Durango Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Durango - Purgatory which includes street scenes, night scenes and a city
Durango - Purgatory showing mountains, a river or creek and forest scenes
Durango - Purgatory showing night scenes and heritage architecture
Durango - Purgatory showing tranquil scenes, autumn colours and mountains
Durango - Purgatory showing forests, autumn colours and tranquil scenes

This town is a wonderland for outdoor adventure lovers. Located in the middle of the Animas River Valley, it is characterised 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

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Columbine Lake and surrounding area, you can visit Purgatory Resort and Lake of the Pines.

Columbine Lake
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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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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

If you're spending some time in North Main District, Durango Community Recreation Center and Animas River are top sights worth seeing.

North Main District
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Durango West

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Durango West and surrounding area, you can visit San Juan National Forest Supervisor's Office and Historic Tram Park.

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 AU$132 per night from 2 Nov to 3 Nov
AU$132
2 Nov - 3 Nov
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! (2,140 reviews)
Excellent Facility
Clean room. Excellent breakfast. Great location.

Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025

Comfort Inn & Suites Durango
Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn

Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn

2.5 out of 5
400 E 2nd Ave, Durango, CO
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is AU$196 per night from 14 Nov to 15 Nov
AU$196
14 Nov - 15 Nov
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! (1,018 reviews)
Very nice place and excellent staff.

Reviewed on 16 Oct 2025

Best Western Plus Rio Grande Inn
DoubleTree by Hilton Durango

DoubleTree by Hilton Durango

4 out of 5
501 Camino Del Rio, Durango, CO
The price is AU$222 per night from 11 Nov to 12 Nov
AU$222
11 Nov - 12 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Durango. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and room service. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,021 reviews)
Was a little concerned about flooding and we were on first floor by the river

Reviewed on 18 Oct 2025

DoubleTree by Hilton 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.
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! (91 reviews)
Wonderful place to stay. Right in town Easy walk to many good restaurants. Easy walk to the Durango to Silverton train station. Has own private parking. Very clean with separate living, kitchen and bedroom. Kitchen is full furnished. We will definitely be back!!!

Reviewed on 12 Oct 2025

Leland House Suites of Durango
Classic Colorado Cabin on the Florida River - 20 Minutes to Downtown Durango

Classic Colorado Cabin on the Florida River - 20 Minutes to Downtown Durango

Durango
Stay at this cabin in Durango. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and satellite TV channels. Popular attractions Lemon Reservoir and Horse Thief Park are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (66 reviews)
The view off patio was great, flowing water was so relaxing. House was well equipped and we had a good stay.

Reviewed on 11 Oct 2025

Classic Colorado Cabin on the Florida River - 20 Minutes to Downtown Durango
Majestic Manor with Private Pool, Theater Room, Large outdoor wedding altar

Majestic Manor with Private Pool, Theater Room, Large outdoor wedding altar

2 out of 5
Durango
Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and concierge services. Popular attractions Lemon Reservoir and Lake SImpatico Trailhead are located nearby.
9.6/10 Exceptional! (6 reviews)
The kitchen is a commercial kitchen which made cooking and cleanup very easy.

Reviewed on 10 Aug 2025

Majestic Manor with Private Pool, Theater Room, Large outdoor wedding altar
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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