Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

The picturesque town of Durango in southern Colorado is nestled at the base of surrounding mountains. Come summer, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gage Railway is one of the town's main tourist attractions. The historic train runs day trips from Durango to the old mining town of Silverton, high in the mountains.

Durango is also the start point of the Colorado Trail: a 500-mile-long backcountry trail that runs from Denver to Durango. An exciting day hike awaits you on the trail that follows the scenic Junction Creek and then climbs up to Gudy's Rest. Here, visitors enjoy lunch and then head back. Adrenaline junkies can ride along the trail with a mountain bike.

Apart from the stunning scenery, Durango also serves up a downtown steeped in history. The area has some well-restored, grand old buildings that function as hotels and restaurants. Some are done in southwestern décor, with an Old West feel.

In the winter, Durango transforms into a ski town. The Purgatory Ski Resort, located 15 minutes from the town, attracts both locals and skiers from around the Southwest. Some visitors base themselves in Durango, which has reasonably-priced hotels, and skis at Telluride which is two hours away.