State Parks Near Durango, Colorado

One of the perks of our location is that there are multiple state parks near Durango, CO, one of the many reasons that so many outdoor enthusiasts come here. With ample wildlife, rewarding hiking trails, and centuries of history, the state parks near Durango, CO can easily be one of the highlights of your vacation. Here’s a short list of the nearby parks.

Mesa Verde National Park

• Distance from us: 35.6 miles

Mesa Verde National Park is one of the most popular natural attractions in the area. Nestled in the southwestern corner of Colorado, the park has awe-inspiring natural sites with centuries of historical significance.

The biggest attraction in Mesa Verde are the cave dwellings, some of the most well-preserved of their kind in all of North America. These dwellings were made by the Ancient Pueblo peoples 

as they lived on and cultivated the land.

In addition, the park has many other events and attractions that will appeal to all types of visitors, including stargazing in one of the darkest skies in the mainland United States and cultural performances from Indigenous Tribes.

Chimney Rock

• Distance from us: 46.9 miles
• Hours: (from May 15th - September 30th only) 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

One of the newest national monuments to be proclaimed, Chimney Rock National Monument represents one of the largest Pueblo II communities (900-1150 AD) in southwestern Colorado. Interestingly enough, this location also happens to be considered a Chacoan cultural “outlier” meaning that it was once part of a complex system of dispersed communities that was based in Chaco Canyon, New Mexico.

Chimney Rock offers a variety of programs and tours throughout the months they are open, including guided tours and birding programs. The area holds a particular interest to those interested in astronomy. Not only does the area have a dark sky for excellent night gazing, but the rock formations that serve as the monument namesake completely frames the moon during certain times of the year.

Aztec Ruins

• Distance from us: 36.7 miles
• Hours: Daily, June - September 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., October - May 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

The Aztec Ruins in New Mexico contain ancient Pueblo structures ranging from the 11th to 13th centuries. The monument got its name from early American settlers who mistakenly identified the ruins as being Aztec in origin. 

Visitors can take a self-guided half-mile walk through the main structures and view firsthand the skillful craftsmanship of these ancient peoples. In fact, some of the original mortar used still have the fingerprints of masons who built the structures. 

In addition, the Aztec Ruins National Monument also has the Heritage Garden which features plants and crops similar to those the Pueblo people planted, such as:

• Corn
• Gourd
• Sunflowers
• Amaranth
• Squash
• Beans
  
  

Perins Peak State Wildlife Area

• Distance from us: 6.5 miles

A popular destination for hunters throughout the year, Perins Peak State Wildlife Area is home to a host of wildlife, including elk, black bears, grouse, and deer. There is a large population of wild turkeys as well, which attracts licensed hunters in the winter when the area is normally closed to the public. 

For hikers, the Perins Peak out-n-trail offers a moderate challenge and a big payoff. This 5.9 mile trail features an elevation gain of 1,561 feet, as well as a view of the surrounding area that is simply breathtaking. Dogs are allowed on the trail, and can be off-leash in certain designated areas.