Durango Colorado
August 11th -15th 2023
Our Amazing Adventure in Durango, Colorado
Last year, we embarked on an unforgettable adventure in Durango, Colorado, staying at the incredible Colorado Trails Dude Ranch. Nestled in the scenic mountains, the ranch provided us with the perfect base for our action-packed vacation.
Colorado Trails Dude Ranch: A Perfect Retreat
We stayed in cozy cabins at Colorado Trails Dude Ranch, a fantastic retreat with a pool and a charming dining hall. Although we visited after the main tourist season and missed out on ranch dinners, the manager graciously arranged for early breakfasts so we could fuel up before our daily adventures. The hospitality at the ranch set the tone for a wonderful stay.
A Scenic Train Ride from Durango to Silverton
Our first adventure took us on a breathtaking open-air train ride from Durango to the historic mining town of Silverton. The journey through the mountains was awe-inspiring, offering stunning views that left us speechless. Silverton itself was a delightful step back in time, with old-time shops and restaurants that added a nostalgic touch to our trip.
Whitewater Rafting: A Perfect Introduction
After returning to Durango by van, we geared up for a whitewater rafting experience. As newbies, we were a bit nervous, but the experience turned out to be perfect for us. The thrill of navigating the rapids was exhilarating, and we couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to rafting.
Mountain Guided ATV Tour: Excitement on the Backroads
The next day, we embarked on a guided ATV tour through the mountains. Taking turns driving along the exciting backroads, we experienced the rugged beauty of the terrain up close. The thrill of the ride combined with the stunning views made this one of the highlights of our trip.
Horseback Riding: A Tranquil Mountain Experience
We wrapped up the day with a serene horseback ride on the ranch. Riding through the mountains was a beautiful experience, offering a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline-pumping activities we had enjoyed earlier. The tranquility of the ride allowed us to soak in the natural beauty of our surroundings.
Jeep Tour: Exploring the Peaks and Waterfalls
On our final day, we embarked on a half-day jeep tour to the very top of the mountains. Our knowledgeable guide took us on a quest to find hidden waterfalls and showed us where a glacier had descended, leaving a path of destruction in its wake. Amazingly, there was still snow in August, a testament to the region's unique climate. This tour was a fitting end to our action-packed trip, leaving us with incredible memories.
Dining Challenges in Durango
The only downside of our trip was finding restaurants open for dinner in Durango. Being off tourist season, many places closed early, making dining a bit of a challenge. Despite this, the overall experience was so positive that it hardly dampened our spirits.
Looking Forward to August 2025
We can’t wait to return to Durango in August 2025. We’re excited to add new adventures to our itinerary and plan to extend our stay to fully enjoy the ranch.
This trip was an unforgettable experience, and we’re eagerly anticipating our next visit, ready to create even more amazing memories.
If you're looking for an action-packed yet serene getaway, Durango and Colorado Trails Dude Ranch should be at the top of your list. It’s a perfect blend of adventure, natural beauty, and warm hospitality.
