When you need a break this fall, the beauty of a four-seasons destination is just what you need. If you’re looking to add fresh mountain air, amazing adventures, and as well as some Halloween fun and fright, you’ll want to set your sights on Colorado. Once you’ve settled on Colorado, you’ll want to set your sights on Durango. There are plenty of things to do and see – with and without Halloween in Durango themes – that will keep everyone happy and busy throughout your stay.
Children’s Halloween in Durango
When you make plans for your Halloween-time getaway to Durango, make sure kids and kids at heart stop by. Get the kids – and yourself – in costume and head to the streets of downtown Durango. This year’s Children’s Halloween Event takes place on the spooky day of October 31 and is a fun and safe option for families with children under ten-years-old to trick-or-treat. Make your way down the streets of downtown to nearly 100 participating merchants handing out sweets and treats to miniature ghosts, goblins, witches, and spooks. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Hauntings & History Ghost Tour
Join the staff of Horsefly History Tours for a spooky tour of “underground” Durango. Listen to ghost stories from several of the buildings and businesses along Main Avenue as you explore – and maybe run into the spirits yourself. Highlights include a saloon block where the ghost of a murdered sheriff lingers, a young girl still wanders the building where her throat was slashed, and an old hotel where a little boy still plays and runs as he eternally waits for his mother. The event is a 90-minute tour that starts at the Durango & Silverton Narrow Guage Train Depot at 479 Main Avenue. The guide is fully vaccinated and will not be wearing a mask. Patrons are asked to wear a mask. Each group is limited to 15 people, as the tight sidewalks of historic downtown Durango are narrow.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Ghost Crawl
The railroad has been in operation for over a century and offers the most unique view of the beautiful San Juan Mountains and Animas River. “Narrow Gauge” refers to the track itself, as it measures a narrower gauge of three feet rather than the 4’ 8.5” of a traditional track. Ride in a passenger car pulled by a coal-fired engine dating back to 1923-25. This Halloween in Durango, you can join our resident and paranormal Jeff Ellingson. He takes guests through the museum, roundhouse, warehouse, and the boxcars as he narrates the history of each locale, as well as where spirits have been reported to appear. The “Ghost Crawl” takes place this year on October 20 due to the full moon, and October 31. Tour times are 8:30-9:30 p.m. each evening and the cost is $20/person. The tour is most appropriate for those over 18, but younger spook enthusiasts are welcome with an adult. Limited space is available, so you’ll need to make reservations.
Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
If you enjoyed the Ghost Crawl, or want an experience during daytime hours, board the train for a ride. The railroad has been in operation for over a century and offers a unique view of the San Juan Mountains and Animas River. You’ll ride in passenger cars pulled by a coal-fired engine dating back to 1923-25. The track’s “narrow gauge” designation refers to the narrower three-foot track sections, allowing for tighter turns and less space than traditional 4’ 8.5” track used. Rides take approximately eight hours. Make sure to bring your camera!
Horseback Ride
Gather your group and saddle up with San Juan Sky Outfitters for the ride of a lifetime. They’ll guide you on a six-hour horseback tour that takes you along the Cascade Creek Trail to the stunning waterfalls at the end of the trail. You’ll see plenty of fall colors and spend some time in the crisp, fall mountain air. Don’t worry about safety or comfort along the trail, the horses are trained for the mountainous terrain, so you’ll be in for a smooth and relaxing ride with your friends or family. Pack your camera, sun protection, and other personal must-haves and saddle up for some fall fun. Lunch and a rain jacket for time near the picturesque falls in the area are included in the tour fee.
Destination: Durango Halloween Festivities
To create a Halloween-time 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 of Colorful Colorado fall or Halloween sights and experiences, prepare a home-cooked meal in fully equipped kitchen. Relax in a private bedroom or on a comfortable couch and watch a spooky movie or TV show or play a game together in an open living space. Relax and unwind in outdoor spaces full of fall colors like exansive decks, patios, balconies, and other outdoor spaces. For a cozy stay, choose a one-bedroom unit for you and your sweetheart or small family, or plan a spooktacular family group reunion and book a sprawling six-bedroom unit to fit everyone!
Upgrade to a premium unit for a special Halloween stay, including 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 Halloween getaway in Durango!