We all know it’s hard to put the phone (or tablet or laptop) away. But, Durango’s incredible scenery has a unique way of demanding your attention: anything on a screen is dull in comparison to the peaks and rivers, wildflowers and wildlife of Durango and the surrounding areas.
So, put your gaming and social media on pause and opt instead for one of these grand, family-friendly adventures:
1. ATV Tour
Explore the off-road high-country on an ATV tour. Tours depart daily during the summer months, from a variety of locations, including Durango, Silverton and Glenwood Springs. Both guided and unguided ATV rentals can be found.
Pack a lunch and enjoy a family picnic in the mountains. Explore old ghost towns and mining relics, stashed throughout the Rocky Mountains.
2. Whitewater Rafting
Phones definitely don’t do well on raft trips, so tuck them away (or better yet, leave them in your hotel room). Enjoy an afternoon on the Animas River with friends and family.
Divided into two sections, the Upper and Lower, the Animas River has something for everyone. The Upper is for thrill-seekers and experienced rafters, while the the Lower Animas provides up to Class III rapids passing through Downtown Durango.
3. Rock Climbing
Climbing requires all your attention, and the views at the top of local climbs far surpass anything you’ll find on your phone. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, San Juan Mountain Guides can design the perfect full or half day adventure to suite your style. As they say, “if you can climb a ladder, you can rock climb”.
Trips depart out of Durango, Silverton, Ouray. Telluride’s Via Ferrata is a fantastic way to horizontally scale a mountainside.
4. Horseback Ride
Sunsets are magic, this we know, and seeing one during a horseback ride through mountain wilderness makes it all the more unforgettable. Ditch the device and enjoy a casual ride through spectacular mountain country, followed by an unforgettable ranch-style cookout.
Trips depart all summer long from a number of outfitters in the Southwest. No experience necessary!
5. Train Ride
On a train ride through the San Juans, the only thing you’ll want your phone for is photographs of jagged peaks and the wild Animas River the train rolls along. Stop mid-way to Silverton for the longest zip line in the country at Soaring Tree Top Adventures.
the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad departs up to three times per morning during the peak summer season. Ride the train round-trip or layover in Silverton for a night in a former wild west mining town.
Your daily adventures in Durango will leave you with so much to talk about—to process, share and recall—that we’ll bet your devices remain tucked away during dinner and even once you’re back in your rooms. Even then, they’ll probably come out just so you can share your stories and photographs with those who aren’t lucky enough to be part of your Durango vacation this time around. Remind them: there’s always next time!
