•7 min read
Alpine Slide Durango: Plan the Perfect Purgatory Summer Day
The alpine slide at Purgatory Resort is the best thing you will do in Durango this summer. Here is how to time it right and build a full day around it.
Read more →Your Durango, Colorado Travel Guide
Durango is one of Colorado's most lovable mountain towns — historic, outdoorsy, and full of character. From the Narrow Gauge Railroad to craft breweries to world-class skiing, here's everything worth knowing.
88 articles
•8 min read
Durango Altitude Sickness Guide for Summer 2026: What to Know Before You Go
Durango sits at 6,512 feet and Purgatory tops out at 10,822 feet. Here is what summer visitors need to know about altitude sickness, prevention, and staying healthy in the high country.
Read more →
•6 min read
Memorial Day Weekend in Durango 2026: Your Complete Local Guide
Memorial Day weekend 2026 is the best time to explore Durango, CO. From Animas River rafting to mountain hikes and hot springs, here is your local guide.
Read more →
•11 min read
Purgatory Summer Activities 2026: What's Worth It
Purgatory Resort's summer 2026 activities run June 20 through October 4. Single tickets cost $20 each; the 5 Activity Pack at $49/adult or $39/child is the best value. Here's what each activity delivers and which pass makes sense for your trip.
Read more →
•12 min read
Purgatory Resort Summer 2026: Activities & Events
Purgatory Resort's summer 2026 runs mid-June through August: mountain coaster, alpine slide, scenic chairlift, biking, and Durango's best summer events.
Read more →
•9 min read
What to Do in Durango in May 2026: Local's Guide
May is Durango's most underrated month — Iron Horse weekend, Farmers Market season, Rise & Vibes on the river, and trails finally drying out. What's actually happening.
Read more →
•13 min read
Spring Skiing at Purgatory: Month-by-Month Guide
A local owner's month-by-month breakdown of Purgatory Resort ski season , January through April. Conditions, crowds, weather, what to pack, and when to book.
Read more →
•15 min read
Best Spring Day Trips from Durango
Animas River rafting, the Million Dollar Highway, last-chance ice climbing at Ouray, and the events that make April in Durango feel alive. A local owner's day-trip guide.
Read more →
•12 min read
Hot Springs Near Durango: Local's Complete Guide
Every hot spring within driving distance of Durango , Durango Hot Springs, Pinkerton, Ouray, and the three big Pagosa Springs resorts. Plus why the private hot tub back at your rental matters more than people think.
Read more →
•9 min read
Best Time to Visit Purgatory Resort: Season-by-Season
Find the best time to visit Purgatory Resort in Durango, Colorado — from powder days to summer alpine slides, with tips for every season.
Read more →
•5 min read
Durango Fourth of July 2026: Fireworks, Events & Stays
Planning your Fourth of July in Durango, Colorado? Discover the best 2026 events, fireworks shows, parade details, and the perfect place to stay near the action.
Read more →
•3 min read
Purgatory Closing Day 2026: Date, Pond Skim & Events
Find out the scheduled closing day for Purgatory Resort for the 2025-2026 ski season. Get details on end-of-season events, what to expect, and how to make the most of your last runs!
Read more →
•7 min read
Snowshoeing Near Purgatory: Best Trails
Three great snowshoe trails near Purgatory for when you need a break from the slopes.
Read more →
•6 min read
Winter Road Trip to Durango: Traction & Routes
Driving to Durango in winter requires preparation — here is how to handle mountain passes and winter conditions safely.
Read more →
•7 min read
Snowdown 2026 Theme: What You Need to Know
Snowdown 2026 is coming , Durango's beloved five-day winter festival returns in late January.
Read more →
•4 min read
Christmas at Purgatory Resort: Holiday Ski Trip Guide
Christmas 2025 at Purgatory means snow, mountains, skiing, and cozy townhome evenings , the mountain holiday your family actually deserves.
Read more →
•4 min read
Durango Holiday Gift Guide: Local Finds
Skip Amazon , Durango's local shops have unique gifts that actually mean something.
Read more →
•4 min read
Durango Black Friday 2026: Ski Deals & Things to Do
Forget the mall chaos , Black Friday at Purgatory means first tracks, thin crowds, and the best kind of shopping on Durango's Main Avenue.
Read more →
•6 min read
Thanksgiving in Durango: Where to Eat & What to Do
Thanksgiving 2025 in Durango means mountain air, cozy vibes, and possibly first turns at Purgatory. Here's your complete guide.
Read more →
•6 min read
Planning Your Winter Trip to Durango & Purgatory
Everything you need to know to plan a winter ski trip to Durango and Purgatory Resort - timing, logistics, and tips.
Read more →
•6 min read
Halloween in Durango: Trick-or-Treating & Family Events
Halloween in Durango means downtown trick-or-treating, costume creativity, and Victorian-era spookiness at 6,500 feet. Here's how to do Halloween 2025 in the mountains.
Read more →
•7 min read
Perfect Fall Family Weekend in Durango
A fall weekend in Durango with kids is magical , golden aspens, hot springs, cozy dinners, and easy hikes.
Read more →
•9 min read
Haunted Durango: Ghost Tours & Real History
Durango's Victorian-era buildings and mining history make it one of Colorado's spookiest towns , ghost stories included.
Read more →
•6 min read
Fall Mountain Biking in Durango: Best Trails
Fall is the best mountain biking season in Durango , perfect temps, dry trails, golden aspens, and no crowds. Here are the top trails and why September-October riding is peak.
Read more →
•6 min read
Durango Fall Foliage: Peak Color Dates & Best Drives
When and where to see peak fall colors near Durango in 2025 , timing tips, weekly tracking, and best drives.
Read more →
•7 min read
End of Summer in Durango: How to Make It Count
Late August and early September in Durango offer perfect weather and thinning crowds.
Read more →
•5 min read
Durango Altitude Sickness: Symptoms & How to Adjust
Coming from sea level? Here's how to handle Durango's 6,500-foot elevation and Purgatory's 10,800-foot summit without ruining your first day.
Read more →
•6 min read
Million Dollar Highway in Summer: 5 Must-Stop Spots
The Million Dollar Highway in summer is peak season , wildflowers carpeting alpine meadows, clear weather, and five stops you shouldn't skip between Durango and Ouray.
Read more →
•5 min read
Family Bike Trails in Durango, Colorado: 8 Easy Picks
Durango has great paved bike trails for families , flat riverside paths, parks, and easy rides that work for kids and casual cyclists.
Read more →
•6 min read
Best Sunset Spots in Durango & Purgatory
Sunsets at altitude hit different. Here are the best spots to watch the sky light up in Durango, Purgatory, and the surrounding mountains.
Read more →
•7 min read
Rainy Day in Durango: What to Do When It Storms
Summer thunderstorms are a daily ritual in Durango from July through August. Here's how to work with the weather pattern instead of fighting it.
Read more →
•7 min read
Serious Texas BBQ at Animas Brewing Durango
Serious Texas BBQ and Animas Brewing are two Durango staples for comfort food and craft beer.
Read more →
•4 min read
Horseback Riding Near Durango: Trail Guide
Horseback riding through the San Juan Mountains near Durango is a classic Western experience worth doing at least once.
Read more →
•8 min read
Silverton Jeep Trails from Durango: Guide
Silverton's jeep trails are legendary , here is how to experience them from Durango.
Read more →
•6 min read
Stand Up Paddleboarding Near Durango: Best Lakes
The lakes near Durango are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding , calm water and mountain views.
Read more →
•6 min read
Alpine Slide at Purgatory: Everything You Need to Know
The alpine slide at Purgatory is a summer highlight , fast, fun, and suitable for all ages.
Read more →
•4 min read
Oscar's Cafe vs East by Southwest: Durango Brunch
Two legendary Durango breakfast spots go head-to-head , classic diner comfort vs creative Asian-fusion brunch.
Read more →
•6 min read
Best Parks & Playgrounds in Durango for Kids
Durango has great parks and playgrounds for kids , here are the best ones for families visiting Southwest Colorado.
Read more →
•5 min read
Durango Summer Packing List: What to Actually Bring
Durango summers mean sunshine, thunderstorms, and 40-degree temperature swings. Here's how to pack smart for mountain weather.
Read more →
•8 min read
Durango Farmers Market: What to Expect on Saturday
Every Saturday from May through October, the Durango Farmers Market brings local produce, food vendors, and community to downtown. Here's how to do it like a local.
Read more →
•8 min read
White Water Rafting Animas River: Complete Guide
The Animas River offers world-class whitewater right through Durango , here is how to ride it.
Read more →
•5 min read
Memorial Day Weekend in Durango: Iron Horse & Rafting
Memorial Day in Durango 2025 means the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic, peak rafting on the Animas, trails opening up, and the town shifting into full summer mode.
Read more →
•9 min read
Best Coffee Shops in Durango for Remote Workers
Working remotely from Durango? Here are the best coffee shops with wifi, good vibes, and enough seating to get real work done in the mountains.
Read more →
•4 min read
Hiking Animas Mountain: Durango's Backyard Trail
Animas Mountain is Durango's go-to local hike with panoramic valley views, accessible trails, and a solid workout under two hours.
Read more →
•6 min read
Mud Season in Durango: What Locals Actually Do
Mud season in Durango is the quiet shoulder period between ski and summer , here's why locals love it, what's open, and what to do when the trails are muddy.
Read more →
•5 min read
Lemon Reservoir Winter: Ice Fishing & Snowshoeing
Lemon Reservoir is a quiet winter escape near Durango for ice fishing, snowshoeing, and mountain solitude.
Read more →
•6 min read
How to Score a Powder Day at Purgatory
Powder days at Purgatory are pure magic , here's how to track the storm, get first chair, and find untracked stashes all day.
Read more →
•5 min read
EV Charging Near Purgatory Resort: Stations & Routes
Driving an EV to Purgatory Resort? Here's the complete charging infrastructure guide, route planning tips, and what you need to know.
Read more →
•6 min read
Valentine's Day in Durango: Mountain Romance
Valentine's Day in Durango means skiing together, soaking under the stars, and dining by candlelight , without the crowded chain restaurants.
Read more →
•8 min read
Skiing with Kids at Purgatory: Complete Guide
Purgatory is one of the best family ski resorts in Colorado , here is how to plan a trip with kids.
Read more →
•7 min read
Best Cozy Winter Dining Spots in Durango
Cold nights call for warm restaurants , here are Durango's coziest spots for winter dining.
Read more →
•5 min read
Does Purgatory Have Night Skiing? What's Open
Purgatory doesn't offer night skiing , lifts close at 4pm , but there's plenty to do after the slopes shut down: hot tubs, Durango dining, hot springs, and more.
Read more →
•9 min read
7 Best Beginner Runs at Purgatory Resort (2026 Guide)
New to skiing? Purgatory was rated #1 for beginners with dedicated learning terrain, patient instructors, and green runs designed to build confidence fast.
Read more →
•5 min read
New Year's Eve in Durango: Mountain Style
New Year's Eve in Durango is low-key, fun, and genuinely memorable , mountain-style celebrations, live music, and midnight under the stars at 6,500 feet.
Read more →
•6 min read
Christmas Week at Purgatory: A Magical Time to Visit
Christmas week at Purgatory combines great skiing with genuine mountain-town holiday magic , lights, snow, and the kind of reset your family needs.
Read more →
•6 min read
Winter Packing List for Purgatory Ski Trip
Everything you need to pack for a winter ski trip to Purgatory Resort — and what to leave at home.
Read more →
•7 min read
Thanksgiving in Durango: Where to Eat and What to Do
Spending Thanksgiving in Durango? Here's where to eat, what to do, and why a mountain Thanksgiving beats the traditional version.
Read more →
•6 min read
Telluride Day Trip from Durango: Fall Guide
Telluride is a stunning 2.5-hour drive from Durango, and fall makes it even better. Here's how to plan the perfect day trip.
Read more →
•8 min read
Watching Elk Rut in Durango: Best Spots
Fall elk season near Durango is spectacular , here is where and how to watch the rut safely.
Read more →
•8 min read
Halloween in Durango: Trick-or-Treating and Trunk-or-Treat
Halloween in Durango is family-friendly and festive , here's what to do with kids in this mountain town.
Read more →
•6 min read
What to Pack for Fall in Durango
Fall in Durango means 40-degree temperature swings , here's how to pack smart for October weather in the San Juan Mountains.
Read more →
•4 min read
Chimney Rock Day Trip from Durango: Complete Guide
Chimney Rock National Monument is a fascinating Ancestral Puebloan archaeological site 45 minutes from Durango with guided tours, dramatic views, and thousand-year-old ruins.
Read more →
•5 min read
Durango Film Festival: Indie Cinema in the Mountains
Every March, the Durango Independent Film Festival brings filmmakers and film lovers to Southwest Colorado for a weekend of independent cinema, Q&As, and mountain town hospitality.
Read more →
•5 min read
Kennebec Pass Fall Drive: Hidden Gem from Durango
Kennebec Pass is a stunning fall drive near Durango with golden aspens, alpine views, and almost no crowds.
Read more →
•8 min read
Hiking Engineer Mountain: Complete Trail Guide
Engineer Mountain is one of the most recognizable peaks near Durango , here is how to hike it.
Read more →
•6 min read
Fall Colors in Durango: Best Spots & Timing
Durango's fall colors are spectacular , here's when and where to catch peak foliage in the San Juan Mountains.
Read more →
•5 min read
Labor Day Weekend in Durango: What to Do
Labor Day weekend in Durango is summer's last hurrah , here's how to make it count.
Read more →
•4 min read
Steamworks vs Eolus: Durango Dinner Debate
Steamworks or Eolus? Two of Durango's best restaurants go head-to-head. Here's how to choose where to eat tonight.
Read more →
•6 min read
Vallecito Lake: Durango's Hidden Summer Escape
Vallecito Lake is a gorgeous mountain reservoir 30 minutes from Durango , perfect for swimming, boating, fishing, and escaping the summer crowds.
Read more →
•7 min read
Durango with Toddlers: Real Parent Guide
Bringing toddlers to Durango? It is easier than you think , here are the best activities for little ones.
Read more →
•8 min read
Fly Fishing the Animas River: Beginner's Guide
The Animas River is a gold-medal trout fishery running right through Durango , here's how to fish it.
Read more →
•7 min read
Purgatory Flats Trail: Easiest Epic Hike
Purgatory Flats Trail is an easy creekside hike right across from the resort , perfect for families and summer exploration.
Read more →
•5 min read
Durango & Silverton Train: Complete Riding Guide
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a bucket-list ride through the San Juan Mountains.
Read more →
•5 min read
Mesa Verde Day Trip from Durango: Complete Guide
Mesa Verde National Park is just an hour from Durango. Here's how to make the most of a day trip to the ancient cliff dwellings, including tour tips and what to see.
Read more →
•5 min read
Molas Pass to Molas Lake: Colorado Trail Day Hike
The Colorado Trail segment from Molas Pass is one of the best day hikes in Colorado , wildflowers, alpine lakes, and mountain views that justify the 486-mile trail's existence.
Read more →
•5 min read
Music in the Mountains Durango: Festival Guide
Music in the Mountains brings world-class orchestral and chamber performances to Durango all summer , concerts with 13,000-foot peaks as your backdrop.
Read more →
•8 min read
Durango Brewery Trail: Pint-by-Pint Walking Guide
Durango has more breweries per capita than most Colorado towns. Here's how to hit the best ones on foot , no designated driver required.
Read more →
•7 min read
Mountain Biking at Purgatory: Trails for Every Level
Purgatory's bike park and Durango's legendary trail network offer mountain biking for beginners to experts. Here's the guide.
Read more →
•7 min read
Durango Summer Bucket List: 15 Things You Can't Miss
Fifteen must-do summer experiences in Durango from river floats to alpine sunsets.
Read more →
•5 min read
Summer at Purgatory: What Opens When Snow Melts
Purgatory Resort isn't just for winter. Here's what opens when the snow melts , alpine coaster, scenic chairlift, mountain biking, and more.
Read more →
•6 min read
Zia Taqueria & Ska Brewing: Durango Combo
Two Durango staples that pair perfectly together — affordable, authentic, and exactly what you want after a day on the mountain.
Read more →
•5 min read
Iron Horse Bicycle Classic: Everything You Need to Know
The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic is Durango's legendary Memorial Day race , bikes vs. train, nearly 50 years of tradition.
Read more →
•7 min read
Durango Bluegrass Meltdown: What to Expect
Every April, the Durango Bluegrass Meltdown brings world-class bluegrass musicians to Southwest Colorado for three days of music, jam sessions, and spring energy.
Read more →
•5 min read
How the Free Purgatory Shuttle Works
The free Purgatory shuttle takes the stress out of parking , here is exactly how to use it.
Read more →
•5 min read
Durango Après-Ski Food Crawl: Our 5 Favorite Spots
The best places to eat in Durango after a day on Purgatory's slopes , from classic breweries to steakhouses, tacos, and everything in between.
Read more →
•4 min read
Snowshoeing Hermosa Creek: Winter Trail Guide
Hermosa Creek is one of the best snowshoe trails near Durango , peaceful, scenic, uncrowded, and just 20 minutes from town.
Read more →
•5 min read
Snowdown Festival Durango: What It's Really Like
Snowdown is Durango's wildest winter festival , five days of costumes, competitions, and chaos.
Read more →
•6 min read
Welcome to Purgatory Resort: What to Expect
Purgatory Resort offers 1,600+ acres of terrain, 260 inches of annual snowfall, and the authentic Colorado experience you won't find on I-70.
Read more →