Experience the beauty of southwest Colorado on this 45-mile drive along US Route 160 from Cortez to Durango. Explore Mesa Verde, pass through Mancos and Hesperus, and enjoy golden autumn views into the Animas River Valley.
Durango
Discover Durango, CO—a charming mountain town rich in history and outdoor activities. Explore its historic downtown, scenic railroad, and natural beauty.
Durango, Colorado, is a vibrant mountain town nestled in the Animas River Valley, where the rugged San Juan Mountains meet the serene high desert. Founded in 1880 by the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad to serve the San Juan mining district, Durango has evolved into a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and cultural explorers. The city’s rich heritage is evident in its well-preserved downtown, while its natural surroundings offer a playground for adventure seekers.
Downtown Durango is a National Historic District, brimming with historic hotels, restaurants, art galleries, and boutiques. The Strater Hotel, built in 1887, stands as a testament to the city’s Victorian-era architecture and has hosted notable guests like President Gerald Ford and writer Louis L’Amour. Main Avenue, the heart of downtown, offers a lively atmosphere with its mix of old-world charm and modern amenities.
The city’s proximity to the San Juan National Forest provides ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. The Animas River, which flows through Durango, is a popular spot for rafting and kayaking. Additionally, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers scenic rides through breathtaking mountain landscapes, connecting visitors to the historic mining town of Silverton.
Experience Durango
U.S. Route 550: Durango to New Mexico – Colorado
Take a quiet but beautiful drive along U.S. Route 550 from Durango, Colorado to the New Mexico state line. This 16-mile route winds through high desert plateaus, quiet ranchlands, and the southern edge of the San Juan Basin.
U.S. Route 550: Soutbound in Durango – Colorado
Take a scenic 9-mile drive south along U.S. Route 550 through Durango, Colorado—from the base of Animas City Mountain to the U.S. 160 junction. Explore this vibrant stretch filled with mountain views, hot springs, and historic railroads.
U.S. Route 550: Northbound in Durango – Colorado
Explore the vibrant heart of Durango, Colorado on this 5-mile northbound stretch of U.S. Route 550, crossing the Animas River and historic downtown before reaching County Road 203. A scenic urban drive with mountain charm.