Month: November 2022

From its snow capped mountains to its festive small towns, there’s no question that Durango is a winter wonderland. Consider embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure by exploring Cascade Canyon. Whether you’re interested in snowshoeing or simply taking in the sites, this scenic oasis has something for the whole family to enjoy. Read on for everything you need to know about the famous Cascade Canyon Winter Trail. . 

Cascade Creek Trail

No trip to Durango is complete without a visit to Cascade Creek Trail, which is found within Cascade Canyon. Located near Durango, this trail  is situated off of Highway 550 and is easily accessible to the public. Adventurers will be rewarded with views of a waterfall, which is often frozen during the winter. With an elevation gain of 1,500 feet, Cascade Canyon Trail attracts avid winter sports enthusiasts. 

Winter Sports at Cascade Canyon

Cascade Canyon is known for its ice climbing and snowshoeing. The frozen waterfalls make this an optimal spot for ice climbing, offering great conditions for climbers of all experience levels. The best time for ice climbing is from mid-January to mid-February. 

Snowshoeing is another popular sport that’s enjoyed at Cascade Canyon. Thanks to the elevation gain of 1,500 feet, Cascade Canyon primarily attracts experienced snowshoers. There’s plenty of trails to choose from, which means you can easily select a route that best suits you. 

All Aboard the Cascade Canyon Winter Train

If you’re looking to explore Cascade Canyon another way, consider taking a ride on the Cascade Canyon Winter Train. Departing from Downtown Durango, this train ride covers 26 miles each way and totals in a 5.25 hour trip. Passengers will have a front row seat to stunning views of the Animas River, picturesque Rocky Mountains, and pine trees covered in snow – all the while staying warm in their heated cabins. Pricing and booking can be found directly on the D&SNGRR website. 

Whether you’re exploring Cascade Canyon on foot or from the heated cabin of your train, this stop is one that you won’t want to miss. 

With its world-class mountains boasting wide open ski slopes, Southwest Colorado is paradise for ski enthusiasts. Southwest Colorado is home to the San Juan Mountains, which offers some of the best slopes in the state. Instead of sitting around the fire this winter, get ready to have the adventure of a lifetime. Here’s a look into five of the best skiing destinations near Glacier. 

Purgatory Resort 

Ski season at Purgatory Ski Resort will kick off on Saturday, November 19.

Located just outside of Durango, Purgatory Ski Resort is a favorite amongst locals. The mountain is known for its 1,300 skiable acres, 2,000 foot vertical  and top-notch snow quality. With a mix of steep tree skiing trails and wide-open cruisers, skiers can look forward to groomed runs and stunning views.

Telluride Ski Resort

Telluride Ski Resort opens on November 24, 2022.

Telluride is one of the most visited ski resorts in Southwest Colorado and, once you’ve been here, it’s not hard to understand why.  Telluride Ski Resort features more than 2,200 acres of skiable area, appealing to everyone from beginners to experts. With a maximum elevation of 13,150 feet, the mountain receives an average of 280 inches of snowfall annually. The mountain’s 4,425 feet of vertical can be accessed by 19 lifts and 148 runs.

Wolf Creek 

Celebrate the start of ski season at Wolf Creek on October 29, 2022.

Located approximately an hour and a half from Durango, Wolf Creek Ski Resort is located in the San Juan and Rio Grande national forest. The resort first opened in 1939 and offers 1,600 ski-able acres. With an annual snowfall of 430 inches of natural powder, Wolf Creek is known to have  the “most snow in Colorado.”

 Hesperus

Opening day at Hesperus is December 17, 2022.

If you’re someone who enjoys night skiing, then Hesperus is just the place for you. Hesperus Ski Area, located just 30 minutes from Durango, is a small ski destination. It features 60 acres of skiable area with 26 trails and a summit elevation of 8,888 feet. Visitors of all ages and skill sets can look forward to the resort’s array of runs, night skiing and ski lessons.

Whichever resort you choose, you can look forward to creating unforgettable memories with your loved ones this winter.