Durango travel guide

Durango travel guide

National Airports

Durango, Colorado, is a popular tourist destination and is serviced by two airports: Durango-La Plata County Airport and Albuquerque International Sunport.

Durango-La Plata County Airport

Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) is located just 15 miles southeast of downtown Durango. It is the primary airport serving the Four Corners region of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah. The airport is serviced by several major airlines, including American, Delta, and United, with nonstop flights to several major cities, including Denver, Dallas, and Phoenix. The airport also has car rental services, shuttle services, and taxi services available.

Albuquerque International Sunport

Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is located approximately 215 miles south of Durango, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. While it is not as close as DRO, it is a major hub for air travel in the Southwest, and offers more flight options than DRO. Visitors to Durango can rent a car or take a shuttle service from ABQ to Durango, which is about a four-hour drive.

In conclusion, Durango, Colorado, is serviced by two airports: Durango-La Plata County Airport and Albuquerque International Sunport. While DRO is closer to Durango, ABQ offers more flight options and is a major hub for air travel in the Southwest. Visitors to Durango can choose the airport that best fits their travel needs and preferences.

Trains in Durango

Durango, Colorado, is home to one of the most iconic and historic train rides in the United States, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This train takes passengers on a scenic journey through the San Juan Mountains, from Durango to the historic mining town of Silverton, and back.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has been operating since 1882 and has become a popular tourist attraction for visitors to the area. The train ride takes approximately 3.5 hours each way, with a layover in Silverton for passengers to explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

In addition to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, there are other train rides available in Durango, including:

The Polar Express Train Ride: This train ride is offered during the holiday season and takes passengers on a magical journey to the North Pole, complete with hot cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa Claus.

The Cascade Canyon Express: This train ride takes passengers on a shorter journey through the San Juan Mountains, from Durango to Cascade Canyon and back. It is a great option for those who want to experience the train ride but have limited time.

The Silverton Train to Elk Park: This train ride takes passengers to Elk Park, a historic mining site located between Durango and Silverton. Passengers can explore the area’s mining history and take in the stunning mountain scenery.

Overall, the train rides in Durango offer a unique and scenic way to experience the beauty of the San Juan Mountains and the history of the area. Whether you choose the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad or one of the other train rides available, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience in Durango.

Buses in Durango

Durango, Colorado, offers several options for bus transportation, including public transit and private shuttle services.

Durango Transit: Durango Transit is the public transit system in Durango and provides bus service throughout the city and surrounding areas. The transit system has several routes, including the Main Avenue Trolley, which runs along Durango’s historic Main Avenue, and the Fort Lewis College Express, which provides service to and from Fort Lewis College. Durango Transit also offers special services for seniors and people with disabilities.

Private Shuttle Services: Several private shuttle services operate in Durango, offering transportation to and from nearby airports, such as Durango-La Plata County Airport and Albuquerque International Sunport. These shuttle services also offer transportation to popular tourist destinations in the area, such as the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Mesa Verde National Park.

Charter Buses: Charter buses are available for large groups or events, such as weddings or corporate functions. These buses can be rented for a specified period of time and can transport groups to destinations within Durango and the surrounding areas.

In addition to these options, there are also tour companies that offer guided bus tours of Durango and the surrounding areas. These tours can be a great way to see the sights and learn about the history and culture of the area.

Overall, Durango offers several options for bus transportation, including public transit, private shuttle services, and charter buses. Whether you need transportation to and from the airport or want to explore the area’s tourist destinations, there is a bus service that can meet your needs.

How to get to Durango

Durango, Colorado, is a popular tourist destination located in the southwestern part of the state. There are several ways to get to Durango, including:

By air: The Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) is located approximately 20 miles southeast of Durango and is the primary airport serving the area. Several airlines, including United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, offer daily flights to and from Durango.

By car: Durango is located at the intersection of US Highway 160 and US Highway 550, making it easily accessible by car. The city is approximately 215 miles from Albuquerque, New Mexico, and 335 miles from Denver, Colorado. The drive to Durango offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains and the surrounding landscape.

By train: Durango is home to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which offers scenic train rides through the San Juan Mountains to the historic mining town of Silverton. The train ride is a popular tourist attraction and a unique way to experience the beauty of the area.

By bus: Several bus companies offer transportation to and from Durango, including Greyhound and Bustang. These bus services connect Durango to nearby cities such as Albuquerque and Denver.

Overall, Durango is easily accessible by air, car, train, and bus. Whether you prefer to fly, drive, or take the train, there is a transportation option that can get you to this beautiful southwestern Colorado city.

What is the best time to travel to Durango

The best time to travel to Durango depends on your preferences and the activities you have planned. Here is a breakdown of the seasons and what to expect during each:

Spring (March – May): Spring in Durango can be unpredictable with occasional snowstorms and chilly temperatures. However, as the snow melts, the town comes alive with blooming wildflowers and rushing waterfalls. This is a great time to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and rafting and want to avoid the crowds of summer.

Summer (June – August): Summer is the peak season in Durango with warm temperatures and long days. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, and rafting. The town is bustling with events and festivals, making it a great time to enjoy Durango’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

Fall (September – November): Fall in Durango is characterized by stunning autumn foliage and cooler temperatures. This is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy the changing colors of the leaves. Fall is also a great time to explore the area’s breweries, wineries, and distilleries.

Winter (December – February): Winter in Durango means world-class skiing and snowboarding at Purgatory Resort, located just 25 miles north of town. The town is also home to several hot springs, making it a perfect place to relax after a day on the slopes. The winter months can be cold and snowy, but they also offer a cozy, festive atmosphere with holiday events and activities.

Overall, the best time to visit Durango depends on your preferences and the activities you have planned. If you’re looking for warm weather and outdoor activities, summer is the ideal time to visit. If you’re a skier or snowboarder, winter is the best time to hit the slopes. No matter what time of year you visit, Durango offers something for everyone.

How to get around Durango

Durango, Colorado is a relatively small city with a compact downtown area, making it easy to explore on foot. However, if you plan to venture beyond the downtown area, there are several transportation options available:

Car rental: There are several car rental companies located in Durango, including major national chains. Renting a car is a great option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas or take a scenic drive through the San Juan Mountains.

Taxis and ridesharing: Taxis and ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft are available in Durango. This is a convenient option if you need to get somewhere quickly or if you’re traveling in a group.

Public transportation: The Durango Transit System offers bus service throughout the city and to nearby towns such as Bayfield and Ignacio. The buses are equipped with bike racks, making it easy to combine public transportation with biking.

Biking: Durango is a bike-friendly town with several bike rental shops and plenty of bike trails. Biking is a great way to explore the city and surrounding areas while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Walking: Downtown Durango is easily walkable, with several pedestrian-friendly streets and sidewalks. Walking is a great way to explore the city’s shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Overall, Durango offers several transportation options for getting around the city and exploring the surrounding areas. Whether you prefer to rent a car, take public transportation, or bike, there is a transportation option that can suit your needs.

Accommodations in Durango

Durango, Colorado offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. Here are some popular options:

Hotels: Durango has several hotels, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. Many of the hotels are located in or near the downtown area, making it easy to explore the city’s shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Vacation rentals: Vacation rentals such as apartments, condos, and houses are a popular option for those seeking more space and privacy. Durango offers a wide range of vacation rentals, including options with stunning mountain views.

Bed and breakfasts: Durango is home to several charming bed and breakfasts, many of which are located in historic homes. Bed and breakfasts offer a unique and personalized experience, with homemade breakfast and friendly hosts.

Hostels: For budget-conscious travelers, Durango has several hostels offering affordable accommodations. Hostels offer shared dormitory-style rooms as well as private rooms.

Camping: Durango is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a great place for camping. There are several campgrounds in the area, including campgrounds in the San Juan National Forest and at nearby Purgatory Resort.

Resorts: For those seeking a luxury experience, Durango has several resorts offering high-end accommodations and amenities. Resorts often offer spa services, fine dining, and outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and golfing.

Overall, Durango offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly hostel or a luxurious resort, there is an option that can suit your needs.