By now you’ve probably heard that Durango is one of America’s top 10 ski towns, but if you’ve been here during the winter chances are you’ve already hit the slopes. So if you’re wondering what other winter adventures Durango has to offer, the answer is a whole lot. At Legacy Properties West we love winter so we wanted to share with you some of the more unique cold-weather activities in the area. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure or family fun, there’s something for everyone here.

Skate The Ice

The ice rink at Chapman Hill is the perfect place to don some skates and fulfill your figure skating dreams. If you’re not a proficient skater, they offer lessons to get you gliding in no time. If hockey is your passion, they also offer a drop-in league so you can hit the puck anytime. No need to pack a lunch for your skate adventure, they offer classic concessions to curb your cravings. And, if you just can’t get skiing off your mind, this in-town facility also offers a small ski slope. The ice rink typically opens in December, weather permitting, and snow-making on the slope usually begins in December.

Experience Snowmobiling

If you’re unfamiliar with snowmobiling, imagine something like a jet ski but for snowy terrain. What better way to enjoy Durango’s surrounding mountains and forests than from a machine built for winter fun? If you want to rent sleds and head off on your own winter excursion, you can find the equipment you need at Durango Adventure Rentals. Or, take a guided trip with the highly experienced backcountry guides at Snowmobile Adventures. Either way, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. You can find the latest trail reports for the Durango area from the San Juan Sledders website.

Enjoy an Ice Climbing Excursion

If you’re looking for a truly invigorating experience, there’s nothing quite like scaling up a frozen waterfall. It just might be one of the most extreme outdoor winter activities Durango has to offer. Located just outside Durango, Cascade Canyon offers a beautiful setting surrounded by frozen waterfalls and a crystal blue/green pool. Ice climbing can be a daunting activity for even the bravest adventurer. Luckily, you can find experienced guides for aid and instruction at the San Juan Mountain Guides.

Try Your Hand at Mushing 

This is the perfect activity for anyone who loves dogs and snow, so pretty much everyone. For a unique experience explore the winter wonderland surrounding Durango from the vantage point of a dog sled. When you book with Durango Dog Ranch, you can be as involved as you like in the dog sledding process. A truly singular experience you won’t soon forget, and you might even get to snuggle some puppies afterward.

Ride the Winter Train

Try out one of our favorite winter excursions and join the Durango Train for the 26-mile journey to Cascade Canyon. The trip will provide you with some of the most picturesque views of the San Juans available. Each of the coaches is heated and cozy. A concession car is along for the journey and boxed lunches can be ordered ahead. During the holiday season, you can also book a ride on the Polar Express, a great experience for the whole family.

Tackle Ice Fishing

Vallecito Lake is one of the most famous ice fishing spots near Durango. So much dedication is given to the sport you can even find an ice fishing tournament. If you’ve never tried ice fishing, it’s a great experience to be sure. Grab a pole and tackle up to try your hand at catching some of the abundant local fish species such as trout, crappie, pike, catfish, and bass.

Take a Snowcat Excursion

A snowcat is an enclosed, truck-sized vehicle fully tracked and designed to move easily through the snow. Experience a unique ride in the comfy cab with breathtaking views of the San Juan Mountains. Purgatory Snowcat Adventures offers daytime and evening tours. Daytime tours provide scenic views of pristine backcountry while an evening journey can be followed by a candlelit dinner.

Ride in a One Horse Open Sleigh

A horse-drawn sleigh ride through a winter wonderland makes a perfect romantic adventure for two. Take in fresh mountain air and pines blanketed in snow as you dash through the snow. Be sure to dress in warm layers with hats, gloves, and coats to get the most out of your ride. The friendly staff at Bucks Livery will provide you with blankets for your journey as well to help keep you warm.

Winter Wonderland

As you can see, Durango is a place deserving of the monicker Winter Wonderland. Whether you’re a local looking to find a home that allows you easier access to winter adventures, or a hopeful transplant wanting to become a part of our community, Legacy Properties West can help you find a new place to call home. Contact us at our Downtown office today.