Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s stunning southwestern landscape, Durango is a hidden gem that offers an abundance of outdoor activities perfect for the spring season. Surrounded by majestic mountains, picturesque rivers, and endless trails, Durango provides a backdrop for adventure, relaxation, and rejuvenation. As spring emerges, the town comes alive with vibrant colors, mild temperatures, and a variety of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or someone seeking a peaceful escape, Durango offers something for everyone.
Hiking in the Great Outdoors
Durango is surrounded by miles of hiking trails, offering scenic routes through lush forests, rolling meadows, and rocky peaks. Spring is the perfect time to explore these trails, as the weather is mild, and the landscapes begin to awaken with vibrant wildflowers and fresh green foliage. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a more challenging trek, there are plenty of trails that cater to all levels of hikers.
Spring hiking in Durango offers the chance to enjoy the refreshing mountain air while soaking in the beauty of the surrounding wilderness. Along the way, you’ll encounter a wide range of wildlife, cascading streams, and awe-inspiring views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. For those looking for peace and tranquility, hiking is an excellent way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in nature.
Mountain Biking Through Scenic Trails
Durango has long been known as a haven for mountain bikers, and spring is the perfect time to explore the extensive network of mountain biking trails that wind through the region. As the snow melts and the weather warms, the trails become more accessible, offering bikers a chance to ride through forests, across ridgelines, and along riversides. Whether you’re an experienced rider or just starting out, Durango offers a variety of trails to suit all levels of skill and experience.
Mountain biking in Durango allows you to experience the landscape from a different perspective, with trails that offer both smooth paths for beginners and technical challenges for seasoned cyclists. The stunning natural beauty of the area, combined with the thrill of biking, makes it a must-try activity for those visiting in the spring.
Fishing in Serene Waters
As the temperatures rise, the rivers and streams around Durango come alive with fish, making it an ideal time for anglers to cast their lines. Fishing in Durango offers a peaceful way to enjoy the outdoors while also providing an opportunity to catch some of the area’s most prized species. Whether you prefer fly fishing in the crystal-clear rivers or casting a line in a nearby lake, Durango provides ample opportunities for anglers of all experience levels.
The spring season is particularly rewarding for fishing, as the water levels rise with the melting snow, creating ideal conditions for fishing. The calm, serene environment along the water’s edge offers a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. If you’ve never tried fishing before, spring in Durango is a great time to start.
Rafting and Kayaking on Rivers
For those looking to add a little excitement to their spring getaway, rafting and kayaking in Durango’s rivers is an exhilarating way to experience the landscape. With the spring thaw, the rivers begin to flow more rapidly, offering adventurous paddlers the chance to navigate exciting rapids and calm waters alike. Whether you’re an experienced rafter or a beginner, there are options for all levels, and local outfitters can help guide you through your river adventure.
Rafting and kayaking in Durango not only give you the chance to experience the beauty of the area from the water but also provide a thrill that’s hard to beat. The spring months offer optimal conditions, with mild temperatures and vibrant natural surroundings, making this an ideal activity to enjoy during your stay.
Book Your Stay with Durango Colorado Vacations
With so many outdoor activities to enjoy, Durango is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation in the spring. Whether you’re hiking, biking, fishing, or simply enjoying the fresh air, the natural beauty of the area offers endless opportunities to make the most of your spring getaway.
To make your trip to Durango even more enjoyable, book your stay with Durango Colorado Vacations. Our selection of comfortable and well-equipped vacation rentals ensures that you have a relaxing base for all your outdoor adventures. From cozy cabins to spacious homes, we have the perfect accommodations to suit your needs. Book your stay with us today and get ready to experience the best of Durango this spring!
Plan your next vacation with the kids to a locale full of four-seasons beauty, mountains, and plenty of outdoor fun. Get it all and more when you schedule your next trip to Colorado. Once you’ve settled on Colorado, point your compass to Durango. While you’re there, you may want to get out and explore the surrounding area with a hike. There are plenty of trails, many of which are perfect for the kids, no matter what their skill level may be.
Animas River Trail
While the 13.7-mile long paved out-and-back style trail may sound difficult, the small elevation change of just 341 feet is considered a fairly easy route. Hiking the whole trail takes approximately 4.25 hours. The trail meanders along the river for a great view, so you’ll likely run into road bikers, runners, walkers, on-leash dogs, and others. The trail is open year-round.
Church Camp Trail
Another easy hike for the kids is the Church Camp Trail through the Falls Creek Archaeological area. The 3.5-mile out-and-back trail takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete. You’ll be joined by mountain bikers, runners, walkers, and on- and off-leash pups for the 446-foot elevation change. Visit May-October for the best experience. At the end of the trail is a waterfall, which is on private property. Please stay on the defined trails and posted paths.
Haviland Lake Trail
The trail is just three-point-eight miles in length and takes under two hours to complete. The loop is moderately challenging with an elevation change of 554 feet. Enjoy birding, camping, and cross-country skiing in addition to the hike. The best time of year for hiking the area is May-September. Please note dogs may be off-leash in some areas.
Purgatory Trail
Located in the Hermosa Creek Wilderness Area, the out-and-back trail is 10.3-miles in total with an elevation gain of 1,820 feet and is considered moderately challenging. The whole hike takes approximately 5 hours, and you’ll share the trails with other hikers, as well as equestrians and dogs. It’s primarily used for camping, as the switchbacks head down into the forest and into Purgatory Flats on Cascade Creek. There’s a “rest stop” for the main campsite, and you can explore other trails from here, too. Make the trek sometime between March and October for the best experience.
Sailing Hawks Loop
The 2.4-mile loop in Memorial Park Phase One takes approximately an hour to complete and is considered moderately challenging. The 439-foot elevation change attracts runners, hikers, and walkers, some with their dogs. The forest scenery and views are not to be missed, so you may want to encourage the kids to step out of their comfort zone a little. Limit your visit to May-September.
Animas Overlook Trail
Make your way through part of the San Juan National Forest on the easy, 0.7-mile paved loop. The small 59-foot elevation change is easy to complete in around 15 minutes. Bring a picnic lunch with you and stop at the picnic area before heading back. You’ll share the trail with hikers and walkers, and on- and off-leash dogs. The best hikes are May-October.
Highline Trail to Taylor Lake
The 2.8-mile out-and-back trail is kid-friendly and only takes about an hour to complete. The 200-foot elevation change is easy to negotiate, and the payoffs of breathtaking mountain views, the lake, a waterfall, and wildlife in its natural habitat are not to be missed. You may run into mountain bikers, walkers, dogs, and bird watchers along the way, so please share the trail.
Spud Lake Trail Via Lime Creek Road
The 4-mile out-and-back trail takes less than two hours. The trail winds through the forest on a steady elevation change of 538 feet. Get views of the river, wildflowers, and wildlife as you make your way to the serene Spud Lake. For families looking for a longer hike, you can take a rest and have a picnic by the lake, then head on to Potato Lake.
Destination: Durango Trails
To create a stay as unique as you and your loved ones, make sure the first thing on your planning to-do list is to book a vacation rental home with VacationDurango.com. After you’ve enjoyed a day hike through Colorful Colorado, prepare a filling and re-energizing home-cooked meal in the fully equipped kitchen. Relax in a private bedroom or on a comfortable couch and watch a movie or TV show or play a game together in an open living space. Relax and unwind in outdoor spaces like expansive decks, patios, balconies, and other outdoor spaces. For a cozy stay, choose a one-bedroom unit for you and your small family, or plan a family or group reunion and book a sprawling six-bedroom unit to fit everyone!
Upgrade to a premium Durango vacation rental for perks and features like a private hot tub, sport court, stainless steel appliances, granite counters, hardwood floors, flat-screen TVs, and more!
Contact us today to book your fun-filled getaway in Durango!
Finding the perfect vacation destination that the whole family will love can be a tricky task. However, you can’t go wrong by choosing to take a trip to the gorgeous area of Durango, Colorado! One of the most beautiful spots in the country, this small, scenic city contains amazing things to do for all ages. There are numerous activities your entire family can enjoy here, from museums to mountain biking. With such a wide variety of things to do with kids in Durango, you and your loved ones can experience this incredible destination to the fullest. Learn everything you need to know about the best things to do with kids in Durango and start planning your Colorado family vacation today!
4 of the Best Things to Do with Kids in Durango
1. Visit the Powerhouse Science Center
Kids and adults alike will love the Powerhouse Science Center in Durango, CO! This Durango children’s museum is full of interactive exhibits that are both entertaining and educational. Take your kids here and they’ll want to spend hours and hours exploring!
2. Go Horseback Riding in the Mountains
One of the best ways to give your kids a tour of the Colorado mountains is by horseback! Durango is filled with some amazing outfitters that can guide you and your family through some of the most scenic spots by horseback. These tours accommodate visitors of all ages, so you and your kids will feel comfortable during the experience.
3. Take a Ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Not only does the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad provide stunning views of the surrounding Colorado scenery during its journey, but it also offers some amazing entertainment on board the train as well! This historic train hosts numerous themed rides, such as the Peanuts Easter Beagle Express, a Thomas the Tank Engine party, a Polar Express ride, and much more. Kids will adore these events, so check their calendar today!
4. Paint Your Own Pottery at The Clay Room Durango
Let your kids embrace their artistic side by spending an afternoon at The Clay Room Durango! This attraction has activities for all ages, from toddlers to adults. Here you can paint canvases and pottery as well as take classes on how to make your own gorgeous ceramics. These fun, hands-on activities at The Clay Room Durango will leave you with a wonderful souvenir to commemorate your trip!
Stay in the Best Accommodations for Families in Colorado!
You’ll want to stay in the most spacious and comfortable accommodations during your family vacation to Durango, CO. Book with us at Durango Colorado Vacations; we offer luxurious penthouses, villas, lofts, cabins, and apartments all throughout this gorgeous area. Each property ranges in size and is fully equipped with the finest amenities and features, such as fireplaces, hot tubs, outdoor decks, BBQ grills, and more. With every property located within a short distance of exciting Durango attractions, both outdoor and indoor, you won’t find a better place to stay with your family in this amazing state out West. Our deluxe properties are the perfect place to unwind after an exciting day exploring Durango! Don’t miss your chance to have the greatest family vacation ever; check our availability and book one of our fantastic rentals today!
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