Durango Summer Planning Guide
Activities and Summer Things To Do In Durango (May, June, July + August)
The snow has melted, temperatures are rising and it's time to start planning your summer vacation to Durango. Summer in Durango is the perfect season to enjoy outdoor activities, exciting events and a wide variety of other things to do. Take advantage of the sun and warm weather to see a new side of Durango this year.
Raft the Animas
As early as May, visitors can partake in rafting with several local outfitters. Rafting is a great way to get an adrenaline rush while staying cool in the summer heat. You can even pair your rafting adventure with a train ride, guided 4x4 Tour or zip line excursion. Rafting packages help to create the ultimate day exploring Durango.
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Summer Train
The Durango Train has many fun events and experiences throughout the summer months. Whether you take a classic ride to Silverton or try out an exciting motor car ride experience you are bound to have a great time. You will also find several fun events involving the train during the summer months like the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic if you are looking for something different.
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Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Beat the heat and get out on one of the many lakes near Durango with stand up paddle boarding. You'll get some exercise, test your balance and paddle your way along some of the most scenic areas in the region. Popular spots to paddle board in Durango include the Animas River, Lake Nighthorse and Vallecito Lake.
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Durango Farmers Market
Durango Farmers Market is on a regular schedule during the summer, taking place every Saturday morning. Visitors can get fresh local produce once a week, enjoy live music and performances and enjoy the beautiful, warm weather. Historic Downtown Durango is full of history and culture and you’re sure to have a great time exploring downtown on your next summer trip to Durango.
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True Western Roundup
On Wednesdays during summer in Durango, the True Western Roundup takes over the La Plata County Fairgrounds. Come out to watch a variety of events including bull riding, saddle broncs, ranch broncs, bareback, novice bull riding, breakaway, barrel racing and team racing. The kids can even get involved in the fun. Participants under age 7 can sign up for Mutton Busting and those 13 and under can try their hands at Steer Riding.
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Four Corners Gem Show
This annual event at the La Plata County Fairgrounds is one of the largest and most popular shows in the Four Corners Region. The Four Corners Gem & Mineral Show is a fun and interesting display of the area's archaeological wonders that folks of all ages and interests can enjoy. Catch the show in July for more than 60 vendors, minerals, fossils, and so much more.
Gem Show
4th of July
Celebrate America's birthday with the best activities and events in the region. The 4th of July in Durango hosts a variety of family-friendly festivities including a river parade, musical performances in Buckley Park, an American Gourmet Breakfast at Rotary Park, a parade and more. There is plenty to do and with warm summer weather, you are guaranteed a memorable 4th.
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Music in the Mountains
Every July, Music in the Mountains brings a celebration of classical music to Southwest Colorado. At different venues across the region, visitors can witness world-class musical performances and experience other exciting events in between. Some annual favorites include chocolate indulgence, a pairing of chocolate desserts, cocktails, beer and wine prior to an evening of music and a Dinner & Family Concert perfect for all ages.
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San Juan Brewfest
The San Juan Brewfest is the largest beer tasting festival in the region. Each August, it brings roughly 40 breweries with over 100 beers to Buckley Park. Paired with live musical entertainment, VIP experiences and food on-site, it is one of the best events of the summer for visitors to partake in. Tickets typically sell out, so you'll want to plan ahead and grab yours well in advance.
More InfoSummer in Durango is a great time to experience some of the areas best outdoor activities, events and festivals. Plan in some of these top Durango activities on your next trip.
