Durango and the greater Southwest Colorado area are an ideal family vacation destination, both in summer and winter. Nestled at the southern end of the Rocky Mountains, this bustling mountain town offers a quaint downtown, outdoor adventure galore, and serves as a central hub to the surrounding areas for even more options.
Spring
One of the two “shoulder seasons” in our area, spring still has many benefits and things to do. Depending on how early in the season you visit, you may be able to still catch a couple of runs at Purgatory Ski Resort or go snowshoeing in the high country before all of the snow melts. On warmer days, in-town hiking and biking provide great opportunities to get outside; Durango features over 100 miles of trails within city limits. You’ll want to check for seasonal closures and trail conditions, as they can be muddy. Popular annual events in the spring and early summer include the Durango Bluegrass Meltdown, Iron Horse Bicycle Classic, and Animas River Days.
Summer
Summer in Southwest Colorado is when the towns truly come alive. Although the temperatures stay reasonable, rarely climbing above 100 degrees, the mornings and evenings still cool off. The hot days are perfect for spending time on the lake or river fishing, boating, paddle boarding, or swimming. You can choose your own adventure from zip lining and rafting, to horseback riding and rock climbing, and much more. Weekly farmers’ markets, rodeos, and the Bar D Chuckwagon are fun ongoing summer events.
Fall
Fall is filled with cooler days and colorful trees as the aspen, oak, and other native fauna become bright shades of red, orange, and yellow. Throughout town, the nearby mountains, and across the entire Southwest Colorado area, the landscape transforms into something worth exploring. Most summer activities can still be enjoyed during these months, just add some extra clothing layers! Seasonal festivities, like visiting a pumpkin patch and the Purgatory Ski Resort Mushroom Festival, are local favorites.
Winter
Although the infamous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a treat any time during the year, the Polar Express is especially popular in November and December, or you can ride the train to Cascade Canyon. Durango loves to celebrate and there are Christmas and New Year events, as well as the iconic Snowdown celebrations - Durango’s long-time, locally organized, cabin-fever reliever - in late January. Of course, all snow activities (skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, hockey, sledding, and more) are go-to activities for everyone. After a long day on the slopes, soaking at a geothermal hot spring feels amazing with the cold winter air.
With Southwest Colorado’s four distinct seasons, you can enjoy different experiences throughout the year. However, no matter when you come, the abundant nature, bustling community, and things to do year-round will take center stage. If you’re interested in making Durango, CO or the surrounding area your home, please contact The Durango Team at The Wells Group Real Estate.
