It doesn’t get much better than summer in Southwest Colorado. The only problem you’ll have is trying to decide which amazing outdoor activities or festivals you’ll do. Here are some suggestions for our favorite summer activities. Find out more about all of the events and happenings in Durango by checking out the Visit Durango website at https://www.durango.org/.
Mountain Biking
With seemingly endless miles of sweet single track, you will be grinning from ear-to-ear as you ride your mountain bike in Durango and the surrounding communities. Just 35 minutes away is one of our favorite trails called Phil’s World. It is known for two words, RIB CAGE! The most prominent feature of the area, Rib Cage is fast and fun, rolling terrain that will make you hoop and holler. Check out more trails in the area at https://www.mtbproject.com.
Road Cycling
While Durango is renowned for its mountain biking, its road cycling is no second fiddle, and is part of the reason Durango is known as a bike town. One of the biggest events held in Durango each year is the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic. This year’s event will mark the 48th anniversary of Colorado’s largest, oldest and most renowned cycling event! Cathy Craig, one of our agents has been involved with this race for several years! A fun, family event that visitors and locals enjoy! Learn more at https://www.ironhorsebicycleclassic.com.
Whitewater Rafting and Tubing
There is amazing whitewater rafting only minutes from town on the Animas River that flows right through downtown Durango. Head north out of town and that same river is often referred to as the “Slow Float”. One of the favorite things to do on a hot summer day in July for a local is to float the Animas River. Another popular summer event is the Animas River Days where you can watch athletes from around the US compete in our world-class water park! You can learn more about this event at https://www.animasriverdays.com/.
Standup Paddle Boarding
Try Standup Paddle Boarding (SUP) at Lake Night Horse, just minutes from Durango. If you’ve never tried SUP, you’ll be amazed by how easy it is to learn and how fun it is. Spanning more than 1,500 acres, Lake Night Horse allows swimming, boating and fishing, an endless array of opportunities just two miles from downtown Durango. You can learn more about the lake at https://www.durango.com/lake-nighthorse/.
Fishing
Southwest Colorado has some of the best places for fishing. Our pristine rivers, streams and lakes are home to many varieties including trout and steelhead, and there are many fishing outfitters and guides to help you explore the endless opportunities to enjoy world-class fishing in this area.
Hiking
Hiking in Durango offers visitors the opportunity to explore the mountains of southwest Colorado. There are thousands of hiking trails weaving through the San Juan Mountains of Colorado and can be accessed just north of Durango. Check out some the top five hikes in this area with breathtaking views at OutdoorProject.com.
Golfing
With no shortage of beautiful golf courses in Durango, you’ll have a difficult time choosing where to go first! There are three courses you can choose from in the immediate area of Durango. Hillcrest Golf Club, Glacier Club, and Dalton Ranch.
Festivals
If you’re a lover of the arts, music, food, wine and beer, click on the link below to learn about some of our favorite Durango CO events and festivals coming up and be sure to mark your calendars! https://www.durango.org/events