Why Choose Durango?

Durango is a fun and funky year-round destination. Whether you choose to visit winter or summer, a Durango vacation is the perfect choice for everyone. Durango is situated in the Southwest corner of Colorado surrounded by picturesque mountains with the Animas River river running through town. It offers an interesting history, challenging outdoor recreational opportunities, a budding arts community, abundant cultural activities, pleasant climate and beautiful natural scenery. Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort is an easy 30-minute drive from downtown Durango and no mountain passes to cross. Offering some of the finest skiing and snowboarding in Colorado with challenging and not so challenging runs - perfect for all abilities.

Attractions
Durango's most popular attractions include Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Mesa Verde National Park, Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort, and Vallecito Lake. Historic Downtown Durango is the heart of the community and offers a glimpse into the region's rich history while offering many of today's urban luxuries. The Animas River which runs through the town of Durango provides anglers with some fabulous trout fishing, rafters and kayakers with plenty of thrills and spills and the Animas River Trail offers miles of walking, riding and skating path.

Recreation
During the winter season, downhill skiing and snowboarding are Durango's most popular activities. If you are seeking additional recreational pursuits, winter enthusiasts are not restricted to the formal constraints of the ski resort -  snowcat skiing, backcountry skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing, are also quite popular.   When the snow melts, Durango offers a plethora of opportunities for hiking, backpacking, camping, fly-fishing, biking, climbing, horseback riding, kayaking and whitewater rafting.

Location
Durango is located in Colorado's Southwest corner - it's a 7 hour drive from Denver and a 3.5 hour drive from Albuquerque, NM. Durango's La Plata County Airport (DRO) For more information on getting here click here for Great Deals on Airline Fares

Climate
La Plata County's climate is considered ideal thanks to moderate temperatures and distinctly beautiful seasons. Snowfall at the higher elevations is typically great for skiing and in the towns, such as Durango at 6,512 feet of elevation, snow removal is only an occasional chore of manageable size. In summer temperatures seldom climb above the high eighties and spring is characterized by afternoon showers which bathe the land and stimulate verdant growth. Fall brings the promise of "Indian Summer" and clear, dry, cool days - perfect for hiking or driving in the mountains to view the golden leaves of the Aspen and the dark red and orange hues of the Gamble Oaks. Winters are generally mild, sunny and dry with seldom a day of temperatures even close to zero.