This is a great introduction to Colorados famous fourteeners and provides extraordinary views thatll redefine what you classify as a scenic byway.. 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. The creekside hot spring pools here are naturally divided with river rocks to range in temperature from 70 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 49 degrees Celsius), so you can even temper your experience by relaxing in the pool thats closest to your personal heat preferences. Driving from Denver to Durango - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Answer 1 of 6: My friends and I are coming from Europe to Denver Airport and we are supposed to go to Durango by car. Colorado wildfires: Several fires explode across Front Range A Mapped Guide to the Ultimate Colorado Road Trip: Part II It's a fairly long drive from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. It features a challenging switchback turn -on the west side- with a 200-foot drop off on the other side of the curve. No trip to the area should skip it in my opinion. It is impossible to get from (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. 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. 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. You will catch C4-70 outside (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? and Great Sand. If you hit the turn too fast you will go right off the edge. Those with a lot of time on their hands can hike or bike to the summit, which makes for a rewarding journey. If youre traveling on slippery or snowy roads, use caution, slow down, and please, take it easy on the brakes. Thank you. 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. Does anyone know why? 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. We're working around the clock to bring you the latest COVID-19 travel updates.This information is compiled from official sources. A direct flight will only take about an hour in the air, which will save you a lot of time. Take a tour from Durango and let someone else drive! 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. All three cross Wolf Creek Pass on US160, which is truly scary only if your brakes fail on the way down. Durango to Denver drive - plan a road trip Perhaps most amazing about this historic site is that the rock pinnacles for which Chimney Rock gets its name frame multiple astronomical alignment points. The quickest flight from Denver Airport to Durango Airport is the direct flight which takes 1h 19m. Traffic jam westbound I-70 highway Photo Credit: milehightraveler (iStock). Apart from being the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, Crested Butte is where mountain biking got its start in Colorado. Talk about a flexible experience! Where to go at the end of November, Early December?!?! Adds about 2.5 hours to the "boring" way, and is incredibly varied and constantly changing. 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. Answer 1 of 6: My friends and I are coming from Europe to Denver Airport and we are supposed to go to Durango by car. Of the collegiate peaks, Mount Princeton is designated as one of the easiest to climb. Still, the bus is significantly cheaper than flying and depending on gas prices and whether or not you need to rent a car or book a hotel overnight, it's probably cheaper than driving too. While the quickest route between these two cities would take a fast driver 12 hours to complete without stopping, we suggest taking it slow and enjoying everything there is to see on the way. The canyon walls are so steep that at least some of the canyon is always engulfed in shadow during the day, which is how the Black Canyon got its name. Duncan is a writer for The World Was Here First. It may be a bit random and unexpected, but thats what makes Great Sand Dunes National Park so awesome! Traffic on I-70. Transportation and Shuttle Services - Purgatory Resort Most crashes on the pass occur at the switchback curve near the Wolf Creek scenic outlook area. Error! Driving from Denver to Durango? - Colorado Message Board - Tripadvisor Of course, theres an endless list of things to do and places to see in and around Denver. Services like gas stations and restaurants are in good supply at Salida, Saguache, and other areas along the way. Well, youve come to the right place. You can also rent ATVs and off-road vehicles in town if you prefer to not take your own car. Click here to see their availability. If not, the area works just fine as a pretty place to drive through. ! The route has an elevation gain of 9,000 ft and ascends through five climate zones to the 14,264-ft summit of Mount Evans. Of the collegiate peaks, Mount Princeton is designated as one of the easiest to climb. Domestic travel is not restricted, but some conditions may apply. If you'll have the time try to visit both Colorado Springs (Pike's Peak, Garden of the Gods etc.) Colorado's Scenic Million Dollar Highway: Silverton to Ouray Cost of Driving from Denver, CO to Durango, CO - Travelmath more. This trail is close to town and extends to a decent length of 4.3 total miles long. #3. Drive from Denver to Durango 336.1 miles $60 - $90 Fly to Durango, shuttle 5h 22m Fly from Denver (DEN) to Durango (DRO) DEN - DRO Take a shuttle bus from Purgatory Plaza to Durango Transit Center $233 - $570 Fly to Telluride Regional, shuttle 6h 32m Fly from Denver (DEN) to Telluride Regional (TEX) DEN - TEX As the name would suggest, this trail takes you around the entire town dont worry, there are plenty of places to enter or exit the trail for a shorter hike. There will be some mountain driving whichever route you take, but there's no need to be scared. The next best thing to do on a visit to Colorado Springs is to head up to Pikes Peak. Traffic congestion due to rush hour and ongoing construction is normally expected for this particular stretch of the highway. 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. So, pack your bags, fasten your seatbelts, and get ready to hit the road on this Denver to Durango loop road trip! If youre looking for both the most scenic and time-efficient route for a Denver to Durango drive, with plenty of opportunities for fun, interesting stops in between, then the roughly six-hour trajectory down US 285 is by far the best option. Winter in Colorado is no joke. Michael Rosebrock / Shutterstock 7. Among these are the collegiate peaks which are, unsurprisingly, named after some of the United States most famous colleges and Oxford randomly. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Need we say more? Click here to browse more Durango hotels! 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. What are the roads like, and what do I need to know about driving in Colorado? Afternoons can be hot and windy though. Cheap Flights from Denver Intl. With a route that passes south on US Highway 285 through Pike-San Isabel National Forest and continues down to the Great Sand Dunes and the Rio Grande headwaters, the Denver to Durango drive is one of southern Colorados most scenic. Not to mention, its known as one of the most treacherous roads in the state. Success! To get to Salida from Denver will be 2.5-hour drive. For instance, this beautiful treehouse home with a hot tub is a great choice. But I need to leave here at midnight. That made for about a 70-mile loop of incredible mountain views! As the name would suggest, this steep 3-mile hike takes you up to a gorgeous viewpoint overlooking the town and valley beyond. The 7 most dangerous winter roads in Colorado Casa's route is good. If you're planning a road trip, you might be interested in seeing the total driving distance from Denver, CO to Durango, CO. You can also calculate the cost to drive from Denver, CO to Durango, CO based on current local gas prices . to La Plata County Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $195 for one-way flights and $295 for round trip, for the period specified. Long, steep ascents and descents, particularly around the San Juans. Rome2rio makes travelling from Denver to Durango easy. Family RV adventure advice for Colorado, Utah & Wyoming. We love Pikes Peak because theres just so much to explore, and because theres so many ways to actually ascend the peak! 172. . How long will the journey be and what is the fastest route? The shorter one (US285 south and US160 west), more scenic, has more mountains. Colorado's Most Dangerous Mountain Roads and Passes - 303 Magazine Do I have to wear a face mask on public transport in Durango? 'A little scary': Iditarod begins with smallest field ever I would say the "scariest" would be to take US160 over Wolf Creek pass - especially in winter.. Another great activity to do near Denver is driving the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. I-70 is a major east-west Interstate highway in the United States that runs from Maryland through Colorado into Utah, stretching for 2,151 miles. The small town of Bailey is about 25 minutes from Tiny Town at the bottom of a steep incline just as 285 bends and begins to trace a path along the North Fork of the South Platte River. Photo Credit: Jerilee Bennett. That's because Mapquest knows you drive fast Tet, lol!!! Not quite what youre looking for? The Best Colorado Summer Road Trip - Denver to Durango Loop We have done the drive (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? This drive is most densely populated with residential areas and small towns for about the first hour or so, but the rest is nothing but mountain passes, wide-open valleys, and National Forest areas, with the occasional town to break things up. avoiding scary driving - Durango Forum - Tripadvisor A great trail option for beginners, especially if youre around during wildflower season, is. And good news for dog-lovers: pets are allowed on this trail but must be kept on a leash. 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. Which route is the best? Lots of good food in Durango. Both Aspen Peak and Mad Jacks also offer delicious food options and events featuring live music acts, with Aspen Peaks Bluegrass and BBQ Night serving as a good example of a local favorite where guests are served food options like southern shrimp and grits and St. Louis-style ribs with mashed potatoes and sauted kale. Editors Note: Never speed. Takes you to nearly every major mountain zone in the state and the deepest canyons, highest passes, steepest mountains, and coolest towns. Apart from being the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, Crested Butte is where mountain biking got its start in Colorado. Independence Pass, Trail Ridge Road, Mount Evans Scenic Byway, and Kebler Pass all close annually for the winter season in Colorado. Centers for Disease control and prevention (CDC), Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Durango, Holiday Inn & Suites Durango Downtown, an IHG Hotel, Denver to Pikes Peak Center for the Performing Arts, Glendale Los Angeles County CA USA to Durango CO USA, Petrified Forest National Park to Durango CO USA, There is a social distancing requirement of 2 metres. The direct drive from Denver to Durango is 382 mi (614 km), and should have a drive time of 7 hrs 21 mins in normal traffic. After hiking the perimeter trail, take a load off and relax in Ourays Hot Springs. What are the travel restrictions in Durango? Roundtrip One-way Multi-city 1 traveler Economy Leaving from Going to Departing Returning Add a place to stay Add a car Direct flights only Cheap Flights from Denver Intl. Which route is the best? This is the route Google Maps will give you. Thank you :) Theres so much we could say about things to do in Durango. If you're looking to just get there as quickly as possible, it's much better to fly. Which route is the best? Denver to Durango in a day. - RoadTrip America Two-wheel drive cars can certainly make this gravel-road route, but its recommended to drive the loop backwards if your vehicle isnt great off-road. Click here to see their availability, Siesta Motel If youre looking for some more budget-friendly accommodation options, then this motel is a geat choice. An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Red Mountain Pass. The cheapest flight from Denver to Durango was found 29 days before departure, on average. You have two route options, both of which take you through amazing scenery and worthwhile stops. There was an error processing your request. It is home to Fort Lewis College. However, as the expression goes, its not the destination, its the journey. I-70 mountain travel has its hiccups due to a combination of factors including traffic congestion, steep grades, accidents, and wild weather causing slick roads and other hazards like that one time an avalanche covered the highway (video link). From there you'll make a left onto CO 291 S which will take you into Salida after eight miles. I-70 has some gorgeous spots and does top out at about 11,000 ft when you pass through the tunnels near Loveland Pass. The drive from Denver, Colorado, to Las Vegas, Nevada, is a drive of epic proportions. 4. level 2. It is home to Fort Lewis College. All Of Colorado's Most Dangerous Roads And Highways 10 Best Stops on the Denver to Aspen Drive via Vail. Find all the transport options for your trip from Denver to Durango right here. How to Get from Denver to Durango - TripSavvy I will try to go the route thru the Great Sand Dunes. Lots of good food in Durango. Colorado Road Trip - Denver, Mesa Verde, Durango and more $109 Cheap Flights from Denver to Durango - Orbitz ', 'Do the trains and buses have Wifi?' Informacin detallada del sitio web y la empresa: jaramarzulli.com, +911647681164, +911647244548, +911646228156, +911646126349, +911645988738 Jara Marzulli | La poetica di un'artista 2023 The World Was Here First All rights reserved. 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. (easiest one, no scary mountain driving haha), and if you can suggest good places to stop and eat? Is it compulsory to practice social distancing in Durango? Click here to see their availability, The Salida Inn & Hostel If youre traveling on a bit of a tighter budget, then this inn and hostel is an excellent choice. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-13124761', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver-Pagosa Springs via Colorado Springs and Walsenburg on I25 and us160 via Great Sand Dunes NP and Wolf Creek pass to Pagosa Springs. Traveling with a dog or cat? Denver to Moab - How to Enjoy an Epic Weekend Road Trip I assume you understand that any route you take will be. In Del Norte, turn right onto US Hwy 160 W. Follow US Hwy 160 W for 118 miles. That said, if you do hike Mount Princeston, still come prepared for a long days hike as well as a little rock scrambling. From Sand Dunes, head west on US160 over Wolf Creek Pass to Pagosa. Not much to recommend for food along the way. This loop of state-maintained highways through the San Juan Mountains can be done in your own car and at your own leisure, but be aware that various parts of this beautiful, scenic drive do feature steep drop-offs without guardrails. The United States Census Bureau reported a population of 16,887 in the 2010 census. - to help you get the most out of your next trip. Ultimate Million Dollar Highway Road Trip Guide: Durango to Ouray Prices starting at $219 for return flights and $109 for one-way flights to Durango were the cheapest prices found within the past 7 days, for the period specified. Driving from Denver to Durango takes about six and a half hours. Durango High School, also known as the Durango 9-R Administration Building, is a former school in Durango, Colorado. 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. Thats not too surprising we suppose as Coloradans tend to ski just about anything. Thank you for your advise. Are you planning to drive from Denver to Durango? Check out our Durango Activities and Things to Do page for more information. We are travelling with 3 children from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Have fun, please forgive us our little OT chat. The 12 Most Scenic Drives in Colorado (Road Trip Inspiration!) Exceptions may apply, for full details: Centers for Disease control and prevention (CDC). The bus leaves Denver at 6:45 a.m. and arrives in Durango at 7:10 p.m. The drive is gorgeous and, although you reach some very high elevations, it is not scary if you stick to the main route . Durango is the county seat and the most populous municipality of La Plata County, Colorado, United States. Lots of good food in Durango. What about the altitude/Altitude sickness? If youre hiking with children or just dont enjoy exposure to steep drop-offs, then its recommended to do the out-at-back version. Denver to Durango - Colorado Forum - Tripadvisor At Red Rocks you can catch concerts, stand-up comedy shows, film screenings, and, in the mornings, you can even join a yoga class. Turn right on CO State Hwy 112 W for 13 miles until you reach Del Norte. 4WD and AWD vehicles must have snow tires or all-weather tires with 3/16 inch tread depth. Hikers and skiers often use the route for accessing backcountry terrain, as well as Arapahoe Basin Resort. If you are concerned about scary mountain driving, Red Mountain pass isn't scary, but the first part of the Million Dollar highway from Ouray south 10 or 20 miles is. Save this link to stay updated on COVID-19 restrictions, If you need help, visit the national COVID-19 website or call the COVID-19 Helpline 800-232-4636. One of your first possible stops between Denver and Durango after youve merged onto US 285 South is the Tiny Town & Railroad thats just a short distance down South Turkey Creek Road. day 2 driving 3.5 hours. The social distance requirement in Durango is 2 metres. 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. Thank you :) 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 50 Animas View Dr. No problem finding gas and basic supplies, just not much "good" food or coffee. From there, make a right onto US-550 S, which will take you into Ouray after just over 36 miles. 10 Best Stops on a Denver to Durango Drive - The World Was Here First Top Reasons To Take A Jeep Tour In SW Colorado. It takes approximately 12h 2m to get from Denver to Durango, including transfers. Instead, you will have to first take the bus from Denver to Grand Junction, Colorado and then hop on a second bus heading to Durango. Snowcaped mountains in Berthoud Pass, Colorado. The town of Salida is an excellent option, as it is a good halfway point between Denver and Durango and has lots of interesting things on offer. High average elevation of 10,000 feet and a few passes over 12,000 feet. Its a lengthy stretch, but it also takes you through some of Colorados most spectacular wilderness areas, adventurous mountain towns, and exciting cities. 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. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-75869024', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver Airport and we are supposed to go to Durango by car. The San Juan Skyway & Million Dollar Highway | Visit Durango, CO $206 Cheap Flights from Denver (DEN) to Durango (DGO) Bundle Your Flight + Hotel & Save! This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Start early in the day, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be sure to dress in layers. It is centrally locate and has both private, ensuite rooms available along with hostel dorm beds. The picnic area is also nice for anyone who has packed food for the road trip in a cooler and might want to have lunch before getting back on the road. That said, if you do hike Mount Princeston, still come prepared for a long days hike as well as a little rock scrambling.