Here's a practical guide to Durango’s top experiences, covering the historic train, hot springs, outdoor adventures, downtown highlights, and easy day trips beyond town.
Historic train rides, mountain scenery, hot springs, outdoor activities, and a lively downtown give Durango broad appeal, making it a great fit for short stays or even a day trip if you’re based in Telluride.
Set in southwest Colorado near the San Juan Mountains, Durango blends heritage attractions with easy access to nature, plus a compact town center that packs in plenty of energy and things to do year-round.
Curious about the best this low-key destination has to offer? Here’s a quick look at what’s ahead:
- Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: Historic steam train following the Animas River through dramatic canyon scenery.
- Soak at Durango Hot Springs: Modern hot springs with multiple pools and flexible soaking sessions.
- Walk through downtown Durango: A compact, walkable core with restaurants, breweries, shops, and public art.
- Hike in the San Juan National Forest: Easy river walks and higher-elevation mountain trails close to town.
- Visit the Animas Museum: Regional history focused on railroads, mining, and settlement.
- Raft or kayak the Animas River: Guided trips and calmer sections running directly through town.
- Explore Mesa Verde National Park: Preserved cliff dwellings and scenic overlooks for a longer cultural outing.
- Brewery and food stops: Local beer and solid dining at spots like Steamworks Brewing Co., Carver Brewing Co., Animas Brewing Company, and Ska Brewing.
At Lodging in Telluride, our selection of vacation rentals suits every kind of traveler, and each has its own charm. Hike the mountains, browse the shops, grab dinner on Main Street, then come back to a place that feels like home. We care for each property like it’s our own and make sure our guests feel just as looked after.
Looking for local tips? Our destination blog is packed with them: coffee spots, waterfalls, bike trails, and more. You’re in good hands.
In this blog post, I’ve rounded up eight must-do things in Durango to help you make the most of a day trip or extend your Telluride getaway with a couple of days in this charming Colorado town.
Let's jump into the details!
1. Ride the DURANGO & SILVERTON NARROW GAUGE RAILROAD
A historic steam train that has been in operation since the late 1800s.
A ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad ranks as the city’s most well-known attraction. The historic steam train has operated since the late 1800s and still runs on its original narrow-gauge tracks through the Animas River canyon.
The journey follows the river north through steep canyon walls, dense forests, and remote stretches of mountain terrain that are otherwise difficult to access. Depending on the season, trains either travel all the way to Silverton or complete shorter routes before returning to Durango.
Heads up: The ride takes most of the day if you choose the full route. Seating options range from standard enclosed cars to open-air gondolas. Booking in advance matters during peak travel seasons, especially summer and fall.
Highlights
- Historic steam locomotive and restored rail cars.
- Canyon views along the Animas River.
- Several route options depending on the season.
- Strong photography opportunities throughout the ride.
2. Soak at DURANGO HOT SPRINGS
A delightful, modern soaking experience that feels thoughtfully designed rather than rustic.
Located just north of downtown, Durango Hot Springs offers a modern soaking experience that feels thoughtfully designed rather than rustic. The facility is spread out and open-air, with a range of pools set at different temperatures, allowing you to ease in, move hotter or cooler as needed, and settle into a rhythm that suits you.
A daytime session works well after a morning hike or stepping off the Durango & Silverton train, while evening visits are ideal for unwinding after a full day of exploring.
Heads up: Reservations are strongly recommended during peak travel seasons and weekends, as popular time slots fill up quickly.
Highlights
- Multiple soaking pools with different temperatures.
- Clean, modern layout.
- Easy access from downtown.
- Good option after outdoor activities.
3. Walk Through Downtown Durango
Restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, charming local stores, historical buildings, and public art.
Downtown Durango is the social center of town. Main Avenue runs through the heart of the district, where you’ll find restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and charming local stores. The area is compact and walkable, making it easy to get a good feel for Downtown Durango during a day trip from Telluride.
Along the way, you’ll also notice public art and historic building façades, adding plenty of photo-worthy moments to remember your time in town.
Highlights
- Walkable downtown corridor.
- Independent shops and restaurants.
- Easy access to museums and trailheads.
- Vibrant evening atmosphere.
4. Hike in the SAN JUAN NATIONAL FOREST
A huge range of hiking options just a short drive from town.
San Juan National Forest wraps around Durango, putting a huge range of hiking options just a short drive from town. You can keep things easy with riverside walks or head uphill on mountain trails that bring a bit more elevation and effort.
Well-used trailheads line the Animas River and continue north toward Purgatory, giving you plenty of flexibility. Start with a shorter out-and-back and turn around when it feels right, or keep going if the weather and your legs are cooperating.
Heads up: Conditions change with the seasons, especially at higher elevations, but late spring through summer is when the trail network really opens up and shines.
Highlights
- Extensive trail network near town.
- Options for short or longer hikes.
- River, forest, and mountain scenery.
- Trailheads reachable within minutes.
5. Visit the ANIMAS MUSEUM
A visit to the Animas Museum will give you a deeper understanding of Durango’s regional history. The exhibits cover railroad development, mining, settlement, and everyday life in the Animas Valley.
The museum grounds include restored historic buildings, outdoor displays, and rotating exhibitions, making the experience more engaging and dynamic.
Highlights
- Regional history tied to railroads and settlement.
- Outdoor exhibits and historic structures.
- It’s a short visit, so you can easily fit it into a day trip.
6. Raft or Kayak the Animas River
Thrilling rafting and relaxed kayaking during warmer months.
Flowing directly through Durango, the Animas River sets the stage for both thrilling rafting and relaxed kayaking during the warmer months. Access points sit close to downtown, making it easy to fit a river session into your day without having to dedicate the whole schedule to it.
Commercial outfitters offer trips at varying difficulty levels, including beginner-friendly sections. Guided trips include equipment and basic instruction, which makes this a good option for first-time paddlers.
Highlights
- Guided rafting and kayaking trips.
- Seasonal flow variations.
- Easy access from town.
- Suitable for beginners during calmer periods.
7. Explore MESA VERDE NATIONAL PARK
Preserved cliff dwellings and sweeping overlooks.
If you have more time in Durango beyond a simple day trip from Telluride, a visit to Mesa Verde National Park is an absolute must. It does require a longer drive, but the experience adds real cultural depth to any Durango itinerary.
What makes it special? The park preserves Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings built into canyon walls more than seven centuries ago. The drive through the park is lined with sweeping overlooks, and if you want a deeper understanding, guided tours provide access to select dwellings and valuable context along the way.
Heads up: It's important to plan ahead, as tickets for guided visits often sell out.
Highlights
- Preserved cliff dwellings.
- Cultural and archaeological significance.
- Scenic park roads and overlooks.
- Guided and self-guided options.
8. Brewery and Food Stops in Durango
Diverse and lively food and beer scene, especially around downtown and along the Animas River.
Durango’s food and beer scene is diverse and lively, especially around downtown and along the Animas River. Downtown favorites like Steamworks Brewing Co. and Carver Brewing Co. are go-to spots for house-brewed beer, solid food, and a strong local vibe.
Along the river, Animas Brewing Company serves more creative beers with a slightly more polished menu, while Ska Brewing is worth the short drive for bold beers and a lively taproom atmosphere.
Extra Planning Tips for Durango
- Train rides require advance booking during peak seasons.
- High-elevation hikes depend on snow conditions.
- Summer afternoons can see thunderstorms.
- Downtown parking stays manageable outside major events.
- Combining one major activity per day keeps schedules flexible.
Getting to Durango from Telluride
Most reliable route
Take CO-145 south through Placerville and Dolores, then join US-160 east toward Durango. This route stays on maintained highways and works best year-round.
More scenic option
Follow CO-145 over Lizard Head Pass. The views are excellent, but the weather can change quickly, especially outside of summer.
Good to know
Check road conditions before leaving, allow extra time in winter, and fuel up before long stretches. The drive is straightforward with light planning and fits easily into a regional itinerary.
Make Telluride your base for a day trip to Durango.
When your travel plans point to Telluride, and you’re after a stay that’s stylish, comfy, and close to all the good stuff, Lodging in Telluride has just the place. From cozy condos to luxe mountain homes, our rentals come packed with the perks that make vacations extra memorable. Reach out to find the perfect spot for your crew. We’re here to help you land a stay you’ll love.