About Durango

Durango is located along the Animas River in southwest Colorado, south of the San Juan National Forest, and east of Mesa Verde National Park. This historic city was established in 1880. After gold was discovered in the San Juan Mountains, the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad made Durango the hub of its rail system to transport ore from the mountains to the city’s smelters. Railroad and mining history is a draw for visitors to the town, but Durango is now also known for the plethora of outdoor adventure and entertainment that it offers.

To be part of the adventure, let us book you a self-guided UTV tour to explore Durango’s untouched backcountry, or a whitewater rafting trip down the Animas River. If you prefer a slightly slower pace, we’ll book a horseback ride to take you on a scenic journey through valleys and over mountain ridges.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has been in operation since 1882 and carries its passengers by historic locomotive on a scenic journey between Durango and Silverton. The narrow-gauge tracks allow for tighter curves, useful for navigating the mountainous terrain. Visit the Railroad Museum to learn about the area’s railroading, transportation, and mining.

Stroll downtown where there are still many of the original buildings from the town’s founding. Shop for western souvenirs, artwork, or gifts, and stop by one of the city’s many restaurants for a bite to eat. From local farm-to-table bistros to classic western saloons, Durango’s vibrant food scene offers something for everyone.

Interesting Facts About Durango

• The name Durango comes from the Basque word Urango, which means “water town” or “well-watered place”.
• The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has tracks that are only 36 inches apart, while standard gauge tracks are 56 inches apart.
• Durango has more restaurants per capita than San Francisco.