(easiest one, no scary mountain driving haha), and if you can suggest good places to stop and eat? 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. It is impossible to get from Denver to Durango -- at least in any reasonable way -- without some mountain driving. - to help you get the most out of your next trip. Oh well. Driving from Denver to Durango - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Mostly flat in some areas, Colorado gives drivers the most treacherous section of I-70 through the Rocky Mountains. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a6e6fde05a476155cc84d0616c8a9c0f" );document.getElementById("b934630cd5").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Hi! No problem finding gas and basic supplies, just not much "good" food or coffee. This one is best for families with kids, as there is an entire miniature town complete with painted and detailed buildings, a playground and park, a gift shop, and even an old steam train ride. At this park, you can either take an easy day to drive to the scenic lookouts, or you can book a permit to take the steep hike down to the canyon floor and Gunnison river. The best way to get from Denver to Denver Airport is to train which takes 37 min and costs 4,100-14,000. Denver Area Road Trip Additional terms apply. Thank you :) Among these are the collegiate peaks which are, unsurprisingly, named after some of the United States most famous colleges and Oxford randomly. The journey from Crested Butte to Ouray will take approximately 2.5 hours. When visiting Colorado Springs, 100% the number one thing to do is check out the Garden of the Gods. From there, make a right onto US-550 S, which will take you into Ouray after just over 36 miles. Thank you so much for all the wonderful information. Greyhound is virtually the only bus company operating this route and ticket prices start at $63, although they can be as high as $140. Youll also get to take on thrilling class III rapids at Durangos exciting whitewater park. But assuming youre confident in your car and overall conditions, the Denver to Durango scenic drive down 285 South that also connects with US 160 at Del Norte is the way to go. Ultimate Million Dollar Highway Road Trip Guide: Durango to Ouray However, if youre looking to check out something completely different but equally awesome in Colorado, you cant go wrong with a day trip to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Thank you :) 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. Call us biased on this if you like, but heading down the Lower Animas is a Durango summer staple. Turn right on CO State Hwy 112 W for 13 miles until you reach Del Norte. Semi trucks stuck on I-25. 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. Durango is in southwest Colorado. 4:17 pm arrive in Durango. Filled with useful and timely travel information, the guides answer all the hard questions - such as 'How do I buy a ticket? The train route links Silverton and Durango, and you can even book a seat in a private car. 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. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. It might sound like a bad deal, but these tickets can be a little bit cheaper than United's direct flights and it's still faster than driving. But those in the know, slow down and stop in four . That's because Mapquest knows you drive fast Tet, lol!!! Colorado's Most Dangerous Mountain Roads and Passes - 303 Magazine Before heading out, visit cotrip.org for the latest road conditions and closures. The Million Dollar Highway is a scenic section of the US-550 highway which runs north to south. Top Reasons To Take A Jeep Tour In SW Colorado. 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. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. There was an error processing your request. Do you think it is faster going the other route or should I rather take the old route because I drive thru the night? $206 Cheap Flights from Denver (DEN) to Durango (DGO) Bundle Your Flight + Hotel & Save! Take US Hwy 285 south from Denver for approximately 173 miles. Alternatively, Outdoorsy is an option if you prefer to rent an RV or campervan. Take a tour from Durango and let someone else drive! What can I see on a Denver to Durango road trip. 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. 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. 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. Photo Credit: Christian Murdock; The Gazette. To the best of our knowledge, it is correct as of the last update.Visit Rome2rio travel advice for general help. I drive the 285>160 route almost weekly for the last few months. If youre looking for an all-in-one Colorado destination, Durangos definitely the place to be. Portions of I-70 often close due to severe weather conditions. Grand Junction To Dinosaur 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. Wolf Creek Pass in CO: Beware of the wolf - Dangerousroads.org The bus leaves Denver at 6:45 a.m. and arrives in Durango at 7:10 p.m. The social distance requirement in Durango is 2 metres. If playing it safe during times of the year with bad weather is your goal, it might make sense to take the longer route down I-25 and on to US 160 at Walsenburg. Driving from Denver to Durango? - Colorado Forum - Tripadvisor The drive time from Ouray to Durango is approximately one hour and 45 minutes. This incredible amphitheatre is built right into the front range mountains, making for one of the most beautiful venues in the country. Start early in the day, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be sure to dress in layers. The surrounding area is also brimming with National Forest areas and hiking trails with dispersed camping and car camping options in good supply, so this is a good area to consider when thinking about spending a night on the road in the mild weather of late spring, summer, and early fall. We tackled this whole itinerary in 3 nights but you would be better served to spend at least double that amount of time. This canyon has high walls and granite cliffs that have been carved out by the slow grind of time and the erosion forces of the Arkansas River. Wearing a face mask on public transport in Durango is recommended. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The museum opened on February 23, 2011 in what was once a power plant. No matter the route you choose, you wont be disappointed with this breathtaking destination. 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. Its a lengthy stretch, but it also takes you through some of Colorados most spectacular wilderness areas, adventurous mountain towns, and exciting cities. After hiking the perimeter trail, take a load off and relax in Ourays Hot Springs. Recommended Road Trip Length: 7 days. We love our home state, and we have more than a few top tips for things to do during your visit. Its also important to watch out for mandatory chain and traction laws on I-70, especially during the winter months. The 160 to 285 would be the fastest. Plus, Durangos wild west and mining history give it such a distinguished and quirky character. Again. Its also noted as the highest road in the country thats kept open on a year-round basis. Along the National Parks Loop, you'll also go through some other small towns worth exploring like Telluride, Durango, and Buena Vista. Lots of good food in Durango. Regular fuel costs are around $3.96 per gallon for your trip. And if budget is a factor in your trip planning and you're looking for the cheapest way to travel, you could take a Greyhound bus to Durango. For instance, this beautiful treehouse home with a hot tub is a great choice. Aspen vs Vail vs Breckenridge: Which Colorado Town to Visit? From there, turn left onto US-50 E which will take you into Montrose where you can resume the normal route along US-550 S. This detour will add approximately 80 minutes to your drive time. Alternatively, you may use. Sites such as Coller State Wildlife Area and Palisade Campground are excellent places to get out of the car and take in the views of the Rio Grande on your way up this stretch of highway. Colorado's Scenic Million Dollar Highway: Silverton to Ouray 'A little scary': Iditarod begins with smallest field ever Having seen and read descriptions of the Million Dollar Highway, I'd like to avoid the drive south between Ouray and Silverton. Maybe there's a faster drive but we have not done that. Stops and things to do on Colorado Springs to Durango drive - Wanderlog Hi Diane, The drive from Denver to Aspen takes about 4 hours (if there isn't a lot of traffic). A Google mapping exercise will offer you two routes, one about a half-hour longer than the other. If youre not familiar, Monarch Pass leads to the natural snowy slopes of Monarch Mountain. $195 Cheap Flights from Denver (DEN) to Durango (DRO) - Expedia After spending the night in the alpine town of Vail (yes, on the drive over from Rocky Mountain National Park across I-70, we hit several patches of snow and temperatures falling below zero, even at the end of May! drive for about 54 minutes. One reason you might choose to take the I-25 route from Denver to Durango would be if youd rather minimize the mountain driving on winding, less-maintained roads. What are the roads like, and what do I need to know about driving in Colorado? So, stop by if you can. Most crashes on the pass occur at the switchback curve near the Wolf Creek scenic outlook area. High average elevation of 10,000 feet and a few passes over 12,000 feet. Aetna is Monarch Mountain Resort. If youre passing through outside of ski season, Monarch is still worth a stop thanks to the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway thats open from May through the fall. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-75870199', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver to Durango so I hope you aren't planning to drive it on the same day you arrive. Of the collegiate peaks, Mount Princeton is designated as one of the easiest to climb. Casa's route is good. Is this a summer trip or a winter trip? Pass in SW CO? Good coffee is also scarce along that route until you get to Durango. Traveling with a dog or cat? As always, travel safe and enjoy the views! By Jeremy P. Meyer | jpmeyer@denverpost.com | The Denver Post. So, pack your bags, fasten your seatbelts, and get ready to hit the road on this Denver to Durango loop road trip! To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. I will try to go the route thru the Great Sand Dunes. Its a stop with good lodging options and plenty of services, and there are also two great options for wine and beer tasting, respectively, in Aspen Peak Cellars and Mad Jacks Mountain Brewery. Driving from Denver to Durango? - Colorado Forum - Tripadvisor Denver to Moab - How to Enjoy an Epic Weekend Road Trip Head out of Creede the way you came in along CO-149 S for 22 miles and then make a left onto US-160 E for 17 miles. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Have any questions about any of these stops? Durango is the county seat and the most populous municipality of La Plata County, Colorado, United States. $109 Cheap Flights from Denver to Durango - Orbitz 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! He lives in Colorado and also works as a fly fishing guide and instructor when not editing or writing. Hiking, mountain biking, climbing, rafting, and off-roading are all staple activities here in our hometown. 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. 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. Cortez is 50 miles away from Durango, while Telluride is 110 miles away. Winter in Colorado is no joke. Roadtrip from SoCal to Mt Rushmore thru Colorado, Best Western Plus Deer Park Hotel And Suites. This trail can be completed either as a loop or an out-and-back from the trailhead across La Garita Street near the gas station. The quickest flight from Denver Airport to Durango Airport is the direct flight which takes 1h 19m. If you intend to make all (or even a few) of these stops, youre likely going to want to find a place to stay to break up the drive. The shorter one (US285 south and US160 west), more scenic, has more mountains. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The cheapest way to get from Denver to Durango is to drive which costs 75,000-120,000 and takes 6h 33m. If you drive that route without stops it app.takes 6 hours. This 17-mile historic loop takes you to several abandoned mines in-between beautiful scenic vistas. This trail is close to town and extends to a decent length of 4.3 total miles long. It is impossible to get from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Main Avenue Historic District in Durango, Colorado is a 34acre historic district that was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. It stretches from Denver to Durango across the Southern Rockies and can be hiked in 25-35 days. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 50 Animas View Dr. We have done the drive (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? As mentioned before, we at Mild to Wild know Durango like the back of our hands, and we have so many other recommendations for your visit. Can you please describe the San Juan Skyway/Million $ Hwy/Red Mtn. Pack your hiking boots and a rain jacket as well if you plan on stopping at hiking trails or national parks and monuments like the Great Sand Dunes and Chimney Rock National Monument in the San Juan Forest. Cost of Driving from Denver, CO to Durango, CO - Travelmath Another great activity to do near Denver is driving the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. That said, if you do hike Mount Princeston, still come prepared for a long days hike as well as a little rock scrambling. Which route is the best? Were passionate about getting off the beaten path, promoting responsible tourism, supporting local economies and sharing our knowledge with other travellers! Rome2rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators, ensuring you can make an informed decision about which option will suit you best. Back in Durango, drive east on U.S. 160; get your camera ready for breathtaking views of the snow-flecked La Plata Mountain Range. Denver airport - 407 miles - about 7 hours drive depending on weather conditions Albuquerque airport - 244 miles - about 4:10 hours depending on weather conditions There are Greyhound buses that travel between the city of Albuquerque and Durango, but once again self-drive will be the easiest way to get there. Situated in a beautiful, historic building, they have a range of gorgeous rooms on offer and a great bar and restaurant on site. Only 33 mushers will participate in the ceremonial start of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race on Saturday, the smallest field ever to take their dog teams nearly 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers) over . No problem finding gas and basic supplies, just not much "good" food or coffee. It's said to be one of the most dangerous roads in Colorado. There is also breakfast included each morning. 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 I-25 is a major interstate highway that travels north and south, serving as the main connection from Denver to Colorado Springs. From Sand Dunes, head west on US160 over Wolf Creek Pass to Pagosa. 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. Driving to Durango from Denver is a beautiful, six and a half hour drive. When beginning your Denver to Durango road trip, you have two routes to choose from. However, if youre looking to check out something completely different but equally awesome in Colorado, you cant go wrong with a day trip to, Drop-dead gorgeous and nestled into the heart of the San Juan mountains, visiting Ouray 100% feels like youre being transported to Switzerland. 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. I drive the 285>160 route almost weekly for the last few months. Thank you. Yep, its that simple. $242 Cheap Flights from Denver (DEN) to Durango (DGO) - Expedia One snowstorm resulted in more than 300 crashes in the Denver metro area, with 93 of those occurring within a 3-hour period. 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. Not much to recommend for food along the way. The round trip cost would be $106.55 to go from Denver, CO to Durango, CO and back to Denver, CO again. Driving from Denver to Durango takes about six and a half hours. briken - Denver to Durango is about 403 mi. If you're looking to just get there as quickly as possible, it's much better to fly. All deals One way Roundtrip Tue, Mar 21 DEN Denver DRO Durango $195 One way just found See what its like to plow this dangerous road here. Denver to Durango drive - plan a road trip The road distance is 537.8 km. Monarch Pass winds beautifully into the mountains at 11,312 feet along the Continental Divide between Gunnison and Poncha Springs, located just 20 minutes from Salida. It is a 7 hour plus drive, not counting any stops. It is impossible to get from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The shortest way is to take Route 285 through to Route 160, which will take you past Buena Vista. It is home to Fort Lewis College. The shorter one (US285 south and US160 west), more scenic, has more mountains. *Note: At time of writing (May 17th, 2021) there is a road closure along US-50 W between Sapinero and Montrose that is expected to last until Spring of 2022. Select an option below to see step-by-step directions and to compare ticket prices and travel times in Rome2rio's travel planner. Good coffee is also scarce along that route until you get to Durango. Rome2rios travel guides to the US tell you the best ways to explore the country, from Amtrak to Greyhound to the New York Subway. 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 . Assuming you choose the route through the mountains on 285, youll still be on a paved highway for practically the entire timedepending on your chosen stopsso theres no major need for a high-clearance, 4-wheel drive sort of vehicle. Along the way, possibly stop in Fairplay, see a reconstructed mining town called South Park City. This is the route Google Maps will give you. 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-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. Alpine travel often gets a little sketchy along Loveland Pass, an 8.7-mile road that soars high into the mountains at nearly 12,000 feet. American Airlines also offers flights to Durango, but they require you to first stop in Phoenix, which means it will take at least 4 hours to arrive. At Red Rocks you can catch concerts, stand-up comedy shows, film screenings, and, in the mornings, you can even join a yoga class. Find all the transport options for your trip from Denver to Durango right here. In Del Norte, turn right onto US Hwy 160 W. Follow US Hwy 160 W for 118 miles. How long is the drive from Colorado Springs to Durango?. No problem finding gas and basic supplies, just not much "good" food or coffee. Click here to browse other private rentals. We will stop there for a break and continue driving. The reason why it's so long is because there is no direct bus service between the two cities. At just under four hours, the stretch from Creede to Colorado Springs is the longest drive of this trip. For more information, see our privacy policy. Success! Dont let the views distract you on Berthoud Pass. Breckenridge, Vail, Steamboat, or Estes Park for summer? ), we woke up early and hit the road for what was a 2-hour drive to Grand Junction. I will be making this trip next week and look forward to seeing all this. Colorados capital city has something for everyone: great food, impressive history, beautiful views, and plenty of adventure opportunities close by! 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. Now I am thinking of taking another route. Where Are Colorado's Dangerous Roads? Take A Look At These Maps 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. Rome2rio displays up to date schedules, route maps, journey times and estimated fares from relevant transport operators, ensuring you can make an informed decision about which option will suit you best. After passing the Antero Junction, Mount Princeton Hot Springs is a short detour west down Chalk Creek Drive from Nathrop and Browns Canyon National Monument just as your drive has started to meet with the Arkansas River. Good coffee is also scarce along that route until you get to Durango. 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. Here are some of the most worthwhile pit stops on the way from Denver to Durango: In Durango, you can marvel at the Anasazi ruins in Mesa Verde National Park, schuss down the slopes at Purgatory Resort, or go hiking through the San Juan National Forest. 10 Best Stops on a Denver to Durango Drive - The World Was Here First A direct flight will only take about an hour in the air, which will save you a lot of time. Make yourself known to an official member of staff and/or call the national coronavirus helpline number on 800-232-4636. Apart from being the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, Crested Butte is where mountain biking got its start in Colorado. From hiking to climbing to jeep and segway tours, theres a whole heaping lot to do at this picture-perfect place. Ice and snow-caked roads, highways, and mountain passes make for dangerous and hazardous driving conditions across the state. 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. Instead, I'm proposing driving from Montrose to Cortez, with a stop in Telluride on the way. I would say the "scariest" would be to take US160 over Wolf Creek pass - especially in winter..