Winter Activities in Durango
Guests who visit our small town in winter always discover (or rediscover) that the Animas Valley truly is a wonderland. There are so many things to do in Durango, CO that it can be hard to decide what your itinerary should be.
Here are a few of the activities you can make part of your winter extravaganza.
Durango Skiing
Here in Durango, skiing is one of the biggest reasons we get tourists in the winter. At Gable House Inn, we offer secure storage for your skis, snowboards, and other equipment so you don’t have to cart them around everywhere you go.
Listed below are some skiing opportunities you can take advantage of.
- Address: 1 Skier Pl, Durango, CO
- Distance from us: 27.4 miles
Just a 30- to 40-minute drive north of our location stands Purgatory Resort, the premier skiing resort in the area. Nestled in the San Juan Mountains, this resort offers over 1,600 acres of skiable slopes with 105 trails of varying difficulty, consisting of a blend of steep tree trails and wide-open, gentle slopes.
Purgatory has a reputation for having consistent powder snow conditions due to the frequent storms in the area. No matter what your skill level is, you are sure to have a blast at this family-friendly resort.
Purgatory Resort in Colorado
If you would rather glide across rugged wilderness, you’ll be happy to learn that Cascade Canyon offers an excellent area for cross country skiing. Accessed by Old Lime Creek Road north of Durango, this area offers awesome views of aspen and pine forests with beautiful waterfalls tucked away like hidden treasures.
Cascade Canyon has designated cross country trails that wind their way towards the Needle Mountains.
Cross Country Skiing
The most unique way to ski has to be during the Silverton Skijoring event. Essentially, skijoring is like water skiing, except instead of a boat, a rider on a horse is pulling the skier through an obstacle course.
You don’t even have to take part in the event itself since the Silverton Skijoring event is free to all spectators. The event typically takes place sometime in the month of February.
Skijoring
Durango Dog Sledding
If you love the works of Jack London, or just love dogs, you can answer your call of the wild with Durango Dog Sledding. Hosted by Durango Dog Ranch, you can go on a guided tour, sledding across trails on the ranch. Each excursion is 2 hours long and begins with a mushing lesson, teaching you how to ride your sled and steer the dogs safely.
All winter tours are done by reservation only. Visit the website for Durango Dog Ranch to see their availability as well as learn about how the tours operate.
Sleigh Rides in Durango, CO
Looking for sleigh rides in Colorado? Durango is your place.
A sleigh ride is a perfect way to celebrate the holiday season. The jingling of bells and clopping of hooves accompany the pristine landscapes of the Animas Valley, all while you're bundled up and cuddling with your loved ones.
The premier company in the area that offers rides is Spring Creek Carriage Service. You can reach them by calling (970) 551-0044 or by emailing
springcreekcarriage@juno.com
Enjoy the Winter at Gable House Inn
Gable House Inn is the best place to stay for a perfect winter retreat. With comfortable rooms, service with small town charm, and plenty of amenities to make your stay as smooth as possible, we are dedicated to helping you get the vacation you deserve.