The Durango Community Recreation Center offers a great all-in-one resource in Durango, Colorado. The large 71,557 square foot facility is located on the east side of North Main for easy access and is adjacent to the La Plata County Fairgrounds. Construction began in the spring of 2000 with the grand opening on January 5th, 2022. Spanning nearly three blocks, the Rec Center backs up to the Animas River and River Trail for bike and pedestrian access.
The Facilities
Easily accessible men’s, women’s, and family locker rooms are centered in the building to begin and end your visit. They provide spacious accommodations including restrooms, lockers, showers, scales, and direct access to the aquatic area.
The Pools
A main staple at the Durango Rec Center is the aquatics area, complete with a lap pool, leisure pool, hot tub, and seasonal outdoor splash pad. The lap pool averages 79 degrees and features eleven lanes, seven with diving blocks, along with two diving boards (one and three meters). The leisure pool is kept warmer, around 89 degrees, and hosts small children’s play features, a 160 foot water slide, whirlpool, lazy river, and two lap lanes. A relaxing 102 degree hot tub is perfect for warming up and relaxing after swimming laps, or a post-workout soak. In the hottest summer months, the outdoor splash pad provides reprieve for little ones with fun water features.
The Gym
The 18+ upstairs gym is complete with cardiovascular equipment, sectorized or pin-loaded weights, free weights, and a well-equipped fitness studio for group classes including large mirrors, ballet bars, and suspension wood floors. The three lane indoor track overlooks the courts, and totals a mile with thirteen laps. There are stunning views to the east over the Animas River while other equipment showcases views of Perins Peak to the west. Additional equipment includes pads, yoga balls, and bands to add resistance to your workout. TVs and music are available on many machines.
Downstairs, the gymnasium has two courts with maple wood floors equipped to play volleyball, basketball, pickleball, indoor soccer, and dodgeball among other sports. Two separate enclosed racquetball courts are also on this level. The 30 feet climbing wall has three sections with many routes to customize the difficulty. Both manual and auto belay options are available.
Outdoor Areas
Beyond the splash pad there is a playground, amphitheater, and grassy area. Two baseball diamonds are located just south of the main building with bleachers and a ticket/concession stand. Paved paths around the property connect to Main Avenue and the River Trail.
As previously mentioned, the Rec Center facilities are connected with the La Plata County Fairgrounds, another important community resource, just to the south. There are two exhibit halls, horse stalls, a covered riding arena, and a rodeo arena. Many events including county fairs, local celebrations and shows, rodeos, flea markets, and more are held here throughout the year.
Classes & Additional Services
From yoga and Zumba to spin classes and personal training sessions, there are many classes available at the Rec Center. Water aerobics, kids and adults rec league sports, and lessons are held daily. There is a childcare center on site so parents can get their workout in, along with a game room with foosball, ping pong, and other tabletop games. Five conference/community rooms are available to rent for a multitude of events such as banquets, reunions, club meetings, parties, training sessions, and more.
Membership
Day, month, and annual passes are available to purchase, granting access to the wide variety of Rec Center facilities. Membership also includes equipment rentals such as basketballs and racquetball racquets.
Because of the central in town location, this resource offers a great spot for after school activities, lunch time workouts, and weekend birthday parties. Check out Chapman Hill and Lake Nighthorse for more City of Durango facilities. Please don’t hesitate to contact Durango Brokers, Max Hutcheson or Deven Meininger, for more information about local gyms and activities for all ages.
