Day Trips from Durango
← All Durango day tripsDay Trips from Durango: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Durango, CO. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Durango
Sunset View
CO 81415, USA
Just 2 hrs 56 min from Durango, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Overlook: South Fork Canyon
CO 81154, USA
Just 1 hr 47 min from Durango, rated 5.0 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Park Point North Overlook
CO 81328, USA
Just 1 hr from Durango, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Wolf Creek Valley Overlook
CO 81130, USA
Just 1 hr 29 min from Durango, rated 4.9 stars by 506 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
San Juan Mountains Scenic View
Ridgway, CO 81432
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Durango, rated 4.9 stars by 121 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Sunshine Mountain Scenic Overview
Telluride, CO 81435
Just 1 hr 50 min from Durango, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Red Mountain Overlook
CO 81432, USA
Just 1 hr 21 min from Durango, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Lizard Head Peak Vista Overlook
CO 81301, USA
Just 1 hr 41 min from Durango, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Montezuma Valley Overlook
Mancos, CO 81328
Just 51 min from Durango, rated 4.8 stars by 146 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
San Juan Scenic Overlook
CO 81147, USA
Just 1 hr 9 min from Durango, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
overlook views
Telluride, CO 81435
Just 1 hr 52 min from Durango, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Viewpoint
NM 87413, USA
Just 1 hr 28 min from Durango, rated 4.7 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Durango
What are the best scenic drives near Durango, CO?
The best scenic drives near Durango include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Durango?
Most scenic drives near Durango range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Durango?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Durango, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Durango?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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