For trail runners and mountain bikers, Horse Gulch is a Durango classic—just minutes from downtown, it offers miles of interconnected singletrack with sweeping views, rolling terrain, and routes for every level of adventure.

Durango Hot Springs is the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventuring—soak in the mineral-rich pools surrounded by mountain views and enjoy a drink from the bar while you recharge.

Hanging out at Lake Nighthorse is the perfect way to spend a Durango afternoon—go for a swim, paddleboard, or just relax on the shore and take in the mountain views. In September, the water might be a little chilly, but it’s still absolutely beautiful!

For paddlers and rafters, the Animas River offers an awesome stretch of whitewater right through Durango. The Whitewater Santa Rita Park area is a local favorite—with a playground nearby, plenty of spots to sit and watch kayakers and river surfers, and a fun, lively atmosphere right by the water.

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours in Durango offers the perfect mix of adventure and scenery on the Animas River. Their guided rafting trips take you through a beautiful stretch of river with splashes, sunshine, and mountain views—all just minutes from downtown.

Purgatory Resort is just a short drive from Durango and always worth the trip. While there won’t be snow yet for skiing, the mountain comes alive in the fall with scenic chairlift rides, hiking and biking trails, alpine slides, and fun seasonal events that make it a great stop any time of year.

Mesa Verde National Park is about 35 miles (roughly a 45-minute drive) from Durango and absolutely worth the trip. Home to ancient cliff dwellings and incredible views, it’s one of Colorado’s most fascinating and beautiful historical sites.

This independently-owned gem on historic Main Avenue in downtown Durango (960 Main Ave) has been quietly delighting readers since 1984. With more than 40,000 carefully curated books tucked into its cozy, character-filled space, it’s the kind of place where you could absolutely get lost for HOURS.

The Powerhouse Science Center is a must-visit for families—set in a converted power plant right along the Animas River, it’s packed with fun, hands-on exhibits that make it a hit with kids (and secretly, the adults too).

The Colorado Trail stretches nearly 500 miles from Denver to Durango, winding through some of the most breathtaking terrain in the Rockies. The trail’s final segment ends right outside Durango, making it easy to hike or run a section without tackling the whole thing.

Just a few minutes from town, Twin Buttes is packed with flowy singletrack, steady climbs, and fun descents through pine forests and open meadows, with awesome views of the La Plata Mountains along the way.

Walking or running along the Animas River Trail is one of the best ways to experience Durango—this scenic path winds through town alongside the river, offering peaceful views, shady stretches, and plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the Animas River.

A moderate ~6-mile loop close to town that rewards you with excellent 360° views of the Animas River Valley and the La Plata / San Juan peaks.

For a quick adventure with a big payoff, climb the Sky Steps or take the Rim Trail up to Fort Lewis College. It’s a steep but short run, hike, or bike ride with plenty of elevation—and the panoramic view of Durango from the top is totally worth it.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a fun, family-friendly adventure—kids love the historic steam train, and you can ride it from either Silverton or Durango, one way or round trip, for a scenic journey through the San Juan Mountains.

Sutcliffe Vineyards in Cortez, Colorado, is a stunning, off-the-beaten-path winery surrounded by red rock cliffs and wide-open desert views. About an hour and a half drive from Durango, it’s well worth the trip for a relaxed afternoon of wine tasting in a beautiful high-desert setting.

One of the best coffee places in Durango!

11th Street Station is a Durango favorite—an old gas station turned food truck park and bar, it’s the perfect spot to grab a drink, try something new to eat, and hang out!

Sunnyside Market is a local gem—stop by for delicious, freshly made sandwiches that hit the spot every time.

Located at 128 E 9th St (formerly 666 E College Dr) in Durango, Colorado, College Drive Cafe is a cozy, locally-owned breakfast and lunch spot beloved by both locals and visitors. It's one of our favorites!

Tucked into historic downtown Durango at 1022 Main Ave, Carver Brewing Company is a true local institution—recognized as the Southwest’s original brewpub and still going strong after decades.

Zia Taqueria is a Durango classic—fresh, fast, and full of flavor. Build your own tacos, burritos, or bowls with local ingredients and homemade salsas—it’s the perfect casual spot.

Bread is a Durango favorite—this cozy bakery serves up incredible sandwiches, pastries, and loaves baked fresh daily. It’s the perfect stop for breakfast, lunch, or a post-adventure snack.

Cream Bean Berry is Durango’s go-to spot for handcrafted ice cream—made in small batches with local ingredients, their creative flavors and homemade waffle cones are the perfect treat.

Liv's FAVORITE restaurant in Durango if you're craving a burger & fries!

Located in the heart of Durango at 801 E 2nd Ave, the brew-pub & restaurant Steamworks Brewing Company brings together vibrant craft beer and elevated pub fare in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

Ska Brewing Company is one of our favorite spots in Durango—brewed right here in town, it’s the perfect place to grab a cold beer, hang out on the patio, and enjoy some great food.

Tom’s Deli is a Durango staple—serving up hearty sandwiches, fresh ingredients, and that perfect local charm.

Strolling down Main Street in Silverton feels like stepping back in time—colorful historic buildings, cozy shops, and old Western charm make it the perfect place to wander, grab a bite, and take in the town’s mountain magic.

A high-alpine loop of rolling tundra, lakes, and wildflowers, just east of town. Less crowded than Ice Lakes and perfect for a long run or a peaceful day hike. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended.

A local favorite! You can run or hike straight from town up Kendall Mountain Road for incredible views of Silverton below. The first few miles are runnable, and the summit (13,338 ft) rewards you with jaw-dropping panoramas.

Taking a drive on the Million Dollar Highway is a must—this scenic stretch between Silverton and Ouray winds through jaw-dropping mountain passes and offers some of the most breathtaking views in all of Colorado.

This guided underground tour takes you aboard a vintage electric mine train that carries you one-third of a mile into the mountain, where you’ll follow the original quartz vein and see authentic mining equipment in action. Afterward, try your hand at gold panning—you can even keep the gold, silver, or copper you find.

Coffee Bear is one of our favorite Silverton spots for a cozy morning—serving up great coffee, hearty breakfast burritos, and delicious fresh pastries right in the heart of downtown.

Set in a historic building with mountain charm, it serves up hearty, locally inspired dishes that hit the spot after a day of exploring the San Juans.

Located right in downtown Silverton, it’s the perfect place to grab a hearty breakfast burrito, a warm cup of coffee, or a casual lunch before heading into the mountains.

a lively local favorite that captures the spirit of the Old West. With its vintage charm, swinging saloon doors, and a bar that feels straight out of the 1800s, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day in the mountains. Guests can enjoy a cold beer, hearty pub fare, and live music in a setting that blends Silverton’s mining-town history with warm, small-town hospitality.

Housed in a historic building on Greene Street, it serves up wood-fired pizzas, hearty pub fare, and a rotating lineup of local brews made right on-site.

A must-do loop circling the entire town with waterfalls, tunnels, cliffs, and sweeping mountain views. About 6 miles, moderate, and easy to access from anywhere in town.

A stunning, short hike to a roaring waterfall hidden in a deep slot canyon—there’s even a suspension bridge above it for a bird’s-eye view.

A 4x4-accessible alpine basin above Ouray filled with wildflowers, towering peaks, and hiking trails that feel like stepping into a postcard.

Surrounded by towering peaks, the natural geothermal pools offer a perfect soak year-round—with a mix of temperatures, from warm family pools to steamy therapeutic ones.

One of Colorado’s most thrilling adventures—a guided cliffside route with cables and ladders overlooking the Uncompahgre Gorge. No experience needed!

Located right on Main Street, this three-story brewery serves handcrafted ales and lagers brewed on-site, along with burgers, tacos, and pub classics. The rooftop patio offers panoramic views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains.

Housed in a cozy, historic storefront on Main Street, Mouse’s serves handcrafted truffles, homemade ice cream, and espresso drinks made with locally roasted beans. Don’t miss their famous “scrap cookie,” made from a mix of chocolate trimmings. In Evan's opinion, they also have the best huckleberry ice cream:)

The perfect spot to grab a burger, pizza, or local brew after exploring the San Juans.

Maggie’s is the perfect place to enjoy a casual meal and take in small-town Ouray at its best.