least scary drive from denver to durango

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. Although you can explore much of the park on your own, taking a guided tour is the way to go as thats the only way to gain access to the most popular sites such as Cliff Palace and Balcony House. 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. If you hit the turn too fast you will go right off the edge. If you need to rent a car for this trip, you can check out Rentalcars.com which aggregates deals across suppliers. Sand Dunes are great fun. avoiding scary driving - Durango Forum - Tripadvisor Head west on US-50 W for 60 miles, and then turn right onto CO-135 N which will take you to Crested Butte after 27 miles. A $15 Gratuity is included in all pricing above. 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. 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. I took a GPS with me to attach in the rental car. Research, browse, save, and share from 162 Dodge models in Berthoud, CO. Head out of town along US-160 E for 102 miles until you reach South Fork. This 17-mile historic loop takes you to several abandoned mines in-between beautiful scenic vistas. Located 60 miles west of Denver, this incredible highway is the highest paved road in North America. *Note: At time of writing (May 17th, 2021) there is a road closure along US-50 W between Sapinero and Montrose that is expected to last until Spring of 2022. We know what youre thinking: sand dunes in Colorado? Make sure to keep a safe following distance between your car and one in front of you. To get to Salida from Denver will be 2.5-hour drive. Getting there is through beautiful, mountainous country, but mountainous roads and I believe some white. Apart from being the Wildflower Capital of Colorado, Crested Butte is where mountain biking got its start in Colorado. The scenic section that we refer to as the Million Dollar Highway is the 25-mile section between Ouray and Silverton, then from Silverton to Durango the scenic road technically becomes the San Juan Skyway. If high-alpine hikes arent your jazz, another great place to explore near Salida is Great Sand Dunes National Park. 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. Well, youve come to the right place. It might sound like a bad deal, but these tickets can be a little bit cheaper than United's direct flights and it's still faster than driving. briken - Denver to Durango is about 403 mi. Two-wheel drive cars can certainly make this gravel-road route, but its recommended to drive the loop backwards if your vehicle isnt great off-road. Outdoor seating areas are especially nice for sampling the beverages and entrees at either one. All three cross Wolf Creek Pass on US160, which is truly scary only if your brakes fail on the way down. You know what? No trip to the area should skip it in my opinion. , Where to Stay on a Denver to Durango Road Trip. Recommended Road Trip Length: 7 days. Click here to browse other private rentals. He has spent time in Costa Rica and has made numerous trips exploring the Western states of the Rocky Mountains. 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 . Each flight takes about an hour, so this is definitely the fastest way to get from Denver to Durango. If we could only recommend two things (as has been established as the pattern of this post), then the first wed recommend is a rafting trip on the Lower Animas river. Were passionate about getting off the beaten path, promoting responsible tourism, supporting local economies and sharing our knowledge with other travellers! Either way there is only one high pass to cross (Wolf Creek, mentioned above), and I wouldn't call it scary. So, stop by if you can. Start early in the day, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be sure to dress in layers. The Best Colorado Summer Road Trip - Denver to Durango Loop Colorado's Scenic Million Dollar Highway: Silverton to Ouray Loveland Pass Summit in Winter. Takes you to nearly every major mountain zone in the state and the deepest canyons, highest passes, steepest mountains, and coolest towns. Plus, your guide will provide insightful interpretations on each of the archaeological sites as well as the history of the Ancestral Pueblo people. (easiest one, no scary mountain driving haha), and if you can suggest good places to stop and eat? Airfares from $109 One Way, $219 Round Trip from Denver to Durango. 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. caudesucre.com Informacin detallada del sitio web y la empresa Not much to recommend for food along the way. Which route is the best? The national COVID-19 helpline number in Durango is 800-232-4636. In Del Norte, turn right onto US Hwy 160 W. Follow US Hwy 160 W for 118 miles. Click here to browse other private rentals. Powerhouse Science Center, formerly the The Durango Discovery Museum, is an interactive science center located in Durango, Colorado. $242 Cheap Flights from Denver (DEN) to Durango (DGO) - Expedia Its actually closer to Albuquerque than Denver as its not far from the New Mexico border. I would say the "scariest" would be to take US160 over Wolf Creek pass - especially in winter.. Assuming you choose the route through the mountains on 285, youll still be on a paved highway for practically the entire timedepending on your chosen stopsso theres no major need for a high-clearance, 4-wheel drive sort of vehicle. That said, if you do hike Mount Princeston, still come prepared for a long days hike as well as a little rock scrambling. It takes approximately 12h 2m to get from Denver to Durango, including transfers. American Airlines also offers flights to Durango, but they require you to first stop in Phoenix, which means it will take at least 4 hours to arrive. Heavy snow slams Northeast; storm cleanup begins in South Youll also get to take on thrilling class III rapids at Durangos exciting whitewater park. I routinely make the trip via 285 and it is much shorter and beautiful. If you drove there from Albuquerque it would take you about half as long. If youre hiking with children or just dont enjoy exposure to steep drop-offs, then its recommended to do the out-at-back version. to Guadalupe Victoria Durango Intl. Here are some of the most worthwhile pit stops on the way from Denver to Durango: In Durango, you can marvel at the Anasazi ruins in Mesa Verde National Park, schuss down the slopes at Purgatory Resort, or go hiking through the San Juan National Forest. But it didn/t work. 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. Roads surrounding the Denver metro area are often a mess, especially when you add snow and ice to the mix. This trail is close to town and extends to a decent length of 4.3 total miles long. 5.5 hours of driving without stops. You have two route options, both of which take you through amazing scenery and worthwhile stops. All deals One way Roundtrip Tue, Mar 21 DEN Denver DRO Durango $195 One way just found The building opened in 1917, and served as a high school until 1976, after which it became the district administration building. If youre planning an escape to Durango in southwestern Colorado, a road trip will lead you through some historic miningtowns, scenic overlooks worthy of a stop, and unique hot springs that youll definitely be able to smell as you make your approach. If you intend to make all (or even a few) of these stops, youre likely going to want to find a place to stay to break up the drive. 13 Best Stops on the Denver to Las Vegas Drive - Divergent Travelers If you are concerned about scary mountain driving, Red Mountain pass isn't scary, but the first part of the Million Dollar highway from Ouray south 10 or 20 miles is. Denver to Durango in a day. - RoadTrip America High average elevation of 10,000 feet and a few passes over 12,000 feet. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Monarch Pass winds beautifully into the mountains at 11,312 feet along the Continental Divide between Gunnison and Poncha Springs, located just 20 minutes from Salida. Take US Hwy 285 south from Denver for approximately 173 miles. 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. Services like gas stations and restaurants are in good supply at Salida, Saguache, and other areas along the way. SIGN UP: Free daily newsletter + 20% off in the OTC gear shop, The 7 most dangerous winter roads in Colorado, 93 of those occurring within a 3-hour period, Denver commuter spends 83 hours per year stuck in traffic, Public access for two Colorado 14ers to close, after bill to protect landowners from liability dies, [VIDEO] Snowboarders spend over an hour in a tree to avoid angry moose in Colorado, $50,000 reward offered in search for suspect who robbed USPS letter carrier, Nathaniel Rateliff, Elle King among artists coming to Denver area in March, Skier Shiffrin locks up overall title, still chases win 86, US to focus bison restoration on expanding tribal herds. At Red Rocks you can catch concerts, stand-up comedy shows, film screenings, and, in the mornings, you can even join a yoga class. Drive to Colorado Springs on Interstate 25 and on through Pueblo to Walsenburg where you'll take Hwy 160 west. If youre traveling on slippery or snowy roads, use caution, slow down, and please, take it easy on the brakes. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. From Sand Dunes, head west on US160 over Wolf Creek Pass to Pagosa. Cost of Driving from Denver, CO to Durango, CO - Travelmath Informacin detallada del sitio web y la empresa: jaramarzulli.com, +911647681164, +911647244548, +911646228156, +911646126349, +911645988738 Jara Marzulli | La poetica di un'artista Takes 6hrs plus stops and is both easy and scenic. Issue is that I (the mom, who is not going to be the driver) am fairly averse to heights. Driving from Denver to Durango takes about six and a half hours. You have two route options, both of which take you through amazing scenery and worthwhile stops. Raft trips in the canyon can be booked through several outfitters based out of Salida and the surrounding area, such as Browns Canyon Rafting, KODI Rafting, Noahs Ark, and several others. Do you think it is faster going the other route or should I rather take the old route because I drive thru the night? Well start our engines in Colorados capital city of Denver! Thank you :) Driving from Denver to Durango - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums For photographers, taking photos of the sunset from atop one of the dunes is an unforgettable experience. Along the way, possibly stop in Fairplay, see a reconstructed mining town called South Park City. It is a 7 hour plus drive, not counting any stops. Theres a lot of great terrain here for skiers of all skill levels in the wintertime, with everything from black diamond tree runs to easy, gradual glades and trails on the slopes that descend from Monarch Pass. 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. What is the national COVID-19 helpline number in Durango? If not, the area works just fine as a pretty place to drive through. I drive the 285>160 route almost weekly for the last few months. Start early in the day, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be sure to dress in layers. Michael Rosebrock / Shutterstock 7. 16 Best Things to Do in Colorado in Summer, Travel From Madrid to San Sebastian by Train, Car, and Plane, How to Travel From Rome to Naples by Train, Plane, Bus, or Car, The Top 10 Things to Do in Durango, Colorado, How to Travel From Denver to Las Vegas by Bus, Car, and Plane, How to Travel From Montreal to Quebec City by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane, How to Travel from Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane, The Best Places to See Fall Colors in Colorado, How to Travel from Los Angeles to Denver by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane, Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. It's a fairly long drive from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Additional terms apply. 172. A Google mapping exercise will offer you two routes, one about a half-hour longer than the other. In fact, winter weather is often the blame for the majority of delays and crashes. Your Guide to a Million Dollar Highway Road Trip - Reader's Digest Denver to Durango drive: which route? : Durango - reddit Good coffee is also scarce along that route until you get to Durango. Those with a lot of time on their hands can hike or bike to the summit, which makes for a rewarding journey. And as this road trip tends to take only about six to six and a half hours, its easy to pull off in a single day with plenty of time for some stops near the highway. But. What about the altitude/Altitude sickness? Private Vacation Rental There are a number of great properties to choose from in Salida such as this beautiful secluded log cabin if youre looking for a peaceful getaway. Durango, Colorado 81301 Lodging for 2 nights in Estes park in mid May, Where to stay near Union Station if using Red Rocks shuttle. 2023 The World Was Here First All rights reserved. How long is the drive from Colorado Springs to Durango?. 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. Thai place in Poncha Springs and Lost Cajun in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Semi trucks stuck on I-25. High season is considered to be October, November and December. 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. (easiest one, no scary mountain driving haha), and if you can suggest good places to stop and eat? Editors Note: Never speed. What about Mine Tours and Mining Museums? Your trip begins in Denver, Colorado. By Jeremy P. Meyer | jpmeyer@denverpost.com | The Denver Post. Transportation and Shuttle Services - Purgatory Resort 2:05 pm Pagosa Springs (Colorado) stay for about 1 hour. A Google mapping exercise will offer you two routes, one about a half-hour longer than the other. Top Reasons To Take A Jeep Tour In SW Colorado. 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. 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. Family RV adventure advice for Colorado, Utah & Wyoming. Colorado, United States. Not to mention, its known as one of the most treacherous roads in the state. Tours and campgrounds are also available, and popular activities include sledding down the dunes (a time-honored favorite), four-wheel tours, and horseback riding. Pass in SW CO? Which route is the best? Utah. Yep, its that simple. Stops and things to do on Denver to Durango drive or road trip - Wanderlog

Terry Hobbs 2021, Funeral Luncheon Menu Ideas, Articles L