Snow Falling on The San Juans… Adventure Is On
The San Juan Mountains are ideal for winter escapades: snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, alpine skiing, and snowmobiling. Hundreds of miles of great trails weave in and out of the San Juan Mountains making any trip out on a wintery day in Durango exhilierating.
Make memories this year. Treat yourself and your family to a scenic train ride to Cascade Creek on the infamous Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The fun doesn’t stop there. The rest of the day will be spent on a guided snowmobiling adventure in the high country with Outlaw Tours. 65 miles of snowmobiling trails located in our backyard leave lasting impressions on even the most experienced winter wonderer. Astounding views, air so thin you can see your breath, and country so beautiful it will leave you in awe are all part of this adventruous excursion.
Get your skis on and head up north. Durango Mountain Resort, Purgatory Mountain to some, is open (re-opens on 12/3). The recent storm system dropped a bunch of moisture leaving DMR with a lot of snow, which means a lot of trails are open and rideable: 1,360 skiable acres to be exact. Be prepared to be there for the day. Bring your lunch or dine in at one of several great restaurants- Creekside Italian Kitchen, Dante’s, or Purgy’s. Take lessons. Even the experienced ski racers benefit from pointers gained during a training session. Or head across the street to the DMR Nordic Center if skate or classic skiing is your gig. Any adventure isn’t complete without the proper safety gear, don’t forget water, proper clothing, goggles/glasses, and of course your helmet.
Snowshoeing, skate and/or cross-country skiing is available too. Head out to the Vallecito Reservoir Nordic Center where you’ll find nearly 15K of groomed trails great for classic and skate skiing. A small donation from visitors goes toward maintaing the trail system. Volunteers are there at the crack of dawn grooming for your skiing pleasure. You don’t have to leave your furry friends at home if you head out to VR. They are welcome to join in the fun. Just be sure to keep care of them (pick up their business!). The skiiers behind you will appreciate it.
Have fun out there!
