If you’re looking for a small-town feel with plenty of outdoor activities, then look no further than Durango, Colorado. Located in the heart of Southwest Colorado’s San Juan Mountains, this historic town offers culture and adventure all within reach. From its unique restaurants to its stunning mountain views, Durango is the perfect place to explore nature while still having access to city amenities.
Whether you’re looking for an outdoor escape or just want a change of pace from city life, Durango has something for everyone.
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Durango’s Location and Geography
Durango is nestled in the heart of Southwest Colorado, offering breathtaking views of both the San Juan Mountains and Animas Valley. The city is located at an elevation of 6,512 feet above sea level, giving it a mild climate throughout the year.
With numerous parks in Durango, it’s easy to get out into nature and explore the beauty of southwestern Colorado. The city sits within La Plata County which covers 1,700 square miles and includes many small, rural towns such as Ignacio, Bayfield, and Hesperus.
The city is about two hours away from the Four Corners Monument, which marks where Arizona, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado meet.
Durango is also a short drive from some of the state’s most stunning natural features including Mesa Verde National Park, the Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Chimney Rock Archaeological Site.
Outdoor Activities to Enjoy in Durango
With its unique mountain terrain and amazing landscapes, Durango has something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, cyclist, or just looking for a place to relax in nature, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to exploring the outdoors in Durango.
Hiking
With its rolling hills, towering mountains, and winding rivers, Durango has plenty of trails for hikers to explore.
Whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a challenging climb, there are plenty of opportunities to get out in nature and take in the spectacular views.
The Colorado Trail stretches from Denver to Durango and is great for those looking to take on a more challenging hike.
Cycling
Durango is home to some of the best cycling in Colorado. With its winding roads and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder that this is one of the most popular biking destinations in the state. Whether you prefer road biking or mountain biking, there are plenty of trails to choose from.
Fishing
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, Durango has plenty of fishing opportunities. The Animas River is one of the most popular spots for fly fishing, and with its bountiful population of trout, it’s easy to see why. Fishing enthusiasts can also explore some of the area’s other rivers and streams for a variety of species.
Camping
Durango is the perfect place for campers looking to get away from it all. With its numerous campgrounds, you can choose from a variety of sites ranging from primitive camping to full-service RV parks. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot in nature or an active basecamp, Durango has something for everyone. No matter what your outdoor interests are, Durango is sure to have something for you. With its stunning scenery and variety of activities, there’s no better place to kick back and enjoy the great outdoors.
Shopping and Restaurants in Durango
Durango has a wide variety of shopping options, from small local boutiques to large chain stores. For those looking for unique finds, the downtown area offers an array of specialty shops. You can find everything from clothing and jewelry to furniture and home decor. There are also plenty of great restaurants in Durango, with something for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a cozy local cafe or a fine dining experience, you can find it here. From Mexican and Italian to classic American dishes, there are plenty of options to satisfy any craving. If you’re looking for something unique, the city also offers an array of food trucks and farmers markets for you to try.
Nightlife in Durango
Durango offers the perfect blend of day and night life. During the day, you can explore the great outdoors and enjoy all that Durango has to offer in terms of outdoor recreation. In the evening, there are plenty of options for entertainment. From local pubs to popular night clubs, there is something for everyone in Durango’s vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re looking for live music, craft cocktails, or a great game of pool, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy an evening out in Durango.
Many local bars and restaurants also offer trivia nights, karaoke, dance lessons and other activities to make your night out even more memorable. Be sure to grab some delicious tacos or margaritas to complete your night. If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, put on your walking shoes and experience the breathtaking views of the town’s outdoor spaces.
With the San Juan National Forest and the Animas River running through town, Durango is an ideal destination for those who love to explore. Take a leisurely stroll along Main Avenue, the city’s historic downtown strip, enjoy drinks on a rooftop patio or relax at one of the local parks.
Cost of Living in Durango
The average cost of living in Durango is 13.2% lower than the national average, according to Sperling’s Best Places. This means that you get more bang for your buck when it comes to housing and basic necessities like groceries, utilities and transportation.
Colorado has no state income tax which reduces the cost of living even further. Durango’s housing market offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a cozy condo downtown or a sprawling ranch home on acreage out in La Plata County, you’ll find what you’re looking for. Home prices vary depending on location and size but generally range from the low $200Ks to the high $500Ks. The median home value in Durango is approximately $348,000.
Education Opportunities in the Area
The Durango School District, located in the heart of town, serves over 6,000 students from preschool through 12th grade. There are a variety of private and public schools available to meet the needs of local families.
For those looking for higher education, Fort Lewis College is the perfect choice. Located nearby, this college offers a variety of academic programs, including degrees in business and engineering. Students are able to take advantage of outdoor activities through the Adventure Education program.
This program encourages students to explore their environment through hands-on learning experiences such as rock climbing and mountain biking. For those seeking more specialized education, there are many local career and technical schools such as the Western Colorado Community College. The college provides certificate and degree programs in a variety of areas including medical coding, nursing, and culinary arts.
Job Opportunities In The Area
The area has a variety of job opportunities available in different industries, from medical care and hospitality to tech companies and retail stores. Whether you are looking to pursue a career in the health industry or want to open your own business, there are plenty of job options for you in Durango.
The Healthcare Industry is a major employer in the area, with many hospitals and medical centers that employ both experienced professionals and entry-level personnel. The local Four Corners Health Care system, for example, offers employment opportunities in nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, administrative support roles, and more.
There are plenty of job opportunities for those looking to pursue a career in the hospitality industry. Durango is home to numerous hotels and resorts, as well as restaurants and breweries. These businesses are always on the lookout for experienced staff members—from cooks and dishwashers to housekeepers, receptionists, bartenders, and more.
The city is also becoming increasingly seen as a tech hub, with several startups operating in the area. Companies like Solid State Networks, Skyline Technology Solutions and Cogent Labs are all headquartered in Durango, offering employment opportunities for those looking to break into the tech sector.
Last but not least, retail stores and shopping centers offer great career opportunities for those looking to pursue a career in sales and customer service. Durango is home to numerous retail chains, like Walmart, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Marshalls, as well as local boutiques and specialty stores.
Final Word
From its gorgeous mountain views to the many outdoor activities and attractions, Durango has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax in nature, this charming city has it all. With affordable housing prices and low cost of living compared to other cities in the U.S, Durango offers a great place for families and individuals alike who are interested in relocating or visiting on vacation. If you’re considering making the move or just need some time away from your hectic lifestyle, why not visit Durango? You won’t regret it!
