Best Time to Go
Summer is really the best time to visit, especially if you are a steam locomotive enthusiast. Between May and October the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad does four round-trips daily. The depot is at 479 Main Ave. at the south end of town. The fare is $53 round-trip. They recommend that you reserve tickets at least two weeks in advance by calling (970) 247-2733. Shorter trips that cover the highlights of the route run between late November and early May - once daily starting at 10 a.m. and costing $42. Mountain biking and hiking are other popular area activities.

Average Weather
Scenic Durango is sprinkled with snow through much of the winter, with average low temperatures from October through May falling below freezing and a little bit of precipitation every month. January is the chilliest month with average lows dipping to six degrees Fahrenheit. June, July, and August have warm days with average highs in the 80s. But, take a light jacket, even during the summer evening lows dip into the 40s. Transportation
United Airlines, America West, Continental, and Rio Grande Airlines all service La Plata Airport, 15 miles from Durango. Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz, and National car rental companies all have airport outlets. While you can take the Greyhound Bus to Durango, unless you are a hiker, you’ll need a car once you get there. Public transportation is limited to a city shuttle.

In-Season Costs
Many hotels double their rates during the popular summer months when a budget room can cost as much as $80. Since the invasion of telecommuting tech workers with their craving for latte and sun-dried tomatoes hit Durango, the average meal price rose in accordance with their upscale tastes. Expect to spend $8-10 on breakfast, and around $25 for a full meal in the evening.

Day Trips
Mild to Wild Rafting at 53 Rio Vista Circle in Durango offers numerous day- and half-day trips in the area. In addition to “tame,” trips they offer some rafting experiences for thrill seekers. Contact them at 800-567-6745 for information, cost and reservations. Colorado Mountain Expeditions, at 3635 C. R. 301 in Durango, offers horse-packing trips, hiking excursions and fishing trips. Call them toll free at 877-600-COLO for schedules and further information. Nearby Vallecito Lake has a full-service marina with boat rentals tackle, bait, licenses, and rental rods available. There’s even a skating trail.