8 Unbelievable Places You Need to Visit in Durango, Colorado
Durango is a tourist town located in Colorado and near New Mexico border. It has an approximate 16,000 people, which means it is a small town with vibrant tourism activities. From lake fishing, parks, and museums, here are some of the top places you can visit in the late Apollo 14 astronaut home.
1. San Juan National Forest
This is one of the landmark natural features that you will find in this region. It is an attractive natural phenomenon for many people who have never been to Colorado. With thousands of tree species and bird species, San Juan National Forest will be a wonderful tour to remember. However, you need ATV rentals to manage to move around the rocky hills and valleys around the forest.
2. Animas River Trail
Animas River Trail is another breathtaking experience you can get when you are in Durango. Visitors enjoy the seven-mile river flowing before the river wades into the forest and rocky areas that are hard to access, unless using ATV trails. Fishing in the Animas River is not prohibited, which means that this could be the best place for family fishing trips. Kayaking is a common feature, especially during the summer so you can organize a kayaking trip with your family and get to enjoy the sun kayaking.
3. James Ranch
If you have been looking forward to visiting a ranch in Durango, this is the best ranch that you can visit in this area. It has everything that you could have ever wanted in a ranch. Some of the things you will see in James Ranch include grass-fed beef, grazing Jersey milk cows, and spruce tree nursery. A memorable experience is that James Ranch is located on Animas River Valley so you will continue seeing crystal-clear flowing water and you can engage in some fishing activities.
4. 4 Corners Whitewater
4 Corners Whitewater offers one of the most memorable experiences that you would have ever wanted; whitewater rafting. There are thousands of white water rafting trips in this region throughout the year. It is a social activity that sees all people, regardless of age and skill level, are allowed to participate and have some great time. There are various difficulties levels offered, which depends on skill levels and age. Rafting is a wonderful water experience that was introduced as an official sport in the Munich Olympic Games of 1972.
5. Durango Fish Hatchery
If you are fishing enthusiastic or you are interested in fish, Durango fish hatchery has been made for you. It has been in existent since 1881, which explains why it is currently managed by the Wildlife Museum. There are 19 hatcheries in the same region that are all geared towards ensuring that fish population in Durango and entire Colorado has been maintained.
6. Ice Pirates Snowmobile Tours
If you are looking for scenic locations, especially during the winter, why don’t you head to the ice pirates snowmobile tours? This is a snowmobiling experience and adventure in a vast piece of land, over 55,000 acres. This is an area that gives visitors an experience they will struggle to get in any other state around the state. There are amazing photo opportunities, some of them even above 12,000 feet above sea level.
7. Animas Museum
Besides the animals, river fly fishing in Animas River, Animas Museum is another tourist destination that offers visitors a peek into the local history. This is one of the oldest museums in the area and was started in 1904 in a converted school building. The Animas Museum is filled with an extensive research library, photo archives, and exhibits that are not likely to be found in any other museum in Colorado. You will also come across locally inspired basketry, beadwork, and weavings, among others.
8. Durango Craft Spirits
There is no doubt that you will need somewhere to quench your thirst after long trails and fishing expeditions. Durango Craft Spirits is your best bet. Here, you will find some of the Durango’s finest offerings. The spirit company also offers some old spirits so that visitors can taste and get the feeling. Some of the brands that you will find in the tasting room include Mayday Moonshine and Soiled Doves Vodka, among others.