When you’re overdue for a well-earned adventure, setting your travel sights on scenic Durango is always a good idea. This inviting locale situated within the desert and mountain terrain of southwest Colorado is known and loved for its prime proximity to outdoor fun and city-center entertainment too. Rich in history and culture, it’s easy to feel you’ve stepped into another world—and that’s often how travelers like it! A visit in this direction also puts you in the perfect place to add a day trip or two to your itinerary. When you’re looking to set aside time to check out nearby communities, attractions, and activities, the following day trips from Durango are worth your while when you’re in town.
Take Time to Spend a Day in Telluride
Located north of Durango, Telluride is a day trip destination that’s sure to inspire. Telluride is found within a box canyon and is adored for its captivating ski terrain and culture as well as its mountain town vibrant atmosphere. A day trip to Telluride is a chance to explore the area’s decidedly unique landscapes as well as the bustling downtown scene. Many visitors who come this way do so to take advantage of free gondola rides, historic downtown walking tours, and to spend some quality time shopping.
Telluride is also a top destination in Colorado when it comes to fly fishing adventures and the art district here is top-notch as well. In total, the trip to Telluride from Durango takes just over two hours if you follow Co-145 North. There are also options to take the Durango to Telluride bus which departs from the Durango Transit Center. The bus leaves daily at 6:40 am and includes four stops at Mancos, Dolores, Rico, and Telluride respectively. Tickets range from $18 to $45 a person and can provide a more leisurely way to day trip when you prefer to leave your personal vehicle behind.
Explore Mesa Verde National Park
Another great Durango day trip opportunity the next time you find yourself here is to venture out to Mesa Verde National Park! This iconic destination isn’t too far to reach and is bound to be inspiring to history buffs. In total, more than 5,000 archeological sites as well as cliff dwellings are found in this protected area of land, and while you can certainly take time to explore independently, maximizing the experience often happens on tours led by knowledgeable and friendly guides. If you travel US-160 West, it should only take you about 40 minutes to reach Mesa Verde National Park. In addition to touring the historic sites, visitors can find time to hike and wildlife watch too.
Plan on a Day at Purgatory Resort in the Winter
For Durango-bound travelers with a heart for all things fun on the slopes, a winter trip in this direction can’t truly be considered complete without a day trip to Purgatory Resort included. Situated just 27 miles north of Durango on US-550, Purgatory Resort is a must for those who are looking to enhance their winter recreation fun and want to ski some of the best slopes in the area. Purgatory Resort has plenty of snowfall recorded annually and a trip here takes you through the charming town of Trimble. This quaint community dates back to 1893 and is named for a local cattleman by the name of Frank Trimble. It’s a great place to stop and enjoy some time warming up in the local hot springs before continuing on to snowy fun at Purgatory.
Turn Your Durango Day Trips into a Ride on the Rails
When you’re looking to get out of town for the day and experience something new, booking a ticket on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad promises to please. This railroad adventure dates back to the 1800s and provides guests with a chance to ride in nostalgic style while passing through 40 miles of scenic wilderness and backcountry. You can spend a day on the rails taking photos and enjoying time with family and friends before returning to the depot in Durango once more. It’s a day-tripping experience you simply won’t want to miss out on while you’re here.
Book Your Stay in Durango Today
There’s never been a better time to begin planning your next trip to Durango and no reason to wait when you know you’re ready to maximize the fun. Travelers who are looking to infuse luxury, style, comfort, and convenience into their getaway will want to be sure to partner with the team at Durango Colorado Vacations.
Our portfolio of rental properties in Durango is vast and versatile, giving all of our guests the exciting options they deserve! We’re here to handle the details so our guests can focus on the fun. There’s nothing we look forward to more than helping you turn your travel plans into a reality. Reach out today to learn more and to get started!
