So here I am in Pagosa Springs. Head out of town along US-160 E for 102 miles until you reach South Fork. In addition to Pagosas famous hot springs, theres also whitewater rafting along the Piedra River, great hiking and biking trails, and more fascinating ruins to check out at Chimney Rock National Monument. Whichever option you choose, you find incredible scenery unlike anything else in Colorado. 4WD and AWD vehicles must have snow tires or all-weather tires with 3/16 inch tread depth. 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. 2:05 pm Pagosa Springs (Colorado) stay for about 1 hour. The museum opened on February 23, 2011 in what was once a power plant. It is the route CasaAzul mentioned. Cheap Flights from Denver Intl. Instead of following US-50 W all the way to Montrose, take a right onto CO-92 W for approximately 70 miles until you reach Delta. Durango is in southwest Colorado. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. Does anyone know why? Alternatively, you may use. 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. If you intend to make all (or even a few) of these stops, youre likely going to want to find a place to stay to break up the drive. 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. Photo Credit: milehightraveler (iStock). Take a tour from Durango and let someone else drive! Need we say more? It's said to be one of the most dangerous roads in Colorado. 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. Traffic on I-70. Travel in the winter months can be nerve-wracking along Red Mountain Pass. There are some different ways to approach a stop at the Great Sand Dunes, as visitors are generally welcome to simply take in the views of the dunes from the comfort of paved roads and maintained public areas, or they may strike out on foot and hike on the sands of the national park. *Note: At time of writing (May 17th, 2021) there is a road closure along US-50 W between Sapinero and Montrose that is expected to last until Spring of 2022. 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. This protected archaeological site of San Juan National Forest is best experienced by joining one of the daily guided walking tours offered by the U.S. Forest Service management staff. This nationally-protected area consists of more than 30 square miles of massive dunes and is a must-stop for travelers nearing the latter portion of their Denver to Durango road trip. How long is the drive from Denver to Durango? (easiest one, no scary mountain driving haha), and if you can suggest good places to stop and eat? 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. Problem is no-one knows what the weather will be then. Talk about a flexible experience! This loop of state-maintained highways through the San Juan Mountains can be done in your own car and at your own leisure, but be aware that various parts of this beautiful, scenic drive do feature steep drop-offs without guardrails. Thank you :) For a more complete guide on the hike, check out this Out There Colorado article. It's a fairly long drive from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. I would say the "scariest" would be to take US160 over Wolf Creek pass - especially in winter.. Dont let the views distract you on Berthoud Pass. Just be sure to downshift on the downhill side. The cheapest flight from Denver to Durango was found 29 days before departure, on average. Takes 6hrs plus stops and is both easy and scenic. From hiking to climbing to jeep and segway tours, theres a whole heaping lot to do at this picture-perfect place. If youre traveling on slippery or snowy roads, use caution, slow down, and please, take it easy on the brakes. There will be some mountain driving whichever route you take, but there's no need to be scared. Not far from the New Mexico border, Durango is actually closer to Albuquerque than Denver, with 215 miles between them. This one is best for families with kids, as there is an entire miniature town complete with painted and detailed buildings, a playground and park, a gift shop, and even an old steam train ride. ), we woke up early and hit the road for what was a 2-hour drive to Grand Junction. Not much to recommend for food along the way. 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. The building opened in 1917, and served as a high school until 1976, after which it became the district administration building. No problem finding gas and basic supplies, just not much "good" food or coffee. Be sure to take a peek at Denvers Tourism website for other ideas of things to do. It serves as one of the main routes to Colorado's ski country including Vail, Aspen, Winter Park, Keystone, and Breckenridge. Not much to recommend for food along the way. Some of the road trip highlights include stops in Frisco, Ouray, Buena Vista, or Pagosa Hot Springs, each of which offers plenty of outdoor adventure. Should probably count on 7 - 7.5 hrs - not easy to make really good time in the mountains. The best way to get from Denver to Denver Airport is to train which takes 37 min and costs 4,100-14,000. First, head Southwest on US Hwy 285 S, which youll stay on for about 130 miles. This is a beautiful and quicker drive. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. 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. Driving from Denver to Durango takes about six and a half hours. When visiting Colorado Springs, 100% the number one thing to do is check out the Garden of the Gods. Prices and availability are subject to change. 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. This is the route Google Maps will give you. Denver Area Road Trip 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. 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. 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. 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. You have two route options, both of which take you through amazing scenery and worthwhile stops. Find all the transport options for your trip from Denver to Durango right here. It's a fairly long drive from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? drive for about 54 minutes. more. Only United Airlines operates multiple direct flights a day from Denver International Airport (DEN) and Durango La-Plata County Airport (DOR), which is just 15 miles from downtown Durango. Drop-dead gorgeous and nestled into the heart of the San Juan mountains, visiting Ouray 100% feels like youre being transported to Switzerland. However, as the expression goes, its not the destination, its the journey. These springs are perfect for an evening soak when the day starts to cool and you want to settle down to reflect on the days adventure accomplishments. 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. If youve never gone mountain biking before, then this is a perfect place to try it out. The drive from Salida to Crested Butte takes approximately one hour and 45 minutes. Driving to Durango from Denver is a beautiful, six and a half hour drive. I routinely make the trip via 285 and it is much shorter and beautiful. 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. 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 . For another great SW road trip, check out our Ultimate Colorado and Utah Road Trip Itinerary. . 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. Just assume that youll need your camera for just about every spot from here on out. To the best of our knowledge, it is correct as of the last update.Visit Rome2rio travel advice for general help. You can also go to Colorado Springs and Canon City and Salida then 285 to 160. Winter in Colorado is no joke. ', 'Should I book online before I travel? Loveland Pass Summit in Winter. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Although its a small mountain town, its bursting at the seams with history, scenery, and adventure opportunities. The Map Start: Denver to Manitou Springs/Colorado Springs While I-25. Its also noted as the highest road in the country thats kept open on a year-round basis. Watch carefully for deer early mornings and twilight! Last updated: 1 Mar 2023 Cheyenne . This trail is close to town and extends to a decent length of 4.3 total miles long. The national COVID-19 helpline number in Durango is 800-232-4636. Airfares from $109 One Way, $219 Round Trip from Denver to Durango. Traffic congestion due to rush hour and ongoing construction is normally expected for this particular stretch of the highway. Click here to browse other private rentals. Of course, theres an endless list of things to do and places to see in and around Denver. Tue, Jul 25. Alternatively, you may use, Best Western Plus Deer Park Hotel And Suites. 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. Takes 6hrs plus stops and is both easy and scenic. Where to go at the end of November, Early December?!?! There will be some mountain driving whichever route you take, but there's no need to be scared. updated Jul 14, 2022 How long is the drive from Denver to Durango? 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. How long will the journey be and what is the fastest route? This incredible amphitheatre is built right into the front range mountains, making for one of the most beautiful venues in the country. To get to Salida from Denver will be 2.5-hour drive. Takes you to nearly every major mountain zone in the state and the deepest canyons, highest passes, steepest mountains, and coolest towns. At Red Rocks you can catch concerts, stand-up comedy shows, film screenings, and, in the mornings, you can even join a yoga class. Drive from Durango to Denver 6h 33m $60 - $90 Shuttle to Durango, fly Take a shuttle bus from Durango Transit Center to Purgatory Plaza Fly from Durango (DRO) to Denver (DEN) 5h 16m $223 - $531 Shuttle to Telluride Regional, fly Take a shuttle bus from Durango, CO to Silverton, CO Fly from Telluride Regional (TEX) to Denver (DEN) 6h 12m $437 - $865 Afternoons can be hot and windy though. Dunes, not to be missed with children. Signup today for free and be the first to get notified on new updates. After spending the night in the alpine town of Vail (yes, on the drive over from Rocky Mountain National Park across I-70, we hit several patches of snow and temperatures falling below zero, even at the end of May! I drive the 285>160 route almost weekly for the last few months. Still, the bus is significantly cheaper than flying and depending on gas prices and whether or not you need to rent a car or book a hotel overnight, it's probably cheaper than driving too. In Winter do I need a 4 Wheel Drive Vehicle in Colorado? Yes, travel within United States is currently allowed. 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. 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. As such, one of the best things to do in Creede is to drive its famous Bachelor Loop. Pass in SW CO? Traveling with a dog or cat? From: 1 traveler 2 travelers 3 travelers 4 travelers 5 travelers 6 travelers. 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. 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. If you're planning a road trip to Denver, you can research locations to stop along the way. Adding to all the chaos, Colorado drivers arent exactly known for their set of skills out on the roads and youll find more of those drivers in the Denver metro area than anywhere else. I'd judge the least "scary" of the three to be I-25/US160. Once you reach Creede, known as one of the last Silver Boom towns in Colorado during the late 19th century, you have quite a few options before heading back down to South Fork. Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2rio's travel planner. Your trip begins in Denver, Colorado. Theres also an observation site for the renowned Treasure Falls thats located just south of the pass. One of your first possible stops between Denver and Durango after youve merged onto US 285 South is the Tiny Town & Railroad thats just a short distance down South Turkey Creek Road. 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. Dont forget to clear ice and snow from your windshield, windows, mirrors, and vehicle lights before driving. (easiest one, no scary mountain driving haha), and if you can suggest good places to stop and eat? The journey from Crested Butte to Ouray will take approximately 2.5 hours. Not to mention, its known as one of the most treacherous roads in the state. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? ', 'How much should I expect to pay? Travel along this high alpine road is strongly discouraged amid snow, freezing temperatures, and blowing snow. Which route is the best? 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. Plus, Durangos wild west and mining history give it such a distinguished and quirky character. Take US Hwy 285 south from Denver for approximately 173 miles. At just under four hours, the stretch from Creede to Colorado Springs is the longest drive of this trip. Thank you :) 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. The United States Census Bureau reported a population of 16,887 in the 2010 census. This is a great introduction to Colorados famous fourteeners and provides extraordinary views thatll redefine what you classify as a scenic byway.. For casual hikers, the 1.6-mile Penitente Canyon Loop is a great option that wont leave you exhausted or needing an extensive amount of gear. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-75890236', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Pagosa Springs are the only 2 I hit along the route. For instance, this beautiful treehouse home with a hot tub is a great choice. Silverton is an old mining town nestled between Red Mountain and Molas, two San Juan Mountain passes. Make yourself known to an official member of staff and/or call the national coronavirus helpline number on 800-232-4636. 5.5 hours of driving without stops. 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. It is a 7 hour plus drive, not counting any stops. Along the National Parks Loop, you'll also go through some other small towns worth exploring like Telluride, Durango, and Buena Vista. Its important to note that dates and closures vary, depending on the weather and road conditions. Lodging for 2 nights in Estes park in mid May, Where to stay near Union Station if using Red Rocks shuttle. If you drive that route without stops it app.takes 6 hours. Start early in the day, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be sure to dress in layers. 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. Wearing a face mask on public transport in Durango is recommended. The Million Dollar Highway is a scenic section of the US-550 highway which runs north to south. Am I allowed to travel from Denver to Durango? All three cross Wolf Creek Pass on US160, which is truly scary only if your brakes fail on the way down. Thank you so much for all the wonderful information. At Wolf Creek Pass, pedestrians can access the Continental Divide Trail and the Wolf Creek Trailhead. Along this route youll be graced with beautiful views of the town as well as encounter a few sizable waterfalls that make for perfect Instagram backdrops. Theres not many other places where you can hike through desert-like dunes with snow-capped mountain peaks as your backdrop. Ice and snow-caked roads, highways, and mountain passes make for dangerous and hazardous driving conditions across the state. Monument to fallen snowplow drivers. 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. The steep, winding switchbacks can make your stomach turn on this high mountain pass, reaching an elevation of 11,307 feet. This is one town that has definitely earned its nickname as its surrounded by more than a dozen fourteeners. You can't get to Durango by train, but if you're looking for an old west experience, hop aboard the Silverton Silverlight Express. Durango is in southwest Colorado. 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. 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. 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. After hiking the perimeter trail, take a load off and relax in Ourays Hot Springs. The cheapest month to fly is July. As you reach the classic mountain town of Salida and the nearby area, the Arkansas River is the main artery for a lot of watersports recreation, from fly fishing and whitewater rafting to kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). 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. And as this road trip tends to take only about six to six and a half hours, its easy to pull off in a single day with plenty of time for some stops near the highway. We love Pikes Peak because theres just so much to explore, and because theres so many ways to actually ascend the peak! Portions of I-70 often close due to severe weather conditions. I drive the 285>160 route almost weekly for the last few months. You can also fly from Denver to Durango, if all this seems to be too much. Yep, its that simple. The drive is gorgeous and, although you reach some very high elevations, it is not scary if you stick to the main route . The winter-weary Northeast and upper Midwest were digging out Saturday from heavy snowfall while cleanup began in battered parts of the South and Midwest after a sprawling storm system produced . Cars are unable to make it up the pass during winter weather on a regular basis. 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. 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). The total cost of driving from Denver, CO to Durango, CO (one-way) is $53.28 at current gas prices. However, you can take the bus to Grand Valley Downtown Transfer Station, take the drive to Montrose Airport, take the shuttle to Telluride, take the taxi to Silverton, CO, then take the shuttle to Durango, CO. Alternatively, you can take the bus to Grand Valley Downtown Transfer Station, take the drive to Montrose Airport, take the shuttle to Telluride, take the taxi to Silverton, then take the train to Durango, CO. Rome2rio's Travel Guide series provide vital information for the global traveller. 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. Those with a lot of time on their hands can hike or bike to the summit, which makes for a rewarding journey. Monarch Pass in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. While the route offers a fast connection to Winter Park from Denver, avalanches and snowslides often make winter travel on this route extremely difficult. I will be making this trip next week and look forward to seeing all this. Photo Credit: Jerilee Bennett. Keep in mind though, it's an incredibly long ride because you'll need to travel out of your way to switch buses in Grand Junction. Semi trucks stuck on I-25. This is a no-brainer as a stop for skiers and snowboarders traveling in the winter, but the Wolf Creek area between South Fork and Durango is also worth keeping in mind as a stop for travelers even in mid-summer. We know what youre thinking: sand dunes in Colorado? Not quite what youre looking for? You have two route options, both of which take you through amazing scenery and worthwhile stops. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? He has spent time in Costa Rica and has made numerous trips exploring the Western states of the Rocky Mountains. Two-wheel drive cars can certainly make this gravel-road route, but its recommended to drive the loop backwards if your vehicle isnt great off-road. Services like gas stations and restaurants are in good supply at Salida, Saguache, and other areas along the way. It takes approximately 12h 2m to get from Denver to Durango, including transfers. The drive from Denver, Colorado, to Las Vegas, Nevada, is a drive of epic proportions. Independence Pass, Trail Ridge Road, Mount Evans Scenic Byway, and Kebler Pass all close annually for the winter season in Colorado. It's actually closer to Albuquerque than Denver as it's not far from the New Mexico border. As of July 23, Colorado has. 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. 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. If you are concerned about scary mountain driving, Red Mountain pass isn't scary, but the first part of the Million Dollar highway from Ouray south 10 or 20 miles is. 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. Do I have to wear a face mask on public transport in Durango? You can also fly from Denver to Durango, if all this seems to be too much. Unless youre making this drive in the mid-summer months of June to August, its a good idea to travel with plenty of warm layers. 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. The shorter one (US285 south and US160 west), more scenic, has more mountains. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties. 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. 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 . To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Good coffee is also scarce along that route until you get to Durango. 4. level 2. It is located between I-70 and Keystone, offering an alternative route to I-70 and the Eisenhower Tunnel. (easiest one, no scary mountain driving haha), and if you can suggest good places to stop and eat? Among these are the collegiate peaks which are, unsurprisingly, named after some of the United States most famous colleges and Oxford randomly. Filled with useful and timely travel information, the guides answer all the hard questions - such as 'How do I buy a ticket? The reason why it's so long is because there is no direct bus service between the two cities. Apart from being the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, Crested Butte is where mountain biking got its start in Colorado. 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. Prices start at 117,500 per night. Prices and availability are subject to change. 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. 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. 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. to Guadalupe Victoria Durango Intl. Informacin detallada del sitio web y la empresa: caudesucre.com Cau de sucre - blog de repostera creativa, recetas dulces y mucha fotografa! Thank you :) If youve never gone mountain biking before, then this is a perfect place to try it out.
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