A day in historic Durango, Colorado can be quite an adventure. There are lots of epic things to do for families, couples, and singles for every activity level. From its rich heritage to its outdoor adventures, Durango has something for everyone.
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Historic Downtown Durango: Exploring the Heart of Colorado’s Heritage
Main Street in Durango is exactly what you would expect from an old western mining town. They list it on the National Register of Historic Districts. These streets are filled with everything from saloons to boutique hotels, coffee shops to upscale eateries. The iconic Strater Hotel, and General Palmer Hotel – are all very charming. They offer metered parking in the downtown. Just remember to set a timer. I heard people say that the parking police were quick to ticket those that flaunt the system. Walking the downtown we found some unique shops with antiques, art galleries, and Henry Strater Theater.
The Denver & Rio Grande Railway founded Durango in 1880. This historic railway is central to and the major draw for most visitors to the town. Durango has a pleasant old-fashioned main street set in a valley between high mountains – very scenic. It has a nice quaint downtown with lots of specialty stores (western art, clothing, furnishings, jewelry, etc.). There was lots of heavy smoke the morning we arrived, caused by the 416 fire just north of town. Durango is a quick drive from Mesa Verde National Park.
Stop 1: The Denver & Rio Grande Railway: Tracing the Tracks of Colorado’s Historic Railroad Legacy
We enjoyed the historic Durango and Silverton Railroad Depot and the Museum, in a nearby Roundhouse Durango Railroad Museum, is a hidden gem. The morning we went to the historic downtown, there were very few people. It was relatively quiet. This was probably because of the Forest Fire 416. We had the museum to ourselves.
I must admit that as we entered the depot, we were captivated. There are several displays, information, and images detailing the history of the railroad in this region dating back to the 1880s. Inside the museum, there are authentic railroad cars as well as several steam locomotives to explore. Memorabilia include a collection of military artifacts, an airplane, various firearms, and a few antique cars. We enjoyed sitting in the restored mail car, watching the short movie on the history of the Durango Silverton National Railway (DSNR). I know it might seem like a bit of time, but trust me; slow down, sit and watch it.
Exploring the Unseen Treasures: Don’t Forget the Backside of the Museum
Be sure to exit the building through the back exit and view the working turntable-see into the working roundhouse, where they were rebuilding some engines. There is an impressive 800 sq. ft model railway. The museum does not charge an entrance fee, however; they do welcome donations. If you are on a budget, then this is a must tour. We really enjoyed our time here. Well, worth an hour or two.
Stop 2: Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad: A Journey Through Colorado’s Scenic Past
Taking the train ride is an iconic piece of American Experience in the West. For those who love looking at miles and miles of amazing, unspoiled mountain scenery, this is the adventure for you. The train travels from Durango along the Animas River, through the mountains to Silverton, Colorado. The standard round-trip excursion is 3.5 hours each way.
You can choose from a variety of different cars at different prices. They range from the open-air gondolas, which provide unparalleled views; to the parlor and presidential cars that offer comfortable seating and free non-alcoholic beverages during the trip.
TIP: sit on the right side of the train going to Silverton. This will provide you with the best views for photography. If you sit in the open-air gondola, bring a good pair of sunglasses. Coal fuels these locomotives and cinders fly into the open-air car.
NOTE: they permit guests 21 and over in the parlor car, which is why many people choose this option. Although all seats are assigned, the train conductor and accompanying staff allow passengers to move freely throughout the train.
Silverton, Colorado – A Picturesque Stopover on Your Durango Adventure
You can also choose to ride the train both ways or opt to return by bus. The bus option is a shorter duration, however, it is also the more expensive option. You must make reservations for the bus in advance as only 44 seats are available. The driver provides a narration pointing out the landmarks and history of the area. The scenery differs from that observed on the train. If you take the train round-trip, there is about a 2-hour layover in Silverton, so you can have lunch and do some souvenir shopping. The buildings on Main Street are original. Constructed in the 1800s, many of the Victorian homes remain unchanged.
Stop 3: Durango Fish Hatchery & Wildlife Museum: A Fascinating Encounter with Nature’s Wonders
This place is a delightful way to spend a morning. It is open daily from May 15-September 15 in summer. There is a self-guided tour and best of all, it is FREE! The hatchery is so close to the downtown, you could walk. Informational brochures and educational exhibits inside the wildlife museum showcase the native animal species great for the kids. There’s a really interesting 8-minute video on how the hatcheries raise the fish and distribute them to the local lakes and rivers. A well-informed volunteer was seated at the front desk and talked about the impact the fire was having on the tourism.
Outside, we walked the fish “raceways” feeding the rainbow trout fingerlings of various sizes. The hatchery raises cutthroat, brown, rainbow, and Kokanee Salmon. They have an excellent selection of cutthroat breeding stock that can be fed in a larger pond nearer the parking lot. I would suggest you bring quarters for the fish feeder machines. The desk clerk could provide change for us to get a cup of fish food. Benches, bronze statues, and other seating areas are scattered around the property. The well-landscaped grounds are an ideal habitat for hummingbirds and butterflies. There is plenty of wildlife that frequent the area, especially along the river. The area is quite peaceful, a good spot to enjoy a picnic lunch.
Stop 4: Natural Beauty Along the Animas River Trail
A fabulous trail runs along the river from 32nd Street for 7-miles with many access points. The Animas River Trail follows the Animas River as it winds through a picture-perfect historic town along highway 160. On the trail, you will find excellent signage explaining the history of Durango and the native animal species you will encounter on the trail. The Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad cuts through the trail at the half-way point. The trail path is a combination of paved, dirt, wood chip, or cobblestone paths in other sections. A first-class trail family-friendly, you can appreciate the chance to walk or bike the historic town.
Stop 5: Rafting the Animas River – An Exciting Water Adventure in Durango
Rafting in spring on the Animas River holds some world-class rapids. Some of the best rafting can be had in the early spring when the river is fed from snow-melt from the surrounding mountains. The water is exceptionally cold. As the river level fluctuates so so the rapids declining significantly in the summer. The river allows kayakers and tube floating as an alternative river float in summer. Remember to bring a dry bag to keep your phone and other gear dry. Many knowledgeable, reputable outfitters can be used to book your trip. They can provide a safe environment for your family to experience white water rafting for the first time. It was really fun and exciting kayaking in the river.
Stop 6: Animas River Fishing – Casting Lines in Durango’s Pristine Trophy Waters
The Animas River runs through the center of Durango. The river runs 126-miles, a tributary of the San Juan River. It is a part of the Colorado River System. The Spanish named the river “Rio de las Animas Perdidas”, “River of the Lost Souls.” Many of the town parks offer excellent river access. Great fishing can be had just about anywhere you can access the bank.
We spent about four hours fishing around the Cundiff Park area. There is a lot of parking in the unpaved lot, and pedestrian bridges cross the river at various points. The river flow is ideal for those that want to wade and fish. Recognized for its quality of fish, this is Gold Medal Water.
What’s the Best Fishing Equipment? Essential Gear for Animas River Anglers
As we fished many kayaks and float trips past this section of the river throughout the day, along with many bike riders on the trail. We could catch a few fish and missed a few as well. The water is quite cold. Investing in a good pair of waders and wading boots will keep your feet comfortable and dry. Best money we have ever spent investing in good fishing gear. We used a Redington 9-foot 5-wt fly rod with a floating line that is perfect for fishing dry flies on this river.
The entire river is accessible through the historic Durango via the Animas River Trail. Be sure to have a Colorado Fishing License before fishing. We quickly released all the fish back into the river. The river has rainbow and brown trout. This river is definitely worth taking a day to stop and fish, at least for a while.
Stop 7: San Juan National Forest – Exploring the San Juan Mountains
The San Juan National Forest surrounds much of Durango. The San Juan Forest is absolutely beautiful for either a day’s drive about or an extended stay in one of the beautiful campgrounds.
Hiking trails abound in the forest and the Bureau of Land Management in Durango provides maps of the trails and very useful information about how best you can enjoy recreation in the forest. Durango, Colorado, is all about getting off the road, lacing up the hiking boots, and walking the trails that bring one ever closer to the natural wonders of this area. Mountain biking, fly-fishing, and horseback riding are additional activities that adventurers can enjoy. We drove Hwy. 160 towards Pagosa Springs through the San Juan Forest. The drive along Highway 160 into the mountains from Durango to South Fork is really stunning. As we passed different ranches, we saw a coyote moving across a hayfield along the highway-no place to pull over for pictures-bummer.
Stop 7: Chimney Rock National Monument: Uncovering Ancient Wonders in Colorado’s Landscape
If you are traveling on Hwy 160 from Durango to Pagosa Springs, the highway passes by Chimney Rock National Monument. Just a mile or so off the highway, you can enter this newest monument. Before you arrive, visit the website to be sure your arrival coincides with one of the tour times. The tours allow you to drive three miles up from the base. The lower tour is an easy self-guided walk, with electronic audio guides that talk about the site. They require a knowledgeable guide for the upper tour. It involves about a 1/4 mile walk straight up the mountain to see the incredible ruins. Bring lots of water, hiking boots and do wear lots of sunblock.
Final Thoughts: 7 Epic Things to Do in Historic Durango, Colorado
The Colorado town of Durango features a mixture of history, breathtaking scenery, and thrilling activities. From the picturesque Durango & Silverton Narrow-Gauge Railroad to the serene Animas River Trail, each stop on this road trip offered a distinct experience. We loved exploring the rich heritage of the San Juan Forest. Discovering the ancient treasures of the Chimney Rock National Monument gave us greater understanding of this amazing spot. Durango is a must add to any Colorado road tip.
Whether you’re a history buff like us or an outdoor adventurer, or simply looking for a getaway, Durango has something for everyone. So, if you get the opportunity, let the spirit of Durango leave an unforgettable stamp on your heart and soul.
Do you want to visit Durango? If you previously visited, what did you like best? Leave us a comment below on your trip.
