October Durango/ Ouray/ Telluride... Help

Question

Hi all! Looking for some advice on a mid October trip. Family of 6 - we're in our early 40's with four sons (ages 16-6) and will be coming into Durango for a family wedding. We are planning to stay in Durango Fri-Tues as our base between wedding and family activities over the weekend and then Mesa Verde on Monday. From there, we're trying to decide what we should do. We are thinking of heading to Silverton/ Ouray/ Telluride areas for 2-3 nights before we fly home. I'm not sure where to base our next few nights though. Interested in some "easy" hiking/ viewpoints, possibly horseback riding or something active outdoors at that time of year. Hot Springs, cute towns, maybe an old mine visit? I'm open to ideas! I had thought about taking the week and driving all the way back to Denver for some additional stops but leaning toward enjoying the southwest part of the state and into the beautiful mountain area instead of rushing it all and just flying roundtrip Durango. I'm just not sure where we should stay after Durango and what else are the "must dos" or parts we should take in. If anyone can help map out a plan I would sincerely appreciate the suggsetions/guidance! Also, if you have hotel or inn recommendations in whatever town you suggest after Durango, that would be great too. We're not on the luxury level but like something mid-range. Thank you in advance!!

Answer

Hi there,

It sounds like a fantastic trip! Mid-October in southwestern Colorado is beautiful, with fall colors at their peak and cooler temperatures making outdoor activities very enjoyable. Since you’ll be in Durango for a few days and Mesa Verde on Monday, you have some flexibility to explore nearby scenic towns and mountain areas without feeling rushed.

After Durango and Mesa Verde, you have a few good options depending on whether you want to focus on the San Juan Mountains area or gradually make your way toward Telluride and Ouray. Here’s a breakdown of potential bases and activities:

Silverton: A historic mining town with charm and mountain scenery. Great for easy to moderate hikes nearby, scenic drives, and train rides on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (if operating). Offers a cozy, small-town feel.
Ouray: Known as the “Switzerland of America,” Ouray is ideal for hot springs, easy trails, and scenic drives. You can drive the Million Dollar Highway between Silverton and Ouray for incredible views. Ouray also has options for light adventure like horseback riding and jeep tours of old mines.
Telluride: A beautiful mountain town with scenic gondola rides, family-friendly hikes, and fall scenery. Town itself is very walkable and offers casual restaurants and shops. Staying here gives access to both outdoor adventure and a charming town atmosphere.

For a 2-3 night stay, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Drive from Durango to Silverton via the scenic route, explore the town, short hikes or an old mine tour, overnight in Silverton.
Day 2: Take the Million Dollar Highway to Ouray, stopping at scenic overlooks along the way. Spend the day exploring Ouray, enjoy the hot springs, maybe take a short horseback ride or light hike. Overnight in Ouray.
Day 3: Continue to Telluride for a more mountain-town experience. Take easy hikes, gondola rides, or explore nearby falls. Overnight in Telluride if you want a last night before flying home.

Alternatively, you could pick one base (Ouray or Telluride) for two nights and do day trips to the surrounding towns to reduce packing/unpacking. If your goal is minimal driving, Ouray can be a convenient central base to visit Silverton and Telluride in day trips, though drives can be a bit long and winding.

Suggested mid-range lodging options:

Silverton: Grand Imperial Hotel or Victorian-era inns offer comfortable stays with historic charm.
Ouray: Main Street Inn or Ouray Chalet; both are family-friendly and close to town and hot springs.
Telluride: Hotel Telluride or Sheridan Hotel; good location for easy town access and mountain views.

Other activities to consider:

Hot Springs: Ouray Hot Springs is large and family-friendly.
Horseback Riding: Many operators around Durango, Ouray, and Telluride offer guided rides suitable for families.
Scenic Drives: Million Dollar Highway (US 550) is a must for spectacular fall foliage and mountain scenery.
Easy Hikes/Viewpoints: Bridal Veil Falls near Telluride, Perimeter Trail in Ouray, and Miner’s Park in Silverton.
Historic Mines: In Silverton or Ouray, several mines offer short tours that are fun for kids and adults alike.

Overall, focusing on the San Juan Mountains region after Durango allows you to soak in incredible scenery without rushing back toward Denver. You’ll experience charming towns, easy outdoor adventures, and memorable fall colors.

October Durango/ Ouray/ Telluride... Help

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