Colorado is filled with an endless number of quaint villages, distinctive towns and laid-back cities to explore on a weekend getaway. If you want to think outside the box, (as in the shape of the state) you’re in luck. Durango residents have the luxury of living in the Four Corners. So, a short drive in any direction will land us across state lines. Whether you want to cross the borders into another land or stay right here in colorful Colorado here are four of the Legacy Property West’s team’s favorite weekend getaways.
Estimated time 3 hours
A short drive from Durango will land you at one of the most sought-after destinations in the American Southwest. Moab, Utah. This small Utah town is home to both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park. Moab is a desert oasis surrounded by some of the most stunning red rock landscapes on Earth as well as the cool waters of the Colorado River. Once you arrive you can spend the weekend experiencing a plethora of mountain bike and hiking trails or brave the cool waters of the Colorado River.
Estimated time 2 hours
If staying in the state is your goal, there’s no better place for a weekend adventure than Telluride. Take the scenic route traveling through Ouray and Silverton along the Million Dollar Highway, or take the San Juan Skyway through Dolores. For courageous types, you could also opt for entering Telluride via Black Bear Pass, but this journey is for experienced off-road drivers only. Once in Telluride enjoy one-of-a-kind shopping, outdoor adventures galore, fine dining and potential celebrity sightings. If ghost hunting is on your list, venture to Alta, an abandoned town with an electrifying past. It was the first site to implement Tesla’s AC transmission system.
Estimated time 4 hours
“The City Different, at every turn” is the official tagline of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and it’s a city that delivers on its promises. Along its adobe-lined streets, you’ll find history and culture around every corner. Famous for its art scene, in Santa Fe, you can experience pieces that range from traditional to contemporary and everything in between. In this historic city, you’re sure to uncover something different in every direction. On a weekend getaway, we suggest you try breakfast at the Santa Fe Farmers Market, an unbeatable culinary experience with top-notch people-watching as a bonus. After that, head over to the historic Santa Fe Plaza and enjoy standing in the heart of the oldest capital city in the United States, which was founded in 1610. On the north side of the Plaza is the Palace of the Governors, which was built the same year.
Estimated time 5 hours
This Arizona mountain town holds more wonders than any other. In fact, the tagline is the “City of Seven Wonders.” That’s because, within 80 miles or less of downtown Flagstaff, you can reach a total of seven national parks and monuments. As if that wasn’t enough of an accomplishment, Flagstaff is also the gateway to the San Francisco Peaks and home to Arizona’s tallest mountain, Humphreys Peak. While there, explore the depths of the Grand Canyon. Step back in time at the Wupatki National Monument or Walnut Canyon and peer through 800 year- old Puebloan windows. Take in the colorful rocks and unique formations of Oak Creek Canyon, the Grand Canyon’s smaller cousin. Visit the youngest volcano on the Colorado Plateau, Sunset Crater Volcano was born only 900 years ago in a series of dramatic eruptions. Immerse yourself in nature by visiting the largest contiguous Ponderosa pine forest in the world, the Coconino National Forest.
No matter your destination, when you’re ready to make the Four Corners region your home base contact us at Legacy Properties West. We can’t wait to be a part of your Colorado home buying journey.