Durango

Travel Guide

Durango - Purgatory which includes street scenes, night scenes and a city
Durango - Purgatory featuring forest scenes, mountains and a river or creek
Durango - Purgatory which includes heritage architecture and night scenes
Durango - Purgatory which includes fall colors, mountains and tranquil scenes
Durango - Purgatory showing tranquil scenes, autumn leaves and forest scenes

This town is a wonderland for outdoor adventure lovers. Located in the middle of the Animas River Valley, it is characterized 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 and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad or Animas River Trail might round out your trip.

Historic Downtown Durango
Default Image

Columbine Lake

While Columbine Lake might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Purgatory Resort and Lake of the Pines.

Columbine Lake
Default Image

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
Default Image

North Main District

While visiting North Main District, you might make a stop by sights like Durango Community Recreation Center and Animas River.

North Main District
Default Image

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
Default Image

Durango West

When in Durango West, you can plan a visit to San Juan National Forest Supervisor's Office and Historic Tram Park, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

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 P10,417 per night from Aug 10 to Aug 11
P10,417
P11,839 total
Aug 10 - Aug 11
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! (1,984 reviews)
"Breakfast was good. Popcorn and cookies in evening."

Reviewed on Aug 2, 2025

Comfort Inn & Suites Durango
The Junction Hotel and Hostel

The Junction Hotel and Hostel

2.5 out of 5
2202 Main Avenue, Durango, CO
Stay at this motel in Durango. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
7.4/10 Good! (266 reviews)
Definitely worth the price
"The room was clean. It was a great deal for the price. And there is a stream right behind the property. Nice location near everything."

Reviewed on Jul 29, 2025

The Junction Hotel and Hostel
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Durango Downtown by IHG

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Durango Downtown by IHG

3 out of 5
21636 Highway 160 West, Durango, CO
The price is P11,202 per night from Aug 24 to Aug 25
P11,202
P13,101 total
Aug 24 - Aug 25
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Durango. Enjoy free WiFi, room service, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,005 reviews)
"The property location is gorgeous. The decor was very nice. The USB plug in the lamp was broken."

Reviewed on Aug 3, 2025

Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Durango Downtown by IHG
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! (71 reviews)
Awesome find
"Very convenient for train in Durango and river. Clean and comfortable!"

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2025

Leland House Suites of 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.

Popular places to visit

Things to do