durango thanksgiving Archives

When you need a break this Thanksgiving, the beauty of a four-seasons destination may be just what you need. If you’re looking to add fresh mountain air, amazing adventures, and plenty of Thanksgiving fun and activity to the mix, you’ll want to set your sights on Colorado. Colorado has plenty to enjoy, including Durango, a unique location packed with charm and Thanksgiving flair. There are plenty of things to do and see that will keep everyone happy and busy throughout your stay this Thanksgiving in Durango.

Thanksgiving Dinner

There are several restaurants in the area that will be offering up a Thanksgiving in Durango feast. You’ll want to check to make sure when and how service will be conducted. Some restaurants even offer catering and take out so you can prepare the feast at home and avoid the crowds.

Horseback Ride

Gather your group and saddle up with San Juan Sky Outfitters this Thanksgiving in Durango. They’ll guide you on a six-hour horseback tour that takes you along the Cascade Creek Trail to the stunning waterfalls found at the end of the trail. Don’t worry about a bumpy ride, the horses are trained for the mountainous terrain, so you’ll be in for a smooth and relaxing ride with your loved ones. Pack your camera, sun protection, and other personal must-haves and saddle up. Lunch and a rain jacket for time near the falls are included in the tour fee.

Polar Express Train

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. During the holiday season, the train becomes the Polar Express and a highlight of the holiday season. This year’s events begin with a musical pre-show 15 minutes before boarding the passenger cars pulled by coal-fired engines that date back to 1923-25. After boarding, the 35-minute ride to the “North Pole” – the railyard and museum – is full of fun. Meet characters from the Polar Express movie, two of Santa’s live reindeer, and many hard-working elves. Visit Santa’s workshop and take a picture with your own device with Santa himself. Hot chocolate and cookies will be served at the end of your adventure, along with Santa’s “first gift of the season.”

Turkey Trot

Many locales host a Thanksgiving “Turkey Trot” race the morning of Thanksgiving. Work up an appetite by participating in Durango’s annual Turkey Trot. The race starts the Fort Lewis College clock tower. The race is presented by Animas Surgical Hospital and benefits several local charities. The five-mile race starts near the campus student union and proceeds around campus and ends at the clock tower. A one-mile course suitable for the kids and less-experienced runners follows a loop around campus. Check in starts at 8:45 a.m. at the student union. The five-mile race is from 10-11 a.m. and the one-mile run is from 11-11:15 a.m. Advanced registration required.

Thanksgiving Farmers Market

If you’re planning to put on a traditional Thanksgiving meal at your vacation home, you’ll want plenty of fresh veggies and Thanksgiving meal trimmings to make the day and the meal perfect. Stop by the Durango farmer’s market to pick up just what you’ll need, from locally grown veggies to meats, cheeses, and more. The Thanksgiving market is November 20th and starts at 9 a.m.

Hiking and Biking

Surrounded by crisp mountain air and breathtaking views is the perfect way to spend any fall day in Colorado. Get out and get some exercise by the big meal to work up an appetite. You can choose to have your own two feet carry you along the trails that wind through Durango and the surrounding area or rent a mountain bike and set out on two wheels. There are several trails in the area that cater to every skill level so families with young children can enjoy the outdoors as well as groups of seasoned hikers and bikers looking for a challenge.

Destination: Durango Thanksgiving

To create a stay as unique as you and your loved ones, make sure the first thing on your planning to-do list for your Thanksgiving adventure is to book a vacation rental home with VacationDurango.com. Enjoy a day of Colorful Colorado’s fun and activities. Prepare a home-cooked meal or the Thanksgiving feast in fully equipped kitchen. Relax in a private bedroom or on a comfortable couch and watch a favorite holiday movie or 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 surrounded by crisp mountain air. For a cozy stay, choose a one-bedroom unit, or plan a family or group Thanksgiving reunion and book a sprawling six-bedroom unit to fit everyone!

Upgrade to a premium unit for perks and features like a private hot tub, sport court, stainless steel appliances, granite counters, hardwood floors, flat screen TVs and more to make your Thanksgiving truly unique!