Durango

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Fort Lewis College as seen from the Raider Ridge trail

Durango, Colorado is located in southwest Colorado, in the shadows of the San Juan mountains.

Like the national Forest signs littered around the area, Durango can be best described as the land of many uses. Whether you are into skiing, kayaking, moutain biking, climbing, or hiking; the possibilities are endless.

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Pigeon Mountain photographed from a hike in the San Juans

With over 300 miles of trails in and around town, the ability to be out in nature is as easy as walking out your back door. Durango lies on the banks of the Animas river  just south of the Weminuche Wilderness, home to Purgatory Ski Resort and dozens of 13,000 and 14,000 tall peaks. Follow highway 550 north to reach the famous mountain towns of Silverton and Ouray, Colorado. Or if you prefer desert landscapes, you can head west to find world class climbing and slot canyoneering in Moab, Utah.

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Purgatory Ski Resort just north of town

The city of Durango isn’t just about the outdoors. In town, you can spend time cruising the bars, eating a delicious meal, or finding what you need in one of the local shops. Durango is famous for its craft beer scene and abundance of organic and locally grown restaurants and markets. Durango boasts over 100 bars and restaurants, allowing you to find your scene.

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Downtown Durango

Durango has a little bit of everything. Durango was rated #1 on Livability’s list of Best Home Base Cities for Adventure Enthusiasts, and it is easy to see why, whether taking in views from Raider Ridge or floating the river, there is never a shortage of things to do.

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Durango as seen from Smelter mountain

Less than 30 miles north of Durango are the San Juan mountains, a vast and rugged mountain range, home to the most mountains over 13,000′ in the state. A quick drive up 550 leads you to one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in the country.