Southwest
Colorado 
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Outdoor Adventure in Southwest Colorado
By Mike Yaeger
Quick FactsDestination:
Durango, Pagosa Springs, and Mesa Verde, Colorado, USA |
When most people think of visiting Colorado, they think of the metropolitan city of Denver or the ski resorts of Vail or Aspen. However, one of the best areas of Colorado is actually six hours southwest on the border with Utah and New Mexico. This area has two beautiful mountain ranges, the Sangre de Cristos and the San Juan Mountains; hot springs; the ski resorts of Telluride, Purgatory and Wolf Creek; and the frontier towns of Durango and Pagosa Springs. Together, they make up an area bustling with outdoor activities and sunshine, perfect for any visitor to experience the true Colorado.
Sangre de Cristo Mountains
Transportation from
Denver to Durango, Colorado via Car
The best time of year to make this journey is from May through October, when the days are quite warm, and the nights are crisp and cool. The other months, you will find the passes covered with snow, but this affords the opportunity for winter sports including skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and the occasional snowball fight.
Sawatch Mountain Range
Although there is a small airport in Durango, the best experience is by driving from Denver to Durango. Rental cars can be easily purchased at Denver International Airport. All the major companies are represented and rates vary from 40 USD to 80 USD per day.
Western view
from Wolf Creek Pass
The drive from Denver to Pagosa Springs is about five hours and offers stunning views from the many mountain passes. Durango is an hour drive more. One of the most spectacular vistas is from the West Side of Wolf Creek Pass, looking over the valley towards Pagosa Springs. Another is Treasure Falls, at the bottom of the pass on the Western side. An abundance of pointy rock formations rise up from the sleepy valley floor creating a sense of majestic harmony with the surrounding area. The crystal blue sky and the abundant sunshine provide euphoria for all travelers, regardless of background or home.
Treasure Falls
Southwest
Colorado
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