Silverton/Ouray/Durango in mid-May

Question

We'll be in Durango with a daytrip to Silverton/Ouray from May 20th through the 22nd. (From there, we'll move on to Mesa Verde.) I realize this will be early in the season - hopefully not too much snow on the ground... What are some things that will be open? I have this on the itinerary so far: Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad (just museum - not ride - due to toddler attention span), Animas river trail, Million Dollar Highway, the Powerhouse, Durango Community rec center for indoor swimming. Anything else good for young children?

Answer

Visiting Durango, Silverton, and Ouray in mid-May can be a beautiful experience, though you are correct that it is still early season and some higher elevation activities may be limited due to lingering snow. However, there are several attractions and activities suitable for families with young children.

In Durango:

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum: Since you’re skipping the ride, the museum itself is a great stop for little ones to see historic trains and interactive exhibits.
Animas River Trail: Perfect for a stroller-friendly walk or a short bike ride along the river. The scenery is lovely in May, with spring greenery.
Powerhouse Science Center: Hands-on exhibits for kids, a fun stop for toddlers and school-age children alike.
Durango Community Recreation Center: Indoor swimming is a great way to burn off energy, especially if weather turns cool or rainy.
Smiley’s Fun Center: Arcade and indoor play options suitable for toddlers.

Day Trips to Silverton and Ouray:

Million Dollar Highway: Stunning scenic drive—plan for short stops for photos and snacks, but be cautious with a toddler near cliff edges.
Ouray Hot Springs: Pools can be enjoyable even in cooler weather. Toddlers usually love shallow areas.
Ice Park Viewing: In May, the Ouray Ice Park will be closed for climbing, but the park itself and surrounding scenery are still impressive for a brief stop.
Walking around historic Silverton: Early season is quiet, so strolling the main street with its charming shops can be pleasant with a toddler.

Additional suggestions:

Farmers Markets or Local Events: Check for small spring markets in Durango or Ouray—they can be fun for kids.
Short Easy Hikes: Trails like the Cascade Creek Trail near Durango or Box Canyon Falls near Ouray offer manageable walks with toddler-friendly views.
Durango Train Depot Park: Open area near the train station with room for kids to run and picnic.

Weather-wise, be prepared for cool mornings and potential light snow at higher elevations. Dressing in layers is key. Roads, including the Million Dollar Highway, are generally open by mid-May, but always check local conditions in advance.

Silverton/Ouray/Durango in mid-May

More Colorado (CO) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions