Experience Durango - What to see and do

The small town of Durango – in southwest Colorado – is a nature and adventure lover’s paradise with a rich mining history. With 300 days of sunshine per year, there’s endless opportunities to enjoy top attractions from walking the Colorado Trail, Silverton Nature Trail or heading to the San Juan Mountains or Purgatory Resort for skiing and snowboarding.

Durango is home to the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad – one of the most scenic train journeys in the USA. Approximately 40 minutes away, you can also find the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mesa Verde to explore an ancient civilisation.

Top three things to do in Durango

1. Hop on the Durango and Silverton Narrow gauge railroad

Step onboard the old steam train for a ride of your life. Be amazed by the breathtaking scenery of the Animas River and Valley, and trees and gorges of the San Juan National Forest. A special part of the track has been carved out on the edge of a cliff face – completely mesmerising.

2. Explore Durango’s Historic downtown

Learn about Durango’s history as a mining town as you wander the downtown streets that look like the set of an old cowboy film. Stroll down Main Avenue and enjoy the first class restaurants, cafes, breweries. Spot the famous hotels and explore the shops, boutiques and free art galleries.

3. Visit the San Juan National Forest

With thousands of miles of trails to explore from staggering mountains – some of the steepest in the country – rivers, lakes to remote stretches of forest, nature is endless. Have a go at whitewater rafting, camping, hiking or fishing. For a more hair-raising experience, why not try ziplining through the trees.