MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Durango and Silverton

Getting Around Durango and Silverton

Durango And Silverton Colorado, USA Travel Guide

Public Transportation

Durango Transit operates a network of local bus routes within Durango, connecting various parts of the town. The Durango Trolley (Main Avenue Trolley) delivers a charm-filled way to travel along Main Avenue, connecting downtown with points further north. Silverton's core is compact and very walkable, lacking a public bus or trolley system.

The Durango Transit Center serves as a hub where many bus routes intersect, allowing for transfers. Trolley stops are clearly marked along Main Avenue. Buses generally operate Monday through Saturday, with varying hours; service is usually limited or unavailable on Sundays. The Trolley typically operates Monday through Saturday, from morning to late afternoon or early evening, running approximately every 20 minutes.

Fares & Accessibility

  • Cash fare for Durango Transit and Trolley is $1 per ride. Multi-ride passes save money.
  • Passes are at the Durango Transit Center or from drivers (exact change is helpful).
  • Durango Transit buses and the Durango Trolley are wheelchair accessible.
  • Download the Durango Transit app for real-time bus tracking and schedules.

Durango Transit

Extensive the local bus service connecting various parts of town.

Durango Trolley

Historic trolley running along Main Avenue, convenient for downtown exploration.

Silverton Walkability

Compact, historic core is highly walkable, no local transit system needed.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Services
  • Taxis are available in Durango but are not as numerous as in major cities.
  • Find them near larger hotels or by calling a local taxi company for a pick-up.
  • Fares are usually metered; a short ride in Durango costs $10-$20.
Ride-Sharing Apps
  • Uber and Lyft operate in Durango, but driver availability can be limited.
  • In Silverton, ride-sharing services are virtually non-existent.
  • Always confirm the vehicle and driver details in the app before entering.

Tips for Using Taxis & Rideshare

Pre-Arrange

For airport pick-ups or late-night outings, pre-booking taxi/rideshare is a good practice.

Confirm Payment

Always confirm accepted payment methods with the taxi driver beforehand.

Wait Times

Be aware that rideshare wait times can be longer than in major the greater city areas.

Safety Share

Share trip details from the app with a trusted friend or family member.

Rental Options

Car rental has the most common choice for visitors, offering flexibility to explore the region's diverse landscapes and attractions at one's own pace.

Car Rental Information

  • Requirements: Valid driver's license (from home country), major credit card, 21 or OLDER (under 25 may face surcharge).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-U.S. Citizens.
  • Major Companies: Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty at DRO and some downtown Durango locations.
  • Booking: Highly recommended to reserve in advance, especially for SUVs or 4WD vehicles.

Driving Laws & Conditions

  • Driving Laws: Standard U.S. Laws apply (drive on right, seatbelts mandatory, obey speed limits).
  • Road Conditions: Mountain roads can be challenging. US-550 ("Million Dollar Highway") needs cautious driving.
  • Winter (Nov-Apr): Expect snow/ice. 4WD/AWD automobiles are advisable and sometimes legally required.
  • Wildlife: Deer, elk are common on roads, especially dawn/dusk. Drive carefully.

Bicycle Rentals

  • Durango lacks a city-wide bike-sharing program.
  • Numerous local shops offer bicycle rentals (mountain bikes, road bikes, e-bikes).
  • Some shops provide rentals unique to the Animas River Trail.
  • Safety: Always wear a helmet when cycling.
  • Be aware of vehicle traffic when cycling on roads.
  • High elevation mountain roads are not recommended for general cycling.

Parking Information

Durango Downtown

Mix of paid street parking and garages. Rates vary; pay at meters or central stations.

Silverton

Street parking is generally free and readily available.

Trailheads

Parking can get reserved quickly, especially on weekends; arrive early for well-liked places.

Walking & Cycling

Durango and Silverton both extend pedestrian and cyclist friendly options, providing numerous ways to explore on foot or by bike.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Durango: The Old town Durango, especially Main Avenue, is pedestrian-friendly.
  • Animas River Trail: Paved, multi-use path for miles along the Animas River, suitable for all mobility levels.
  • Silverton: The entire historic core is pedestrian-friendly, making exploration of streets and alleys easy.
  • Walking Tour Options: Self-guided historical maps from visitor centers; guided history or ghost tours available seasonally.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

  • Durango is a "Silver Level Bicycle Friendly Community" designation.
  • Animas River Trail offers vast stretches of paved, car-free cycling.
  • Mountain biking trails abound in the adjacent areas (e.g., Horse Gulch, Twin Buttes).
  • Safety: Always wear a helmet. Be aware of vehicle traffic. Share multi-use paths responsibly.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists

Private Property

Avoid venturing onto private property unless invited.

Respect local land ownership.

Million Dollar Highway US-550

Not recommended for cycling due to heavy traffic, narrow shoulders, steep grades.

High risk for general cyclists.

Extreme Terrain

Beyond marked trails, backcountry areas may need specialized gear and experience.

Assess personal skill level.

Specialized Transportation

Unique Transport Options
  • Tour buses: Guided scenic tours to Mesa Verde or San Juan Skyway (no hop-on-hop-off).
  • Durango & Silverton Small Gauge Railroad: Iconic transport between towns, a tourist experience.
  • Purgatory Resort: Ski lifts/gondolas operate seasonally for ski entry or scenic rides.
Accessibility Services
  • Durango & Silverton Tight Gauge Railroad: Limited wheelchair-accessible cars. Advance booking necessary.
  • Newer hotels/attractions: Designed for ADA compliance with ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms.
  • Durango Transit buses are wheelchair accessible.

Important Accessibility Tip

  • Contact specific attractions or accommodations directly.
  • Check accessibility features before your visit.
  • For the D&SNG train, contact well in advance for accessible cars.
  • Older historic buildings might have limitations regarding accessibility.
  • Direct communication with venues clarifies specific needs.
  • This approach ensures a smoother and more accommodating experience.

Local Travel Insights

Renting a bicycle and exploring the Animas River Trail offers beautiful river views, connects many parks, and has a relaxing way to see a different side of Durango.

If you plan to use public transit frequently in Durango, purchasing a multi-ride pass saves money compared to paying cash for individual rides. Always carry a few dollar bills for exact change.