Planning a road trip from Durango to Pagosa Springs for your next vacation?
Located in southwestern Colorado, Durango and Pagosa Springs are two beautiful mountain towns.
They are full of historic charm and character.
The scenic drive from Durango to Pagosa Springs offers road trippers incredible views of the surrounding mountains, hills, and valleys.
Here is an ultimate guide to planning the Durango Pagosa Springs drive.
Best Routes for the Durango to Pagosa Springs drive
There are two possible routes to take from Durango CO to Pagosa Springs CO.
The first option is US-160 E, which is the shorter and faster route, passing through Bayfield and Piedra.
The second option is CO-172 S and then CO-151 via Arboles.
This route is slightly longer, but it’s worth the extra time for breathtaking views.
Durango to Pagosa Springs: Driving time and distance
The total driving distance between Durango and Pagosa Springs is a little over 60 miles via Piedra.
It will take you about 1 hour and 15 mins to drive this route, without any stops.
However, the journey time may vary depending on the traffic, road conditions, and weather.
If you take the southern route through Arboles, you will be driving for 75 miles and reach in 1 hour 30 mins.
The road trip is easy and suitable for all kinds of vehicles, and it’s a great way to admire the natural beauty of the region.
Durango to Pagosa Springs Road Trip: Essential Stops
You an easily take this day trip to enjoy the many attractions in Pagosa Springs.
Check out roadside attractions like Piedra and Chimney Rock, and you can even plan a relaxing weekend getaway.
There are several essential stops along the way that you shouldn’t miss on your road trip, see the below.
Durango to Pagosa Springs via US-160 through Piedra
Starting in Durango, take the US-160 east through South Colorado to reach Pagosa Springs.
Durango
Durango is a vibrant city known for its cultural heritage and outdoor activities.
This historic city is a must-visit for its unique blend of old and new.
The downtown area is filled with Victorian buildings that house boutique stores, art galleries, and eateries, providing a glimpse into the city’s past.
Durango is also known for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a historic steam train that offers scenic rides through the San Juan Mountains.
For the outdoorsy, the Animas River Trail provides a scenic route for biking or walking, and the nearby San Juan National Forest is perfect for hiking and camping.
Horseback riding is also popular in this part of Southern Colorado.
Optional: Lake Nighthorse
Take a detour from the main route to visit Lake Nighthorse, Colorado’s largest reservoir.
The lake is surrounded by beautiful pine forests and has stunning views of the mountains in the distance.
You can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking during your stay here.
The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including eagles and osprey.
Bayfield
A stopover at Bayfield is a must on your Durango to Pagosa Springs road trip.
Known for its relaxed, small-town charm, Bayfield is a breath of fresh air from the typical city life.
This community-oriented town is small but brimming with character.
Here, you’ll find unique local shops, a compelling history, and friendly locals who are always ready to share a story or two about their beloved town.
Outdoor activities are also a highlight in Bayfield.
Don’t miss out on Pine River, where fishing and boating opportunities abound.
Also, make sure to visit the beautiful parks dotting the town, perfect for a picnic or a quiet stroll.
Piedra
Moving on from Bayfield, your next stop on the way to Pagosa Springs is Piedra.
The Piedra area is known for its beautiful natural landscapes that include the Piedra River and Piedra Falls.
The river is a popular spot for fly fishing, thanks to its abundant trout population.
For those who appreciate nature, a hike to Piedra Falls is a must.
This 40-foot waterfall is a spectacular sight, especially during the spring runoff.
Make sure to pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic by the falls.
Piedra is a perfect spot for those who enjoy the outdoors and the beauty of unspoiled nature.
Lake Capote Recreation Area
The final stop before Pagosa Springs is the Lake Capote Recreation Area.
This peaceful lake is surrounded by mountains and provides plenty of opportunities for fishing, kayaking, boating, and camping.
There are also several campgrounds near the lake with full amenities like bathrooms and hot showers.
If you’re looking to relax after a long drive, Lake Capote Recreation Area is the perfect place to unwind.
Pagosa Springs
End your Durango to Pagosa Springs road trip in this beautiful mountain town.
Pagosa Springs is known for the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring, the “Great Pagosa Hot Springs”, an attraction that draws visitors from across the country.
The natural hot springs are therapeutic and comfortable all year long, providing a soothing experience after the drive.
This town also has a lot to offer.
Check out the charming downtown area with historic buildings, boutique shops, and a variety of dining options.
Enjoy the nearby outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and fishing on the San Juan River.
Pagosa Springs also has a vibrant arts scene, with local galleries and live music venues around town.
You can unwind after the road trip, soaking in the hot springs, exploring the local shops, or simply enjoying some local cuisine.
In winter, visit the nearby Wolf Creek Ski Resort for some snow fun.
Take your time to explore this charming mountain town and make the most of your visit.
Also Read: 23 Best Things to do in Pagosa Springs, CO
Durango to Pagosa Springs via CO-172 and CO-151
This route will follow CO-172 after leaving Durango towards Ignacio, CO. On the way, you will also see the Durango airport.
Ignacio
Ignacio, your first stop along the CO-172 and CO-151 route, is a community that blends cultural heritage with modern entertainment.
The Southern Ute Cultural Center & Museum should be your first stop.
This museum exhibits the history and culture of the Southern Ute Tribe, sharing their traditions with visitors through a variety of interpretive displays.
Next, test your luck at the Sky Ute Casino Resort.
This modern establishment features a number of gaming options, from slot machines to table games, ensuring a fun-filled experience.
It also houses a few dining options and hosts regular entertainment events, making it a lively stop on your journey.
Last but not least, drop by the Pine River Valley Bank Balloon Rally in August, where colorful hot air balloons take to the skies.
This spectacle is a joy to watch, adding a unique touch to your Ignacio visit.
After your stay in Ignacio, continue your journey towards Arboles.
Make sure to enjoy the scenic views along CO-151 as you complete this part of your Durango to Pagosa Springs road trip.
Arboles
Arboles is a small, unassuming community nestled in the San Juan Mountains.
Here, you’ll find a peaceful atmosphere that invites relaxation and reflection.
Take your time to wander through the streets of downtown Arboles while admiring its historic buildings, which date back to the early 1900s.
For those looking to get more active, the nearby Navajo Reservoir on the Piedra River provides plenty of outdoor activities.
Optional: Navajo State Park
Consider taking a side trip to Navajo State Park while you’re in Arboles.
This park is home to the Navajo Reservoir extending for 20 miles, giving the park its nickname, Colorado’s Lake Powell.
The park provides ample opportunities for water sports including fishing, boating, and water skiing.
Bird-watchers can spot different species of birds such as eagles, hawks, and waterfowl.
The park also offers visitors a chance to explore its diverse wildlife, including deer, coyotes, and foxes.
For those interested in a stay, the park has over 138 campsites and two cabins.
The visitor center also provides insight into the history of the area and the reservoir’s construction.
The Navajo State Park is a highlight on this route, providing a blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Chimney Rock National Monument
Your next stop on this route is the Chimney Rock National Monument.
This site is an important archaeological area that was home to the ancestors of the modern Pueblo Indians.
The monument’s defining feature is its twin rock pinnacles, which were used for ceremonial purposes by the ancient Puebloans.
The Great Kiva and the Pit Houses are other key archaeological features in the area that provide insight into the Puebloan culture.
Chimney Rock is also a great place for hiking.
The Monument Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails, leading you right to the base of the towering rocks.
The trail provides excellent photo opportunities, with the dramatic rock formations set against a backdrop of rolling green hills and clear blue skies.
At the end of the hike, be sure to stop by the visitor center to learn more about the history and culture of the people who once lived here.
As you journey through Chimney Rock National Monument, you will be transported back in time, gaining an understanding of the rich cultural history of the area.
Then continue on the route towards Pagosa Springs.
Pagosa Springs to Durango Road Trip Guide
If you’re looking to explore the region in reverse, starting with Pagosa Springs and ending in Durango, this guide is for you.
The route will take you through many picturesque towns and natural wonders in Southwest Colorado.
After exploring Durango, you can make your way towards Mesa Verde National Park.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site provides an opportunity to see the ruins of the Ancestral Puebloans, a culture that flourished in this area from 600 to 1300 AD.
The park houses thousands of archaeological sites, including cliff dwellings and petroglyphs.
One of the highlights is the Cliff Palace, which is believed to have been home to over 200 Puebloans.
You can also take US-550 or the Million Dollar Highway towards Silverton and Ouray – famously known as Switzerland of America.
Also Read: 29 Best Things to do in Southwest Colorado
Best time for Durango to Pagosa Springs Road trip
The best time for the Durango to Pagosa Springs road trip is from late spring to early fall.
The summer months (June-August) are the busiest and most crowded, but they also provide the most favorable weather, with sunny days and pleasant temperatures.
The fall season (September-November) is also a great time to visit, with colorful foliage and crisp weather.
However, the road conditions may be affected by snow in the winter months (December-March), and some attractions might be closed or limited during this time.
In essence, the journey from Durango to Pagosa Springs is a delightful exploration of Southwest Colorado’s unique charm.
Expect to encounter compelling cultural heritages, impressive natural wonders, and intriguing historical sites as you traverse this route.
The journey has its rewards in every season, but remember to consider your preferred travel conditions before setting off.
What are you favorite stops on Pagosa Springs Durango drive? Let us know below.