This canyon has high walls and granite cliffs that have been carved out by the slow grind of time and the erosion forces of the Arkansas River. One reason you might choose to take the I-25 route from Denver to Durango would be if youd rather minimize the mountain driving on winding, less-maintained roads. The next best thing to do on a visit to Colorado Springs is to head up to Pikes Peak. One snowstorm resulted in more than 300 crashes in the Denver metro area, with 93 of those occurring within a 3-hour period. What about the altitude/Altitude sickness? If youre looking for both the most scenic and time-efficient route for a Denver to Durango drive, with plenty of opportunities for fun, interesting stops in between, then the roughly six-hour trajectory down US 285 is by far the best option. By proceeding, you accept the use of cookies in accordance with our, Take the bus from Union Station Gate B4 to Grand Valley Downtown Transfer Station, Drive from Grand Valley Downtown Transfer Station to Montrose Airport, Take a shuttle bus from Montrose Airport to Telluride, Take a shuttle bus from Silverton, CO to Durango, CO, Take the train from Silverton to Durango, CO, Take a shuttle bus from Purgatory Plaza to Durango Transit Center, Fly from Denver (DEN) to Telluride Regional (TEX), Take a shuttle bus from Mesa Verde National Park to Purgatory Resort. , Where to Stay on a Denver to Durango Road Trip. Along the National Parks Loop, you'll also go through some other small towns worth exploring like Telluride, Durango, and Buena Vista. To get to Salida from Denver will be 2.5-hour drive. This trail is close to town and extends to a decent length of 4.3 total miles long. The direct drive from Colorado Springs to Durango is 313 mi (503 km), and should have a drive time of 6 hrs 20 mins in normal traffic.. Drive from Denver to Durango 336.1 miles $60 - $90 Fly to Durango, shuttle 5h 22m Fly from Denver (DEN) to Durango (DRO) DEN - DRO Take a shuttle bus from Purgatory Plaza to Durango Transit Center $233 - $570 Fly to Telluride Regional, shuttle 6h 32m Fly from Denver (DEN) to Telluride Regional (TEX) DEN - TEX Now I am thinking of taking another route. Tue, Jul 25. For us, one of the most fun things a first-time visitor can do is catch a show at, If concerts and shows arent your scene, no problem! Another great activity to do near Denver is driving the, Of course, theres an endless list of things to do and places to see in and around Denver. Powerhouse Science Center, formerly the The Durango Discovery Museum, is an interactive science center located in Durango, Colorado. Designated drivers beware and drink responsibly, as youve still got a lot of highway to go on this Denver to Durango road trip. The arch and many of the other geologic formations here are the results of heat and pressure having formed volcanic ash into hard rock over millions of years. To the best of our knowledge, it is correct as of the last update.Visit Rome2rio travel advice for general help. Mesa Verde is a world-class attraction that you really should see. Legitimately called the San Juan Skyway, this nasty trek in southwestern Colorado features the Coal Bank Pass, a very steep and very scary road with weather that is harsh and unpredictable. The Strater Hotel Located in downtown Durango, this beautiful historic hotel is an excellent option for those looking for a bit of a splurge. No problem finding gas and basic supplies, just not much "good" food or coffee. Be sure to enjoy the small towns along the way and explore the rural side of Colorado too! Outdoor seating areas are especially nice for sampling the beverages and entrees at either one. Winter in Colorado is no joke. Then, head toward Ignacio on CO Hwy. If you're looking to just get there as quickly as possible, it's much better to fly. The alternate route out of Denver and straight down I-25 South is about 385 miles in total distance and will take drivers closer to six and a half hours. Save this link to stay updated on COVID-19 restrictions, If you need help, visit the national COVID-19 website or call the COVID-19 Helpline 800-232-4636. Denver to Durango drive: which route? : Durango - reddit 172. There is no direct connection from Denver to Durango. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Good coffee is also scarce along that route until you get to Durango. Additional terms apply. This is the route Google Maps will give you. Raft trips in the canyon can be booked through several outfitters based out of Salida and the surrounding area, such as Browns Canyon Rafting, KODI Rafting, Noahs Ark, and several others. You have two route options, both of which take you through amazing scenery and worthwhile stops. You might think about adding handicap information for some of the stops. No matter the route you choose, you wont be disappointed with this breathtaking destination. Brittany is an award-winning journalist based in Denver where she has lived and worked for more than a decade. Thank you :) Lots of good food in Durango. Have fun, please forgive us our little OT chat. Pack your hiking boots and a rain jacket as well if you plan on stopping at hiking trails or national parks and monuments like the Great Sand Dunes and Chimney Rock National Monument in the San Juan Forest. Stretching from Utah, through Colorado and all the way out to Maryland, I-70 is a famous interstate highway that is widely used every day for local and interstate travel. Traveling with a dog or cat? Adds about 2.5 hours to the "boring" way, and is incredibly varied and constantly changing. Theres not many other places where you can hike through desert-like dunes with snow-capped mountain peaks as your backdrop. The views of the Rocky Mountain landscape here are impressive at any time of the year, but this is an especially good stop if visiting during the winter when you can enjoy the contrast between the calming hot spring waters and the snowy peaks and surroundings. The steep, winding switchbacks can make your stomach turn on this high mountain pass, reaching an elevation of 11,307 feet. All three cross Wolf Creek Pass on US160, which is truly scary only if your brakes fail on the way down. 5.5 hours of driving without stops. Answer 1 of 6: My friends and I are coming from Europe to Denver Airport and we are supposed to go to Durango by car. What are the roads like, and what do I need to know about driving in Colorado? Colorado State Patrol is increasing its watch along the Western Slope, where it says the roads have become the most dangerous place to drive in Colorado during July. Start early in the day, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be sure to dress in layers. How long will the journey be and what is the fastest route? Instead, you will have to first take the bus from Denver to Grand Junction, Colorado and then hop on a second bus heading to Durango. In Del Norte, turn right onto US Hwy 160 W. Follow US Hwy 160 W for 118 miles. If you're going on a road trip from Colorado Springs to Durango, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way with Pagosa Springs and top places to visit like . Were passionate about getting off the beaten path, promoting responsible tourism, supporting local economies and sharing our knowledge with other travellers! The train route links Silverton and Durango, and you can even book a seat in a private car. How to Get from Denver to Durango - TripSavvy Click here to browse other private rentals. Photo Credit: Matt Gross Things To Do The 12 Most Scenic Drives in Colorado (Road Trip Inspiration!) Drive to Colorado Springs on Interstate 25 and on through Pueblo to Walsenburg where you'll take Hwy 160 west. At just under four hours, the stretch from Creede to Colorado Springs is the longest drive of this trip. Pricing is calculated from the Purgatory Transportation Terminal in Durango, Colorado, and is based on vehicle capacity and mileage as follows: 1-4 passengers $2.50 per mile; 5-10 passengers $3.00 per mile; 11-29 passengers $3.50 per mile. If you have hopes of seeing both Denver and Durango on your trip to Colorado, you should keep in mind that the cities are 337 miles apart. My friends and I are coming from Europe to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It is a 7 hour plus drive, not counting any stops. It's a fairly long drive from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Durango to Denver - 7 ways to travel via train, shuttle, car - Rome2rio ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-13129427', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver toward Buena Vista and then south to Great Sand Dunes. You can also rent ATVs and off-road vehicles in town if you prefer to not take your own car. If concerts and shows arent your scene, no problem! Im traveling with a friend who has limited mobility. From hiking to climbing to jeep and segway tours, theres a whole heaping lot to do at this picture-perfect place. North Americas largest sandbox contains some 5 billion cubic meters of sand and stands out against the striking backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. A great trail option for beginners, especially if youre around during wildflower season, is Brush Creek. Have any questions about any of these stops? What should I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms when I arrive in Durango? As far as rafting day trips go, it doesnt get much easier or more fun than this! Good coffee is also scarce along that route until you get to Durango. The total cost of driving from Denver, CO to Durango, CO (one-way) is $53.28 at current gas prices. If youre hiking with children or just dont enjoy exposure to steep drop-offs, then its recommended to do the out-at-back version. Those with a lot of time on their hands can hike or bike to the summit, which makes for a rewarding journey. Although its a small mountain town, its bursting at the seams with history, scenery, and adventure opportunities. The Best Colorado Summer Road Trip - Denver to Durango Loop How long is the drive from Denver to Durango? jaramarzulli.com Informacin detallada del sitio web y la empresa If you must go out, make sure you are prepared for winter travel and your tires meet the minimal requirements for Colorados new traction law. drive for about 1 hour. Pass in SW CO? In fact, winter weather is often the blame for the majority of delays and crashes. If high-alpine hikes arent your jazz, another great place to explore near Salida is Great Sand Dunes National Park. Prices and availability are subject to change. The drive from Denver to Durango via 285 South covers about 337 miles and usually takes just over six hours, give or take some time depending on traffic and weather conditions. This incredible amphitheatre is built right into the front range mountains, making for one of the most beautiful venues in the country. caudesucre.com Informacin detallada del sitio web y la empresa Jan 31, 2006. Hiking, mountain biking, climbing, rafting, and off-roading are all staple activities here in our hometown. From Sand Dunes, head west on US160 over Wolf Creek Pass to Pagosa. Driving from Denver to Durango? - Colorado Message Board - Tripadvisor For another great SW road trip, check out our Ultimate Colorado and Utah Road Trip Itinerary. Durango is the county seat and the most populous municipality of La Plata County, Colorado, United States. If you follow this action-packed itinerary, youll not only find yourself immersed in some of Colorados most exceptional wilderness, but youll also discover fascinating history and take part in some of the Centennial States signature outdoor activities. The 8 Most Scenic Drives In Colorado - TravelAwaits Lots of good food in Durango. Your trip begins in Denver, Colorado. Although you can explore much of the park on your own, taking a guided tour is the way to go as thats the only way to gain access to the most popular sites such as Cliff Palace and Balcony House. Cheap Flights from Denver to Durango from $195 | (DEN - Kayak Portions of I-70 often close due to severe weather conditions. When you reach Del Norte, turn left onto CO-112 E for 13 miles until you reach US-285 N which youll follow for 64 miles. Informacin detallada del sitio web y la empresa: jaramarzulli.com, +911647681164, +911647244548, +911646228156, +911646126349, +911645988738 Jara Marzulli | La poetica di un'artista Exceptions may apply, for full details: Centers for Disease control and prevention (CDC). Just across the valley from Penitente Canyon is the Great Sand Dunes National Park, one of Americas most fascinating natural phenomena. The shorter one (US285 south and US160 west), more scenic, has more mountains. Am I allowed to travel from Denver to Durango? Grand Junction To Dinosaur ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-75870242', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver to Durango -- at least in any reasonable way -- without some mountain driving. Make yourself known to an official member of staff and/or call the national coronavirus helpline number on 800-232-4636. Photo Credit: milehightraveler (iStock). Take a tour from Durango and let someone else drive! Afternoons can be hot and windy though. It might sound like a bad deal, but these tickets can be a little bit cheaper than United's direct flights and it's still faster than driving. Not much to recommend for food along the way. Truckers are required to have chains and passenger vehicles must have either snow tires, mud/snow tires, chains, or an alternative device like an autosock. This is a beautiful and quicker drive. Travel in the winter months can be nerve-wracking along Red Mountain Pass. News, travel inspiration, podcasts, & more. The road distance is 537.8 km. Colorado is a beautiful state to drive through and the road from Denver to Durango has many places worth stopping to see, even if you're taking the shortest route. The town of Salida is an excellent option, as it is a good halfway point between Denver and Durango and has lots of interesting things on offer. Red Mountain Pass. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Prices start at 117,500 per night. When it comes to traveling through heavy snow, strong gusty winds, and blistering cold temperatures, heres our list of some of Colorados most dangerous roads to watch out for this winter. Perhaps most amazing about this historic site is that the rock pinnacles for which Chimney Rock gets its name frame multiple astronomical alignment points. The round trip cost would be $106.55 to go from Denver, CO to Durango, CO and back to Denver, CO again. What can I see on a Denver to Durango road trip. Find all the transport options for your trip from Denver to Durango right here. It's actually closer to Albuquerque than Denver as it's not far from the New Mexico border. Let us know in the comments! The drive from Salida to Crested Butte takes approximately one hour and 45 minutes. That said, if you do hike Mount Princeston, still come prepared for a long days hike as well as a little rock scrambling. It is impossible to get from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Although its a small mountain town, its bursting at the seams with history, scenery, and adventure opportunities. Driving Distance: 941 miles. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Roads surrounding the Denver metro area are often a mess, especially when you add snow and ice to the mix. Just be sure to downshift on the downhill side. The route has an elevation gain of 9,000 ft and ascends through five climate zones to the 14,264-ft summit of Mount Evans. How long is the drive from Colorado Springs to Durango?. A Google mapping exercise will offer you two routes, one about a half-hour longer than the other. As the name would suggest, this trail takes you around the entire town dont worry, there are plenty of places to enter or exit the trail for a shorter hike. Take a tour from Durango and let someone else drive! The direct drive from Denver to Durango is 382 mi (614 km), and should have a drive time of 7 hrs 21 mins in normal traffic. Main Avenue Historic District in Durango, Colorado is a 34acre historic district that was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. I drive the 285>160 route almost weekly for the last few months. Getting to Purgatory Resort Colorado | Shuttles - Powderhounds A third route (I-70 west, CO91 south, US24 south, US285 south, US160 west; this is through Leadville) is yet more scenic, partly because of its high mountain sections. Long, steep ascents and descents, particularly around the San Juans. Ultimate Million Dollar Highway Road Trip Guide: Durango to Ouray Take US Hwy 285 south from Denver for approximately 173 miles. Having a Jeep or other SUV or truck may come in handy if you plan on doing any venturing down the dusty National Forest access roads, however. Your best and most scenic route from Denver to Durango tends to be 285 South, though you could also choose to go straight south from Denver on Interstate 25. Yes, the driving distance between Denver to Durango is 538 km. I assume you understand that any route you take will be. SIGN UP: Free daily newsletter + 20% off in the OTC gear shop, The 7 most dangerous winter roads in Colorado, 93 of those occurring within a 3-hour period, Denver commuter spends 83 hours per year stuck in traffic, Public access for two Colorado 14ers to close, after bill to protect landowners from liability dies, [VIDEO] Snowboarders spend over an hour in a tree to avoid angry moose in Colorado, $50,000 reward offered in search for suspect who robbed USPS letter carrier, Nathaniel Rateliff, Elle King among artists coming to Denver area in March, Skier Shiffrin locks up overall title, still chases win 86, US to focus bison restoration on expanding tribal herds. A great trail option for beginners, especially if youre around during wildflower season, is. First, head Southwest on US Hwy 285 S, which youll stay on for about 130 miles. As the name would suggest, this steep 3-mile hike takes you up to a gorgeous viewpoint overlooking the town and valley beyond. This trail can be completed either as a loop or an out-and-back from the trailhead across La Garita Street near the gas station. ! It may be a bit random and unexpected, but thats what makes Great Sand Dunes National Park so awesome! And speaking of snow, one of the most popular activities for locals at the dunes is to bring their snowboards, skis and sleds for some nice carving through the sand. A Mapped Guide to the Ultimate Colorado Road Trip: Part II The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (D&SNG) is a narrow-gauge heritage railroad that operates 45.2mi of track between Durango and Silverton, in the U.S. state of Colorado. Stroll the shops, restaurants and hotels housed in Durango's preserved late-19th-century buildings and board the railroad for a super-scenic, 45-mile detour to Silverton. Talk about a flexible experience! For us, one of the most fun things a first-time visitor can do is catch a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Theres a lot of great terrain here for skiers of all skill levels in the wintertime, with everything from black diamond tree runs to easy, gradual glades and trails on the slopes that descend from Monarch Pass. You can also fly from Denver to Durango, if all this seems to be too much. Were Michael and Maggie, an Australian and American couple travelling the world. Driving from Denver to Durango takes about six and a half hours. So, pack your bags, fasten your seatbelts, and get ready to hit the road on this Denver to Durango loop road trip! If we could only recommend two things (as has been established as the pattern of this post), then the first wed recommend is a rafting trip on the Lower Animas river. Standard tickets are only $10 for adults, and this area also has a lot of great trails for hiking in the warmer parts of the year. However, if youre looking to check out something completely different but equally awesome in Colorado, you cant go wrong with a day trip to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. There are 115+ hotels available in Durango. A Google mapping exercise will offer you two routes, one about a half-hour longer than the other. You will likely be going over Wolf Creek Pass and if this is a winter trip you will be going over one of the snowiest passes in the state, but it is plowed and maintained. Silverton is an old mining town nestled between Red Mountain and Molas, two San Juan Mountain passes. Dont forget to clear ice and snow from your windshield, windows, mirrors, and vehicle lights before driving. Head out of Creede the way you came in along CO-149 S for 22 miles and then make a left onto US-160 E for 17 miles. Rome2rio makes travelling from Denver to Durango easy. Click here to browse more Durango hotels! If you are headed to the mountains on the weekend, plan ahead for more traffic than usual. When you reach the summit of Red Mountain Pass, you will be standing at an elevation of 11,018 ft. Legend has it that the name Million Dollar Highway comes from the 1920s cost to build the highway at over $1 million a mile. and Great Sand. The United States Census Bureau reported a population of 16,887 in the 2010 census. But. Well start our engines in Colorados capital city of Denver! If you need to rent a car for this trip, you can check out Rentalcars.com which aggregates deals across suppliers. Jillian Dara is a freelance journalist and fact-checker. It takes approximately 12h 2m to get from Denver to Durango, including transfers. It is home to Fort Lewis College. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a6e6fde05a476155cc84d0616c8a9c0f" );document.getElementById("b934630cd5").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Hi! Photo Credit: Jerilee Bennett. Apart from being the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, Crested Butte is where mountain biking got its start in Colorado. High average elevation of 10,000 feet and a few passes over 12,000 feet. If youre passing through outside of ski season, Monarch is still worth a stop thanks to the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway thats open from May through the fall. He has spent time in Costa Rica and has made numerous trips exploring the Western states of the Rocky Mountains. It stretches from Denver to Durango across the Southern Rockies and can be hiked in 25-35 days.