Denver to Durango

Question

Hi.

We are arriving in Denver from UK for a wedding in Durango. Just a very short visit but we would prefer to drive too at least see some of the country.

We land on a Tuesday afternoon and are due in Durango on the Thursday late afternoon.

Obviously no time to see all the amazing sites( ones missed will have to wait for a longer return visit). We won’t have time on the return journey to stop.

With this in mind where does anyone recommend we stop on the way and what sites should we not miss?

Views ,food stops and nice lodging recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks

Mark

Answer

Driving from Denver to Durango offers a wonderful opportunity to experience some of Colorado’s most scenic landscapes, even on a short timeframe. The drive is roughly 6.5–7 hours without stops, so with an overnight along the way, you can make the journey more enjoyable and relaxing.

Here’s a suggested approach for a two-day drive:

Day 1: Denver to Ouray/Montrose area – Depart Denver in the afternoon or early evening and consider staying overnight in the Ouray or Montrose area. Both towns offer charming mountain lodging and scenic surroundings. Ouray is often called the “Switzerland of America” and provides stunning mountain views and a quaint small-town atmosphere.
Food and lodging options:

Ouray Brewery or Bon Ton Restaurant in Ouray for dinner with local flavor.
Montrose: Consider The Hotel Montrose or Airbnb-style cabins for a comfortable overnight stay.

Day 2: Montrose/Ouray to Durango – Depart in the morning and take the scenic route via US-550, known as the “Million Dollar Highway.” This stretch is famous for dramatic mountain passes, sheer cliffs, and sweeping vistas.
Scenic stops:

Ridgway State Park – a quick stop for lakeside views and a short stretch to walk.
Silverton – a historic mining town perfect for a coffee break or light breakfast. Walking around the old streets provides a glimpse into Colorado’s mining history.
Near Durango, if time permits, take a short detour to the Animas River or Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for a picturesque photo opportunity.

This route balances scenic views with manageable driving times and charming stops without feeling rushed. Since your return journey does not allow for stops, packing snacks or scheduling a breakfast stop in Silverton can help break up the drive and enjoy the landscapes.

Overall, prioritizing Ouray and Silverton on the way ensures that you see the most iconic mountain scenery without overextending your time.