HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND, DURANGO! It’s finally summer time (kinda) in Durango with hot temperatures, events and live music playing on every block. Whether you plan to go camping, hang out at Lake Nighthorse, watch the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic race or want to grill out with the family, here are a couple things you need to know about Memorial Day weekend in Durango, Colorado. As always, as you participate in activities around our little mountain town, be sure to tag us on Instagram and Facebook and #dodurango to be featured in our feed!
If you plan on going camping…
Even though we had a very heavy winter this year, please keep our wilderness beautiful! Be sure to pack out anything you bring with you camping and stay alert on any fire restrictions or “red flag days” we may have. Local fire officials monitor weather conditions and fuel moisture throughout the year and will update accordingly if any significant changes occur. Please remember to always fully extinguish your campfires. Here are a few resources for you to check in order to stay informed:
LA PLATA COUNTY FIRE EMERGENCY INFO
DURANGO FIRE CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS
The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic
The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic is an iconic symbol in Durango, Colorado. This race is 50 miles, has a 5,700 feet elevation gain and goes through 10,000 foot passes. This is the 54th year anniversary of the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic so there is sure to be a celebration! This year’s two-day bike festival takes place as it always has– Saturday, May 23rd-25th, 2025 during Memorial Day weekend–and overflows with new events, old friends and the story that keeps Colorado’s longest-running race thriving for the local economy and our bicycle slap happy souls. Check out more information about the race HERE.
Water, water and more water…
Vallecito Lake
Vallecito Lake is located just 45 minutes outside of Durango, Colorado. This is the ultimate hidden gem for all things boating, paddle boarding, fishing and camping. If you plan on spending your Memorial Day weekend on the lake and camping with the family, then this is the perfect place for you! We are all more than ready to celebrate the long weekend and Vallecito Lake is open for business.
The Boat Ramp
The boat ramp located on the west side of the lake will be open. Also, note that you will need to be passing normal boat inspections and to be sure that you have a Colorado regulated registration as well as a day or annual permit for your boat. More information on how to register your boat in Colorado can be found HERE. Free boat inspections will be held at the marina before boat launching will be permitted to ensure no invasive species are on your boat.
Fishing
Fishing licenses can be purchased at the marina for either single day use or annual passes. However, at your convenience due to social distance restrictions, it is suggested that you purchase your license online. You can do so HERE on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife website.
Day Use Areas Open
Day use areas will be open around the circumference of the lake, however you must purchase day passes in order to utilize these areas. You can purchase a day pass at any of the several pay stations around the lake, at the marina or you can visit the Pine River Irrigation District which is at the southern end of the lake, just before the dam.
Lake Nighthorse
Lake Nighthorse is the optimal spot to go to if you’re planning on celebrating your Memorial Day weekend in town. Being just 15 minutes from downtown Durango, you get the best of both worlds by spending the day at the lake and having a family cookout in town! Check out the rules and regulations, hours of operation and more HERE!
Animas River
The Animas River is the perfect spot for a day by or on the water. Since the Animas runs all the way through the town of Durango, Colorado, you can pick any spot you would like to cool off and relax during your long holiday weekend. If you plan on floating the river, be sure to check how fast it’s running using this resource. We received a TON of snow this winter so be sure to stay alert!
Post courtesy of 360Durango.com.
