Mountain Town Charm: A Day in Durango

 

After days of traversing the arid landscapes of the Southwest, we crossed into Colorado, where the scenery transformed dramatically. Towering peaks, dense forests, and cool mountain air greeted us as we arrived in Durango, a historic railroad town nestled in the Animas River Valley. Though we only spent a day there, Durango left a lasting impression with its blend of Old West charm, modern vibrancy, and stunning natural beauty.

This post is part of a multi-part travel series from our Southwest USA Road trip
For the other parts click here

 

Exploring Durango’s History and Modern Appeal

Durango was founded in 1880 as a key hub for the Denver & Rio Grande Railway, servicing the mining communities in the nearby San Juan Mountains. Today, the town retains much of its frontier spirit while embracing a thriving arts scene, outdoor adventure culture, and a warm, welcoming community. It’s a place where history meets modernity, where century-old brick buildings house trendy cafes, local art galleries, and gear shops catering to hikers, bikers, and skiers who call this region home.

As we strolled through downtown on a crisp late-autumn afternoon, we were charmed by the blend of historic storefronts and lively local energy. The city’s unique character is shaped by a mix of longtime residents, college students from Fort Lewis College, and adventurers drawn to Durango’s reputation as an outdoor paradise.

 

Witnessing the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

One of Durango’s most famous attractions is the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a historic steam train that has been in continuous operation since the 1880s. The train follows a breathtaking route through the San Juan Mountains, offering passengers an unforgettable journey along cliffs, rivers, and deep canyons.

Unfortunately, we arrived too late in the day to take the train ride ourselves, but we were lucky enough to see it pull into the station, its plume of steam rising against the backdrop of the mountains. Watching the old-fashioned locomotive chug into town, its whistle echoing through the valley, felt like stepping back in time. Even from the station, the railroad’s presence added a nostalgic charm to the city, reminding us of Durango’s deep-rooted history.

Dinner at Carver Brewing Pub

After a day of exploring, we headed to Carver Brewing Pub, one of Durango’s beloved establishments. As Colorado’s first brewpub, Carver Brewing has been serving craft beer and hearty meals since 1988, making it a staple for both locals and visitors.

The cozy atmosphere was the perfect place to wind down after a chilly evening walk. We enjoyed a fantastic selection of house-brewed beers, complemented by a delicious meal that hit the spot after a long day of travel. The relaxed ambiance and friendly service made it clear why this place is such a favorite among the Durango community.

Heading South to Albuquerque

The next morning, after a restful night in Durango, we set out for the next leg of our road trip: Albuquerque. Leaving the mountain town behind, we watched as the landscape shifted once again. The lush greenery of Colorado gradually faded, giving way to the vast, open spaces of northern New Mexico. Durango had been a brief but memorable stop on our journey, an inviting mountain town with a rich history and a vibrant present. As we drove south, we knew that each new destination would bring its own unique character, but Durango’s charm and beauty would stay with us long after we left.

To be continued...