A Snowy Afternoon on the Trails in Durango

There are four fantastic seasons of things to do in Durango, Colorado – but we’re closing in on what might be one of the most beautiful. Fall is pretty extraordinary, particularly when the vibrant yellow aspens turn yellow, but we think the snowy landscapes of Durango are absolutely stunning and hard to beat. That’s particularly true as you cross-country ski or snowshoe along the trails on a bluebird day at the popular Durango Nordic Center. Of course, like all great winter destinations, there’s a host of fantastic opportunities for adventure in the Durango area.

Durango is an excellent destination for skiing, with the nearby Purgatory Ski Resort providing some of the best slopes in the region. For a unique experience, don’t miss a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. These winter train rides offer breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscape, not to mention plenty of holiday fun. Winter hiking is also one of the most popular things to do in Durango, CO. But if you want to experience a more serene side of Durango’s winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at the Durango Nordic Center is the place to be. It promises a peaceful yet invigorating way to enjoy the season. 

A fun day of adventure in and around the snow promises to be beautiful – but also likely exhausting. However, there are plenty of great ways to relax and unwind while you’re in the area, too, including local hot springs. Durango Hot Springs offers mineral-rich, soothing waters perfect for warming up after a day in the snow. Several local spas are also available for massages and treatments to help you recharge before heading back out to explore more of the beautiful winter scenery.

When it’s time to rest, there’s no better place to stay than Antlers on the Creek, the newly reopened and top-rated Bed and Breakfast in Durango, Colorado. Our Durango Inn is a cozy and luxurious spot with exceptional hospitality, comfortable rooms, and delicious breakfasts to start your day. It’s the ideal base for anyone looking to enjoy the best that Durango has to offer, from the nearby Durango Nordic Center to the town’s other winter attractions. Enjoy the best winter getaway of the year, and book your stay with us today!

People enjoying mountain views while cross-country skiing at places like the Durango Nordic Center

Hit the Trails at the Durango Nordic Center

If you want to find ways to immerse yourself in the spectacular winter beauty of the Durango area this year, don’t miss the chance to cross-country ski or snowshoe at the Durango Nordic Center. The Durango Nordic Center is part of the popular Purgatory Ski Resort and is found at the base of Engineer Mountain and the Twilight Peaks. While the runs at Purgatory Ski Resort are dedicated to downhill skiers and snowboarders, the 23km of trails at the Durango Nordic Center cater to cross-country skiers and snowshoers. 

Whether you’re gliding along an open meadow or weaving your way through aspen and pine forests, you’ll find an incredible variety of enjoy at the Durango Nordic Center. The trails here are groomed daily and offer a little bit of something for everyone. From wide and flat trails that are perfect for beginnings to narrow trails through densely forested areas for those up for a challenge, one thing is sure: your adventure will be breathtaking. You can purchase a season pass to enjoy multiple days of adventure on the trails or enjoy a single-day passLessons and rentals are available as needed. 

Of course, cross-country skiing is just one way to enjoy the trails at the Durango Nordic Center. Strap on a pair of snowshoes, and you’ll find a slower-paced but equally rewarding way to explore the peaceful winter landscape. There are 5km of dedicated snowshoeing trails at the Durango Nordic Center. As you make your way through the trees, the blanket of snow and the quiet crunch beneath your feet create a sense of being far removed from the hustle of daily life. As you traverse the trails, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the San Juan Mountains.

Purgatory Ski Resort and the Durango Nordic Center are located just north of the city and around 40 minutes from our Bed and Breakfast. The drive is worth every second, though, as you’ll find yourself right in the heart of the most stunning mountain scenery. On a sunny day, the blue sky contrasts brilliantly against the sparkling snow. Whether you’re there for the workout, the scenery, or both, the Durango Nordic Center is the perfect place to embrace winter in this enthralling destination.

Driving a scenic route through the mountains is one of the best things to do in Durango, CO in the winter

The Best Things to Do in Durango, CO This Winter

Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are just one of the myriad ways to enjoy winter in Durango this year. Here, you’ll find the perfect mix of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and opportunities to relax – and don’t forget about charming downtown Durango! It’s filled with great restaurants, breweries, wineries, shopping, and so much more. There are so many fantastic things to do in Durango, CO, that sometimes it can be tough to choose where to start!

Whether you’re carving down the slopes at Purgatory Resort, taking a scenic train ride through the snowy mountains, or exploring the vast network of trails for skiing and snowshoeing, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Durango, CO this winter. From braving the winter elements to staying cozy at our Inn, Durango makes it easy to enjoy the best of both worlds. Below, we’ve listed some of the best things to do in Durango, CO this winter. 

  1. With opening day just around the corner, there’s never been a better time to secure your ski getaways to Purgatory Resort. It offers a variety of runs for beginners to experts, along with stunning views of the San Juan Mountains.
  2. Aside from skiing, one of the most popular things to do in Durango, CO this winter is to ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The scenic winter train ride through snow-covered mountains and forests on this historic railroad is a journey you won’t soon forget. 
  3. Though there are plenty of great cross-country and snowshoeing trails at the Durango Nordic Center, we also love getting outside for some winter hiking. There’s also even more great snowshoeing and Nordic skiing at places like Haviland Lake and the Vallecito Reservior
  4. How about something new and adventurous? Head out into the snowy landscape and enjoy an afternoon of dog-sledding – arguably one of the most fun and unique things to do in Durango, CO, this winter. 
  5. For a little quintessential winter fun, try ice skating at Chapman Hill.
  6. Crank up the adrenaline and head outside into Durango’s winter landscapes for an unforgettable snowmobiling adventure. A high-speed adventure through Durango’s backcountry is a breathtaking way to explore the area’s rugged terrain. You can go on your own, but we recommend guided tours for the best experience. 
  7. Take a break from the snow and soak at Durango Hot Springs. These natural, mineral-rich hot springs offer the perfect way to relax and unwind. 
  8. Finally, don’t miss the chance to explore Downtown Durango. Warm up after outdoor fun with some boutique shopping, great local dining, and cozy spots for après-ski drinks.

This is just the start of your grand winter adventure. Step one is to secure your lodging. Let Antlers on the Creek Bed and Breakfast in Durango, CO, be your welcoming home away from home. Book your stay today!

Join us for a Thanksgiving Feast

Chef Desirae will prepare a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with a creative twist! The feast will be served on November 28th, and lodging is not need to enjoy this dinner. To make the most of your getaway, consider joining us from 11/26 – 12/1 to enjoy a beautiful and relaxing fall in Durango.

The cost for this event is $175/person, which includes a Durango Winery wine pairing. You can book your room through the website, book dinner online or call us at 970-585-8803 to book the feast.