs and a solid ski school for first-timers.
Need gear? You can book your ski or snowboard rentals near Purgatory ahead of time and hit the slopes without the hassle.
Cross Country Skiing at the Nordic Center
If you prefer your cardio with a view, the Durango Nordic Center is just down the road from Purg and has some of the most scenic groomed trails in the state. There are loops for all levels, and they offer rentals and lessons if you’re new to the sport. They don’t allow dogs unfortunately, but you can also check out nearby Cascade Creek Road and Lime Creek Road if you just can’t leave your furry one behind.
Want more solitude? Try Nordic touring or XC skiing on forest roads around Vallecito or La Plata Canyon—just make sure to check snow conditions and pack layers.
Snowshoeing Durango’s Winter Trails
Strap in and explore Durango’s snow-covered trails at a slower pace. Snowshoeing is an awesome way to access quiet forests and frozen waterfalls without needing any technical skills. You can snowshoe at all of the same spots we recommended above for cross-country skiing. The Durango Nordic Center even has a dedicated snowshoe trail. We also love snowshoeing up on Molas Pass near Molas Lake and Little Molas Lake.
Rentals are easy to find in town, and some outfitters even offer guided snowshoe hikes if you want to learn the terrain with a pro.
Backcountry Skiing & Splitboarding
Feeling bold? Durango is a launchpad to some of the best backcountry zones in the San Juans. Red Mountain Pass, Coal Bank Pass, and La Plata Canyon are popular for earning your turns—but avalanche danger is real here.
If you’re new to backcountry travel, take an avalanche safety course with the Silverton Avalanche School or go out with a certified guide. You’ll need a beacon, shovel, and probe at minimum—and the beta to match.
Winter Fat Biking
Not ready to hang up the bike for winter? Fat biking is alive and well in Durango. Some local trails and forest roads get packed down enough for riding, especially after a few sunny days. Bring your layers and low-pressure tires—it’s a whole new way to pedal through winter.
Soak It All In: Hot Springs Near Town
After a day on the trails, nothing beats a soak. Durango Hot Springs is just 15 minutes from town and has mineral-rich water, private tubs, and a view of the snowy Hermosa Cliffs. It’s the ultimate après move.
An Incredible Local Community
We’re proud to be part of the Durango community. We love the vibrant outdoors community, the local businesses and lack of chains, the creative art and music scene, and the incredible non-profit organizations that work hard to make this an incredible place to call home and visit. The community here is tight-knit, and there are several local non-profit organizations worth supporting, including Durango Trails, the San Juan Citizens Alliance, and the Mountain Studies Institute.
Visit Responsibly and Helpful Resources
It’s important to visit responsibly to help keep Durango beautiful and sustainable. Shop locally, reduce your trash, and follow Leave No Trace principles. Plan ahead, be mindful of fire danger, and consider carpooling or taking the local shuttle. For more tips on visiting responsibly, check out Visit Durango’s responsible visit section. Check out tips from our Visiting Silverton Responsibly blog post
Resources:
- DuranGO micro transit for public transportation around town. Only $2 per ride!
- Durango Gear Exchange for outdoor gear that you may need during your trip.
Come Visit!
We’re stoked to call Durango home and can’t wait for you to experience all it has to offer. Whether you’re here for the adventure, the community, or the stunning landscapes, Durango has something for everyone. Drop us a line or let us know if we can help plan your trip. Happy adventuring!
Durango punches way above its weight when it comes to adventure. It’s known for the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the mighty Animas River running through downtown, and year-round outdoor action—mountain biking, skiing at Purgatory Resort, whitewater rafting, hiking, and climbing. Add in a surprisingly rad music and arts scene, local brews, and a tight-knit community, and you’ve got the full package.
The closest major city is Albuquerque, New Mexico, about a 3.5-hour drive south. Denver is a bit farther—around 6.5 hours northeast—but the drive through the San Juans is worth every minute.
Yep! Downtown Durango is super walkable, with trails, restaurants, shops, and the Animas River Trail all within a few blocks. You can stroll from trailhead to taco shop to brewery in one loop. For getting farther out (like Purgatory or Vallecito), you’ll want wheels—but in town, your feet will do just fine.
One perfect day? Start with coffee downtown, then hit a local trail for a hike or ride (Horse Gulch is great for both). Grab lunch at a food truck or riverside café. In the afternoon, book a rafting tour or rent a SUP for Lake Nighthorse. Cap it off with a sunset soak at Durango Hot Springs and live music downtown. If it’s winter, swap the river for pow laps at Purgatory.
Absolutely—Durango is a bike town through and through. From epic singletrack to scenic road routes and cruiser-friendly bike paths, there’s something for every rider. You’ll see more bikes than cars in some parts of town, and there are tons of bike racks, local repair shops, and rental spots. Don’t miss the Colorado Trail or the Iron Horse route if you’re looking to earn those views.
Totally. The river trail, public parks, family-friendly rafting trips, hot springs, and beginner-friendly hikes make Durango a blast for kids. There are several Durango Kids Adventure Camps in the summer. Whether they’re splashing in the river or learning to ride at the skate park, little adventurers will feel right at home.
100%. Most trails around town are dog-friendly (just check for seasonal wildlife closures), and dogs are welcome at many patios, riverside parks, and even gear shops. You’ll see locals trail running, paddleboarding, and hiking with their pups all year round. Just be sure to pack out your waste and keep pups leashed near wildlife.
