As you’re playing in Durango this Halloween and fall season, there are so many things to see and do, it’s hard to narrow down how to spend your time here! Luckily, we’re providing you with a quick guide of what to expect this season.
Here’s a quick breakdown of things to see and do this Halloween season and month of October in Durango, Colorado:
Halloween Things to Do
Durango residents really know how to celebrate the holiday, and there are lots of events and activities to celebrate All Hallows Eve, for both kids and adults.
Trick or Treating in Downtown Durango
Every year, little ghosts and goblins 10 and under get dressed up in their best Halloween costumes to spook downtown Durango. The downtown retail area provides a safe opportunity for little trick-or-treaters (accompanied by a parent) to visit the shops from 4 to 6 pm on Halloween night. Nearly 100 downtown businesses participate, and you will know from the pumpkin signs where to go.
Take a Guided Ghost Tour of Downtown Durango
Join Horsefly History Tours for a Hauntings & History Ghost Tour. The Downtown area is filled with paranormal activity, as Main Avenue was once home to saloons, dance halls, brothels, and gambling halls – all with a shady past. The 90-minute walking tour will guide you through haunted basements and buildings that hold the apparitions of those who lived life hard and died tragically.
See the Remains of the Cumberland Mine in La Plata Canyon
Part of the San Juan National Forest, Cumberland Mine was first discovered in 1878, and during the late 1800s, a stamp mill was built for treating the ore from the mine but failed to suitably treat the ore, and the mine became idle. After fits and starts, by 1837, Cumberland Mine lay in ruins. Today, only a few tattered objects remain.
Visit the Ghost Town of Red Mountain Near Silverton
See a real live ghost town near Silverton on the scenic San Juan Skyway. Red Mountain Town was once the largest mining camp in the area, and remnants of this once great mining camp are still standing today. See dilapidated buildings and mining relics, full of historical tales to tell.
Events in October
Durango has no shortage of fantastic fall events, both spooky and otherwise, held all throughout the month. From pumpkin patches to hot-air balloons to bike events, Durango has your October festivities covered.
Fall Festival on the Farm - October 23rd
Located just 23 miles Southeast of Durango in Ignacio, the annual Fall Festival on the Farm is chock full of entertainment and activities for young and old. Come enjoy attractions such as the Jumbo Jumper, apple/potato canons, plenty of pumpkin pickin’, and a 10-acre corn maze!
USA Cycling Collegiate Mountain Bike National Championships - October 14-17th
Held at Purgatory Resort, mountain biking enthusiasts can come out for four days of exciting bike racing showcasing the best collegiate athletes in the country. See them compete for the National Championship in each respected race category on the mountainous trails of Durango. If you are staying at the resort, be sure to book your stay now!
Animas Valley Balloon Rally - October 15-17th
Held annually every 3rd weekend in October, the Animas Valley Balloon Rally is located in downtown Durango, where the balloons will launch about 12 miles north of town in the Animas River Valley. Join in the fun on Friday evening for the balloon glow, then again the next two mornings after for the spectacular balloon launches!
Durango to Farmington Bicycle Tour - October 23rd
Bicycling enthusiasts in the area will not want to miss the amazing bike tour: the Durango to Farmington Bicycle Tour- starting at the Durango BMX tracks, and ending in Farmington, New Mexico, at San Juan College Bike Park. It is 50 miles of biking fun, with the route being half paved and half dirt riding fun. Then end the tour with some freeride bike jumps at the bike park.
Conclusion
Halloween season is here and there’s no better place to be than in Durango, Colorado. Whether you’re trick or treating downtown or seeing the many hot air balloons rise above the Animas Valley, you’re in for a treat this Halloween season.
Be sure to check out our Fall guide to explore Durango via the link below.
