Durango Colorado Travel Guide

Durango, Colorado is an enchanting mountain town & a hub of activity, offering tons of things to do and see. Durango is a dream location for those seeking adventure, scenic beauty, and quality family time. In this Durango, Colorado Travel Guide, I’ll tell you where to stay, what to do, where to find the best hikes, and much more! Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a history buff, or a foodie, Durango has something for everyone. It’s even a perfect spot for a dog-friendly or family-friendly trip – read my Dog Friendly Durango Guide for tips on bringing your four-legged bestie.

Dog Friendly Guide to Durango, Colorado

Getting to Durango, Colorado

If you’re arriving by air, the closest airport is Durango-La Plata County Airport, providing convenient access to the town. However, as a smaller regional airport, it may offer fewer flights and could be a bit more expensive. Alternatively, you can consider major airports such as Albuquerque International Sunport in New Mexico or Denver International Airport. ABQ Airport is approximately 215 miles south of Durango or a 3.5 hr drive. DEN is about 340 miles to the north or a 6.5 hr drive. These larger airports typically have a wider range of flight options.

We made the journey from Texas, near Dallas, which took us about 12 hours by car. To break up the drive and make it more leisurely, we spent a night in Albuquerque, New Mexico. However, if you’re feeling ambitious and eager to get to Durango as quickly as possible, the drive can certainly be completed in one go. Whether you’re flying in or hitting the road, Durango is well worth the effort it takes to reach this mountain paradise.

When to Visit Durango, Colorado

The best time to visit Durango, Colorado depends on your interests, as this charming mountain town offers something special in every season.

Busy Bee Tip: We visited in late July & it was gorgeous! We went the very last week of July and didn’t find anywhere to be overly busy. It was in the 90s during the day, but we were able to escape the heat by hiking to higher elevations and starting our adventures early in the morning. The mornings and evenings were pleasantly cool, around 60s-70s. We loved being able to see the wildflowers on the trails and spend our afternoons napping during the rainstorms.

March to May (Spring):

• Mild weather and fewer crowds make for a peaceful experience.
• Wildflowers bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.
• Great for outdoor activities like hiking and biking as the mountains thaw.
• Some trails may still be partially snow-covered, limiting hiking options.
• Rafting and water-based activities might not be in full swing due to cooler river temperatures.

June to August (Summer):

• Warm and pleasant weather for outdoor adventures.
• Abundance of wildflowers and greenery.
• Extensive options for hiking, biking, and water sports.
• Higher tourist numbers can lead to crowded attractions and accommodations.
• Afternoon thunderstorms are common during the monsoon season.

June to August (Summer):

• Stunning fall foliage with vibrant aspen trees.
• Comfortable weather for outdoor activities.
• Fewer tourists compared to summer.
• The fall colors are a short-lived seasonal display.
• Some mountain activities like high-altitude hiking may become limited as winter approaches.

December (Winter and Christmas):

• A winter wonderland with snow-covered streets and mountains.
• Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
• The town’s festive ambiance during Christmas is truly magical.
• Winter activities can be weather-dependent, and some trails may be closed.
• Accommodations might be in high demand during the holiday season, so it’s advisable to book in advance.

Where to Stay

Budget Hotels

• Super 8 by Wyndham Durango: This affordable hotel offers comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a convenient location near downtown Durango.
• Motel Durango: A no-frills motel offering clean rooms at a reasonable price. It’s a good option for those looking for budget accommodations in Durango.

Mid-Range Hotels

• Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn: This mid-range hotel is well-located in downtown Durango and offers comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and a hot tub.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Durango: A well-appointed hotel with modern amenities, including an on-site restaurant and bar, fitness center, and beautiful views of the Animas River.

Luxury Hotels

• The Strater Hotel: A historic and upscale hotel in the heart of Durango. It’s known for its Victorian-era charm, fine dining at the Mahogany Grille, and live entertainment at the Diamond Belle Saloon.
• The General Palmer Hotel: A boutique luxury hotel offering elegant rooms and suites, a rooftop bar with scenic views, and a prime location in downtown Durango.

Campgrounds

• Junction Creek Campground:
  • Located about 6 miles north of Durango.
  • Offers tent and RV camping.
  • Provides a picturesque setting along Junction Creek.
  • Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to hiking and mountain biking trails.
  • A popular choice for those looking to explore the San Juan National Forest.
• Lightner Creek Campground:
  • Situated about 4 miles west of Durango.
  • Provides tent and RV camping sites, including pull-through sites for RVs.
  • Offers a mix of shaded and open sites.
  • Amenities include a swimming pool, restrooms, and a camp store.
  • A convenient option for those looking for a more relaxed camping experience.
• Haviland Lake Campground:
  • Located about 18 miles north of Durango.
  • Offers scenic camping by Haviland Lake in the San Juan National Forest.
  • Provides both tent and RV sites.
  • Ideal for water-based activities, such as fishing, canoeing, and paddleboarding.
  • The campground features vault toilets and fire rings.
• Molas Lake Park and Campground:
  • Located along the San Juan Skyway (Highway 550) between Durango and Silverton.
  • Offers beautiful alpine camping at high elevation.
  • Provides both tent and RV sites.
  • Popular for its stunning mountain views, fishing, and proximity to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Vacation Rentals

Many vacation rental properties, such as cabins, condos, and homes, are available in and around Durango. These can be an excellent choice for families or larger groups, as they often provide more space and the convenience of a kitchen.

• MaeBunny’s Shack – This is a cute, little “tiny home” right outside of Downtown Durango. We stayed here during our trip and liked the short drive to shops & restaurants. The back yard has a private creek to swim and play in, which our dog, Ollie, absolutely loved. It was a very peaceful stay – we were able to set up our hammocks in the trees along the creek and enjoy the surroundings. There were a few cons, including no AC (which wouldn’t be an issue during fall or winter), but not enough to keep me from recommending it. The host was very accomodating and the property was dog friendly!

• Hawk Perch – This beautiful home is great for a medium-sized group of 5-6 people. It totally has the cozy, mountain home vibes with the log cabin look, giant windows in the living room, and beautiful fireplace. It’s in a great location with easy access to both the downtown area and the hiking/skiing trails and has GORGEOUS views of the lake from the upper deck. This place would be super cute for a girls weekend or family getaway!

Busy Bee Tip: Use the search box here to look for other properties. Durango has tons of beautiful vacation rentals to fit your needs. I typically prefer to use Booking.com because I’m able to earn points and rewards for my stays!

Booking.com

Things to Do:

Hiking

• Easy to Moderate Hikes
  • Haviland Lake Trail
    • Trailhead Location: Haviland Lake Campground (about 18 miles north of Durango).
    • Trail Length: Approximately 3.8 miles (loop).
    • Difficulty: Easy, suitable for all skill levels.
  • Spud Lake Trail:
    • Trailhead Location: Spud Lake Trailhead (San Juan National Forest).
    • Trail Length: Approximately 3 miles (round trip).
    • Difficulty: Moderate, with some elevation gain.
    • Busy Bee Tip: The road to the trailhead is known for being a bit rough at times. Make sure to check Alltrails reviews for recent updates & bring a car with 4WD if possible.
  • Purgatory Flats Trail (Purgatory Trail #511):
    • Trailhead Location: Purgatory Resort (25 miles north of Durango).
    • Trail Length: Approximately 4 miles (one-way).
    • Difficulty: Easy, suitable for all skill levels.
• Difficult Hikes
  • Colorado Trail – Kennebec Pass:
    • Trailhead Location: Kennebec Trailhead (San Juan National Forest).
    • Trail Length: Approximately 7.5 miles (one way).
    • Difficulty: Hard, offering backcountry hiking and higher elevation sections.
  • Needles Mountains: Chicago Basin
    • Trailhead Location: Accessible via the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
    • Trail Length: Varies depending on the peak you choose to hike.
    • Difficulty: Hard, high elevation and challenging terrain.

Biking

• Mountain Biking:
  • Horse Gulch and Telegraph Trail Systems: These interconnected trail systems offer a variety of trails suitable for mountain bikers of all skill levels. You can find everything from easy rides to more challenging terrain.
  • Phil’s World: Located just outside of Cortez, approximately an hour’s drive from Durango, Phil’s World is a popular mountain biking destination. It offers a network of well-maintained and flowy trails suitable for riders of various skill levels.
  • Durango Mountain Bike Park (Purgatory Resort): The bike park at Purgatory Resort provides lift-served mountain biking, allowing you to access downhill and freeride trails with ease. There are options for riders of all abilities.
  • Dalla Mountain Park: This city park in Durango offers a variety of biking trails, including the Carbon Junction Trail and the Mike’s Trail, which are well-loved by local riders.
  • La Plata Canyon: Explore the scenic La Plata Canyon with its unpaved road that is popular for mountain biking. The ride offers a great way to take in the mountain views and alpine scenery.
• Road Biking:
  • The San Juan Skyway: This scenic byway offers an incredible road biking experience with breathtaking mountain vistas. It’s especially popular during the fall when the aspen trees turn golden.
  • Animas River Trail: While it’s suitable for leisurely rides, the Animas River Trail is also a great option for road biking, offering a flat, paved surface along the Animas River.
    • Busy Bee Tip: We rented E-Bikes and spent a lovely morning riding along this trail. We were able to take in the mountain views, stop and have snacks along the water, watch river-rafters go by, and even ride into town for lunch and shopping! We rented bikes through GO PLAY DURANGO, which is inside the Main Mall in downtown. We felt a half day was definitely enough time.

Rafting, Kayaking, & Tubing

Durango, Colorado, is known for its excellent rafting and kayaking opportunities on the Animas River. The river offers a variety of experiences, from calm and scenic floats to thrilling whitewater adventures. Here’s what you need to know about rafting and kayaking in Durango:

Rafting

• Upper Animas River: This is a high-adventure, challenging run that’s often considered one of the most difficult commercial rafting trips in the United States. The Upper Animas offers Class IV and V rapids and is suitable for experienced rafters.
• Lower Animas River: The Lower Animas, which runs through the heart of Durango, provides milder Class II and Class III rapids, making it a great option for families and beginners. Various local outfitters offer guided trips on this section.
• Piedra River: Located about an hour from Durango, the Piedra River offers a mix of Class II to Class IV rapids and is known for its stunning scenery.
• San Juan River: If you’re looking for a multi-day adventure, the San Juan River, running through the Four Corners region, offers options for longer trips with milder rapids.

Kayaking:

• Animas River: Kayaking the Animas River is popular, with sections suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The Lower Animas is great for kayakers looking for fun and challenging features.
• Piedra River: The Piedra River also provides opportunities for kayaking with a mix of rapids, including some more challenging sections for advanced kayakers.

Raft/Kayak Outfitters & Rentals

• There are several outfitters and rental shops in Durango that can provide guided rafting trips, kayak rentals, and equipment. Some well-known companies include:
  • Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours
  • Durango Rivertrippers & Adventure Tours
  • Outlaw River & Jeep Tours
  • Mountain Waters Rafting
• These outfitters can accommodate various skill levels, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter or kayaker. They typically offer half-day, full-day, and multi-day trips, making it easy to find an adventure that suits your interests and schedule.

Tubing

Tubing Season: Tubing season in Durango typically runs only in July & August when the water levels are suitable for a leisurely float. The specific timing can vary depending on weather and water conditions, so it’s a good idea to check with local tubing outfitters for the most up-to-date information.

Tubing Routes: There are a couple of popular tubing routes on the Animas River in Durango:

• Town Tubing: This route starts in town and is perfect for a more relaxed tubing experience. You can put in your tube at Schneider Park, and the float takes you through the heart of Durango, passing by parks and downtown attractions. The town tubing route typically ends at Rotary Park, and you can find parking and shuttle services to get back to your starting point.
• Baker’s Bridge Tubing: This is a longer and more scenic tubing route. It starts at Baker’s Bridge, which is about a 30-minute drive north of Durango. The float takes you through a beautiful canyon with towering cliffs and lush vegetation. The Baker’s Bridge route is known for its peaceful surroundings and is a favorite among nature enthusiasts.
• Busy Bee Tip: I found this map very helpful for where to start & end your tubing journey.

Tube Rentals: Several local outfitters and rental shops in Durango offer tube rentals. They typically provide the tube, life jacket, and sometimes shuttle services to and from the put-in and take-out locations. Some popular tubing rental shops in Durango include:

• Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding in Durango, Colorado, is a wonderful way to explore the region’s beautiful landscapes and experience the Old West charm. Here are some options for horseback riding in Durango:

Circle K Guest Ranch:

• Located north of Durango, the Circle K Guest Ranch provides guided trail rides that take you through lush forests and open meadows. They offer a range of rides for all levels, from beginners to advanced riders. It’s a great place to enjoy the serene beauty of the San Juan Mountains.

Over the Hill Outfitters:

• This company offers a variety of horseback riding experiences including trail rides through the mountains and to a river. They offer 1, 2, or 3 hour rides and are located 15 min from Durango.

Ziplining

Ziplining in Durango, Colorado, offers an exhilarating way to experience the region’s stunning natural beauty and enjoy a thrilling outdoor adventure. Here are some ziplining options in Durango:

Soaring Tree Top Adventures:

• Soaring Tree Top Adventures is a world-renowned ziplining experience located about 30 minutes north of Durango. This course is known for being the longest zipline coarse in America! It’s situated on a private 180-acre eco-park and offers a full day of adventure. You’ll soar through the treetops on 27 different ziplines, cross sky bridges, and take in breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains. The experience also includes a gourmet lunch.

Durango Zipline Tours:

• Durango Zipline Tours provides a thrilling ziplining experience just a short drive from downtown Durango. They offer zipline courses suitable for various skill levels, making it an excellent option for families and adventure seekers.

Captain Zipline:

• While Captain Zipline is primarily located in nearby Salida, they do offer ziplining tours in Durango during the summer season. Their zipline adventures provide a mix of exciting zips and scenic views.

Ziplining in Durango is a great way to add an adrenaline rush to your outdoor adventures while taking in the breathtaking landscapes of southwestern Colorado. Be sure to check with the respective ziplining operators for reservations, availability, and any age or weight restrictions. Safety equipment and trained guides are typically provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Scenic Train Rides

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers some of the most famous scenic train rides in the United States. This historic steam train takes you on a breathtaking journey through the Animas River Canyon and the San Juan National Forest. You’ll cross high trestles, traverse narrow ledges, and enjoy incredible views of the wilderness. The train departs from downtown Durango and travels to the historic mining town of Silverton. It offers both standard and first-class accommodations, including open gondola cars for a more immersive experience. They even offer themed train rides & events at various times throughout the year including:

The Durango Wine & Rails Excursion: This unique excursion on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad combines the beauty of the train ride with wine tasting. Passengers can enjoy wine, appetizers, and live music as they travel along the scenic route.

Cascade Canyon Winter Train: During the winter months, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers the Cascade Canyon Winter Train, which takes passengers through a snowy wonderland to Cascade Canyon. The experience is a serene and magical winter adventure.

Durango Brew Train: For craft beer enthusiasts, the Durango Brew Train combines a scenic train ride with craft beer sampling from local breweries. It’s a fun and flavorful way to explore the area.

The Polar Express: During the holiday season, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers “The Polar Express” train ride, inspired by the classic children’s book. It’s a magical experience for families, complete with hot cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa Claus.

Backcountry Access from Train

You can also access the backcountry from the train and this can be a fantastic way to explore remote and scenic locations in the San Juan Mountains. Here are a few backcountry access options:

Chicago Basin and the Weminuche Wilderness:

• The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad provides access to Chicago Basin, a pristine and remote area in the Weminuche Wilderness. To access this backcountry location, you can take the train to the Needleton stop. From there, you can hike or backpack deeper into the wilderness. Chicago Basin is known for its stunning mountain scenery, including the Fourteeners (peaks exceeding 14,000 feet) like Eolus, Sunlight, and Windom Peaks.

Visit the Railroad Website for more info about events, backcountry access, and ticket purchases.

Cultural Experiences

• Mesa Verde National Park: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to ancient Pueblo cliff dwellings and archaeological wonders offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans who inhabited the area over 700 years ago.
  • Tours:
    • Ranger Led: Options include guided tours of famous cliff dwellings like Cliff Palace and Balcony House. It’s advisable to make reservations for ranger-led tours in advance, especially during the peak summer season, to secure your spot.
    • Self-Guided: or those who prefer exploring at their own pace, self-guided tours are available at sites like Spruce Tree House and Step House. Visitors can explore these cliff dwellings and adjacent museum exhibits.
  • Fees: Mesa Verde is a National Park & therefore, requires an entrance pass. Click here for fees, pass options, and more info.
  • Hiking: Mesa Verde provides numerous hiking opportunities, ranging from short, easy trails to more challenging backcountry hikes. The park’s extensive trail system allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of the area while enjoying scenic vistas and wildlife. Petroglyph Point Trail, Spruce Canyon Trail, and Step House Trail are popular trails. Visit the park website for more hikes and info.
  • Timing: Mesa Verde is most popular in the summer, but visiting in spring and fall offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Some tours and facilities may have seasonal availability.
• Durango Arts Center: Immerse yourself in local art and culture by visiting this vibrant hub of creativity.

History & Heritage

• Durango Historic Downtown: Stroll through the charming downtown district filled with historic buildings, shops, galleries, and restaurants. Some famous historic buildings to visit include the Strater Hotel, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum, & the Durango Public Library.
• Historic Walking Tour: Durango offers self-guided historic walking tours, allowing you to explore various historic sites, landmarks, and buildings at your own pace. Visit the Durango Website for a full list and guide to the walking tour.
• Anasazi Heritage Center: Learn about the Ancestral Puebloan people and their culture at this museum and visitor center.

Shopping

• Durango Farmers Market: Explore local produce, crafts, and artisanal products in a vibrant market atmosphere.
  • Held Saturday mornings from 9am – 12pm at TBK Bank
  • Check the official Farmer’s Market website for an interactive map, list of vendors, special events, and more.
• Downtown Durango: Downtown Durango, Colorado, offers a delightful shopping experience with a mix of boutique shops, art galleries, specialty stores, and more. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, clothing, art, or outdoor gear, you’ll find a wide variety of options.

3 Days in Ouray, Colorado – Itinerary & Complete Travel Guide

Parking in Downtown Durango

Parking options for shopping in Durango, Colorado, are readily available in and around the downtown area. Here are some places where you can park when you visit downtown Durango for shopping, dining, etc:

• On-Street Parking: There are on-street parking spaces along Main Avenue and adjacent streets in downtown Durango. These spaces are metered and have time limits, so be sure to check the signs for parking regulations and payment instructions.
• Public Parking Lots: Durango has several public parking lots located throughout the downtown area. These lots often provide convenient parking options and can be found on 2nd Avenue, 8th Street, and other locations.
• Parking Garages: The City of Durango operates two parking garages: the Durango Transit Center Parking Garage and the East Second Avenue Parking Garage. These garages offer both covered and open parking spaces, making them a good choice for those looking for long-term parking or protection from the elements.
• Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Parking: If you plan to take the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, the train depot has its own parking lot. It’s a convenient option for those who are starting their journey at the depot.
• Park and Ride: Some visitors choose to park in less crowded areas of Durango and use the city’s trolley or public transportation to reach the downtown shopping district. This can be a convenient way to avoid the hassle of searching for parking in the heart of downtown.
• Valet Parking: Some restaurants and hotels in downtown Durango offer valet parking services. If you’re dining or staying in the area, this can be a convenient option.

Winter Activities

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Durango is home to the Purgatory Resort, which offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. With a variety of terrain for all skill levels, it’s a fantastic destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
• Snowshoeing & Winter Hikes: Explore the winter wonderland of the San Juan Mountains with a snowshoeing adventure. Several trails in and around Durango are perfect for snowshoeing, offering a peaceful and serene experience in the snow-covered wilderness.
• Cross-Country Skiing: The region boasts numerous cross-country skiing trails that cater to various skill levels. You can enjoy groomed tracks or explore backcountry terrain with cross-country skiing.
• Snowmobiling: Snowmobiling is a thrilling way to cover a lot of ground and experience the backcountry in the wintertime. You can take guided snowmobile tours in the area.
• Ice Skating: The Chapman Hill Ice Rink in Durango is a great place for ice skating. It’s a fun activity for families and individuals of all ages.
• Sleigh Rides: Enjoy a traditional winter experience with a horse-drawn sleigh ride. This charming activity allows you to take in the snowy scenery in a cozy and festive setting. You can find these at the Purgatory Resort or Rimrock Outfitters.
• Durango Mountain Biking: Fat biking is a popular winter sport in Durango. The wide tires on fat bikes allow riders to explore snowy trails, making it a unique and adventurous way to experience the outdoors.
• Durango Dog Ranch: Try your hand at dog sledding with a guided tour offered by the Durango Dog Ranch. This unforgettable experience allows you to mush your own team of dogs through the snowy terrain. Learn more here.
• Durango Hot Springs: After a day of winter adventures, relax and warm up in the natural hot springs near Durango. Places like Durango Hot Springs offer a soothing soak in a beautiful setting.

Visit Purgatory Resort

Purgatory Resort in Durango, Colorado is a year-round destination offering a wide range of activities and adventures. Here’s a list of activities to enjoy at the resort:

Summer Activies at Purgatory Resort

• Mountain Biking: Explore a network of mountain bike trails, from beginner to expert, with rentals available.
• Alpine Slide: Experience a thrilling alpine slide ride down the mountain slopes.
• Scenic Chairlift Rides: Enjoy panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains from the chairlift.
• Hiking: Discover scenic hiking trails for all levels of hikers, including access to the San Juan National Forest.
• Disc Golf: Play a round of disc golf on the resort’s 18-hole mountain course.
• Purgatory Village: Visit the base area for shopping, dining, and live music.
• Mini Golf: Challenge your family or friends to a game of mini golf.
• Bungee Trampoline: Try gravity-defying jumps on the bungee trampoline.
• Lake Purgatory: Fish, paddleboard, or kayak on Lake Purgatory.
• Horseback Riding: Take guided horseback rides in the surrounding wilderness.

Winter Activities at Purgatory Resort

• Skiing and Snowboarding: Enjoy exceptional downhill skiing and snowboarding on a variety of runs.
• Snowcat Tours: Embark on a snowcat adventure for a backcountry skiing or snowboarding experience.
• Snowshoeing: Explore the snowy landscape on snowshoeing trails.
• Nordic Skiing: Cross-country skiing on groomed trails is a serene winter activity.
• Tubing Hill: Experience the thrill of snow tubing down dedicated lanes.
• Ice Climbing: Try your hand at ice climbing on the resort’s ice walls.
• Sleigh Rides: Take a charming sleigh ride through the winter wonderland.
• Purgatory Snowbike: Test your skills on a snowbike designed for winter excitement.
• Snowmobile Tours: Venture into the backcountry on guided snowmobile tours.
• Durango Dog Ranch: Try dog sledding with a team of friendly huskies.

The resort’s specific opening and closing dates may vary from year to year, depending on weather conditions. However as a general guideline Purgatory Resort usually opens for the winter season in November and closes in late March or early April. The summer season at Purgatory Resort typically begins in late May or early June and runs through September. For the most accurate and current information regarding the resort’s operating schedule, including specific opening and closing dates for each season, it’s recommended to visit the Purgatory Resort website or contact the resort directly.

Guide to Driving the Million Dollar Highway

Driving the Million Dollar Highway

While the entire drive from Durango to Ouray is incredible, the actual stretch of road known as the “Million Dollar Hwy” is from Silverton to Ouray. Driving the Million Dollar Highway, one of the most scenic and thrilling routes in the United States, is a remarkable journey.

To take on this scenic adventure, head north from Durango on U.S. Route 550 (AKA Main Ave). This scenic highway will lead you through the heart of the San Juan Mountains. As you leave Durango, you’ll soon encounter breathtaking mountain vistas, lush forests, and winding roads. Continue through the San Juan National Forest, where you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks and dense wilderness.

Throughout the drive you’ll have the chance to stop at numerous GORGEOUS overlooks & explore Silverton, an old mining town. You will finish the drive in Ouray, which is a fantastic spot to spend a few days if you have the time. You can explore the town’s historic district, take a soak in the natural hot springs, go off-roading, or hike my favorite trail ever (read all about it here)! See my full Ouray Travel Guide here.

The driving distance and time from Durango to Ouray via the Million Dollar Highway (U.S. Route 550) can vary based on road conditions and driving speed.

• Driving Distance: The distance between Durango and Ouray is approximately 70-75 miles.
• Driving Time: The drive can take around 2 hrs under normal conditions. However, this can vary based on factors like traffic, weather, and stops you make along the way to enjoy the stunning views and attractions. I recommend planning a full day for this drive to allow yourself to stop as much as you want to take in the beauty.

For a full guide to driving the Million Dollar Highway, including stops and viewpoints, click here!