least scary drive from denver to durango

Hwy-347 turns off north from US-50 toward the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park 8 mi (12.8 km) east of Montrose, but this town also marks the start of one of the best-loved roads in the country, the Million Dollar Highway, a classic stretch of two-lane blacktop that forms a swirling ribbon through the San Juan Mountains, the wildest . 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. Cortez is 50 miles away from Durango, while Telluride is 110 miles away. When it comes to traveling through heavy snow, strong gusty winds, and blistering cold temperatures, heres our list of some of Colorados most dangerous roads to watch out for this winter. 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. Durango to Denver - 7 ways to travel via train, shuttle, car - Rome2rio Filled with useful and timely travel information, the guides answer all the hard questions - such as 'How do I buy a ticket? If you hit the turn too fast you will go right off the edge. What airport would I fly into to go to Englewood, Colorado? Denver to Moab - How to Enjoy an Epic Weekend Road Trip Silverton is an old mining town nestled between Red Mountain and Molas, two San Juan Mountain passes. For another great SW road trip, check out our Ultimate Colorado and Utah Road Trip Itinerary. That said, if you do hike Mount Princeston, still come prepared for a long days hike as well as a little rock scrambling. 10 Best Stops on a Denver to Durango Drive - The World Was Here First A $15 Gratuity is included in all pricing above. * Head out of Crested Butte the way you came in down CO-135 N and then make a right onto US-50 W for 65 miles until you reach the town of Montrose. If he could teleport to anywhere on the planet, it would be the mountains of Patagonia in Chile. To get to Salida from Denver will be 2.5-hour drive. Photo Credit: milehightraveler (iStock). United Airlines offers flights from Denver Airport to Durango Airport. One of the defining features of the Penitente Canyon area is a natural arch, sometimes called La Ventana (the window in Spanish), which anyone seeking to venture further into this area should prioritize. It stretches from Denver to Durango across the Southern Rockies and can be hiked in 25-35 days. Cheap Flights from Denver Intl. 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. Driving from Denver to Durango? - Colorado Message Board - Tripadvisor Monarch Pass in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. Driving Distance: 941 miles. Wolf Creek Pass in CO: Beware of the wolf - Dangerousroads.org Wolf Creek has gained a reputation all throughout Colorado as one of the best ski resorts to visit for anyone looking to escape crowds and long lift lines, and it also boasts some of the highest seasonal accumulations of snowpack out of any Colorado resorts, depending on the year. Is this a summer trip or a winter trip? Stops and things to do on Denver to Durango drive or road trip - Wanderlog Rome2rio makes travelling from Denver to Durango easy. Thank you. Stops and things to do on Colorado Springs to Durango drive - Wanderlog Durango is the county seat and the most populous municipality of La Plata County, Colorado, United States. This is a lodging and day-use facility built around an odorless hot spring that bubbles up out of the ground at around 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius). Click here to browse other private rentals. Snowcaped mountains in Berthoud Pass, Colorado. Along the National Parks Loop, you'll also go through some other small towns worth exploring like Telluride, Durango, and Buena Vista. Theres so much we could say about things to do in Durango. 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. In addition to Pagosas famous hot springs, theres also whitewater rafting along the Piedra River, great hiking and biking trails, and more fascinating ruins to check out at Chimney Rock National Monument. We love Pikes Peak because theres just so much to explore, and because theres so many ways to actually ascend the peak! The 8 Most Scenic Drives In Colorado - TravelAwaits 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). Apart from being the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, Crested Butte is where mountain biking got its start in Colorado. You can also fly from Denver to Durango, if all this seems to be too much. 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. We will stop there for a break and continue driving. For us, one of the most fun things a first-time visitor can do is catch a show at, If concerts and shows arent your scene, no problem! No matter the route you choose, you wont be disappointed with this breathtaking destination. Tue, Jul 25. Once you arrive at your destination, Durango is an activity-rich railroad town with a history dating back to the post-Gold Rush era of the late 1800s. As with any hike or tour, just remember to bring plenty of water and some snacks along. 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. 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. From Durango, we flew back to Denver, instead of driving back. 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. Make sure to keep a safe following distance between your car and one in front of you. A Google mapping exercise will offer you two routes, one about a half-hour longer than the other. Instead, I'm proposing driving from Montrose to Cortez, with a stop in Telluride on the way. 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. It's actually closer to Albuquerque than Denver as it's not far from the New Mexico border. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-75870242', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Denver to Durango -- at least in any reasonable way -- without some mountain driving. The longer one (I-25 south, US160 west) involves faster driving and more traffic. Talk about a flexible experience! We know what youre thinking: sand dunes in Colorado? 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. Find all the transport options for your trip from Denver to Durango right here. Grand Junction To Dinosaur Afternoons can be hot and windy though. That said, if you do hike Mount Princeston, still come prepared for a long days hike as well as a little rock scrambling. Or, Highway 285 to 160 is more scenic and has mountains but is not scary. Long, steep ascents and descents, particularly around the San Juans. That's because Mapquest knows you drive fast Tet, lol!!! Start early in the day, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be sure to dress in layers. Colorado Trail - Backpacking Routes Not quite what youre looking for? 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. So here I am in Pagosa Springs. (easiest one, no scary mountain driving haha), and if you can suggest good places to stop and eat? The Million Dollar Highway is a scenic section of the US-550 highway which runs north to south. Youll have views for miles around and Aspen Sunflowers covering entire hillsides, making for PERFECT photo ops. If you follow this action-packed itinerary, youll not only find yourself immersed in some of Colorados most exceptional wilderness, but youll also discover fascinating history and take part in some of the Centennial States signature outdoor activities. The highway is also notorious for serious semi-accidents and spin-outs due to its steep curvy descent. Drive to Colorado Springs on Interstate 25 and on through Pueblo to Walsenburg where you'll take Hwy 160 west. Mountain Goat Lodge This boutique bed and breakfast is an excellent option if youre after a bit of luxury while driving to Durango. Getting there is through beautiful, mountainous country, but mountainous roads and I believe some white. You want to avoid leaving Denver on Friday afternoon and you want to avoid returning on Sunday afternoon. Hiking, mountain biking, climbing, rafting, and off-roading are all staple activities here in our hometown. If natural disasters happen to occur, travelers are often rerouted between Ridgway and Durango over Lizard Head Pass a much longer route. How to Get from Denver to Durango - TripSavvy When you reach Del Norte, turn left onto CO-112 E for 13 miles until you reach US-285 N which youll follow for 64 miles. Does anyone know why? Truckers are required to have chains and passenger vehicles must have either snow tires, mud/snow tires, chains, or an alternative device like an autosock. Crested Butte is hands-down one of the coolest places to check out in Colorado. For first-time visitors we recommend either taking a guided nature walk to learn about the areas history and geology, or just taking to the trails on your own to explore at your own pace. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Colorado State Patrol is increasing its watch along the Western Slope, where it says the roads have become the most dangerous place to drive in Colorado during July. But it didn/t work. Error! Semi trucks stuck on I-25. Its also helpful to pack warm layers, snacks, water, and a flash flight for unexpected delays and emergencies. Start early in the day, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be sure to dress in layers. Which route is the best? Ancient home of the Ancestral Puebloans, Mesa Verde hosts some of the most impressive and best-preserved Native American ruins in the United States. Of course, theres an endless list of things to do and places to see in and around Denver. The museum opened on February 23, 2011 in what was once a power plant. Plus, Durangos wild west and mining history give it such a distinguished and quirky character. Call us biased on this if you like, but heading down the Lower Animas is a Durango summer staple. 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. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. These are both safe routes. Top Reasons To Take A Jeep Tour In SW Colorado. You probably want to avoid going to Durango via 550 through Ouray and Silverton (Million Dollar Highway) which is an incredibly scenic, paved, state highway but also has extreme dropoffs without guardrails in places, and little to no shoulder in placesnot the best road for you. Denver to Durango in a day. - RoadTrip America 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. Of the collegiate peaks, Mount Princeton is designated as one of the easiest to climb. Another route, is to take US285 sw from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Sand Dunes are great fun. The river flows right through town and features fun, refreshing splashes from class I and II rapids. Well start our engines in Colorados capital city of Denver! Problem is no-one knows what the weather will be then. Thats not too surprising we suppose as Coloradans tend to ski just about anything. There are lots of unique little shops and restaurants in town, and attractions like the Last Chance Mine offer a glimpse of history for those who are interested. And good news for dog-lovers: pets are allowed on this trail but must be kept on a leash. Members who are extremely knowledgeable about this destination and answer travellers questions frequently. First, head Southwest on US Hwy 285 S, which you'll stay on for about 130 miles. One of the last places to stop between Denver and Durango is Chimney Rock National Monument, which features the ancient remains of a native Pueblo settlement dating back 1,000 years. Photo Credit: Matt Gross Things To Do #3. The shorter one (US285 south and US160 west), more scenic, has more mountains. It features a challenging switchback turn -on the west side- with a 200-foot drop off on the other side of the curve. Looking for the ultimate Colorado summer road trip experience? jaramarzulli.com Informacin detallada del sitio web y la empresa Lots of good food in Durango. . 10 Best Stops on the Denver to Aspen Drive via Vail. Read on for more about how best to plan for a trip from Denver to Durango with some opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and sightseeing along the way. This nationally-protected area consists of more than 30 square miles of massive dunes and is a must-stop for travelers nearing the latter portion of their Denver to Durango road trip. Thank you :) Another great activity to do near Denver is driving the Mount Evans Scenic Byway. A Google mapping exercise will offer you two routes, one about a half-hour longer than the other. Architectural structures left behind by the ancestral Puebloans include pit houses, great kivas, and great houses, according to the U.S. Forest Services website. Yep, its that simple. 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. Well-located in central Durango, they have a range of rooms available to suit all kinds of visitors even allow pets if youre traveling with a four-legged friend! drive for about 54 minutes. This protected archaeological site of San Juan National Forest is best experienced by joining one of the daily guided walking tours offered by the U.S. Forest Service management staff. 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. Let us know in the comments! Although its a small mountain town, its bursting at the seams with history, scenery, and adventure opportunities. 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. News, travel inspiration, podcasts, & more. Other points of interest include feeding the fish at the Wildlife Museum's fish hatchery, going kayaking on the Animas River, or stopping in at Animas Brewing Company to try the latest batch of beer. For more information, see our privacy policy. This option is best to keep in mind for the rafting season of May through August when the mountain snowmelt levels are in their prime. Can you please describe the San Juan Skyway/Million $ Hwy/Red Mtn. Brittany is an award-winning journalist based in Denver where she has lived and worked for more than a decade. Greyhound is virtually the only bus company operating this route and ticket prices start at $63, although they can be as high as $140. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Michelin Guides, Hemispheres, DuJour, and Forbes. Casa's route is good. 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. It is impossible to get from Denver to Durango -- at least in any reasonable way -- without some mountain driving. Youll also get to take on thrilling class III rapids at Durangos exciting whitewater park. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Wearing a face mask on public transport in Durango is recommended. Good coffee is also scarce along that route until you get to Durango. By proceeding, you accept the use of cookies in accordance with our, Take the bus from Union Station Gate B4 to Grand Valley Downtown Transfer Station, Drive from Grand Valley Downtown Transfer Station to Montrose Airport, Take a shuttle bus from Montrose Airport to Telluride, Take a shuttle bus from Silverton, CO to Durango, CO, Take the train from Silverton to Durango, CO, Take a shuttle bus from Purgatory Plaza to Durango Transit Center, Fly from Denver (DEN) to Telluride Regional (TEX), Take a shuttle bus from Mesa Verde National Park to Purgatory Resort. For a more complete guide on the hike, check out this Out There Colorado article. This trail is close to town and extends to a decent length of 4.3 total miles long. 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. Colorado's Most Dangerous Mountain Roads and Passes - 303 Magazine Click here to see their availability. 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. Those with a lot of time on their hands can hike or bike to the summit, which makes for a rewarding journey. The cheapest month to fly is July. Takes 6hrs plus stops and is both easy and scenic. If you drive that route without stops it app.takes 6 hours. Adds about 2.5 hours to the "boring" way, and is incredibly varied and constantly changing. There is no direct connection from Denver to Durango. Do you think it is faster going the other route or should I rather take the old route because I drive thru the night? Browse Dodge vehicles in Berthoud, CO for sale on Cars.com, with prices under $799,952. Im traveling with a friend who has limited mobility. First, head Southwest on US Hwy 285 S, which youll stay on for about 130 miles. From South Fork and US 160, take a right-hand turn onto US 149, also known as the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, for an unforgettable scenic drive to the town of Creede near the headwaters of the Rio Grande. Theres also an observation site for the renowned Treasure Falls thats located just south of the pass. From there, make a right onto US-50 E (passing back through Salida) and follow that for 70 miles until you reach Penrose. The train route links Silverton and Durango, and you can even book a seat in a private car. But those in the know, slow down and stop in four .