Durango, CO
County: La Plata
History
Durango, Colorado is located in the southwestern part of the state and is the county seat of La Plata County. The area where Durango is located has a long history of human habitation, dating back thousands of years.
Native American tribes, including the Anasazi and Ute, were the first inhabitants of the region. They lived in the area for centuries before the arrival of European settlers.
In the mid-19th century, Durango was primarily a mining town. The discovery of gold and silver in the region attracted a large number of prospectors, leading to the establishment of several mining camps in the area. The settlement that would later become Durango was initially known as Animas City and served as a supply center for the mining operations.
Durango's fortunes further improved in the 1880s with the arrival of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad. The railroad connected Durango to other parts of Colorado and New Mexico, leading to an increase in trade and population. The railroad also brought tourism to the area, with visitors coming to enjoy the scenic beauty of the San Juan Mountains and the Animas River.
In the early 20th century, Durango experienced a decline in mining activity. However, it began to focus on other industries such as timber, agriculture, and tourism. The town managed to preserve its historic downtown area, which still features many well-preserved Victorian-era buildings.
Durango continued to grow throughout the 20th century, becoming a regional hub for education, healthcare, and outdoor recreation. Today, it is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the San Juan National Forest and Mesa Verde National Park. Outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and river rafting attract visitors from around the world.
Durango is also home to Fort Lewis College, a public liberal arts college that was established in 1911 and has played a significant role in the town's cultural and educational development.
Overall, Durango's history is deeply rooted in the mining industry and the growth brought by the arrival of the railroad. Today, it is a vibrant and thriving community that embraces its past while looking towards the future.
Attractions
Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
This historic train takes passengers on a scenic journey through the beautiful San Juan Mountains.
Mesa Verde National Park
Located just outside of Durango, Mesa Verde is known for its well-preserved Native American cliff dwellings.
Animas River Trail
This paved trail follows the scenic Animas River and is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.
Historic Downtown Durango
Explore the charming streets of downtown Durango, filled with shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
Purgatory Resort
Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or other outdoor activities at this popular winter resort.
Durango Fish Hatchery and Wildlife Museum
Learn about local wildlife and see various species of fish at this educational attraction.
San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway
Take a scenic drive through the San Juan Mountains, passing through charming towns like Ouray and Silverton.
Durango Discovery Museum
A hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits and activities for all ages.
Fort Lewis College
Visit this scenic college campus and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Durango Arts Center
Explore local art exhibits, attend performances, or take part in workshops and classes at this cultural hub.
Climate
Durango, Colorado has a climate that is classified as a semi-arid steppe climate (also known as a cold semi-arid climate) characterized by mild to moderate precipitation and significant temperature variations throughout the year. The city experiences all four distinct seasons.
Summers in Durango are generally warm and dry, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 30 degrees Celsius) to the mid-90s Fahrenheit (around 35 degrees Celsius). However, it is not uncommon for temperatures to reach the 100s Fahrenheit (above 37 degrees Celsius) during heatwaves. Thunderstorms in the afternoons are quite common during the summer months, providing some relief from the heat. Winters in Durango are cold, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-30s Fahrenheit (around 2 degrees Celsius) to the mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 7 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can drop significantly overnight, often below freezing, resulting in snowfall. Durango receives an average of about 71 inches (180 cm) of snow annually.
Spring and fall in Durango are transitional seasons with milder temperatures. Spring brings gradually warmer days with highs in the 50s to 70s Fahrenheit (10-25 degrees Celsius), while fall experiences cooler temperatures with highs in the 40s to 60s Fahrenheit (5-20 degrees Celsius). It is worth noting that Durango's location in the Rocky Mountains contributes to its climate, as the surrounding mountains can impact weather patterns, resulting in variations in temperature and precipitation.
Overall, Durango experiences a pleasant climate with relatively low humidity and abundant sunshine, as it receives around 300 days of sunshine per year. This makes Durango a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking.
Neighborhoods
Durango, Colorado is a charming small city located in the southwestern part of the state. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the Animas River and the San Juan Mountains. Durango is divided into several neighborhoods, each with its unique features and characteristics. Here are some of the different neighborhoods of Durango.
Historic Downtown
This is the heart of Durango and is known for its preserved historic buildings, boutique shops, art galleries, and a vibrant dining scene. The neighborhood is pedestrian-friendly and offers a lively atmosphere, especially during festivals and events.
Animas Valley
Located north of downtown, the Animas Valley is a scenic area known for its expansive farmlands, open spaces, and views of the surrounding mountains. It offers a rural feel with a mix of ranches, farms, and residential areas. The Animas River runs through this neighborhood, offering excellent opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and biking.
College/Crestview
This neighborhood is home to Fort Lewis College, a public liberal arts college. Many students and faculty members reside in this area, creating a young and vibrant community. The College/Crestview neighborhood offers a range of housing options, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes.
Three Springs
Three Springs is a newer neighborhood located to the southeast of downtown Durango. It is a planned community that offers a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. Three Springs focuses on sustainability and features modern homes, parks, trails, and a community center. It also has several retail and dining options.
Edgemont Highlands
Situated to the northeast of Durango, Edgemont Highlands is a wooded mountain community known for its beautiful views, large lots, and access to hiking trails. It offers a peaceful and secluded atmosphere, making it popular among those seeking a more private and nature-oriented living experience.
Durango West
Located to the west of Durango, this neighborhood is primarily residential and offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses. It provides a peaceful suburban setting with mountain views, and its proximity to downtown makes it convenient for residents to enjoy the amenities of the city.
These are just a few of the notable neighborhoods in Durango, each with its distinct charm and lifestyle. Whether you prefer the historic downtown area, the rural beauty of the Animas Valley, or the newer planned communities, Durango offers a variety of options for residents to choose from.