Explore Life in Southwest Colorado

Words by Abby L. Johnson

Upon arriving in Durango, peer out along the horizon and take in the views of the surrounding San Juan Mountain peaks reaching up into the clear blue Colorado skies. The landscape is strikingly different from that of the familiar Texas Hill Country. Take the time to savor the novel sight.

Day One: 

Settle into the rhythm of this deceptively sleepy town with a walk around the square. The pace of life is slow, but Durango is bursting at the seams with delicious eats, cultural experiences, and outdoor excursions to keep the pretty much anyone occupied for days.

For a view of the whole city, head to the Fort Lewis College campus, situated above the city center. Make sure to explore the institution itself while visiting. The campus permeates a welcoming atmosphere. 

Adventurous folks will want to make sure to plan some outdoor activities. Hiking trails are abundant. Head outside the city to the Vallecito Reservoir and walk along the lake, or make a trip to Mesa Verde National Park, home to historical Pueblo communities. Make sure to book tickets to the park about two weeks before the visit. 

Day Two: 

Wake up to the refreshingly cool Colorado air and start the day with another mini day trip to Purgatory Ski Resort. The scenic drive is worth it on its own, and the chance to see snow anytime of year is a refreshing treat for Texans. 

For more incredible views, traverse the San Juan National Forest via the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The vintage railway itself is a national historic landmark that can’t be missed. Operating since the 1880s, this route offers the rare opportunity for passengers to travel in a steam locomotive while overlooking stunning sights like the Animas Canyon, which is carved into the mountains by the Animas River. 

Explore the city of Silverton after the history-filled train ride. The surrounding area is filled with ghost towns and old mining camps leftover from the 19th century. This is the perfect adventure for history buffs. For those with more thrill-seeking inclinations, white-water rafting is available along the Animas River through several local companies, so do some research ahead of time and plan to catch some rapids while visiting Silverton. 

Day Three:

Visitors shouldn’t miss out on any of the culinary delights the city has to offer. On the final day of this mountain excursion, a stop by Michel’s Corner Crepes is a must for anyone craving a European touch to their Rocky Mountain adventure. Choose from artisanal savory or sweet crepes for a quick and filling snack, or order both, and enjoy a full-blown French feast prepared fresh by award-winning chef Michel.

Carver Brewing Company, situated on Main Avenue, is a gem in the downtown district. This brew pub has been serving craft beer and delicious eats since 1986. Stop by to enjoy a cold one and tap into the local culture at a true community mainstay. Plus, happy hour is every weekday from 3-5pm!

Before heading home, take in a final gaze of the gorgeous mountain city. There’s just not anywhere else quite like Durango.