This May Be Colorado's Last Affordable Ski Town-and It Also Has One of the Most Gorgeous Trains in the U.S.

"When you think of Colorado mountain towns, skiing hotspots like Aspen, Vail, or Breckenridge might come to mind. But amid the rugged San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, the former mining community of Durango, Colorado, is one of the last bastions of affordable skiing in the state-with easy access to fresh powder and all the Old West charm you could ask for."

"But even if you're not into snow, there are plenty of other things to do around town, from rafting on the Animas River to hiking Mesa Verde National Park to admiring the views along the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which you may recognize from "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid." Durango is always a good choice to visit, no matter the time of year or what you plan to do."

Durango sits amid the San Juan Mountains and remains one of Colorado's most affordable skiing gateways with easy access to fresh powder and Old West character. The town sits near a reasonably priced ski resort and provides year-round outdoor options including rafting on the Animas River, hiking Mesa Verde National Park, and scenic rides on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Durango-La Plata County Airport recorded its busiest summer ever in 2024, signaling rising visitation. Local leaders note that Covid-19 exposure brought attention to off-the-beaten-path destinations, and Durango retains a warm, down-to-earth atmosphere despite increased tourism.

Read at Travel + Leisure