Trip planing

Question

Hi everyone, We would like help on planning our 5 nights trip on early September. We are 2 active seniors who like beautiful scenery but not much hiking and difficult drives.

We will fly to albuquerque on Wednesday morning and fly back on Monday afternoon. We'd like to do the train and mesa verde and maybe a hot spring. Any help is appreciated, thanks in advance.

Answer

Early September is a wonderful time to visit the Four Corners region—comfortable weather, beautiful scenery, and fewer crowds. With 5 nights, flying in and out of Albuquerque, and wanting easier drives, light walking, scenery, the Durango & Silverton train, Mesa Verde, and a possible hot spring, you can absolutely build a relaxed and enjoyable itinerary. Below is a detailed plan designed for active seniors who prefer minimal hiking and comfortable routes.

Overall Trip Notes

Driving from Albuquerque to Durango is about 3.5–4 hours on easy highways. Most major attractions in this region offer optional short walks but don’t require strenuous hiking. The Durango–Silverton railway and Mesa Verde both have great low-intensity options.

Ideal 5-Night Itinerary

Night 1 – Wednesday: Arrive in Albuquerque → Drive to Durango

Pick up your rental car at ABQ and drive north toward Durango. The drive via US-550 is straightforward, lightly winding but not difficult.
Stop in Aztec or Bloomfield for a break. Aztec Ruins National Monument (if interested) has a flat, easy loop trail that’s manageable for all abilities.
Arrive in Durango before dinner. Check into your hotel and stroll historic downtown.
Sleep in Durango (you will stay here 3–4 nights).

Night 2 – Thursday: Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railway

This is one of the most scenic mountain railway rides in the country and ideal for visitors who want scenery without driving difficult roads.
Choose the round-trip train or the bus up / train back option if you prefer a shorter day.
Spend the afternoon relaxing in Durango’s old town, shops, riverside walkway, or a nice restaurant.

Night 3 – Friday: Mesa Verde National Park

Drive 35–45 minutes to Mesa Verde. September is perfect weather.
You can easily enjoy the park with only short walks.
Visit the overlooks along the Mesa Top Loop Road—many viewpoints give spectacular views of ancient cliff dwellings with very minimal walking.
If you want a ranger-led cliff dwelling tour, choose Cliff Palace Overlook Tour or Step House which are easier and less steep.
Return to Durango for dinner and sleep.

Night 4 – Saturday: Pagosa Springs (Hot Spring Day)

Drive about 1 hour east to Pagosa Springs—easy road, no mountain passes.
The town has several relaxing hot spring options, with the most popular being The Springs Resort. Excellent for active seniors.
After soaking, browse downtown shops or enjoy lunch by the river.
Return to Durango or optionally stay one night in Pagosa Springs for an easier day (if you want to split nights).

Night 5 – Sunday: Explore Durango or Optional Scenic Drive

Spend a relaxing day in Durango: the Animas River path is flat and perfect for a scenic stroll.
Visit Durango’s local museums like the Railroad Museum—excellent and easy to enjoy.
Optional easy scenic drive ideas:

Trimble Hot Springs – very close to Durango if you want a second soak.
Drive part of the San Juan Skyway to the town of Dolores (easy roads, not the steep parts near Silverton/Ouray).

Return to Durango for your final night.

Monday: Drive Back to Albuquerque

Leave Durango in the morning and enjoy a relaxed drive back to Albuquerque for your afternoon flight.

Hotel Suggestions

Durango: Stay downtown for walkability (General Palmer Hotel, Strater Hotel, DoubleTree on the river).
Pagosa Springs (optional 1 night): The Springs Resort or one of the small riverside lodges.

Why This Itinerary Works Well for You

Driving routes are easy, with no high mountain passes.
Most activities involve beautiful scenery without difficult hiking.
You get all the highlights: the Durango railroad, Mesa Verde, a hot spring, and charming mountain towns.
Allows slow mornings and scenic afternoons—perfect for active but relaxed travel.