| Durango: Insider Tips & FAQs |
|||
| |
|||
 |
 |
||
|
The full name of the Durango Airport
is "La Plata County Airport." It is a small airport -
there are only 2 gates. Currently there is regular service from Delta, United
and America West, but we suggest visit the website at
http://www.durangoairport.com/schedule.htm
to check regular service and flights. Short-term and long-term parking
is available. Long
term parking charges are $6.00 per day up to a maximum of $30.00 in
a seven day period. Short term parking is free for the first thirty
minutes, and $1.00 cents per each half hour thereafter. More
information is available by calling 247 9501. |
||
|
Durango Transportation
provides airport shuttle, 24-hour taxi service, charter buses and
vans, and priority package delivery service. Buckhorn Limousine also has transportation services available; call: (970) 769-0933. |
||
|
There are several rental car companies
that have a counter
and pick-up at the La Plata County Airport. Dollar Rent A Car also has
a pick-up location in the town center. Check
great rates and special discounts here! |
||
|
Durango-La Plata County Airport (15 miles) Albuquerque New Mexico (3-4 hours) Farmington NM (1 hour) Cortez Colorado (45 miles) Denver, Salt Lake, or Phoenix airport all 6 - 8 hours away (with good weather) |
||
|
There are 3 Greyhound busses that arrive
in Durango. Durango
Bus Center provides intercity passenger, package delivery and charter
service. Depot for Trailways and Greyhound. Location: 275 E. 8th Ave.,
Durango, CO 81301, Phone: (970) 259 2755. Bus 1: Runs Daily - Arrive in Durango 9:05a.m. - Departs 9:30a.m. Travels North to South from Salt Lake - Grand Junction - Durango - Albuquerque - El Paso Bus 2: Runs Daily - Arrive in Durango 8:10a.m. - Departs 8:20a.m. Travels South to North from El Paso - Albuquerque - Durango - Grand Junction - Salt Lake Bus 3: Runs Monday to Friday - Arrive in Durango 3:50pm. - Departs 4:00pm. Travels Albuquerque - Durango - Albuquerque For bus schedules, fares and reservations visit www.greyhound.com |
||
|
The "Trolley" travels up and down Main
Avenue (from Days Inn to the Train Depot) every 20 minutes from 6:00
a.m. until 10:40 p.m. seven days a week and costs 50 cents. All Trolleys
are fully accessible. The "Durango Lift" offers 2 minibuses that provide service to the neighborhoods in Crestview & South Durango and North & South businesses and shopping areas. Service is provided Monday through Saturday from 6:25 a.m. until 7 p.m. Click Here for more information on the Trolley and Durango Lift. Durango Transportation offers Taxi service on a reservation basis - Call (970) 259 4818. Buckhorn Limousine also has transportation services available; call (970) 769-0933. |
||
|
Average temperatures: January is between 15F (C) and 41F (5C). July is between 51F (12C) and 86F (25C). |
||
|
The city of Durango is 6,500 Feet above
sea level. |
||
|
Most health risks in Durango are related
to altitude: altitude sickness, hypothermia and sunburn.
Did you know? About three-quarters of the nations land
above 10,000 feet is in Colorado. Estimates place more than half of
Colorado above 5,280 feet. A good rule of thumb: Drink half your body
weight in ounces of water daily (e.g. a 200-pound person should drink
about 100 ounces of liquid). Even on overcast days you can get sunburn!
Wear sunscreen!
Layer your clothing in winter and stick to
natural fabrics - cotton and wool - if possible. Here are some great tips for Summer and Winter: Recreational activities such as hiking, biking, skiing and snowboarding place physical demands on your body. These demands increase dramatically at high altitude. What is High Alitude? Broadly interpreted high altitude is any place above 5,280 feet (1,609km). Durango Mountain Resort's base elevation is 8,793 feet, with the summit elevation at 10,822 feet. Effects of High Altitude - At high altitudes, everyone is affected to some degree. The effects vary among individuals and a variety of symptoms are seen. Two main differences between the high altitude environment and sea level are decreased oxygen density and decreased humidity, or moisture content in the air. At our elevation of about 9,000 feet the oxygen is approximately 40%-45% less dense (creating the feeling of 'thin air'), and the humidity is 50%-80% lower than at sea level. A sudden change lower than at sea level. A sudden change in environment from sea level to high altitude can produce nausea, insomnia, diarrhea, restlessness, shortness of breath, and air hunger. Palpitations or fast heart beat, headache, nasal congestion, coughing, increased flatulence or 'gas', easy fatigue and intolerance to exertion also may be experienced. If the high altitude experience continues, more shortness of breath and increased coughing and edema (fluid accumulation in the lungs) may occur requiring medical attention and possible hospitalization. Adapting to high altitude: The initial complaints should disappear as your body adjusts to the lowered oxygen content and dryness. This may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. What to do: DRINK PLENTY OF WATER! Avoid alcohol for the first 48 hours, eat lightly, get plenty of rest, avoid over-exertion before your body can adapt to the lower oxygen and dryness. Pregnant women should check with their physicians before exerting at high altitudes. Some Final Suggestions: If you experience any symptoms that were mentioned, you may be suffering from an oxygen deficit. Get in the shade out of the sun, the symptoms are a caution to decrease your activity and protect yourself. A day of rest is strongly suggested. If your symptoms do not improve or additional symptoms develop that worry you, do not hesitate to contact Mercy Medical Center's on site clinic (extension 129) to talk to a nurse or doctor on duty. You are in a high altitude area to enjoy your vacation. It is tempting to do as much as possible. Vigorous exercise the first day followed by a big meal with alcohol and more exercise early the following day can lead to high altitude symptoms and spoil your vacation. |
||
|
Durango, Bayfield, Ignacio, Cortez:
970 |
||
|
None.
There is no foreign currency exchange off ice in Durango. Change your money before you get
here. |
||
|
The city of Durango is accessible by two federal highways - U.S. Highway 160 and U.S. Highway 550. U.S. Highway 160, the Navajo Trail Highway, traverses the area from east to west. It comes from Pueblo, Colorado and the junction with Interstate 25, running to the west through Cortez, Colorado and connecting with Interstate 40 to the southwest which leads to Flagstaff where major routes connect to Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona. US Highway 550 connects to Durango with Farmington, New Mexico and Highway 44 going south to Albuquerque where Interstates 25 and 40 meet (approximately 230 miles). To the north, U.S. Highway 550 connects Durango with Grand Junction and Interstate 70. | ||
|
The number for Colorado road conditions
is toll free
1 877 315 7623. |
||
|
* * * * * *
* * * * * * |
National Parks offer some great deals on
entrance fees and 50% discounts off facilities. You can purchase an
annual National Parks Pass for $50 and admits the pass signee
and any accompanying passengers in a private vehicle. Seniors 62
years or older can get a Golden Age Passport for a one time
processing charge of $10. You must purchase a Golden Age Passport in
person (it is not available by mail or telephone). This can be done
at any NPS facility that charges an entrance fee. At time of purchase
you must show proof of age (62 years or older) and be a citizen or permanent
resident of the United States. For information about these and other passes visit http://www.nps.gov/fees_passes.htm |
||
|
|
 |
||
|
FAQ
|
Are there any discount coupons
to be found for the train?" Crant There are no coupons for the train. Consider the price a donation to the great history of the American West. This "National Historic Landmark" is not a profitable endeavor (the train usually looses money). The cost of constantly maintaining the tracks, originally from 1882, through the rough terrain and severe weather conditions - mud slides, floods, snow and avalanches - is immense. The locomotives are the original 100% coal-fired, steam-operated, 1923-25 vintage and are maintained in pristine condition. When you consider all this - the price of the ticket is a bargain! |
||
|
FAQ
|
"My husband and I will be vacationing in Durango
in September. We plan on taking the train ride to Silverton one
day. While in Silverton, I would like to go on the Hundred Mine
Tour. How far away is the train depot to the mine tour? Hopefully within walking distance." - Suzanna Bad news. The tour is not close enough to the train to walk - and plus there is not enough time. The train only rests in Silverton for 2 1/2 hours. |
||
FAQ |
"We are taking the train One-Way to Silverton. We would
like to have our car driven to Silverton to meet us. Can you recommend
bonded drivers in the area that provide this service?" - Floyd
I have been working on your request for bonded drivers and I have found NONE. Durango Transportation (our local taxi service) will provide that service for a hefty fee. They don't have the exact price for this year yet - but last year was $100 and it will most likely go up. You must reserve in advance and their phone number is : (970) 259 4818. Buckhorn Limousine also has transportation services available; call: (970) 769-0933. Most people drive their car up the night before and drive back with a friend. But if you have no friend - you have a problem. Leah |
||
|
TIP |
With your round-trip train ticket you can
stay overnight in Silverton for no extra charge (except for
your hotel stay). So you can ride to Silverton
one day and ride back to Durango the next. Just make your reservations
that way. For anyone who is not on a tight schedule - I suggest you
do this. It is great fun. Silverton is a wonderful place with much history. When the
sun goes down and the crowds are gone, you can really get the feel of
what this old mining town was like. Be sure to make your hotel
reservations far in advance (we recommend the Teller House).
Visit
our Silverton pages for hotels,
restaurants, activities, etc. |
||
|
TIP Tubing the Animas
|
Water
levels after the end of July, or to be safe below 500 CFS, make it the
perfect time to Tube the
Animas. The best and safest route is to go from City Market North
(32nd Avenue) to Albertson's Market. It takes about an hour if you go
straight through. Small children should not go because it is dangerous
in some spots. For transportation, you can leave your car at Albertson's
Market then take the trolley or bus up to North City Market - they run
regularly. Have some towels and change of clothes waiting for you in
your car upon your return. If you are not a good swimmer, wear a life
vest. Make sure you have sunscreen on, good water shoes like sneakers
or Tevas, sunglasses and a hat. The water is cold so watch out for
hypothermia. Have fun! TIP: If you don't have a tube, you can rent one at Southwest Whitewater - they will also supply shuttle transportation! Or you can buy a truck tire inner tube for about $15 at BIG O TIRES on Main Avenue across from the Fairgrounds. They will blow them up for you too. |
||
|
FAQ
|
"What time is the best time to ride the train to have a
chance to see wildlife? Viewing wildlife can happen at any time. Common are elk and deer. You might be lucky and see bear, coyote, marmot, raccoon, rabbit, mountain sheep, eagle, falcon, squirrel and chipmunk I suggest you make sure to reserve a seat on the right side of the train going to Silverton (the Gorge side) for better views. |
||
|
"We are flying into ABQ New Mexico and will be traveling
to Purgatory Ski Resort. How far is Farmington from ABQ? How long of
a drive to Purgatory from Farmington. We don't want to drive to Purgatory
from the airport as the flight won't get in until 7p.m. Where to stay
overnight I guess is the question. The road we will be traveling on
is the 2 lane road that runs through Cuba. I don't remember the name.
Any advice would be helpful. Thank you" - KM It is about a 2 1/4 hour drive from Albuquerque to Farmington. Then another 45 minutes to Durango. The entire drive on Highway 550 from Bernalillo (Exit 242 off I25) now takes only 3 hours! It's a dream! If you come in late, stay overnight in Albuquerque (The Holiday Inn or Best Western are really nice and cheap - check the website). There are not good hotels in between - mostly Indian reservations. Cuba has 1 hotel, but it is really bad (I had to stay there during a snow storm). Plus you really don't want to drive on the reservations at night - too many sheep, cows and wild animals. Leah |
||
|
FAQ Glider Rides
|
"In Durango they have glider
rides. I am wanting to know the name of the company and what time of
the is it open?" - Damon The Durango Soaring Club is 3 miles north of Durango on Hwy 550. They are open 9am - 5pm from May 15 to October 10 Call for a reservation (970) 247 9037. Have fun! |
||
|
FAQ Is there dog boarding in Durango?
|
"Merry Christmas! Do you know of any dog boarding kennel
in Durango, CO or on the way up to the Durango Mountain Ski Area that
might be available for 5 days of boarding around Christmas? Thanks"
- Dwight Merry Christmas to you. I have a few suggestions: Wonuka Farms can board your dogs and your horses and they also have a rental house so you can stay there too - Call (970) 259 8848. Durango Animal Hospital boards in their kennel and you must have proof of shots and call them for requirements & reservations at (970) 247 3174. Puppy Love Kennel is (970) 259 3043. Willow Tree Kennel is (970) 259 0018. Make reservations! |
||
FAQ |
"Hi, some friends and I are planning a camping trip
to Durango this Memorial Day weekend. Can you suggest the best
campgrounds in town for tenters? We like privacy and wilderness,
trying to avoid the traditional KOA's. Any ideas?"
- Here is a list of campgrounds and their phone numbers. Aramark Morefield Campground (near Mesa Verde) (970) 565 2133 Kiosk Campground (near Mesa Verde Also) (970) 564 1675 Country view Lodge (Durango) (970) 247 5701 Durango North-Ponderosa (970) 247 4499 Durango Year round RV park (970) 247 5199 Hermosa Meadows camper park (970) 247 3055 KOA-Durango East (970) 247 0783 Lightner Creek CampGround (970) 247 5406 United Campground of Durango (970) 247 3853 There are also some National Forest campgrounds up Junction Creek that I would recommend. (970) 247-4874. Of all the KOA places, I think that the Lightner Creek campground or the Durango North Ponderosa would be best for trying to avoid the normal crowd. Because its memorial day, make sure you call for availability. -Leah |
||
|
FAQ
|
"Hi! We'll be vacationing in Colorado for three
weeks. We love country dancing (two-step). We're from New York
City. Can you give us some information as to where in Durango we could
go to dance. Thanks for your help." We currently have one nightclub called the Wild Horse on College and 2nd in downtown Durango (Next to the Ore House Restaurant). |
||
|
FAQ
|
"Amy, We are traveling to Durango with our little
ones. My husband and I would like to go out alone one evening. Are there
any babysitting services?" Dear Andrea, If your children are over 2, I can recommend a responsible young lady in Durango. You can contact her by e mail or call (970) 259 8785. |
||
| FAQ
|
"Do
you know when Hesperus Ski area will be open? Also do they have ski
lessons there? I heard there is a place to ski and lessons there in
Durango itself, can you find out. Also can you get any information on
Kendall Mt. recreation area around Silverton? I will have 4 grandchildren
with us. Thank you"- Darryl It is hard to say if Hesperus will be open in March. If the snow is still good, they most likely will be. There official website is http://durango.org/. You can contact them before you go to find out if they will be open. Kendall Mountain in Silverton will most likely be open. Silverton has a lot of snow now. Go to their official site for more info. http://www.silvertoncolorado.com/ Your other option of course is Durango Mountain Resort. They will be open until 22 April. I hope this helps. |
||
|
Tip: Trimble Hot Springs |
Hi Leah! I am looking for information
about the hot springs. Thanks, Mary The Trimble Hot Springs is a great place to relax! Here is their contact information: Trimble Hot Springs website: http://www.trimblehotsprings.com/ Location: 6475 County Road 203 • Durango, Colorado 81301 General Information Phone Number: (970) 247-0111 During the summer, a lot of people can visit the hot springs. I recommend trying to go later in the evening to avoid a crowd. However, from my experience, there are more bugs out at night. It's also more relaxing to get into the hot water when it is a little cooler in the air in the evening. I also recommend the hot springs in the winter for a great soak. Remember to take flip flops or other shoes or your feet will freeze on the short walk to the pool. A bathrobe is also recommended. |
||
|
FAQ Winter Dinner Sleigh Rides |
"Visiting Durango on Dec 28 and Dec 29.
My husband, 16yr old son and I would like to go on a sleigh ride.
Can you recommend the most scenic and fun sleigh ride in the area?"
- DC Bucks Livery operates from the first snowfall until the snow melts. Dinner Sleigh Rides are at 4:30 and 7pm. They are 2 to 2 1/2 hours. They recommend the 4:30 ride for kids. Prices are: Adults $49, Children(6-12) $39, Under 6 $29. (From 12/21 to 1/1 prices for all are $49 each). Bucks recommends that you dress in layers. Blankets are provided. The cabins are heated and you will receive a hot chocolate when you arrive. Dinner of Rib Eye Steak or Chicken Breasts a, Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Cowboy Beans, Sour Dough Biscuits, Cobbler. BYOB. They offer 4 sleighs for up to 10 persons each. Reservations are required. Until the first snow you can call (970) 259-5675 for reservations. After the first snow, call 385-2110. |
||
|
TIP Ski Lift Tickets |
Currently
Durango Mountain Resort does not have any lift ticket specials. Skiers 70 years old and older Ski Free! |
||
|
TIP Entertainment in Durango |
The Durango
Choral Society's mixed choir draws singers from the community interested
in performing music together. The choir presents four to five concerts
each program season. The Durango Choral Society has sung at Carnegie
Hall, with the Music in the Mountains Orchestra (performance was
recorded for Rocky Mountain PBS), and with the San Juan Symphony on a
regular basis. For over 30 years, the Durango Choral Society (DCS) has
drawn singers from the Four Corners area interested in performing choral
music. Their mission is to enhance the musical and cultural development
of the community through the promotion and participation by the DCS
members in musical programs for the benefit and enjoyment of the
community. There is also the Children's Choral and Women's Choir for
your musical enjoyment. For more information, call (970) 247-7251 or www.durangochoralsociety.org. |
||
|
|
||
| Durango
Sights, Places of Interest, Links - Do-It-Yourself Tours |
|||
| If
you have any questions, comments or if you have any full or half day
trips you would like to add, we would be very happy to share them with
the world! Send all the details to Leah, your Travel Guide, at info@destinationcoupons.com |
|||