Used Dodge cars for sale in Berthoud, CO under $799,952 Among these are the collegiate peaks which are, unsurprisingly, named after some of the United States most famous colleges and Oxford randomly. Casa's route is good. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Good coffee is also scarce along that route until you get to Durango. There are some different ways to approach a stop at the Great Sand Dunes, as visitors are generally welcome to simply take in the views of the dunes from the comfort of paved roads and maintained public areas, or they may strike out on foot and hike on the sands of the national park. It is impossible to get from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? By proceeding, you accept the use of cookies in accordance with our, Take the bus from Union Station Gate B4 to Grand Valley Downtown Transfer Station, Drive from Grand Valley Downtown Transfer Station to Montrose Airport, Take a shuttle bus from Montrose Airport to Telluride, Take a shuttle bus from Silverton, CO to Durango, CO, Take the train from Silverton to Durango, CO, Take a shuttle bus from Purgatory Plaza to Durango Transit Center, Fly from Denver (DEN) to Telluride Regional (TEX), Take a shuttle bus from Mesa Verde National Park to Purgatory Resort. You will likely be going over Wolf Creek Pass and if this is a winter trip you will be going over one of the snowiest passes in the state, but it is plowed and maintained. Be sure to take a peek at, This is one town that has definitely earned its nickname as its surrounded by more than a dozen fourteeners. It features a challenging switchback turn -on the west side- with a 200-foot drop off on the other side of the curve. For a more complete guide on the hike, check out this Out There Colorado article. Crested Butte is hands-down one of the coolest places to check out in Colorado. Members who are extremely knowledgeable about this destination and answer travellers questions frequently. It stretches from Denver to Durango across the Southern Rockies and can be hiked in 25-35 days. Camping, backpacking, and hiking opportunities abound in this area once the snow melts in the summertime. 2023 The World Was Here First All rights reserved. Durango is in southwest Colorado. Head west on US-50 W for 60 miles, and then turn right onto CO-135 N which will take you to Crested Butte after 27 miles. There are 115+ hotels available in Durango. The drive from Salida to Crested Butte takes approximately one hour and 45 minutes. While the route offers a fast connection to Winter Park from Denver, avalanches and snowslides often make winter travel on this route extremely difficult. Adding to all the chaos, Colorado drivers arent exactly known for their set of skills out on the roads and youll find more of those drivers in the Denver metro area than anywhere else. From there, make a right onto US-550 S, which will take you into Ouray after just over 36 miles. Not far from the New Mexico border, Durango is actually closer to Albuquerque than Denver, with 215 miles between them. That made for about a 70-mile loop of incredible mountain views! Toll Free: 800-567-6745, Colorados capital city has something for everyone: great food, impressive history, beautiful views, and plenty of adventure opportunities close by! At Red Rocks you can catch concerts, stand-up comedy shows, film screenings, and, in the mornings, you can even join a yoga class. Jillian Dara is a freelance journalist and fact-checker. Denver Area Road Trip Youll also get to take on thrilling class III rapids at Durangos exciting whitewater park. Only United Airlines operates multiple direct flights a day from Denver International Airport (DEN) and Durango La-Plata County Airport (DOR), which is just 15 miles from downtown Durango. It's a fairly long drive from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? For casual hikers, the 1.6-mile Penitente Canyon Loop is a great option that wont leave you exhausted or needing an extensive amount of gear. Traffic congestion due to rush hour and ongoing construction is normally expected for this particular stretch of the highway. briken - Denver to Durango is about 403 mi. Perhaps most amazing about this historic site is that the rock pinnacles for which Chimney Rock gets its name frame multiple astronomical alignment points. Monarch Pass in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. This 235 mile loop takes you through old mining towns, spectacular scenery, and exhilarating twists & turns. Yep, its that simple. Just be sure to downshift on the downhill side. Our next recommendation is to take a guided tour at Mesa Verde National Park. As always, travel safe and enjoy the views! The cheapest way to get from Denver to Durango is to drive which costs 75,000-120,000 and takes 6h 33m. Your best and most scenic route from Denver to Durango tends to be 285 South, though you could also choose to go straight south from Denver on Interstate 25. Durango High School, also known as the Durango 9-R Administration Building, is a former school in Durango, Colorado. Again. The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Montpellier Itinerary, The Perfect 1, 2 to 3 Days in Toulouse Itinerary, The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Nice Itinerary, The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Finland Itinerary (Winter or Summer). Call us biased on this if you like, but heading down the Lower Animas is a Durango summer staple. For a more complete guide on the hike, check out this, If high-alpine hikes arent your jazz, another great place to explore near Salida is, Crested Butte is hands-down one of the coolest places to check out in Colorado. Watch carefully for deer early mornings and twilight! You have permission to edit this article. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Colorado State Register of Historic Properties. Takes 6hrs plus stops and is both easy and scenic. Another great activity to do near Denver is driving the, Of course, theres an endless list of things to do and places to see in and around Denver. First, head Southwest on US Hwy 285 S, which you'll stay on for about 130 miles. $195 Cheap Flights from Denver (DEN) to Durango (DRO) - Expedia Of the collegiate peaks, Mount Princeton is designated as one of the easiest to climb. Other points of interest include feeding the fish at the Wildlife Museum's fish hatchery, going kayaking on the Animas River, or stopping in at Animas Brewing Company to try the latest batch of beer. The journey from Crested Butte to Ouray will take approximately 2.5 hours. 16 Best Things to Do in Colorado in Summer, Travel From Madrid to San Sebastian by Train, Car, and Plane, How to Travel From Rome to Naples by Train, Plane, Bus, or Car, The Top 10 Things to Do in Durango, Colorado, How to Travel From Denver to Las Vegas by Bus, Car, and Plane, How to Travel From Montreal to Quebec City by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane, How to Travel from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane, The Best Places to See Fall Colors in Colorado, How to Travel from Los Angeles to Denver by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane, Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. Rome2rio is a door-to-door travel information and booking engine, helping you get to and from any location in the world. I drive the 285>160 route almost weekly for the last few months. Legitimately called the San Juan Skyway, this nasty trek in southwestern Colorado features the Coal Bank Pass, a very steep and very scary road with weather that is harsh and unpredictable. Issue is that I (the mom, who is not going to be the driver) am fairly averse to heights. Just a stones throw off 285 South before you reach the town of Del Norte on the Denver to Durango drive, Penitente Canyon offers scenic views and chances to hike, rock climb, and bike through the towering canyon walls. I assume you understand that any route you take will be. If you drove there from Albuquerque it would take you about half as long. Airfares from $109 One Way, $219 Round Trip from Denver to Durango. Cars are unable to make it up the pass during winter weather on a regular basis. But those in the know, slow down and stop in four . These are both safe routes. The total cost of driving from Denver, CO to Durango, CO (one-way) is $53.28 at current gas prices. It's said to be one of the most dangerous roads in Colorado. Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. Then, head toward Ignacio on CO Hwy. From hiking to climbing to jeep and segway tours, theres a whole heaping lot to do at this picture-perfect place. Takes 6hrs plus stops and is both easy and scenic. Durango, Colorado 81301 The shorter one (US285 south and US160 west), more scenic, has more mountains. What about the altitude/Altitude sickness? Durango to Denver drive driving / 2 days / no pets / no RV Durango to Denver road trip planner Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Durango to Denver. What is the least scary route to cross the Rocky Mountains by - Quora Now I am thinking of taking another route. Although you can explore much of the park on your own, taking a guided tour is the way to go as thats the only way to gain access to the most popular sites such as Cliff Palace and Balcony House. I-25 is a major interstate highway that travels north and south, serving as the main connection from Denver to Colorado Springs. Monument to fallen snowplow drivers. This 17-mile historic loop takes you to several abandoned mines in-between beautiful scenic vistas. If you must go out, make sure you are prepared for winter travel and your tires meet the minimal requirements for Colorados new traction law. Driving from Denver to Durango takes about six and a half hours. If you're going on a road trip from Colorado Springs to Durango, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way with Pagosa Springs and top places to visit like . How to Get from Denver to Durango - TripSavvy In fact, winter weather is often the blame for the majority of delays and crashes. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? These springs are perfect for an evening soak when the day starts to cool and you want to settle down to reflect on the days adventure accomplishments. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? To get to Salida from Denver will be 2.5-hour drive. Theres so much we could say about things to do in Durango. Is this a summer trip or a winter trip? Wearing a face mask on public transport in Durango is recommended. Answer 1 of 21: Hi, I will be in Denver late Oct. had wanted to ride on Durango to Silverton train. The views of the Rocky Mountain landscape here are impressive at any time of the year, but this is an especially good stop if visiting during the winter when you can enjoy the contrast between the calming hot spring waters and the snowy peaks and surroundings. ', 'How much should I expect to pay? News, travel inspiration, podcasts, & more. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Brittany is an award-winning journalist based in Denver where she has lived and worked for more than a decade. Michael Rosebrock / Shutterstock 7. It may be a bit random and unexpected, but thats what makes Great Sand Dunes National Park so awesome! ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-13327901', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver, then N to I-70E direct to airport. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-75890236', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Pagosa Springs are the only 2 I hit along the route. The most straightforward choice for the least amount of time on the road is to simply take I-70 West out of Denver, which is the only main highway you need to follow on this drive until making an exit at Highway 9 just 10 to 15 minutes before you arrive at Breckenridge. Alternatively, you may use, Best Western Plus Deer Park Hotel And Suites. High season is considered to be October, November and December. Along this route youll be graced with beautiful views of the town as well as encounter a few sizable waterfalls that make for perfect Instagram backdrops. The reason why it's so long is because there is no direct bus service between the two cities. Were passionate about getting off the beaten path, promoting responsible tourism, supporting local economies and sharing our knowledge with other travellers! The quickest flight from Denver Airport to Durango Airport is the direct flight which takes 1h 19m. Takes 6hrs plus stops and is both easy and scenic. Which route is the best? Good coffee is also scarce along that route until you get to Durango. (easiest one, no scary mountain driving haha), and if you can suggest good places to stop and eat? If youve never gone mountain biking before, then this is a perfect place to try it out. The total driving time is 6 hours, 8 minutes. Get answers to your questions about Colorado. We extended it to a full loop: Boulder Canyon Drive up to Nederland, Highway 72 from Nederland to Highway 7 just south of Rocky Mountain National Park, Highway 7 back over to Highway 36, and then back down to Boulder. No problem finding gas and basic supplies, just not much "good" food or coffee. Dont let the views distract you on Berthoud Pass. How long is the drive from Denver to Durango? I drive the 285>160 route almost weekly for the last few months. If you hit the turn too fast you will go right off the edge. Rome2rio uses cookies to help personalize content and show you personalised ads. Total Distance: 1,098 miles *Time and distance may vary depending on traffic, change in routes, stops along the way, etc. So yeah, have your camera charged and ready for this spot too. It is a 7 hour plus drive, not counting any stops. 8 Best Stops on a Denver to Breckenridge Drive Driving from Denver to Durango? - Colorado Message Board - Tripadvisor The social distance requirement in Durango is 2 metres. Or, Highway 285 to 160 is more scenic and has mountains but is not scary. Thank you. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-13129427', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver toward Buena Vista and then south to Great Sand Dunes. Among these are the collegiate peaks which are, unsurprisingly, named after some of the United States most famous colleges and Oxford randomly. But. Colorados capital city has something for everyone: great food, impressive history, beautiful views, and plenty of adventure opportunities close by! Colorado's Most Dangerous Mountain Roads and Passes - 303 Magazine From Sand Dunes, head west on US160 over Wolf Creek Pass to Pagosa. Start early in the day, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be sure to dress in layers. Finally, youll make a left onto CO-115 N for 30 miles into Colorado Springs. Jan 31, 2006. Success! You can also fly from Denver to Durango, if all this seems to be too much. Its also helpful to pack warm layers, snacks, water, and a flash flight for unexpected delays and emergencies. Photo Credit: Matt Gross Things To Do For us, one of the most fun things a first-time visitor can do is catch a show at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. Architectural structures left behind by the ancestral Puebloans include pit houses, great kivas, and great houses, according to the U.S. Forest Services website. Signup today for free and be the first to get notified on new updates. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Hwy-347 turns off north from US-50 toward the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park 8 mi (12.8 km) east of Montrose, but this town also marks the start of one of the best-loved roads in the country, the Million Dollar Highway, a classic stretch of two-lane blacktop that forms a swirling ribbon through the San Juan Mountains, the wildest . Some of the road trip highlights include stops in Frisco, Ouray, Buena Vista, or Pagosa Hot Springs, each of which offers plenty of outdoor adventure. In addition to Pagosas famous hot springs, theres also whitewater rafting along the Piedra River, great hiking and biking trails, and more fascinating ruins to check out at Chimney Rock National Monument. (easiest one, no scary mountain driving haha), and if you can suggest good places to stop and eat? Denver to Moab - How to Enjoy an Epic Weekend Road Trip One snowstorm resulted in more than 300 crashes in the Denver metro area, with 93 of those occurring within a 3-hour period. Hiking, mountain biking, climbing, rafting, and off-roading are all staple activities here in our hometown. Lots of good food in Durango. Roadtrip from SoCal to Mt Rushmore thru Colorado, Best Western Plus Deer Park Hotel And Suites. Hi Diane, The drive from Denver to Aspen takes about 4 hours (if there isn't a lot of traffic). The round trip cost would be $106.55 to go from Denver, CO to Durango, CO and back to Denver, CO again. If you don't have time to board the train, it's worth it to at least pay a visit to the railroad museum in Durango. Dont let snowy roads put a damper on your adventure plans. Book at least 2 weeks before departure in order to get a below-average price. Outdoor seating areas are especially nice for sampling the beverages and entrees at either one. Prices start at 117,500 per night. Lots of good food in Durango. #ouraygram. Lodging for 2 nights in Estes park in mid May, Where to stay near Union Station if using Red Rocks shuttle. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. Ultimate Million Dollar Highway Road Trip Guide: Durango to Ouray (easiest one, no scary mountain driving haha), and if you can suggest good places to stop and eat? It's actually closer to Albuquerque than Denver as it's not far from the New Mexico border. If youre traveling on slippery or snowy roads, use caution, slow down, and please, take it easy on the brakes. Apart from being the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, Crested Butte is where mountain biking got its start in Colorado. Every month, almost a million vehicles travel the 100 miles on Interstate 70 between Denver and Vail, Colorado. When you reach Del Norte, turn left onto CO-112 E for 13 miles until you reach US-285 N which youll follow for 64 miles. What should I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms when I arrive in Durango? North Americas largest sandbox contains some 5 billion cubic meters of sand and stands out against the striking backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. Should probably count on 7 - 7.5 hrs - not easy to make really good time in the mountains. You have two route options, both of which take you through amazing scenery and worthwhile stops. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-75890404', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Pagosa Springs are the only 2 I hit along the route. A third route (I-70 west, CO91 south, US24 south, US285 south, US160 west; this is through Leadville) is yet more scenic, partly because of its high mountain sections. Which route is the best? Colorado Trail - Backpacking Routes It is impossible to get from Denver to Durango -- at least in any reasonable way -- without some mountain driving. Where is Durango? Planning other road trips from Denver? day 2 driving 3.5 hours. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-13326355', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver to catch a 10 flight. If high-alpine hikes arent your jazz, another great place to explore near Salida is Great Sand Dunes National Park. The drive time from Ouray to Durango is approximately one hour and 45 minutes. Reduced speed limits and temporary closures are often put into place for safety concerns. The United States Census Bureau reported a population of 16,887 in the 2010 census. Click here to browse more Salida hotels! At Wolf Creek Pass, pedestrians can access the Continental Divide Trail and the Wolf Creek Trailhead. Standard tickets are only $10 for adults, and this area also has a lot of great trails for hiking in the warmer parts of the year. Let us know in the comments! 10 Best Stops on a Denver to Durango Drive - The World Was Here First Well, youve come to the right place. Stroll the shops, restaurants and hotels housed in Durango's preserved late-19th-century buildings and board the railroad for a super-scenic, 45-mile detour to Silverton. How long will the journey be and what is the fastest route? Photo Credit: milehightraveler (iStock). 4. level 2. , Where to Stay on a Denver to Durango Road Trip. Anyone driven from Denver to Aspen? | Timeshare Users Group Discussion Utah. I took the highway and then 160 to get to Pagosa and it lasted 7 hours. Just across the valley from Penitente Canyon is the Great Sand Dunes National Park, one of Americas most fascinating natural phenomena. And as this road trip tends to take only about six to six and a half hours, its easy to pull off in a single day with plenty of time for some stops near the highway. Well, thats it for this epic Colorado summer road trip. Services like gas stations and restaurants are in good supply at Salida, Saguache, and other areas along the way. As the name would suggest, this steep 3-mile hike takes you up to a gorgeous viewpoint overlooking the town and valley beyond. Drive from Durango to Denver 6h 33m $60 - $90 Shuttle to Durango, fly Take a shuttle bus from Durango Transit Center to Purgatory Plaza Fly from Durango (DRO) to Denver (DEN) 5h 16m $223 - $531 Shuttle to Telluride Regional, fly Take a shuttle bus from Durango, CO to Silverton, CO Fly from Telluride Regional (TEX) to Denver (DEN) 6h 12m $437 - $865