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How to Get to Durango and Silverton

How to Get to Durango and Silverton

Durango And Silverton Colorado, USA Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) is the main airport. Other regional alternatives include Albuquerque (ABQ) plus Majestic Junction (GJT). Denver International Airport (DIA) is a significant drive away.

Connecting Airlines

  • United Airlines: Flights to/from Denver (DEN).
  • American Airlines: Flights to/from Dallas/Cowtown (DFW) and Phoenix (PHX).
  • Delta Air Lines: Seasonal flights to/from Salt Lake City (SLC).

Flight Planning & Services

No direct international flights to DRO; connections are from major U.S. Hubs. Flight frequency and prices rise substantially during peak tourist seasons.

Airport Amenities & Transfers

  • Airport facilities (DRO): Smaller facility with rental car counters, a restaurant, gift shop, Wi-Fi.
  • Transfer options: Rental cars (Hertz, Avis, Enterprise), transport services (advance booking helps), taxis/rideshare (Uber/Lyft).
  • For flight deals, explore Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Seasonal Pricing

Prices rise during summer, winter holidays, and spring break.

Arrival Timing

Confirm rental car or shuttle operations for late-night arrivals.

Connecting Flights

Allow generous layover time at U.S. Hubs for international connections.

Choosing Your Flight

Direct Flight Alternatives

  • Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) is a 3.5-hour drive south.
  • Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT) is a 3-hour drive north.
  • Denver International Airport (DIA) is a 6-7 hour drive, suitable for scenic journeys.
  • These airports allow for ground transportation options to Durango.

Hub Considerations

  • International travelers connect through major U.S. Hubs like DEN, DFW, PHX, LAX, ORD.
  • Some routes or airlines offer seasonal service only, affecting availability.
  • Flight prices change; booking early can secure better rates, especially for peak seasons.
  • Confirm flight details 24 hours before departure for any last-minute changes.

Airport Tips DRO

Security Screening

Arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before scheduled departure. Security can be slower at smaller airports.

Rental Car Return

Factor in time for the return journeying your rental car at the airport when suitable.

Limited Amenities

DRO has limited buying things or dining options post-security. Plan accordingly before reaching the gate area.

Land Transportation

Train and Bus Services

No Amtrak passenger rail service connects directly to Durango or Silverton. Limited long-distance bus options exist.

Train & Bus Overview

  • Durango & Silverton Tight Gauge Railroad: Scenic link between towns, operates seasonally.
  • Long-distance bus: Greyhound does not serve Durango directly. Closest stations in Albuquerque or Grand Junction.
  • Regional Bus: Bustang Outrider connects Durango to Grand Junction and other Colorado towns.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Driving has the most common way to access Durango. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-U.S. Citizens.

Driving Considerations

  • U.S. Route 550, including the "Million Dollar Highway," is scenic but winding and demands caution.
  • Winter driving (Nov-Apr): Snow, ice are common. 4WD/AWD vehicles are strongly recommended or required.
  • Wildlife: Deer, elk on roads, especially dawn/dusk. Drive cautiously in rural/mountain areas.

Mountain Passes & Safety

High mountain passes (Coal Bank Pass, Molas Pass) between Durango and Silverton can close temporarily during cold weather storms or have chain restrictions.

Safety Measures

  • Always check the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) website for current road conditions.
  • In winter, consider renting a vehicle with 4WD or AWD for better traction.
  • Take your time when operating a vehicle the Million Dollar Highway (US-550 north of Silverton); numerous pull-offs exist.

Car Rental Advantage

Driving has the most flexibility to explore the nearby natural attractions and towns at your own pace.

Benefits & Booking

  • Flexibility to explore the region's diverse landscapes and attractions.
  • Booking rental cars in advance is highly recommended, especially for 4WD/AWD vehicles in winter.
  • Find deals on car rentals at DiscoverCars.com.

Sea/River Arrivals Not Applicable

  • Durango and Silverton are landlocked in the mountains of Colorado.
  • The villages are not accessible by sea.
  • The Animas River is for recreational rafting and kayaking, not transport for arrival.
  • This section is not relevant for planning travel to this destination.
  • No major river transport connections to cities.
  • Ignore any information regarding sea or river arrivals.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures Air

No specific exit fees or taxes imposed by the U.S. Government for departing the country. Your airfare or other transport costs typically include any applicable taxes.

Airport Timing DRO

  • For domestic flights from DRO, arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure.
  • Allows time for check-in, security, and rental car return.
  • Confirm flight details 24 hours before departure.

Departure Procedures Land

Upon leaving by car, factor in potential traffic, current weather, and navigation through passes through the mountains. Always check road conditions before departure.

Driving Safely

  • Check Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) for real-time road conditions.
  • Allow extra buffer time for unexpected delays, especially during winter or shoulder seasons.
  • Ensure luggage meets airline weight and size restrictions to avoid unexpected fees.

Travel Route

Plan your route considering mountain passes and potential weather impacts.

Timely Departure

Allocate sufficient time for airport procedures or mountain driving.

Smooth Transition

Confirm all arrangements and luggage specifications for a hassle-free departure.

Airport Facilities DRO

Terminal Amenities

Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) provides limited facilities for departing travelers. It is a compact airport for regional travel.

Available Services

  • Small restaurant or bar for refreshments.
  • Gift shop for last-minute souvenirs.
  • Restrooms plus simple facilities.

Pre-Security Planning

Plan to eat or purchase necessities before arriving at the gate area, as options beyond security are minimal.

Strategic Choices

  • Complete shopping before passing through security.
  • Get any food or drink pre-security for comfort.
  • Account for limited amenities in your departure timing.

Departure Checklist

Flight/Travel Confirmation

Reconfirm all flight or ground transport arrangements ALL day and night prior.

Luggage Compliance

Check your luggage meets airline weight and size limits to avoid fees.

Personal Belongings

Double-check for all personal items prior to departing your lodging.

Final Preparations

A smooth departure stems from careful planning, ensuring all details are addressed before setting off.