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least scary drive from denver to durango
As far as rafting day trips go, it doesnt get much easier or more fun than this! ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-75870199', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver to Durango so I hope you aren't planning to drive it on the same day you arrive. Breckenridge, Vail, Steamboat, or Estes Park for summer? Tours and campgrounds are also available, and popular activities include sledding down the dunes (a time-honored favorite), four-wheel tours, and horseback riding. What should I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms when I arrive in Durango? Hi Diane, The drive from Denver to Aspen takes about 4 hours (if there isn't a lot of traffic). Before heading out, visit cotrip.org for the latest road conditions and closures. It is a 7 hour plus drive, not counting any stops. The creekside hot spring pools here are naturally divided with river rocks to range in temperature from 70 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 49 degrees Celsius), so you can even temper your experience by relaxing in the pool thats closest to your personal heat preferences. 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. Yes, travel within United States is currently allowed. Thats not too surprising we suppose as Coloradans tend to ski just about anything. Aetna is Monarch Mountain Resort. 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. To get to Salida from Denver will be 2.5-hour drive. Although its a small mountain town, its bursting at the seams with history, scenery, and adventure opportunities. Alternatively, you may use. Travel along this high alpine road is strongly discouraged amid snow, freezing temperatures, and blowing snow. Answer (1 of 3): I agree with Alan about I-70 and I-80. 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. From there, make a right onto US-550 S, which will take you into Ouray after just over 36 miles. Cortez is 50 miles away from Durango, while Telluride is 110 miles away. Only 33 mushers will participate in the ceremonial start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race on Saturday, the smallest field ever to take their dog teams nearly 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers) over . - to help you get the most out of your next trip. You have permission to edit this article. more. If youve never gone mountain biking before, then this is a perfect place to try it out. Airfares from $109 One Way, $219 Round Trip from Denver to Durango. Centers for Disease control and prevention (CDC), Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Durango, Holiday Inn & Suites Durango Downtown, an IHG Hotel, Denver to Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts, Glendale Los Angeles County CA USA to Durango CO USA, Petrified Forest National Park to Durango CO USA, There is a social distancing requirement of 2 metres. From South Fork and US 160, take a right-hand turn onto US 149, also known as the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, for an unforgettable scenic drive to the town of Creede near the headwaters of the Rio Grande. 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. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. From Durango, we flew back to Denver, instead of driving back. If you drive that route without stops it app.takes 6 hours. 2:05 pm Pagosa Springs (Colorado) stay for about 1 hour. Durango is the county seat and the most populous municipality of La Plata County, Colorado, United States. Read on for more about how best to plan for a trip from Denver to Durango with some opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and sightseeing along the way. There are lots of unique little shops and restaurants in town, and attractions like the Last Chance Mine offer a glimpse of history for those who are interested. Cheap Flights from Denver Intl. , Where to Stay on a Denver to Durango Road Trip. Another route, is to take US285 sw from Denver toward Buena Vista and then south to Great Sand Dunes. A great trail option for beginners, especially if youre around during wildflower season, is Brush Creek. Creedes title of The Last Boom Town comes from its legacy as a silver-mining town, which you can learn about in this PBS short documentary. It is located between I-70 and Keystone, offering an alternative route to I-70 and the Eisenhower Tunnel. Back in Durango, drive east on U.S. 160; get your camera ready for breathtaking views of the snow-flecked La Plata Mountain Range. Jillian Dara is a freelance journalist and fact-checker. At this park, you can either take an easy day to drive to the scenic lookouts, or you can book a permit to take the steep hike down to the canyon floor and Gunnison river. Although its a small mountain town, its bursting at the seams with history, scenery, and adventure opportunities. Dont let snowy roads put a damper on your adventure plans. Dunes, not to be missed with children. Am I allowed to travel from Denver to Durango? While skiers and riders will often go to great lengths to get to the mountains on a powder day, its important to drive carefully along this steep and winding alpine road. Can I get to Rocky Mountain National Park without a car? The cheapest month to fly is July. Driving from Denver to Durango takes about six and a half hours. Rome2rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators, ensuring you can make an informed decision about which option will suit you best. Photo Credit: Jerilee Bennett. Rome2rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators, ensuring you can make an informed decision about which option will suit you best. If you are traveling to Durango by bus, prepare for a long ride of at least 12 hours. The highway is also notorious for serious semi-accidents and spin-outs due to its steep curvy descent. It ends in Durango, Colorado. Its actually closer to Albuquerque than Denver as its not far from the New Mexico border. Error! Durango to Denver drive driving / 2 days / no pets / no RV Durango to Denver road trip planner Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Durango to Denver. This is the route Google Maps will give you. All deals One way Roundtrip Tue, Mar 21 DEN Denver DRO Durango $195 One way just found From hiking to climbing to jeep and segway tours, theres a whole heaping lot to do at this picture-perfect place. The shorter one (US285 south and US160 west), more scenic, has more mountains. Instead, I'm proposing driving from Montrose to Cortez, with a stop in Telluride on the way. When visiting Colorado Springs, 100% the number one thing to do is check out the Garden of the Gods. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. 10 Best Stops on a Denver to Moab Road Trip. The most straightforward choice for the least amount of time on the road is to simply take I-70 West out of Denver, which is the only main highway you need to follow on this drive until making an exit at Highway 9 just 10 to 15 minutes before you arrive at Breckenridge. Pass in SW CO? To get to Salida from Denver will be 2.5-hour 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. They zoom past gorgeous Rocky Mountain scenery at speeds up to 75 mph, burrow through the highest auto tunnel in North America, and switch back their way over two-mile-high Vail Pass. One absolute must-do activity is hiking the, After hiking the perimeter trail, take a load off and relax in, Gates of Lodore Dinosaur National Monument, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Ultimate Colorado and Utah Road Trip Itinerary. 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. All three cross Wolf Creek Pass on US160, which is truly scary only if your brakes fail on the way down. No problem finding gas and basic supplies, just not much "good" food or coffee. However, you can also drive up the scenic road yourself, join a guided bus tour, or even take a train to the top! Jan 31, 2006. We are travelling with 3 children from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Camping, backpacking, and hiking opportunities abound in this area once the snow melts in the summertime. Our next recommendation is to take a guided tour at Mesa Verde National Park. How long will the journey be and what is the fastest route? Problem is no-one knows what the weather will be then. 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. Exceptions may apply, for full details: Centers for Disease control and prevention (CDC). 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. I assume you understand that any route you take will be. Its also important to watch out for mandatory chain and traction laws on I-70, especially during the winter months. You probably want to avoid going to Durango via 550 through Ouray and Silverton (Million Dollar Highway) which is an incredibly scenic, paved, state highway but also has extreme dropoffs without guardrails in places, and little to no shoulder in placesnot the best road for you. - Wikipedia. I'd judge the least "scary" of the three to be I-25/US160. Top Reasons To Take A Jeep Tour In SW Colorado. Thank you :) We know what youre thinking: sand dunes in Colorado? That made for about a 70-mile loop of incredible mountain views! If playing it safe during times of the year with bad weather is your goal, it might make sense to take the longer route down I-25 and on to US 160 at Walsenburg. Lots of good food in Durango. First, head Southwest on US Hwy 285 S, which youll stay on for about 130 miles. That's because Mapquest knows you drive fast Tet, lol!!! Now I am thinking of taking another route. Another possible stop near Salida located in the shadow of Mt. That said, if you do hike Mount Princeston, still come prepared for a long days hike as well as a little rock scrambling. Recommended Road Trip Length: 7 days. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Outdoor seating areas are especially nice for sampling the beverages and entrees at either one. Which route is the best? First, head Southwest on US Hwy 285 S, which you'll stay on for about 130 miles. The shorter one (US285 south and US160 west), more scenic, has more mountains. I took the highway and then 160 to get to Pagosa and it lasted 7 hours. So, pack your bags, fasten your seatbelts, and get ready to hit the road on this Denver to Durango loop road trip! Well, youve come to the right place. Watch carefully for deer early mornings and twilight! Can you please describe the San Juan Skyway/Million $ Hwy/Red Mtn. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-75869024', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver Airport and we are supposed to go to Durango by car. (easiest one, no scary mountain driving haha), and if you can suggest good places to stop and eat? Getting there is through beautiful, mountainous country, but mountainous roads and I believe some white. What about Mine Tours and Mining Museums? Loveland Pass Summit in Winter. 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. You will catch C4-70 outside (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Which route is the best? 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. ! Just a stones throw off 285 South before you reach the town of Del Norte on the Denver to Durango drive, Penitente Canyon offers scenic views and chances to hike, rock climb, and bike through the towering canyon walls. #ouraygram. Click here to browse more Durango hotels! 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. Independence Pass, Trail Ridge Road, Mount Evans Scenic Byway, and Kebler Pass all close annually for the winter season in Colorado. At just under four hours, the stretch from Creede to Colorado Springs is the longest drive of this trip. The United States Census Bureau reported a population of 16,887 in the 2010 census. Private Vacation Rental There are a number of great properties to choose from in Salida such as this beautiful secluded log cabin if youre looking for a peaceful getaway. But it didn/t work. It is impossible to get from Denver to Durango -- at least in any reasonable way -- without some mountain driving. It serves as one of the main routes to Colorados ski country including Vail, Aspen, Winter Park, Keystone, and Breckenridge. No problem finding gas and basic supplies, just not much "good" food or coffee. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Do I have to wear a face mask on public transport in Durango? The best way to get from Denver to Denver Airport is to train which takes 37 min and costs 4,100-14,000. If you're planning a road trip, you might be interested in seeing the total driving distance from Denver, CO to Durango, CO. You can also calculate the cost to drive from Denver, CO to Durango, CO based on current local gas prices . Driving Distance: 941 miles. 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. Family RV adventure advice for Colorado, Utah & Wyoming. Talk about a flexible experience! $206 Cheap Flights from Denver (DEN) to Durango (DGO) Bundle Your Flight + Hotel & Save! It's said to be one of the most dangerous roads in Colorado. The small roadside town of South Fork marks a point of transition where the Rio Grande River begins to shift from its high alpine origins in National Forest land and flow down toward flatter lands in New Mexico and beyond. If youre looking to stretch your legs and get a good hike in while in Creede, the locals recommend checking out the Up and Over trail. The road distance is 537.8 km. He has spent time in Costa Rica and has made numerous trips exploring the Western states of the Rocky Mountains. Ice and snow-caked roads, highways, and mountain passes make for dangerous and hazardous driving conditions across the state. Lodging for 2 nights in Estes park in mid May, Where to stay near Union Station if using Red Rocks shuttle. 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. For instance, this beautiful treehouse home with a hot tub is a great choice. As always, travel safe and enjoy the views! The quickest way to get from Denver to Durango is to fly and shuttle which costs 300,000-800,000 and takes 5h 24m. The picnic area is also nice for anyone who has packed food for the road trip in a cooler and might want to have lunch before getting back on the road. Avalanches often trigger temporary closures, leaving portions of the road buried under several feet of snow. For first-time visitors we recommend either taking a guided nature walk to learn about the areas history and geology, or just taking to the trails on your own to explore at your own pace. ', 'Should I book online before I travel? I drive the 285>160 route almost weekly for the last few months. Of the collegiate peaks, Mount Princeton is designated as one of the easiest to climb. No matter the route you choose, you wont be disappointed with this breathtaking destination. 4:17 pm arrive in Durango. The drive time from Ouray to Durango is approximately one hour and 45 minutes. The surrounding area is also brimming with National Forest areas and hiking trails with dispersed camping and car camping options in good supply, so this is a good area to consider when thinking about spending a night on the road in the mild weather of late spring, summer, and early fall. We will stop there for a break and continue driving. You can also go to Colorado Springs and Canon City and Salida then 285 to 160. Grand Junction To Dinosaur I-70 mountain travel has its hiccups due to a combination of factors including traffic congestion, steep grades, accidents, and wild weather causing slick roads and other hazards like that one time an avalanche covered the highway (video link). Head out of town along US-160 E for 102 miles until you reach South Fork. Services like gas stations and restaurants are in good supply at Salida, Saguache, and other areas along the way. This drive is most densely populated with residential areas and small towns for about the first hour or so, but the rest is nothing but mountain passes, wide-open valleys, and National Forest areas, with the occasional town to break things up. With a route that passes south on US Highway 285 through Pike-San Isabel National Forest and continues down to the Great Sand Dunes and the Rio Grande headwaters, the Denver to Durango drive is one of southern Colorados most scenic. Photo Credit: Matt Gross Things To Do Not much to recommend for food along the way. Once you arrive at your destination, Durango is an activity-rich railroad town with a history dating back to the post-Gold Rush era of the late 1800s. The small town of Bailey is about 25 minutes from Tiny Town at the bottom of a steep incline just as 285 bends and begins to trace a path along the North Fork of the South Platte River. Click here to browse more Durango hotels! If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-75870199', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver to Durango so I hope you aren't planning to drive it on the same day you arrive. One of the last places to stop between Denver and Durango is Chimney Rock National Monument, which features the ancient remains of a native Pueblo settlement dating back 1,000 years. Prices and availability are subject to change. We tackled this whole itinerary in 3 nights but you would be better served to spend at least double that amount of time. If you need to rent a car for this trip, you can check out Rentalcars.com which aggregates deals across suppliers. If you don't have time to board the train, it's worth it to at least pay a visit to the railroad museum in Durango. Planning other road trips from Denver? Thank you for your advise. Call us biased on this if you like, but heading down the Lower Animas is a Durango summer staple. Research, browse, save, and share from 162 Dodge models in Berthoud, CO. Designated drivers beware and drink responsibly, as youve still got a lot of highway to go on this Denver to Durango road trip. 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. High average elevation of 10,000 feet and a few passes over 12,000 feet. The drive between Walsenburg and Pagosa Springs is a very nice one. Alpine travel often gets a little sketchy along Loveland Pass, an 8.7-mile road that soars high into the mountains at nearly 12,000 feet. If high-alpine hikes arent your jazz, another great place to explore near Salida is Great Sand Dunes National Park. 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. Drive to Colorado Springs on Interstate 25 and on through Pueblo to Walsenburg where you'll take Hwy 160 west. Click here to browse other private rentals. Both Aspen Peak and Mad Jacks also offer delicious food options and events featuring live music acts, with Aspen Peaks Bluegrass and BBQ Night serving as a good example of a local favorite where guests are served food options like southern shrimp and grits and St. Louis-style ribs with mashed potatoes and sauted kale. After passing the Antero Junction, Mount Princeton Hot Springs is a short detour west down Chalk Creek Drive from Nathrop and Browns Canyon National Monument just as your drive has started to meet with the Arkansas River. But assuming youre confident in your car and overall conditions, the Denver to Durango scenic drive down 285 South that also connects with US 160 at Del Norte is the way to go. However, if youre looking to check out something completely different but equally awesome in Colorado, you cant go wrong with a day trip to, Drop-dead gorgeous and nestled into the heart of the San Juan mountains, visiting Ouray 100% feels like youre being transported to Switzerland. It's a fairly long drive from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Well-located in central Durango, they have a range of rooms available to suit all kinds of visitors even allow pets if youre traveling with a four-legged friend! For a more complete guide on the hike, check out this, If high-alpine hikes arent your jazz, another great place to explore near Salida is, Crested Butte is hands-down one of the coolest places to check out in Colorado. Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. Traffic on I-70. Prices and availability are subject to change. Then, head toward Ignacio on CO Hwy. This calculation assumes that your vehicle gets an average gas mileage of 25 mpg . You can also rent ATVs and off-road vehicles in town if you prefer to not take your own car. Photo Credit: milehightraveler (iStock). From Sand Dunes, head west on US160 over Wolf Creek Pass to Pagosa. High season is considered to be October, November and December. Find all the transport options for your trip from Denver to Durango right here. If youre planning an escape to Durango in southwestern Colorado, a road trip will lead you through some historic miningtowns, scenic overlooks worthy of a stop, and unique hot springs that youll definitely be able to smell as you make your approach. Driving from Denver to Durango takes about six and a half hours. From: 1 traveler 2 travelers 3 travelers 4 travelers 5 travelers 6 travelers. Ancient home of the Ancestral Puebloans, Mesa Verde hosts some of the most impressive and best-preserved Native American ruins in the United States. Members who are extremely knowledgeable about this destination and answer travellers questions frequently. Denver airport - 407 miles - about 7 hours drive depending on weather conditions Albuquerque airport - 244 miles - about 4:10 hours depending on weather conditions There are Greyhound buses that travel between the city of Albuquerque and Durango, but once again self-drive will be the easiest way to get there. Then, make a right onto CO-149 N and follow that for 22 miles until you reach Creede. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-75890404', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Pagosa Springs are the only 2 I hit along the route. Theres also an observation site for the renowned Treasure Falls thats located just south of the pass. If you are headed to the mountains on the weekend, plan ahead for more traffic than usual. It is well located, there are a number of plush rooms available, and the breakfast included uses dairy products sourced from the propertys own goats! Casa's route is good. The scenic section that we refer to as the Million Dollar Highway is the 25-mile section between Ouray and Silverton, then from Silverton to Durango the scenic road technically becomes the San Juan Skyway. What are the roads like, and what do I need to know about driving in Colorado? No problem finding gas and basic supplies, just not much "good" food or coffee. The Million Dollar Highway is just a small portion of the 236-mile San Juan Skyway, itself a section of U.S. Highway 550, which runs 305 miles from Bernalillo, New Mexico, to Montrose, Colorado . Start early in the day, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be sure to dress in layers. Maybe there's a faster drive but we have not done that. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-13326355', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver to catch a 10 flight. 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. Good coffee is also scarce along that route until you get to Durango. 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. Thank you :) Domestic travel is not restricted, but some conditions may apply. Takes 6hrs plus stops and is both easy and scenic. Along the National Parks Loop, you'll also go through some other small towns worth exploring like Telluride, Durango, and Buena Vista. You can also fly from Denver to Durango, if all this seems to be too much. Which route is the best? This is a lodging and day-use facility built around an odorless hot spring that bubbles up out of the ground at around 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius). Make yourself known to an official member of staff and/or call the national coronavirus helpline number on 800-232-4636. This option is best to keep in mind for the rafting season of May through August when the mountain snowmelt levels are in their prime. The round trip cost would be $106.55 to go from Denver, CO to Durango, CO and back to Denver, CO again. Looking for the ultimate Colorado summer road trip experience? Brittany is an award-winning journalist based in Denver where she has lived and worked for more than a decade. No problem finding gas and basic supplies, just not much "good" food or coffee. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-13327901', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver, then N to I-70E direct to airport. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a6e6fde05a476155cc84d0616c8a9c0f" );document.getElementById("b934630cd5").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Hi! Portions of I-70 often close due to severe weather conditions. I took a GPS with me to attach in the rental car. 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. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties. For more information, see our privacy policy. If youre hiking with children or just dont enjoy exposure to steep drop-offs, then its recommended to do the out-at-back version. Durango is the county seat and the most populous municipality of La Plata County, Colorado, United States. The train route links Silverton and Durango, and you can even book a seat in a private car. Good coffee is also scarce along that route until you get to Durango. Long, steep ascents and descents, particularly around the San Juans. Click here to see their availability, Private Rental If its a private vacation rental that youre after in Durango, youll find that there are countless options to choose from.
