Durango Magazine Summer/Fall 2024

SOARING TREETOP ADVENTURES

WHERE FAMILY, NATURE & ADRENALINE CONVERGE

FLY FISHING

DURANGO'S SECRET LOVE

DURANGO RIDES HIGH

COWBOY GATHERING SETS A NEW RECORD & REVIVES WESTERN SPIRIT DINING

SPECIAL EDITION FEATURING

Ben Brewer

A citizen of the Cherokee Nation, Benjamin Brewer is the owner of Writ Large, LLC, and is a writer, editor, and philosopher. When he’s not pondering life’s big questions, he’s out in the woods doing his best Tom Sawyer impression.

Graham Co ey

A native of North Carolina, Graham studied journalism at the University of Georgia. A lifelong lover of the outdoors, he was drawn to Durango by the siren call of the San Juans. You can find him hiking with his wife, Brooke, and their two dogs, Luna and Belle.

DeAnne Gallegos

DeAnne Gallegos is a freelance writer, the Executive Director of Visit Silverton, and the Public Information O icer for San Juan County, Colorado. DeAnne is from a sixth-generation Southwest Colorado family and loves living in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, hiking with her dogs no matter the season.

Billy Grimes

After a 44-year career as a graphic designer working for magazine, corporate, and advertising clients in Texas, Tennessee, and California, Billy moved to Durango to work at Fort Lewis College. Always interested in 3D design, he is now a builder and sculptor. His other interests are music, art, and writing.

A Colorado resident passionate about the outdoors, Myranda runs Myranda in the Mountains, a digital marketing and content creation business. She aims to make the outdoors more approachable while encouraging everyone to follow Leave No Trace principles and recreate responsibly.

Myranda Hausheer

Zach Hively

Zach Hively is the award-winning author of the Fool’s Gold column and several poetry collections. His book of short, humorous essays, Call Me Zach Hively Because That Is My Name, is forthcoming from Casa Urraca Press this year. You can read his work weekly on Substack.

Elizabeth Miller

Elizabeth Miller has worked and played in the mountains of Southwest Colorado for most of her life. An educator in the area for 16 years and a lifelong learner, she holds an MFA in fiction from Spalding University and loves sharing her passion for the written word with the youth of Durango.

Kathy Myrick

Kathy Myrick lives in Durango where she writes articles of local interest and photographs mountains, monuments, waterways, and wildflowers in the Four Corners area.

Leah Nott

Leah Nott has resided in Durango for eight years. If you can’t find her fly fishing in the backcountry or ripping the slopes, she's usually immersed in a book, probably one with dragons. She lives on copious amounts of ca eine and loves eating her way through Durango.

Kathleen O’Connor

Kathleen moved to Durango with her family in 2011 after working for more than a decade as a wildlife biologist specializing in endangered birds and cave invertebrates found in and around central Texas. She loves hiking, biking, and exploring new places, both above ground and below.

Matt Payne

"San Juan Mountains Twilight" by Matt Payne

"This autumn mountain scene was taken well before sunrise during blue hour in the San Juan Mountains. It is a 20-second exposure and the conditions were optimal to say the least! There was no wind and the scene was just simply idyllic.

There's something magical about the glow on fall foliage and aspen trees that occurs before sunrise and after sunset in the right conditions. The colors all seem to pop with luminance, which creates depth and drama - two of my favorite features in landscape photography. I love the San Juan Mountains of Colorado in fall!"

Ryan Nott

Myrick

For the love of Durango

We were just discussing which season is our favorite, and, like Bob Lawrence trying to pick his favorite zipline at Soaring Treetop Adventures (see story on page 22), we concluded it’s like trying to pick a favorite child: an impossible task. How are we supposed to choose between kaleidoscopic wildflowers in alpine meadows and golden aspen leaves during fall, when Durango turns into a little slice of heaven? We know you understand why we can’t pick just one. After all, we live in an extraordinary corner of the world, opening to myriad adventures found right out our front door.

Last summer, we drove the breathtaking Million Dollar Highway to the Ouray Via Ferrata for a one-of-a-kind exploration of Uncompahgre Gorge. Our bucket-list hike to Columbine Lake led us to a true-blue gem of the San Juan Mountains. As for comfort, we enjoyed a lovely stay at the Grand Imperial Hotel in Silverton to relish the early morning light, casting a warm glow over the valley. Easy access to these remarkable treasures reminds us of the importance of preserving and protecting these natural resources while recreating responsibly.

We’re excited to hear what exciting adventures await you this summer and fall. To better equip you with information about upcoming events, regional traditions, and the stories behind the people and places that make Durango great, we’re thrilled to introduce our revamped website, durangomagazine.com. The website features drop-down menus of restaurants, how to shop locally, and where to stay. Peruse articles and share them on social media or via text. Stay in touch throughout the year by signing up for a personal subscription or gifting Durango Magazine to a friend.

In the pages ahead, you’ll find inspiration for the upcoming seasons. You might have noticed this issue is much thicker than previous issues. We’re proud to host extra pages celebrating the Parade of Homes, a three-day fundraiser presented by Home Builders of the Southwest. Mark your calendar for September 6, 7, and 8 to tour some of the region’s most remarkable properties. You can even purchase tickets on our new website.

Whether you’re a long-time local or visiting Durango for the first time, we imagine you’re just as thrilled as we are to welcome whatever nature has in store for us this summer and fall. Don’t forget to leave your surroundings better than you found them, wear sunscreen, and, above all, love Durango.

Sincerely,

Owner/Publisher Marianne & Corbet Hoover

Design/Production Eric Emerson

Account Executives Marianne & Corbet Hoover

Photo Editor Ryan Nott

Copy Editor Joy Martin

Sta Intern Lola the Dog

Durango Magazine is published twice a year by Mountain Dog Marketing, Inc . The Winter/Spring 2024-25 edition publishes in November.

P.O. Box 3907

Durango, CO 81302

Phone: (970) 259-2599

Marianne Hoover Corbet Hoover

RESTORATION ON THE RAILS

D&SNGRR Breathes New Life into the Nation’s History

by Zach Hively

Historic railroads spark endless awe and wonder, no matter the mileage. It's a different story for the equipment that keeps this history up and chugging.

Railroading takes a beating on even the best-kept rolling stock. Yet many historic railroads nationwide lack the tools and expertise to go beyond routine upkeep. Locomotives, coaches, and other aging railroad cars occasionally require a complete top-to-bottom restoration. That kind of work demands specialization and care.

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad shines in this arena, jumping onboard to operate as one of the epicenters of historic railroad restoration.

“Sometimes, you need to hit that reset button to buy an engine a whole new life,” said Randy Babcock, Chief Mechanical Officer for the D&SNGRR and its parent company, American Heritage Railways. “We’re basically resetting the clock.”

Two opportunities for multi-year restoration projects rolled through the depot in recent years. The first is Car 211, a coach owned by the Hinsdale County Historical Society in Lake City, Colorado.

“Car 211 was a chicken coop when we got it here,” Babcock said. “It was collapsing. Now, it’s a full, stable railroad car and one of our first major contract jobs. It’s about 70 percent done.”

The second is #41, a narrow-gauge locomotive that used to operate out of Durango as part of the Rio Grande Southern Railroad until Knott’s Berry Farm purchased it after World War II. The engine enjoyed a brief homecoming when it arrived in Durango in 2022 and is now back in service at the amusement park.

Quality restoration requires a balance of refurbishing original equipment and manufacturing replacement components while maintaining high standards for historic and aesthetic qualities.

“We like to put the special details in anything we do as if these projects were our own,” Babcock said.

Restoring trains provides a stabilizing budgetary component for D&SNGRR and a boon to railroad buffs hoping to glimpse pieces of history.

“We do railyard tours all summer, and restoration work is often visible,” Babcock said, “I guarantee you there’s always something here to see.”

Jerry Day

Jerry Day

Jerry Day

ANIMAS VALLEY BALLOON RALLY

Durango takes to new heights during the beloved Animas Valley Balloon Rally held October 18 through 20, 2024. This free, family-friendly event kicks off with the 9th Annual Balloon Glow sponsored by the Drango Business Improvement District on Friday, October 18, in front of the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and General Palmer Hotel. On Saturday and Sunday mornings at 8:30 a.m. from Sylvia’s Air Park, 35 hot air balloons will take to the skies in a Mass Ascension above the Animas River Valley. Bundle up, pack a thermos of hot cocoa, and watch Floating Awaysis, Humpty Dumpty, Prometheus, George, and other past favorites turn Missionary Ridge a shade more colorful. Free, tethered rides for children will start around 9 a.m., with another opportunity to enjoy the Balloon Glow on Saturday evening in downtown Durango. Learn more at Animasvalleyballoonrally.com.

SUMMER MUSIC SERIES AT JAMES RANCH

Just 15 minutes north of downtown Durango, James Ranch Grill offers a cool oasis along Highway 550. The ranch’s beautiful, grassy terraces welcome locals and travelers to snag a picnic table in the shade and settle in for a family-friendly evening of live music during the Summer Music Series held May 28 through August 29 every Tuesday and Thursday from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Grab a burger (voted “Best Burger” in Durango for the past eight years), fries, and a tasty beverage, and listen to local bands play country, bluegrass, Americana, contemporary, and folk rock genres. Wander the grounds on a self-guided tour, feed and play with the kid goats, and enjoy views of the ranch where the grill sources many of its ingredients. Visit jamesranch.net/events for an updated music schedule.

THE VALKYRIE MULTISPORT RELAY

It’s not a triathlon; it’s a heptathlon! The Valkyrie Multisport Relay consists of seven events, with up to nine people per team, or participants can do the endurance feat solo. To begin, the trail runner runs 9.3 miles to tag the mountain biker, who shreds 16.3 miles to finish at Lake Nighthorse. The MTB-er hands off to the SUP-er for a five-kilometer stand-up paddleboard before the swimmer undertakes two kilometers in open water. Then, the road cyclist rides 41.9 miles to the kayaker, who paddles five miles on the Animas River from Oxbow Park to Santa Rita Whitewater Park. The road runner enjoys a lovely 16.1 miles along the river trail, back to the park, where the party is in full swing. Sprint and full course options are available. For details, photos, ideas, resources, and pre-race events, visit valkyrierelay.com.

Ryan Nott

Courtesy of James Ranch

PINO NUCHE INDIGENOUS ART MARKET AND JURIED SHOW

The Southern Ute Cultural Center and Museum will host the 3rd annual Pino Nuche Indigenous Art Market and Juried Show from August 9 through 11, 2024, at Sky Ute Casino Resort in Ignacio, Colorado. The Pino Nuche Indigenous Art Market and Juried Show promotes and advances Indigenous artists from all tribal nations by showcasing their artwork and helping them achieve their artistic, business, and philanthropic goals in the Four Corners region. More than 30 artists will exhibit a variety of fine art mediums, including basketry, pottery, paintings, jewelry, and other mixed media to compete for the prestigious “Best in Show” award. Visit the Pino Nuche Indigenous Art Market to meet the artists and vendors, enjoy live music and dancing, win door prizes, and view in-house art and traditional craft demonstrations. Learn more at southernutemuseum.org.

HARDROCKERS HOLIDAYS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS

The 50th anniversary of Hardrockers Holidays, a three-day celebration of Silverton’s mining heritage, takes place on the second weekend of August 2024 at the Kendall Mountain Recreation Area. Re-instated in 1974 by the Zanoni brothers, Zeke and Tom, Hardrockers Holidays is Silverton’s longest-running event, dedicated to preserving mining history and practices. Competitions feature men’s and women’s categories, including a wheelbarrow race; hand and machine mucking; single man, novice, and team drilling; hand steeling; single jacking; and spike driving. Many families have competed in Hardrockers Holidays for three and even four generations. Friday kicks off the competitions with children’s events, a horseshoe tournament, and junior and adult arm wrestling held on Main Street. The ever-popular crowd-pleaser, Tug-O-War, launches competitions on Saturday. Bring your teams! For more information, please call 970-387-5635 or visit the Hardrockers Holidays page on Facebook.

ANIMAS CITY NIGHT BAZAAR: GETTIN’ DOWN WITH THE NEIGHBORS SINCE 2018

Back for its 7th annual celebration, the whimsical Animas City Night Bazaar once again ignites all the community feels with a heavy dose of art and silliness. Humans, large and small, short and tall, are welcome to wander Animas Alley and the nooks and crannies found between 29th and 31st streets on the last Wednesday evening of the month from June through September. This season’s themes include the return of the River Pirates (June 26 at Memorial Park), A Rip in Time (July 31 in Animas Alley), Full STEAM Ahead (August 28 in Animas Alley), and Cultivating Community (September 25 at the SOIL Outdoor Learning Lab). Grab a bite at one of North Main’s groovy restaurants, jive to live music, support local artisans, and enjoy summer breezes with old and new friends. Learn more at animascitynightbazaar.com.

Courtesy of Southern Ute Museum

Courtesy of Criss Furman

Courtesy of Animas City Night Bazaar

CRAIG CHILDS PRESENTS: “TIME TRAVELER'S NOTEBOOK”

Author Craig Childs welcomes all to an evening performance for the second year at Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch in McElmo Canyon, west of Cortez. This outdoor show, “Time Traveler’s Notebook,” occurs on September 21, the night of the autumnal equinox. Childs informs and delights audiences through a spell-binding production, incorporating live music, visuals, and lights for a storytelling experience that explores time through earth sciences and ancient ancestry. Part performance art and part lecture, this one-time-only, concert-style presentation will not be filmed or streamed. Bring a chair and fall-weather gear and explore the grounds before the show begins promptly at sunset. Food vendors will be available. For more information, visit canyonoftheancients.com or contact Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch at 970-565-4288.

TRUE WESTERN ROUNDUP

Bring your family and friends to an evening of wild, authentic Western entertainment. The True Western Roundup is back for its 11th season of rodeo and Western events at the La Plata County Fairgrounds in Durango. The TWR aims to preserve local Western heritage, promote local and regional businesses, support human and animal athletes, build community, and provide a family-friendly atmosphere. This summer, on Wednesday evenings from May 29 until August 7, the event series hosts ten rodeos showcasing the best of the Four Corners. On Friday, July 5, and Saturday, July 6, join the TWR team for a special patriotic weekend featuring a professional bull-riding event and an ultimate bull-fighting showdown. Follow the TWR social media feed for updates on all the action and find the full calendar with details and tickets at TrueWesternRoundup.com.

NASHIVILLE SONGWRITERS PERFORM AT COMMUNITY CONCERT HALL

Enjoy an intimate evening with some of the finest singersongwriters in the business at the Community Concert Hall on August 28, 2024. Learn the stories behind the songs these musicians have penned for popular recording artists such as Rascal Flatts, Kenny Chesney, and Carrie Underwood. Settle into a cozy environment not unlike your living room with no light show or choreography. The stage features a group of friends taking turns singing songs and sharing stories. They'll jump in to add improvised instrumental backing or join you in sitting back to appreciate each other's performances of the songs as they were originally written. Proceeds from the show benefit La Plata County Search & Rescue, a group of 100 dedicated volunteers who venture into the backcountry to ensure the safety of those who find themselves in perilous situations. Learn more at durangoconcerts.com.

Ryan Nott

Courtesy of Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch

Courtesy of Nashville SInger Songwriters

A PA R A D E O F F L AVO R S

ANN MARIE BERESFORD

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ADAPTIVE SPORTS ASSOCIATION

IF YOU WERE A SUPERHERO, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR VERSION OF KYRYPTONITE?

Ketchup. Or mayo. Really, most condiments. WHAT POPULAR MOVIE HAVE YOU NEVER SEEN?

I've never ventured to A Galaxy Far, Far Away.

WHAT’S THE WORST THING YOU’VE STEPPED ON IN THE DARK? My toddler just discovered her love for LEGOS®, so that's the recent source of middle-of-the-night cursing in our house.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPORTS TEAM? GO PACK GO!!!

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN THE NON-PROFIT SECTOR? I wanted to combine my personal passions with making a di erence in my community.

A wise board member once said that the health of a community can be measured by how many nonprofits it supports. With this barometer in place, Southwest Colorado is thriving, boasting hundreds of nonprofits representing hundreds of causes. The executive directors driving these organizations forward are equipped with superpowers and, adversely, vulnerable to a surprising array of Kryptonites. Read on to discover what makes them weak in the knees, the movies they haven’t seen, and why they chose their philanthropic work.

JEFF SUSOR

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, THE POWERHOUSE

IF YOU WERE A SUPERHERO, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR VERSION OF KYRYPTONITE?

Windy spring days.

WHAT POPULAR MOVIE HAVE YOU NEVER SEEN?

Titanic.

WHAT’S THE WORST THING YOU’VE STEPPED ON IN THE DARK? LEGOS®, lots and lots of LEGOS®

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPORTS TEAM?

Chicago Cubs

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN THE NON-PROFIT SECTOR?

I spent two years teaching overseas right after college and returned home interested in helping to develop education opportunities for underserved communities. I quickly found that the best path to impact potential in communities was to expand the work and resources of the nonprofits leading those e orts.

STEPHANIE WEBER

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SAN JUAN MOUNTAINS ASSOCIATION

IF YOU WERE A SUPERHERO, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR VERSION OF KYRYPTONITE?

Any animal. I rarely pass by an animal I don’t blatantly or discreetly want to befriend. It can be very distracting. Squirrel?

WHAT POPULAR MOVIE HAVE YOU NEVER SEEN?

If we’re talking all-time classics, I have never watched Schindler’s List

WHAT’S THE WORST THING YOU’VE STEPPED ON IN THE DARK?

I was on a family camping trip. After everyone had fallen asleep, I wanted to look at the stars. I stealthily climbed down from my bunk in the RV and landed squarely on my cousin’s curling iron holder, slicing my big toe open and yelping in pain. So much for solo star gazing.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPORTS TEAM?

My dad used to have season tickets to the Broncos. I have fond memories of going to games at Mile High Stadium in snowstorms. Once, I assisted with a John Elway autograph signing event. While these days are dark and di icult, I will always be a Broncos fan.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN THE NON-PROFIT SECTOR?

Somewhere along my career path, I decided I wanted to make the world a better place. It started with my work on Capitol Hill and evolved into the non-profit world. I spent my adolescent years in Durango, and it’s always been a dream to come home and give back to the community that impacted who I have become.

ANGIE BEACH

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS

IF YOU WERE A SUPERHERO, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR VERSION OF KYRYPTONITE?

If I were a superhero…I would be the Voracious Voyager, a traveler of the galaxies, harnessing the energy of exploding stars. My Kryptonite would be Thai food. It would stop me in my tracks. I’d eat it at every planetary destination, or I would die a terrible death.

WHAT POPULAR MOVIE HAVE YOU NEVER SEEN?

I’ve never seen The Big Lebowski.

WHAT’S THE WORST THING YOU’VE STEPPED ON IN THE DARK?

The worst thing I’ve stepped on in the dark is a cold, wet towel.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPORTS TEAM?

I love to watch the Olympics! Go Team USA!

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN THE NON-PROFIT SECTOR?

I chose this field because running a music festival means I get to be part of something that brings joy to the community. My favorite festival moments are seeing patrons moved to tears by a performance. Working in the non-profit arts and culture sector is so rewarding. It feels great to positively impact our community’s economic and cultural well-being.

JULIE DREYFUSS

BRYAN

PETERSON

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, LA PLATA COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY

IF YOU WERE A SUPERHERO, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR VERSION OF KYRYPTONITE?

Puppies and kitties because I would do anything for them!

WHAT POPULAR MOVIE HAVE YOU NEVER SEEN?

The Secret Life of Pets - I am not sure if I really want to know what they do when I am not at home!

WHAT’S THE WORST THING YOU’VE STEPPED ON IN THE DARK?

It is a tie between a Lego and puppy poop. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPORTS TEAM?

The Mighty Ducks - that is a real team, right?

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN THE NON-PROFIT SECTOR?

I have always wanted to help others so I have spent my career working in the nonprofit sector - working at the Humane Society is my dream job because I get to help homeless pets help people!

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BEAR SMART DURANGO

IF YOU WERE A SUPERHERO, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR VERSION OF KYRYPTONITE?

A fear of heights. Or lemons. Not a fan.

WHAT POPULAR MOVIE HAVE YOU NEVER SEEN?

Name it, and I’ve likely not seen it. But I can quote nearly every line from Jeremiah Johnson. Ask me after I get proper rural internet.

WHAT’S THE WORST THING YOU’VE STEPPED ON IN THE DARK?

If you’ve had pets, you know this. Dog vomit.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPORTS TEAM?

I’m a lifetime cheesehead. Go Pack Go!

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO WORK IN THE NON-PROFIT SECTOR?

It seemed like having residents not feed bears was the moral and right thing to do, for the well-being of bears and the safety of people. I’d watched other communities address this and thought, this should be a breeze in a progressive community such as ours. 21 years later, progress has been made, but there’s still more we can do.

TREETOP ADVENTURES SOARING

Where Family, Nature & Adrenaline Converge

There's something altogether thrilling about defying the laws of gravity. Just ask 70-year-old Kentucky native Bob Lawrence, who travels to Durango religiously every spring with one goal: to fly through the air with the greatest of ease on opening day at Soaring Treetop Adventures.

"It's just a thrill," Lawrence said. "You can do tricks on some of the lines, which I've become pretty good at. Especially hanging upside-down."

Remotely located 32 miles north of Durango amid the pristine beauty of the San Juan National Forest, this exhilarating zipline experience is like no other. Touting 27 scenic spans, 34 platforms, and over 1.5 miles of ziplines, Soaring Treetop Adventures is the longest (and first-ever) zipline course in the United States.

But adrenaline-charged ziplines are only part of the story. Soaring also offers a richly interwoven family history and a profound sense of harmony and connection to nature, courtesy of the surrounding aspen and old-growth ponderosa pine trees.

The seeds for Soaring Treetop Adventures were planted by a curious kid, Denny Beggrow, who fell in love with the beauty of the San Juan Mountains during family vacations at the former

Ah! Wilderness Dude Ranch. In 1969, 19-year-old Beggrow purchased 180 acres adjacent to the dude ranch and started creating his vision of a secluded five-star luxury resort from the ground up. He opened Tall Timber Resort in 1971, and the destination quickly grew into one of two five-star accommoda-

tions in Colorado, a distinction it held for 40 years. For Beggrow, the focus was always on offering an exceptional guest experience and many activities, including horseback riding, tennis, fly fishing, golf, and helicopter picnics. Tall Timber became a popular posh retreat frequented by celebrities and honeymooners.

By the early 2000s, the property operated as a family affair, with Beggrow's son, Johnroy, running the resort. Under Johnroy's helm, the family pondered, "What else can we offer our guests?" The answer was, of course, ziplines. The Beggrow family brainstormed how to build ziplines while protecting the property's 200-year-old (and older) ponderosas. Johnroy designed and patented a tree trunk hugging system that tightens during zipline loading and releases as the platform unloads. This unique design requires no hooks, bolts, or screws penetrating the trees or bark. Sap flow and growth are unimpeded, so the system does not harm the trees.

In 2004, the family built the first few spans with one image in mind: the ethereal, forested, elven village of Lothlórien from J.R.R Tolkien's Lord of the Rings . Lights strewn from the trees invited night soaring into the activity mix. The Beggrows built more spans and platforms, and ziplining took on a life of its own. After much success with the course, the family phased out the resort entirely in 2008.

Today, Soaring opens to adventure-seeking visitors from mid-May to mid-October. Like Lothlórien, its mythical inspiration, the voyage to this treetop haven is an adventure of its own. Soaring’s remote alpine location is accessible only by train, so guests ride the historic, scenic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, passing glacier-carved gorges rising above icy whitewater rapids. Upon arrival, guests

are greeted outside by attentive, friendly zipline guides known as "Sky Rangers" and members of the Beggrow family, including Hunter, the lovable and chatty chocolate Labrador Retriever. After donning harnesses, the Sky Rangers lead the guests safely to the first of many stainless-steel platforms for their initial voyage through the trees.

Throughout the journey, knowledgeable Eco Rangers share engaging facts about the ecology and biodiversity of the San Juan Mountains. For example, did you know that in a pinch, the bark of the aspen tree produces a white powder that, when applied to the skin, acts as a natural sunscreen? One of several highlights of the day includes meeting "Sheila," a majestic ponderosa pine over 300 years old. Guests are encouraged to sniff her bark, which smells delightfully of vanilla cream soda with hints of butterscotch reminiscent of weekends at Grandma's house.

After a delicious four-course gourmet lunch served on elevated platforms among the trees, guests continue their flights of fancy, zipping through aspen groves and traversing the boisterous Animas River. The day culminates with a 1,400-foot span that has guests reaching invigorating speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. As Bob Lawrence from Kentucky pondered, picking a favorite zip is “like trying to pick your favorite child.”

For reservations and information, visit soaringcolorado.com

ELEVATED ELEGANCE

Human-Powered Potential

By Graham Coffey

As one of the West's ultimate adventure hubs, Durango cultivates an underlying sense of exploration that pushes residents to embark upon bold outdoor pursuits. The achievements of so-called "amateurs" in the local ranks often rival and sometimes surpass the objectives accomplished by professional athletes who call La Plata County home.

This June, Durango residents Brendan Cusick and Patrick Morrissey will embark on a long-range adventure that few have ever dared to attempt. The pair from Durango will be part of a fourperson team participating in a race called "The World's Toughest Row," which departs from Monterrey, California, and crosses the Pacific Ocean to the Hawaiian island of Kaua'i. The 2,800-mile crossing will be totally human-powered.

Over 6,000 people have climbed Mount Everest. In contrast, only 82 people occupying 33 boats have completed a row from the mainland United States to one of the Hawaiian Islands. While the two Durango residents have a chance to become part of history,

they are driven by much more than a chance to put their names in the record books.

Cusick is an accomplished climber who worked as a mountain guide for decades. He has summited multiple 8,000-meter peaks and racked up an impressive list of first ascents. The sport of ocean rowing grabbed his attention a few years ago, and he began to think seriously about an ocean crossing of his own after seeing a fourman team set the world record on a crossing from San Francisco to Oahu in 2021.

"On a personal level, I find a lot of intrinsic motivation in difficult challenges," Cusick said. “I spent a lot of time on big climbs and other endurance feats. I think I recognized this as a challenge that checked many boxes important to me selfishly in terms of what I find to be interesting in my own personal physical challenges."

Cusick knew he had found a great adventure, but to make it happen, he needed sponsors to help cover the costs of the journey. One of the sponsors who agreed to back the pursuit asked Cusick to fo-

Photos courtesy of Team Human-Powered Potential

cus his efforts on raising money for the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

The cause of curing Parkinson's was always one near and dear to Cusick's heart. His godmother has it, and two of his childhood friends lost their fathers to the disease. Cusick's neighbor and co-worker, Patrick Morrissey, was diagnosed with Parkinson's a couple of years earlier. Cusick asked Morrissey if he would get involved with the row. At first, Morrissey agreed to come on board as a spokesperson—until Morrisey heard Cusick was looking for a fourth rower to fill out the team.

Morrissey called Cusick and told him he'd be interested in joining the row if his body could hold up.

“Exercise is the only thing that may slow the progression [of Parkinson’s], and it’s become a real obsession of mine," Morrissey said.

After a couple of training rows, it was clear that Morrissey could keep up with the physical requirements. By participating in the race, he is not only helping raise money for research that could one day lead to a cure for his disease; Morrissey is also actively fighting Parkinson's from taking over his body.

In preparation for the crossing, the team has been on a strict daily regimen that requires them to exercise eight to ten hours a week for more than a year. Cusick and Morrissey had already completed over 150 hours when they spoke with Durango Magazine this spring. The crew believes they have a strong chance of becoming the fastest American team ever to make the crossing. The average crossing time for past finishers of the row has been 62 days; their goal is to finish in 40 days.

Cusick and Morrissey’s friendship may be more important to their success than physical fitness. The friendship they’ve nurtured as neighbors in Durango could be the ingredient that separates them from other teams trying to cross the Pacific Ocean this summer.

"We've heard stories of teams that finish rowing, and the tension noticed by others around them is palpable," Cusick said. "Like, they can't even look at each other anymore. The social aspect of this is as challenging or more challenging than the physical side of it. We've got a good team of great guys and surrounding friends, family, and community. We've become brothers.”

Safe Durango Outdoor Experience

In the picturesque landscapes of Durango, Colorado, the seamless blend of serene lakes and vibrant rivers creates a paradise for water enthusiasts. The region, known for its diverse waterways ranging from gentle Class I to adrenaline-pumping Class V rapids, offers abundant aquatic adventures. The beauty and thrill of these waters come with inherent risks, making water safety and stewardship practices paramount for preserving both human life and the pristine nature of these aquatic treasures.

Words and photos by Visit Durango

RESEARCH CURRENT RIVER CONDITIONS

Before embarking on your adventure, research the current water conditions. Check the weather forecast and understand how recent rain or snowfall has impacted water levels. In Durango, the Animas River is a popular spot for water activities, but its conditions can change rapidly due to weather patterns. Be aware of potential hazards, such as strong currents or debris in the water.

The Animas River offers a range of difficulty levels, from Class I to Class V. Classes I and II are suitable for novices. Precautions are recommended for Class III conditions. These include hiring experienced guides, receiving proper training, and using specialized equipment. Navigating Class IV and V rapids requires highly skilled and courageous individuals. Always respect these rapids, approach them with reverence, and prepare meticulously. Understand the nuances of each section, wear appropriate safety gear, and never underestimate the river's power.

LAKE SAFETY

For those who prefer a calmer experience, Durango's lakes offer a serene alternative. However, don't be deceived by calm surfaces; lakes can pose risks to inexperienced swimmers and boaters. Always wear a life jacket and adhere to posted rules and regulations for boating. Most lakes lack lifeguards or rangers on duty, so take responsibility for your own safety.

WEAR PROPER GEAR

Wearing appropriate gear is paramount for water safety. For activities like rafting and kayaking, a well-fitted life jacket, also known as a Personal Flotation Device (PFD), is essential. Wear it at all times on the water, regardless of your swimming ability. Other necessary gear includes a helmet, a wetsuit, and proper footwear. Ensure your footwear has back and top straps; flip-flops are not suitable.

NEVER GO ALONE

Engage in water activities with a buddy or a group whenever possible. This ensures that if someone encounters trouble, others can assist and call for help. If you can't find a companion, inform someone of your plans and expected return time. This way, they can alert the authorities if you do not show up or call as planned.

BE VIGILANT

Constantly observe your surroundings while on the water. Look for potential hazards or environmental changes, such as incoming storms or strong winds, which can create dangerous conditions. Stay alert and be ready to react swiftly if necessary. Avoid alcohol consumption when participating in water activities to ensure you remain unimpaired.

SAFETY COURSES AND GUIDES

If you're new to water activities, consider taking a safety course before venturing out. These courses cover self-rescue techniques, reading water conditions, and using proper equipment. While visiting, these courses can be expensive and hard to find. Instead, opt for a trained guide.

Durango hosts several reputable guide companies that offer safe and guided tours for various water activities. These companies employ experienced guides well-versed in local water conditions, providing valuable insights for a safe and enjoyable experience. Colorado has strict laws regarding raft guide training, ensuring your guide has the necessary training and experience.

STAY HYDRATED AND SUN-PROTECTED

Extended exposure to the sun can lead to dehydration. Bring an ample supply of water and stay well-hydrated during your outdoor adventure. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.

KNOW YOUR LIMITS

It's crucial to understand your capabilities and avoid pushing yourself beyond them. If you feel tired or uncomfortable in the water, take a break or end your activity for the day. Prioritize your safety and err on the side of caution.

RESPONSIBLE RECREATION

Always leave no trace and respect the environment while enjoying Durango's waters. Dispose of garbage properly and avoid activities that can harm the ecosystem. Show respect for wildlife habitats, as seasonal changes influence aquatic and terrestrial species. By caring for our surroundings, we can ensure that future generations can relish Durango's stunning waterways. When planning your next trip to Durango, remember these tips for a safe and unforgettable outdoor experience on the water!

Fly Fishing

Durango's Secret Love

by Leah Nott

EMBRACING THE DURANGO LIFESTYLE

means immersing yourself in various activities like skiing, mountain biking, rafting, hiking, camping, and the myriad ways of spending time outside. Even sitting by the river provides a calming sensation. For me, the true magic unfolds while standing in the water in search of trout. I like to pass the time by waving around a stick with some string attached to it, otherwise known as fly fishing. It’s where time seems to stop, and the water reveals its wonders.

“I

know nothing about fly fishing,” I said. “Where do I start? Here’s my budget.” That was the beginning of a great relationship with an outstanding local business.

My journey into fly fishing began when I moved to Durango, inspired by the sight of anglers casting near the Fish Hatchery. I befriended the staff at Duranglers, approaching the fly shop with outdated gear and not knowing the lefts and rights of fly fishing.

“I know nothing about fly fishing,” I said. “Where do I start? Here’s my budget.”

That was the beginning of a great relationship with an outstanding local business. The support and guidance from local fly shops like Duranglers and San Juan Angler have been invaluable, providing more than information and gear; they’ve also introduced me to a community of fellow fishing enthusiasts.

As a beginner frequenting local fly shops, I learned that guided trips are often the best way to start learning. If you can take a guided trip, the knowledge it affords promises an unforgettable adventure. Expert guides share insights and techniques while leading the way to hidden gems along scenic rivers. With personalized instruction and access to exclusive fishing

spots, new and experienced anglers can hone their skills and immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty. A guided fishing trip in Durango is an unparalleled journey, no matter what time of year you choose to go.

If a guided trip is out of the cards for you like it was for me, San Juan Angler and Duranglers also offer gear rentals so you can get out on the water and start learning on your own. You might even glean wisdom from a friendly angler casting upstream.

Unlike many of the other activities of the region, fly fishing in Durango doesn’t have a specific season. Each part of the year offers unique opportunities and challenges. Spring heralds the arrival of abundant hatches, and trout eagerly rise to the surface to feed on fresh insects. Summer brings warmer temperatures and high water levels, presenting anglers with the chance to explore stretches of river inaccessible during the rest of the year. As autumn rolls in, trout become increasingly voracious in their feeding habits, preparing for the long winter ahead. Streamer

Photo by Ryan Nott

fishing comes into its own during this time. Anglers tempt aggressive trout with larger, more apparent fly patterns.

In winter, anglers willing to brave the elements can find solitude on open waters. I find myself on the Animas River more often in the winter when the fish love to hunker down collectively in big holes. If you know how to fish the Animas, it’s some of the most fun you’ll have standing in cold water.

The Animas River, meandering through the heart of town, stands as a perennial favorite for many anglers. Its diverse waters are home to various trout species. Most commonly, the river teems with rainbow and brown trout, providing ample opportunities for novices and seasoned anglers alike. The Animas River drove me to learn more and explore neighboring rivers like the Piedra and San Juan tributaries.

While rivers provide challenges, I find myself in Durango's secluded mountain streams for a more intimate experience. Cascade Creek and Lime Creek are among my favorites, rendering a refreshing change of pace in the summer when boaters fill

Ryan Nott

the banks of the Animas. These streams are chock-full of brook trout, my favorite among the species. The quest for brookies requires navigating narrow channels with stealth and finesse, where dry flies reign supreme. Delicately placing these fake bugs on the surface of the creek requires focus and patience.

This captivating mix of techniques, from dry fly presentations on the surface to precise nymphing tactics under the current, presents a new take on enticing the fish out of their watery hideaways. Mastering the art of drift fishing is essential in the fast-flowing currents of the Animas, serenity of the Piedra, diversity of the Dolores, and stretches of the San Juan. Each river presents challenges and rewards, requiring me to adapt and evolve my approach.

Regardless of where I fish, there are two sayings I take on the water: it’s a different river every time you step into it, and always fish the FERBS: Foam, Eddies, Rocks, Bends, and Seams. Fishing here sharpened my skills and instilled a deep appreciation for each river's dynamic nature.

The art of fly fishing transcends mere recreation; it becomes a journey of self-discovery and communion with nature. Durango’s rivers, creeks, and diverse aquatic ecosystems create a sanctuary for beginners and trout bums alike. As I navigate the rivers, each cast becomes a moment of connection with the rhythm of the water and the stillness of the surroundings. Whether casting for trophy trout or simply immersing myself in nature, the rivers and creeks of Durango call with a promise of adventure and whispering tales, beckoning all who seek solace amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

CORY MCKEE LRHF ON THE FLY GUIDING Durango, CO 81301 (720) 425-6138

DURANGLERS FLY SHOP & GUIDE SERVICE

923 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301

Open Monday-Friday 8 AM - 6 PM (970) 385-4081

GARDENSWARTZ SPORTING GOODS

863 Main Ave, Durango, CO 81301

Open Monday-Sunday 10 AM - 6 PM (970) 247-266)

SAN JUAN ANGLER

600 Main Ave Ste. 202 (Upstairs), Durango, CO 81301

Open Monday-Saturday 9 AM - 5 PM & Sunday 11 AM - 4 PM (970) 382-9978

Ryan Nott

Cory McKee

Cory McKee

Cory McKee

by Myranda Hausheer

Natalie Heller @loneconephotography

On the San Juan Skyway

This coverage continues our traverse of the dazzling 236-mile loop crossing the five counties of Southwest Colorado. To read Part Two: Cortez to Telluride of this San Juan Skyway series, check out Durango Magazine’s Winter/ Spring 2023-24 issue. This time, we’ll head from Telluride to Ouray.

We’ve said goodbye to the 2,500 people who reside in Telluride, a jaw-dropping mountain town flaunting a variety of lodging, culinary, and recreational options. Next up: Ridgway, population 1,213. We’ll travel to this quaint town along Highway 62, savoring the expansive mountain views of the Dallas Divide, the magnificent 14er Mount Sneffels, and Double RL Ranch, Ralph Lauren’s iconic 17,000-acre property.

ridgway

Ridgway rests along the Uncompahgre River in the foothills of the mighty San Juan Mountains. Its rich rail and ranching history dates to 1889, when the Rio Grande Southern Railroad was established. Ridgway serviced the nearby mining towns of Ouray, Telluride, Rico, and Durango.

The town has a reputation for survival, enduring 1900s perils that included the collapse of the silver market, two destructive fires, the Great Depression sandwiched between two world wars, and the demise of the Rio Grande Southern Railroad. These overwhelming challenges earned Ridgway a reputation as “the town that would not die.” Two popular Hollywood films, How the West Was Won (1962) and True Grit (1969), give Ridgway the recognition it deserves.

LODGING & FOOD

GNAR Tacos is one of my favorite restaurants in Ridgway. This gourmet taco shop, found along the main drag of town, unconventionally merges flavors and techniques from around the globe. My go-to's include the Drippy Mitch, Yardcore, and Avo tacos. Don’t skimp on their Sketchy Fries, glorified tater tots loaded with house chorizo, queso blanco, pico, and Rick Ross sauce. The Gnarly Salad hits, too.

WHAT TO DO

After fueling up on tacos, take a .2-mile stroll down Sherman Street to the Second Chance Thrift Store, where the friendly staff are happy to point out the building’s unique offerings. Check out their dollar rack, and if you’re lucky, score a deal on a half-price color tag. All profits benefit the Humane Society. Ridgway State Park is another beautiful destination to investigate, while the Ridgway Railroad Museum and Ouray County Ranch History Museum offer enlightenment on the town’s most influential characters and innovations.

Courtesy of Visit Ouray

@o icialgrizzlybeatz (Courtesy of Visit Ouray)

Courtesy of Visit Ouray

@TravelingBitners (Courtesy of Visit Ouray)

Ouray

Continuing the expedition, we’ll drive south toward Ouray. Courthouse Mountain towers to the east (your left). If you want to take a two-hour, out-and-back scenic detour, head north on Highway 550 and turn right on County Road 8 for 19.2 miles to view one of the most notable landscapes in True Grit .

Welcome to Ouray, population 921. Surrounded by 13,000-foot peaks, this postcard-worthy, Victorian-era mountain hamlet is aptly known as the “Switzerland of America.” Established as a mining camp in 1876, the town is well-known as the start or finish of the “Million Dollar Highway,” an engineering feat crafted by Otto Mears in 1883 to connect Ouray and Silverton.

Ouray’s slogan is the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Colorado,” touting a plethora of activities, including rock and ice climbing, mountain biking, hiking, trail running, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, off-roading, hot springs, and more.

LODGING & FOOD

Once you arrive in Ouray, your first stop should be Mouse’s Chocolate & Coffee for a caffeinated beverage and an indulgent treat. This family-owned business of chocolatiers and coffee roasters takes pride in making everything by hand. Do not miss their fudge and scrap cookies.

Check into the Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs and experience your own oasis in this charming hotel. Built in 1959, the hotel is known for the mineral hot springs captured in red cedar tubs before emptying into the nearby Uncompahgre River.

WHAT TO DO

Box Cañon Falls Park is a family-friendly stop where we’ll witness the culmination of Canyon Creek spilling thousands of gallons a minute of water, creating a 285-foot waterfall that plummets into a narrow quartzite canyon. Be careful near the slippery rocks! Parking is tricky, especially in warmer months, so try to get here early. Check out the Ouray Via Ferrata in the famous Uncompahgre Gorge for a fresh perspective on vertical horizons. Book a guide through Basecamp Ouray, San Juan Expeditions, or San Juan Mountain Guides to tackle this thrilling adventure. Basecamp Ouray also has access to a privately owned Gold Mine Via Ferrata route outside town.

Ouray Hot Springs is a must-see when visiting. The sulfur-free geothermal pools range from 74°F to 106°F and are fed by an underground aquifer. The pools feature minerals like iron, manganese, zinc, fluoride, and potassium for ultimate relaxation.

If off-roading is your thing, I highly recommend embarking on a guided 4x4 tour and skipping the angst of keeping your eyes on the road or not having the proper off-roading skills. Instead, you can sit back (while getting rocked about) and take in Colorful Colorado’s most stunning scenery.

WINTER IN OURAY

Winter in Ouray offers just as many opportunities for adventure. Ouray Ice Park is the world’s first ice climbing park. It has expanded natural falls, supplied by a sprinkler system, creating dozens of frozen waterfalls ranging from 80 to 200 feet high along the Uncompahgre Gorge. The park is maintained by volunteers and supported by donations from local businesses, gear manufacturers, and climbers. The Ouray Ice Park is free and attracts climbers from around the world.

The annual Ice Climbing Festival transforms Ouray into an ice-climbing mecca. This weekend-long extravaganza features contests, exhibitions, and instruction from many of the world's top ice climbers. The Ice Climbing Festival is typically held toward the end of January and spans three days and four nights.

CONTACT INFO:

• GNAR Tacos: 970-626-9715, gnarlytacos.com

Second Chance Thrift Store: 970- 626-3233, secondchancehumane.org/thrift-shops

Ouray Hot Springs: 970- 325-7073, ourayhotsprings.com

• Basecamp Ouray: 970- 318-0298, basecampouray.com

• San Juan Expeditions: 970- 460-6065, sanjuanexpeditions.com

• San Juan Mountain Guides: 970- 946-0713, mtnguide.net

Box Canyon Lodge: 970- 708-2025, boxcanyonouray.com

• Mouse's Chocolates & Coffee: 970- 325-7285, mouseschocolates.com

• Box Canyon Falls: 970- 325-7080, visitouray.com/box-canyon-falls

• Switzerland of America Jeeps: 970- 325-4484, soajeep.com

• Alpine Scenic 4x4 Tours: 970- 318-6513, alpinescenicjeeptours.com

San Juan Scenic Jeep Tours: 970- 325-0089, sanjuanscenicjeeptours.com

• Canyon Creek Jeep: 970- 325-4833, canyoncreekjeep.com

• Altitude Adventures Side x Side Rentals: 970- 318-0287, altitudeadventuresouray.com

• Colorado West Jeeps and UTVs: 970- 325-4014, coloradowestutvandjeeps.com

Marianne Hoover

Courtesy of Visit Ouray

Local Schools Light Up

In another region-wide step toward a more sustainable future, Durango School District 9-R plans to install solar panels on six schools and convert many of its buildings to LED lighting. The upgrade meets upcoming Colorado requirements for public buildings while working to fulfill long-term budget goals. According to a press release, the project will reduce emissions by 1,836 metric tons annually. The undertaking costs roughly $7 million, yet it is projected to be budget-neutral overall. The district will also benefit from La Plata Electric Association’s net metering policy, which allows the organization to sell excess electricity back to the utility company.

Game-changing fiber-optic installation coming to Southwest Colorado

A critical development in broadband connectivity has begun for the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, La Plata County, and Archuleta County: more than 300 miles of buried fiber-optic cable, connecting thousands of

What’s New in the Four Corners

by Zach Hively

residents with reliable high-speed internet and cell service for the first time. The infrastructure project is funded by more than $70 million in grants leveraged by the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, the collective counties, Region 10 League for Economic Assistance and Planning, and the La Plata Electric Association. The work is conducted by Bonfire Infrastructure Group, and the project will bring connectivity to under- and un-served portions of Southwest Colorado.

Strater Hotel commemorates history with room dedications

The historic Strater Hotel in downtown Durango has undertaken a long-term project to honor and celebrate figures important to local history. The hotel plans to dedicate about half of its 88 rooms to people who have made relevant and exciting contributions to the area. Each room will feature a door plaque showcasing a short history of the illustrious personality. The hotel aims

to dedicate two to three rooms a year. Existing dedications include national celebrities, such as former President Gerald Ford and Western novelist Louis L’Amour, and local legends, like mule-skinner Olga Little.

Durango Police Department upgrades to hybrid vehicles

The Durango Police Department’s new fleet of hybrid Ford F-150 trucks started cruising city streets in February. The hybrid trucks operate on 25 miles per gallon of fuel, providing more than twice the gas at half the cost of the former SUVs, which only received 10 miles per gallon. This upgrade supports the City of Durango’s efforts to improve environmental sustainability, with the bonus of reducing overall costs thanks to enhanced fuel efficiency. Once the initiative is complete, the updated squadron will consist of 14 sport utility vehicles, including nine patrol vehicles, three unmarked vehicles, and two designated for code enforcement.

Courtesy of City of Durango

Shaun Stanley

Jeremy Wade Shockley | The Southern Ute Drum

WILLOWTAIL

SPRINGS

Nature Preserve and Education Center

Between the high-alpine desert and lush forests of Southwest Colorado, two dreamers have poured a quarter of their lives into creating a haven for artists and environmental enthusiasts. Renowned sculptor and painter Peggy Cloy and her husband Lee began improvements on their secluded 60-acre property, Willowtail Springs Nature Preserve and Education Center, more than two decades ago. It’s since flourished into a source of discovery and wonder as one of the Four Corners’ most treasured oases.

This bed-and-breakfast hideaway features three cozy lakefront cabins with stunning views of the La Plata Mountains and Mesa Verde National Park. Over the years, Peggy and Lee have learned how to work with the land to save thousands of oldgrowth trees from bark beetle infestations and establish ponds and complex water systems, enhancing a healthy bird habitat and wildlife corridor. These improvements paved the way for Willowtail Springs to be officially designated as a 501(c)3 non-profit in 2012, with the bed-and-breakfast income providing a sustainable source of revenue for their array of creative community-based programs.

Willowtail Springs acknowledges its facilities and functions operate on sacred Indigenous lands. Geographically remote and breathtakingly beautiful, this land has a long history of environmental, racial, and sovereignty disputes. Ancestral

Puebloans and their descendants have inhabited the Mesa Verde region for at least 10,000 years. Their peaceful way of life was changed forever in the late 18th century when Spanish explorers from Santa Fe blazed a westward trail near the present-day site of Willowtail Springs. The trail later became a vital section of the Old Spanish Trail.

Conservative, traditional values of the dominant Anglo culture have often resulted in friction with Native nations throughout the region. Willowtail Springs serves as a sanctuary for creatives, regardless of their cultural backgrounds, and strives to collaborate with artistic members of these communities to build on the diversity that makes the Four Corners extraordinary. To shape their programs and direction, the non-profit values the insights and guidance of several Indigenous advisors, including Michael Thompson (Muscogee), Tina Deschenie (Diné), and Regina LopezWhiteskunk (Ute Mountain Ute).

Artist residencies are the cornerstone of Willowtail’s programming, nurturing endless opportunities for practitioners in the arts, education, and ecology. Residents immerse themselves in this magical setting that inspires curiosity, intense personal learning, restoration, and infinite creative expression. Concentrating on the awe experienced in a safe, protected space with time to create is a powerful combination. The impact on an individual and their ability to exercise and stretch is healing.

Words and photos by Kathy Myrick

Delbert Anderson at Willowtail

Doing so in a place that has been lovingly nurtured and stewarded with so much creative energy is an immense gift. Fostering crosscultural, cross-generational communication through artistic expression is one step toward attending to the myriad wounds of marginalized communities. This simple practice can encourage healthier lifestyles across cultures and generations.

Recent residents Delbert Anderson (Diné, jazz trumpet player) and Blossom Johnson (Diné, playwright) have achieved national recognition in their fields. Both artists were awarded Cultural Capital Fellowships from the First Peoples Fund within the last two years. Last year’s programs and residencies also featured meditative and botanical painting, fiction and nonfiction writing, poetry, sculpture, music, and playwriting. All residents are required to host a public exhibit, lecture, workshop, demonstration, concert, or reading from the work developed in these residencies. Current venue partners include the Turquoise Raven Gallery and Cortez Cultural Center in Cortez, Mancos Public Library, Fenceline Cider in Mancos, and Create Art and Tea in Durango. During the summer of 2023, the Southwest Youth Conservation Corps spent two weeks beautifying the property and

creating new walking paths through the ancient woods.

In 2024, Willowtail will offer 30 weeks of residencies, many oneday classes and workshops, and an immersive weekend workshop series using artistic expression as a path to celebration and healing. Residencies and immersive workshops include lodging accommodations and working studio access, while multi-day workshops incorporate Tai Chi sessions with Master Lee. Beginning in May, Willowtail will offer tours of the extensive Willowtail Gardens, including the new sculpture garden. Outdoor educational programs for underserved area youth are also on the horizon.

Willowtail is fortunate to enjoy significant funding from loyal local, state, and national sources, enabling the Board of Directors to plan for Willowtail’s future with great intention. With a $100,000 infrastructure grant received in January 2024 from Community Shares of Colorado and the Department of Local Affairs, Willowtail’s future is brighter than ever.

For more information on residencies, events, programs, and cabin rentals at Willowtail Springs Nature Preserve and Education Center, please visit willowtailsprings.org.

Willowtail Meditative Painting Workshop with Patrice DeLorenzo

Willowtail Lake

Willowtail Writing Workshop

Willowtail Writing Workshop

Mariah Kaminsky Beauty and the Brush

By Elizabeth Miller

Joy, strength, and beauty come to mind when gazing at fine art painted by Mariah Kaminsky. While pursuing her Design/Technical Theatre degree at Ball State University, Kaminsky couldn’t stay away from the art building and picked up a paintbrush. She moved to Durango in 2001 and started Durango Custom Works with her husband, painting private residences, businesses, and restaurants. She launched Mariah Kaminsky Fine Art, LLC, in 2010.

Kaminsky is best known for her portraits, focusing on children, the female form, and the graceful power of aerialists. She participates in a four-person artist collective at Animas Chocolate Company and crafted several dynamic murals around downtown Durango. In 2020, Kaminsky painted the little boy feeding the birds on North Main and provided a mural for the restoration of El Rancho Tavern in 2022. Her landscape paintings in Eolus Bar & Dining emphasize color and texture. This summer, she’ll work with nine local artists to cover river trail-facing walls with vibrant murals to enhance the Santa Rita Water Reclamation Facility.

An unlikely place to view Kaminsky’s work is the Lunar Codex, a project created by Samuel Peralta to collect and preserve art. The Lunar Codex includes six time capsules containing works from thousands of global creatives. Nanofiche technology will preserve myriad artistic creations, including Kaminsky’s pieces, for hundreds of thousands of years. Two of Kaminsky’s pieces are in the Nova Codex, which landed on the moon in late February as part of NASA’s IM-1 mission.

Kaminsky maintains connections with her theatrical roots through her scenic painting expertise and volunteer work with Merely Players, a nonprofit theatre company based in Durango. This summer, she’ll display pieces in collaboration with elaborately designed headdresses from Adrienne Young, a burlesque dancer and costume designer from Pagosa Springs.

With an eye for detail and an ability to capture the resilience of her subjects, Kaminsky aims to redirect her audience’s collective energy to the beautiful, forging a vital connecting point for a contemporary and classical artist to the wider world.

Dabbling in a bit of everything, Kaminsky simply says, “I paint.”

Photos courtesy of Mariah Kiminsky

A

rt G A lleries G A lore

If art is medicine, then Durango is a hamlet of restoration. Bring an open mind and spend some time exploring work produced by local, regional, and international creatives. Find gifts or something surprising for your personal collection at one of Durango’s fabulous galleries. Mark your calendar for the First Friday of every month to join a downtown-wide celebration hosted by our beloved artists and art curators. From David Yarrow’s monumental photographs displayed at Sorrel Sky Gallery to turquoise jewelry showcased at Toh-Ahtin, you'll experience fresh perspectives into worlds within and beyond the Four Corners.

Earthen Vessel Gallery

934 Main Avenue, Unit A, Durango earthenvessel.com

970-247-1281

Since 1976, customers have perused Earthen Vessel Gallery for locally crafted pottery. Nearly 50 years later, Earthen Vessel not only showcases a curated collection of pottery but also features jewelry, contemporary fine art, art glass, and mixed media created by more than 100 independent artisans from near and far. This beloved shop is conveniently located at 934 Main Avenue in downtown Durango. You’re welcome to stop by and find a memorable token from your trip to the region, your next gift for someone special, or a unique and meaningful piece of art to add to your home collection.

Sorrel Sky Gallery

828 Main Avenue, Durango sorrelsky.com

970-247-3555

As part of Durango's vibrant downtown since 2002, Sorrel Sky Gallery represents more than 100 local, regional, national, and international artists. With Sorrel Sky Gallery locations in Santa Fe and New York, owner Shanan Campbell seeks fresh ways to share her deep love of art and expertise in curating collections. Sorrel Sky Gallery showcases contemporary and traditional Western and Native American fine art, photography, jewelry, and sculpture. Campbell and her passionate, knowledgeable team welcome everyone to find inspiration and discover how art enriches lives at 828 Main Avenue. Learn more at sorrelsky.com.

Toh-Atin Gallery

145 West 9th Street, Durango Toh-atin.com 970-247-8277

Rosalis Claire McGowan spent much of her life as an artist looking for her perfect medium. While in Fredericksburg, Texas, in 2006, she found herself at a crossroads, with a cow skull laid at her feet. She had an inspiration! She tucked the skull under her arm, took it back to her studio, and began embellishing it with semi-precious stones, raw materials, and one-of-a-kind found objects. McGowan lives and creates her art in Durango, Colorado, and searches worldwide for the perfect materials.

Sand & Snow Studio

1070 Greene Street, Silverton sandandsnowstudio.com 970-749-8880

Plein Air landscape artist Eileen Fjerstad has been painting in the San Juan Mountains and Four Corners region for nearly 40 years. Her colorful and captivating works showcase her intimate knowledge of the play of light and colors throughout the seasons. The joys and challenges of working from life in the amazingly diverse and dramatic mountains and deserts of this part of the Southwest provide constant inspiration to the artist. Drop by the studio in the "Tower House" at the corner of Greene St. and 11th.

White Eyes Gallery

1250 Greene Street, Silverton whiteeyesgallery.com

970-247-8277

Located in the historic Teller House in downtown Silverton, White Eyes Gallery specializes in unique Southwestern fine-art pieces, including Mata Ortiz pottery, photography, sand paintings, sculpture, jewelry, folk art, and Kachina dolls. The gallery shows many regional Navajo and Hopi one-of-a-kind artistic creations that emphasize their culture and fine craftsmanship.

SILVERTON IS TURNING 150 THIS YEAR

, and we want you to celebrate with us! Nestled in the heart of the San Juan Mountains at 9,318 feet above sea level, Silverton, Colorado, is your basecamp to adventure: access hiking, mountain biking, and breathtaking nature trails right from town. Go rustic at an in-town campsite or book a cozy stay at one of Silverton’s historical, boutique, bed-and-breakfast, vacation rental, or luxury lodging options. Check out SilvertonColorado.com for things to do, places to eat, and summer events.

Anthony D'Amato

THE COLUMBINE ROADHOUSE Revives an Entertainment Venue of the Past

By DeAnne Gallegos

The Columbine Roadhouse is located about a mile north of Silverton, heading toward Ouray on Highway 550. Built in the 1920s, the establishment initially operated as Columbine Tavern, a restaurant and saloon for miners.

As Silverton evolved from a turn-of-the-century mining camp into a thriving mining town, the tavern served as a rowdy, raucous hang-out with a dining room where locals came to eat, drink, and dance. If the walls of the Columbine Tavern could talk, the stories would be boisterous and the history fabulously rich—not only in gold but tall tales.

In 2016, Inga and Mark (Lucky) McFadden bought the Columbine Tavern, which had been converted into a private residence for many decades. The McFaddens reverted it into the Columbine Roadhouse featuring an outdoor music venue with a lively bar, delicious homemade food options, and short-term rental or overnight accommodations.

The spacious attached outdoor music venue showcases a handcrafted stage where national acts, like Uncle Lucius and local

favorites Desert Child, play during the summer months. Designed and built under Lucky's supervision, the stage was constructed with locally sourced wood. Concertgoers can gaze in wonder at the ever-imposing Kendall Mountain looming in the background.

The Columbine Roadhouse hosts many summer events, including the annual Gator-Fest, which sets aflame a handbuilt, 24-foot-tall alligator. Gator-Fest is the brainchild of the McFaddens and some of their local friends, who sparked the idea of crafting a more-than-life-size gator with the sole purpose of lighting it on fire. Festival goers savor gator vittles while bopping to tunes from various bands. This event has grown from a funky attraction to an annual pilgrimage.

The same group of friends then started a Monty Python festival with pop-up performances. The summer weekend finale, also known as the Holy Grail Festival, started last summer and celebrates all things Monty Python. The weekend culminates with a blaze as McFadden and friends carry on their tradition of igniting a handbuilt wooden rabbit, sending sparks into the starry sky.

Michael Randol

As in days gone by, the Columbine Roadhouse once again lights up the community of Silverton, breathing energy and creativity into this beloved mountain town. On any summer weekend night, mingle with a crowd of Silverton locals, guests taking advantage of the overnight lodge, or those driving along Highway 550 who stop to partake in a good meal and festive scene.

Celebrating under the stars at this outdoor music venue with friends who feel more like family is the McFadden’s main goal.

“I want you to hear this because I say it all the time, and it resonates inside me: I never feel like I own this place; I always feel like we are just taking care of it,” Lucky said.

“We are just the caretakers,” Inga reiterated.

Inga is credited as the one who realized the vision for the revived Roadhouse. One beautiful San Juan Mountain kind of day, sitting in the big yard of the property where they were already having bonfires, playing music with friends, hosting outdoor parties, and BBQing, she pitched to Lucky,

“Wouldn’t it be neat if …”.

Lucky recalled that Inga began to walk around, talking about where the bar and food area should be, while Lucky immediately knew that Kendall Mountain was the perfect backdrop for his live music stage.

With the dream planted in the summer of 2020, the Columbine Lodge became the Columbine Roadhouse. The lodge portion of the property offers a variety of rustic rooms overlooking the San Juan Mountains. Some rooms are perfectly perched above the outdoor music venue with a bird’s-eye view of the stage. Enjoy a private space, dipping into the bar area steps from your room whenever you please.

The McFaddens plan to continue expanding the space by remodeling the interior of the Columbine and recreating the old miner’s bar and dining area while growing this already successful business into a year-round indoor venue. Check out the rooms or summer music series at columbineroadhouse.com.

DeAnne Gallegos

Courtesy of Stellar Properties

Courtesy of Columbine Roadhouse

Courtesy of Stellar Properties

THE HISTORY OF Salacious Silverton

by Beverly Rich - San Juan County Historical Society

As murmurings of a civil war sizzled in the Eastern United States of America, Charles Baker and several prospectors entered the San Juan Mountains in search of wealth. They soon found deposits of gold and silver along the Animas River in an area that was eventually called “Baker’s Park.” Fourteen years later, in 1874, the site laid the groundwork for the town of Silverton, which became the center of numerous mining camps.

In July 1882, the first train operated by the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad rolled into Silverton from Durango, located 55 miles down the Animas River. Over the following year, Silverton boomed to a population of 2,000, boasting 400 buildings, including two banks, five laundries, 29 saloons, several hotels, and a bawdy red-light district on the Notorious Blair Street.

From the onset of this burgeoning mountain town, an imaginary line ran down Greene Street, dividing the town between the law-abiding, church-going residents on the west side and the gamblers, prostitutes, variety theatres, dance halls, and saloons on the east side. In a three-block stretch, Notorious Blair Street was home to saloons, gambling halls, and houses of ill-repute, with names like Mikado, North Pole, and the Laundry, where they “cleaned you out.” Gamblers, like Wyatt Earp, played faro within their walls.

In its earliest days, the street grew infamous for loud music and rowdy dance halls. Although illegal, gambling and prostitution were tolerated as long as the “ladies” stayed behind that invisible line down the middle of Greene Street, separating them from the more “respectable” part of town. As the center of indecency, Blair Street was so notorious that citizens on the street’s south end asked the town board to rename their more respectable residential section “Empire Street.” To this day, half of the street is called Blair, while the other half is called Empire.

Young and single, many miners were immigrants from all around the world. Some trickled into the mountains as Civil War veterans and survivors looking for a new life out West. When they weren’t working in the rugged alpine in search of precious metals, they spent their time unwinding at the 29 saloons. Not unlike the present, they wet their whistles over pints of beer poured at local breweries. Between 1881 and 1915, Silverton celebrated at least a dozen breweries introduced by German immigrants with names like Fischer, Schultz, and Noll, who saw brewing beer as an art. Not to be outdone, the Italians quickly got into the action crafting wine, importing grapes by the boxcar from the San Luis Valley. Silverton also had several bottling factories, including the Standard Bottling Works on East 13th Street.

There was even something for the teetotalers with Silverton’s signature bottled soda pop.

Charles Fischer opened the first known brewery on the Western Slope of Colorado in 1883. Rocky Mountain Brewery was nestled in Howardsville, the first county seat of La Plata County, located seven miles northeast of Silverton. Fischer opened the Silverton Brewery in 1901 in a fine stone building along the banks of Mineral Creek at the base of Sultan Mountain. The new brewery was managed by William Schultz, who later bought the business from Fischer in 1907.

The Silverton Brewery operated until 1919 when the United States government enacted Prohibition. Silverton locals moved their libation production into basements around town, focusing their efforts on wine and whiskey. Government officials once showed up in Silverton and confiscated 2,600 gallons of mash, which they promptly took to the end of town and tossed into a pasture. The cows found the surprise treat tasty and feasted happily, growing so intoxicated that their milk had to be thrown away three days in a row. Boozy milk and other lesser spirits had their heyday until Prohibition was repealed in 1933. Of the 1,568 operating breweries in the U.S. in 1910, only 750 breweries reopened in 1933. The Silverton Brewery did not survive the shutdown. Its stones are immortalized in the Christ of the Mines Shrine on Anvil Mountain overlooking the town that’s finally figured out the balance between debauchery and refinement.

SILVERTON MEDICAL RESCUE’S ANNUAL International Mountain Medicine Symposium

By DeAnne Gallegos

This October, Silverton Medical Rescue will host the 6th annual International Mountain Medicine Symposium. The Symposium was created to “promote excellence through high-quality education for medical rescuers tasked with rescue techniques and patient care in austere mountain environments.” At 9,318 feet above sea level and higher, Silverton and the San Juan Mountain range provide the perfect outdoor classroom for teaching those in the medical or search-and-rescue field how to treat patients in the backcountry.

The Symposium is conducted by Silverton Medical Rescue (a hybrid of the local Silverton emergency medical

services and San Juan County Search and Rescue teams), Silverton Avalanche School, Mountain Medicine Institute, LLC, and the University of New Mexico, School of Emergency Medicine Diploma in Mountain Medicine program. Experts from these organizations “have teamed up to provide state-of-the-art medical education, the latest in mountain medicine, alpine rescue, and high-end avalanche awareness and education in one seminar,” according to the Symposium’s website.

This impressive collaboration started in 2013 with Kimmet Holland, director of Silverton San Juan County Ambulance Association.

Jonathan Wilson

“Early on, we decided we could put on a conference here for a couple of reasons,” Holland reflected. “First, we could never afford to send our own people to a conference to get continued education, so we thought we could host something ourselves that everybody could attend. We also started developing a close relationship with the University of New Mexico’s School of Medicine, which started the first International Mountain Medicine Center in the United States.”

Holland explained that the International Mountain Medicine Center initially launched in Europe and focuses on teaching outdoor skills to paramedics, nurses, doctors, physician assistants, and nurse practitioners. To address treating patients in the wilderness, Holland and Symposium partners initially conducted an Advanced Wilderness Life Support class taught by an emergency physician from New Zealand. That wilderness medicine course planted the seed, and the Mountain Medicine Symposium sprouted from there. The event has since evolved into a highly successful and well-attended symposium that utilizes the thin air and passionate community of Silverton’s high-alpine setting.

The 6th Annual International Mountain Medicine Symposium will take place in Silverton from October 4 through October 6, 2024. Seminars will feature cutting-edge knowledge presented by the field’s most renowned experts. A mix of presentations and field instruction will introduce mountain medical topics and opportunities to practice rescue techniques. Teaching how to provide medical care in the wilderness is the primary focus of the gathering.

Under the direction of Holland and Tyler George, executive director of the Silverton Medical Rescue, the International Mountain Medical Symposium will be bigger and better than any previous event as their registration list and conference offerings

have grown each year. The Symposium is designed for medical students, professional guides, mountain search-and-rescue team members, and anyone who regularly recreates in the backcountry. The Symposium is open to all skill levels, from physicians to outdoor recreationists aiming to build their wilderness medicine or search-and-rescue skills.

General group and breakout sessions include technical rope rescue workshops, whitewater rescue skills, diving at altitude, avalanche rescue and resuscitation skills, hemorrhage control in the field, and recognizing critical patient changes. Sundown sessions take place each evening and are often a highlight of the weekend, celebrating topics ranging from the history of mountaineering in Denali to Pemba Sherpa’s unforgettable presentation about helicopter rescue stories from the Tibetan Plateau and Himalayas.

As the primary campus for the Symposium, the town of Silverton provides a variety of classroom spaces located around town. As for lodging, participants can choose from historic hotels, boutique inns, bed-and-breakfasts, or vacation rentals. Those who prefer to sleep under the stars can camp at dispersed or formal sites located close to the action. Days are bookended by Silverton’s array of food and beverage offerings. Visitors will find plenty of coffee, pastry, or hearty breakfast options at one of Silverton’s charming restaurants or cafes. A pint or two at a micro-brewery provides a cozy backdrop for recapping full days of information overload. Ravenous appetites find satiation over gourmet dinners or a quick slice of pizza.

Before or after the Symposium, mountain enthusiasts can take advantage of the many adventures discovered down any road leading from Silverton. Hiking, fishing, rock climbing, peak bagging, mountain biking, and trail running outlets abound in the heart of the San Juan Mountains.

DeAnne Gallegos

DeAnne Gallegos

Jonathan Wilson

GET OUT & EXPLORE

A PHOTO ESSAY

Kristina Munroe

Rhyler Overend

Jack Hulett

John Fitzpatrick

Jack Hulett

Gary Ratcli

Mahogany Grille

THE BEGINNING OF A NEW ERA

by Leah Nott

The burger is arguably one of the most challenging meals to make shine above the rest. And yet, Mahogany Grille’s new bison burger, featuring Gleason Bison from neighboring Hesperus, left diners in awe. The savory burger, complemented with crispy fingerling potatoes, is topped with goat cheese, arugula, and mouthwatering red pepper romesco.

The Mahogany Grille at the Strater Hotel in downtown Durango is receiving new life thanks to General Manager Tori Ossola, Food & Beverage Director Danica Frost, Chef Kailey Hatem, and Sommelier and Food & Beverage Manager Aaron Brandes. Inspired by local flavors and the building’s iconic decor, this talented team is reinventing the menu, presenting a feast for the senses.

“We've created an approachable menu, utilizing fresh local ingredients as much as possible,” Frost said. “We’re telling a story about the Strater and the region through flavors and products, bringing that craftsmanship you see all around you here to the plate and cocktail.”

Besides livening up the menu, Ossola also found an opportunity to nurture a sense of community by reintroducing a tradition that locals and long-time visitors might find familiar. It’s a sure way to “cheer” the diners into the evening with a drink in hand while they await their meal.

“‘The Cheer’ began here many years ago,” Ossola said. “It was a way for us to welcome our guests into this festive restaurant. It’s up to the bartender of the night to designate what that ‘Cheer’ can be, but it’s an opportunity to taste a signature cocktail or wine featured on the menu.”

The culinary makeover at the Mahogany Grille is nothing short of exceptional, showcasing the finest ingredients and flavors of the area while infusing a refreshing element from newly hired Chef Kailey. She is excited to introduce a change of culinary pace for Durango, blending her Lebanese heritage with influences by the classic flavors the restaurant is known for.

“For example, we wanted to develop a shared appetizer that would allow me to showcase my recipe for tabbouleh and toum,” Chef Kailey explained.

The tabbouleh and toum appetizer is an instant classic, and the intense Mediterranean flavors pair well with a refreshing Chardonnay, leaving guests with an aromatic aftertaste, yearning for more.

Ideas presented on the plate continue with a timeless entree heralding the OldWest feel of the restaurant: a tender elk steak complemented with a cherry sauce glaze that warrants no other flavors to be added. Fresh, crispy Brussels sprouts and buttery mashed potatoes round out this delectable dish.

The menu continues to demonstrate Chef Kailey’s culinary expertise with delicate pieces of grilled lamb, exquisitely seasoned with Za’atar, served over a wild mushroom risotto.

“Lamb is something I grew up with,” Chef Kailey said. “It's a very traditional meat. It's easy to master, and I think it's going to hit really well. I know a lot of people like risotto, so that's something I would like to do here because it's impressive.”

Guests agreed, licking the bones clean and chasing the flavors down with a lovely French Grenache hand-selected by sommelier Brandes. A satiated silence fell over the table as diners indulged in the moment of contentment and their full, happy bellies.

While Chef Kailey looks to expand kitchen offerings, Brandes is busy re -

Photos by Ryan Nott

vamping the wine menu to introduce exciting pairings curated to heighten the epicurean journey. Recognizing that guests’ palates and wine experiences vary, Brandes looks forward to bringing affordable, familiar bottles alongside adventurous new selections.

“We are trying to be more approachable to a wider audience,” Brandes said. “I have to get stuff that's recognizable that people gravitate towards. With the new chef and flavor opportunities, I knew I

could fit the wine within the context of the styles of cuisine.”

The restaurant’s weekly specials will build on the essence of seasonal flavors as local ingredients blossom on the plate, taking advantage of the region’s rotating harvest. Diners in the know cannot wait to taste dishes endorsing Colorado’s beloved peach and apple seasons.

Whether you're sharing a meal with loved ones, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a leisurely dinner, the

Mahogany Grille epitomizes the timeless allure of Durango's dining scene. The restaurant’s new era in luxury and refinement still guarantees that special blend of history, hospitality, and culinary excellence that will continue to captivate discerning guests year after year.

NIGHTLIFE

ANARCHY BREWING COMPANY

A neighborhood nano-brewery featuring small batch, frequently rotating beers. The brewery is a “homegrown” taproom built, decorated and run by the founder and friends. They are brewing both traditional and unique beers, as well as collaborating with other local brewers. 225 E 8th Ave., Unit C 970-422-8088 www.anarchybrewingco.com

8TH AVENUE TAVERN

Neighborhood favorite just south of College Drive in College Plaza. Top notch karaoke three nights a week, Thursday through Saturday. Choose from over 46,000 songs to sing before a nonjudgmental crowd. Bar snacks available. O -Main beverage prices! 509 E. 8th Ave., 970-259-8801.

BALCONY BAR & GRILL

The Balcony and The Balcony Backstage is the Four Corners’ destination for live music, tasty beverages, great food & good times. “Gotta come up to get down!” Full lunch and dinner menu, weekend brunch, salads, sandwiches, tacos, burgers and more. 600 Main Ave. #210, 970-422-8008.

BOOKCASE & BARBER

Showcasing Durango’s local talent while transporting guests to another time with an intimate atmosphere, expertly crafted cocktails and superior service. Do you know the password? 601 E. Second Ave. Suite B, 970-764-4123, www.bookcaseandbarber.com

DURANGO CRAFT SPIRITS

Distillery and tasting room. Durango’s first legal grain-to-glass distillery since Prohibition. 1120 Main Ave. #2, 970-247-1919, www.durangospirits.com

DURANGO WINERY

Join Durango Winery tasting room on historic Main Ave. in downtown Durango to learn about and enjoy local wines by the taste, glass or bottle, in a comfortable and welcoming environment. 900 Main Ave, Suite E, 970-9034375, www.durangowinery.com

ERNIE’S

Located within the lively 11th Street Station, Ernie’s is a service-stationthemed bar and is the perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer from the front of a ’57 Chevy Bel Air, or sample from the assortment of specialty cocktails or extensive list of Mezcal and tequilas. Boasting a daily happy hour, Ernie’s is a win-win choice. 1100 Main Ave., 970-422-8482, www.11thstreetstation.com/ernies-bar

EL RANCHO TAVERN

Founded in 1942, El Rancho is a local pub in downtown Durango. Breakfast and lunch service from Durango Diner. 975 Main Ave., 970-259-8111, www.elranchotavern.com

ESOTERRA CIDERWORKS

Family-owned and operated cidery serving one-of-a-kind artisanal ciders, No colors, additives, or flavoring, just apples, yeast & time. Enjoy a cider in a relaxing atmosphere with great conversation. 558 Main Ave., 970-422-8017, www.esoterracider.com

FOUR LEAVES WINERY

Charming downtown winery and tasting gallery. Over 20 wines made on site: varietals, ports and specialty crafted wine. Tastings by the glass, or take home a bottle. Local chocolates for pairing. Appetizers include artisan cheeses, hummus and artichoke dip. 528 Main Ave., 970-403-8182, www.fourleaveswinery.com

THE GARAGE

Previously known as Ponga’s, The Garage is a modern and energizing option for entertainment in downtown Durango. Featuring live performers, an array of billiard tables and a fantastic variety of food and drink. 121 W. 8th St., 970-382-8554.

MOE’S STARLIGHT LOUNGE

This fun lounge is a local favorite for food and live music, plus one of the area’s best patios. Largest selection of vodkas in Colorado; world-famous Bacontini. Great appetizers, over 90 martinis. Happy hour Monday–Friday, 4:30–7pm: half-price well drinks and appetizers, discounted drinks. 937 Main Ave., 970-259-9018.

THE NUGGET MOUNTAIN BAR

Take a walk back in time to an old miner’s cabin. From the exterior, the rustic log cabin looks like the setting of a Jack London novel. The lawn area is enclosed by old railroad ties, complete with gas firepits, cornhole and a giant game of Jenga. A large deck area blankets the front, making the perfect spot for an elevated view of the surrounding peaks and listening to live music. 48721 N. HWY 550, 970-749-4412, www.nuggetmountainbar.com

OFFICE SPIRITORIUM

Locals’ favorite happy hour. Perfect after-work and late-night Victorian bar at the historic Strater Hotel. A wide selection of creative libations, local beers and fabulous wines. Amazing interior setting. Daily happy hour, dinner and live music. 699 Main Ave. inside the Strater Hotel, 970-375-7260, www.strater.com/dining/the-o ice-spiritorium/

ORIO’S ROADHOUSE

One of Durango’s “last REAL bars,” Orio’s is a sports bar and much more, with pool tables. 652 Main Ave., 970-259-6120.

THE OXFORD

Craft cocktails in an upscale-casual environment. The bar boasts an impressive selection of premium spirits, mixers and wines, all of which are used to create imaginative and delicious cocktails that are sure to impress even the most discerning drinker. 119 W. 8th St., www.theoxfordbar.com

SUTCLIFFE VINEYARDS TASTING ROOM

Charming little spot with Sutcli e wines by the glass and bottles to take home. Tasty bites, art shows, movie nights, readings, exquisite meeting rooms, and more. 120 W. 8th Street. 970 565-0825, www.sutcli ewines.com

UNION SOCIAL HOUSE

Featuring live music, vintage decor, full bar, delicious food from a food truck, and fun for the whole family. A great gathering place to relax and enjoy. 3062 Main Ave., 970-759-4144, www.unionsocialhouse.com

WILD HORSE SALOON

Durango’s favorite for live country and western music and Southern rock. National artists and talented locals. Giant dance floor, dance lessons, special concerts, karaoke, DJ Crazy Charlie. “A fun-loving redneck’s dream.” 601 E. 2nd Ave., Suite C, 970-375-2568, www.durangowildhorsesaloon.com

ZIA CANTINA

Zia Taqueria has partnered with Peach Street Distillers to add a new upstairs bar, rooftop patio, and event space to Zia Taqueria’s north location. Serving creative cocktails featuring local spirits and draft beer, Zia Cantina brings a unique, fun, and family-friendly environment to the community. 2977 Main Ave., 970-247-3355, www.ziataqueria.com/zia-cantina

Shaun Stanley

COFFEE SHOPS

81301 COFFEE

Co ee house and roasting company using the pour-over co ee-making process. O ering hot co ee, iced drinks, mochas, lattes, chai and homemade baked goods in a laid-back atmosphere. 3101 Main Ave. #1, 970-385-1941, www.81301co ee.com

ANIMAS CHOCOLATE & COFFEE COMPANY

Casual and comfortable atmosphere, where chocolate lovers can relax while tasting amazing chocolates. From decadent tru les to divine darks, chocolate confections made on the premises using the highest-quality chocolate, simple ingredients, no preservatives. 920 Main Ave., 970-317-5761, www.animaschocolatecompany.com

ANTHUS PARK COFFEE

Drive-through co ee service at the corner of Eighth Avenue and Camino del Rio. Amazing breakfast burritos with Hatch green chili, sausage, bacon, or chorizo. Homemade mu ins. 802 Camino Del Rio, 970-799-5282

COMMON GROUNDS CAFÉ

Sta ed by high school students who want experience. Sandwiches, yogurt, chips, fruit, and cold drinks. Featuring baked goods from Bread bakery and co ee from Desert Sun co ee roasters. It’s the perfect snack spot for kids, library patrons, and river trail users. 1900 E. Third Ave. inside the Durango Public Library, 970-375-3380.

CROSSROADS COFFEE

Just inside the Alpine Bank building serving locally roasted co ee, baked goods, and specialty drinks. Gluten-free items, 1099 Main Ave., 970-903-9051

DURANGO COFFEE COMPANY

Co ee shop and café. Comfortable meeting place. Locally roasted co ees. 730 Main Ave., 970-259-1011, www.durangoco ee.com

DURANGO JOES COFFEE

Nine convenient locations in Durango, Farmington, and Aztec, serving the best espresso/co ee drinks, blended drinks, and smoothies paired with tasty pastries, breakfast burritos, salads, and sandwiches. Enjoy “legendary customer service.” Loyalty programs; fair trade and certified organic co ees and teas. 40 Town Plaza, 970-375-7891; 732 E. College Dr., 970-375-2121; 3455 Main Ave., 970-375-6384; 331 S. Camino del Rio, 970764-4848; 1211 Escalante Dr., 970-382-5911; www.durangojoes.com

HERMOSA CAFÉ

Dedicated to providing the highest-quality specialty co ee along with unparalleled customer service. Serving a wide variety of co ee from around the world, fresh food, and beer and spirits, connecting the Durango community in the process. 738 Main Ave., 970-259-2059, www.hermosacafedurango.com

MAGPIE’S NEWSSTAND AND CAFÉ

Sunny sidewalk patio in the heart of downtown. Most a ordable sandwiches in town. Traditional or grilled panini. Breakfast burritos, salads, smoothies, espressos, house-brewed chai and fresh-made gelato. Selection of magazines, cards, games, puzzles, candy, and sodas. 707 Main Ave., 970-259-1159

SINGLETRACK CAFÉ

Known for great co ee and espressos, and for amazing and healthy breakfast burritos, quality baked goods, great soup and sandwich lunches in a fun, friendly café. 555 Rivergate Ln., #B1-103, 970-422-8558, or 100 Jenkins Ranch Rd., 970-422-8474, www.singletrackcafe.com

SMILEY CAFÉ

A cozy and inviting co ee shop in the popular Smiley Building. Serving fresh, local co ee from 81301 Co ee, breakfast burritos, salads, sandwiches, and a delicious variety of home-baked, gluten-free goodies. 1309 E. 3rd Ave., 970-844-0771, www.thesmileycafe.com

STARBUCKS COFFEE

Fresh-brewed co ee, mochas, Frappuccinos®, lattes, pastries, bagels, and more. Outdoor seating. 6 Town Plaza, inside South City Market, 970-2474475; 311 W. College Dr., inside Albertsons, 970-382-2224; 3130 Main Ave., inside North City Market, 970-385-4340; 2817 Main Ave., 970-382-1783, www.starbucks.com

STILL LIFE COFFEE & BOTANICALS

A new co ee and houseplant shop located on Florida Road, at the base of north College Drive. Featuring organic specialty co ee and tea, craft pastries, house plants, and fresh cut flowers, 970-501-0960, 1301-C Florida Rd., www.still-life-co ee.com

TASTE

Featuring fair trade certified organic co ee locally roasted from Desert Sun Co ee. Believing all the details matter, we make everything from scratch; baked goods and desserts to our seasonal co ee syrups. 2915 Main Ave., 970 403-3078, www.tasteco eedurango.com≠

UPPER EAST SIDE COFFEE DELI

In the Grandview area. Gourmet co ee/espresso drinks, teas, smoothies, bagels, healthy breakfast sandwiches, delicious burritos and fresh inhouse baked goods. Hot, toasted lunch sandwiches, soups, and salads. Free Wi-Fi. 28902 U.S. Hwy. 160 E., 970-385-5747

DINING

11TH STREET STATION

A culinary collective with a progressive vision that honors the history of the location. With pizza, salads, sliders, even seafood, their independent food trucks cure any craving. Outdoor deck is perfect for relaxing with a cold drink or quick lunch. 1101 Main Ave., 970-422-8482, www.11thstreetstation.com

2ND DELI & SPIRITS

Fast, convenient and delicious takeout combined with a laid-back and enjoyable bar atmosphere. O ering hot and cold sandwiches along with a full bar. 601 E. 2nd Ave., 970-259-1000, www.2nddelidurango.com

425 DEGREES TAKE & BAKE PIZZA

“Who bakes the best pizza? You do!” O ering traditional, thin and gluten-free pizzas to take home, as well as wings, cookies, and salads. Order by phone for pickup. 50 County Road 234, inside Elmore’s Corner Store, 970-259-0399.

636 MAIN AVE

An American bistro featuring personally crafted seafood, steak, and Asian-inspired dishes. Start your meal with a selection from the extensive wine menu or a specialty cocktail, finish with a decadent dessert, Yearround patio. Reservations are encouraged. 636 Main Ave., 970-385-1810, www.636mainave.com

AKAMI POKE AND RAMEN

A haven for Japanese ramen, Hawaiian poke bowls, and an extensive menu of Izakaya and other fusion delicacies. Dine and enjoy a variety of sake in their casually hip dining room or on the charming patio. 309 W. College Dr., 970-764-7653, www.akamipokeramen.com

ALCÉ RESTAURANT

Located in the clubhouse of Dalton Ranch Golf Club just 8 minutes north of Durango. O ering one of the area’s best outdoor patios. Not just with great views but often cooler summer temps. Chef Antonio Ayala has recently rejoined our team and brings both his Mexican and European influence to his culinary creations. 589 County Road 252, 970-247-4980, www.daltonranch.com/dining

ANIMAS BREWING COMPANY

Just o the Animas River Trail near Rotary Park. A relaxed, family-friendly brewpub serving house-made beers and Colorado wine and spirits, along with a spin on comfort food and plenty of kid favorites. Comfortable outdoor seating. 1560 E. 2nd Ave., 970-403-8850, www.animasbrewing.com

ANIMAS RIVER BEER GARDEN

The Animas River Beer Garden features a diverse selection of mile-high sandwiches and ''Grille'' specialties. Featuring beer from Breckenridge Brewery. Seasonal summer hours for lunch and dinner. Enjoy casual, open-air dining on the river while watching the rafters float by. 501 Camino del Rio, inside the DoubleTree Hotel, 970-259-6580.

ANIMAS RIVER GRILLE

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for casual or celebratory events. Enjoy stunning river views. Daily specials; kids’ menu. For the healthy-minded, the Animas River Grille has its “eat right menu.” Easy-order takeout by phone. 501 Camino del Rio, inside the DoubleTree Hotel, 970-259-6580.

APPLEBEE’S NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL & BAR

Serving delicious family favorites, from their famous boneless wings to mouthwatering salads and chicken dishes. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Nine televisions, full bar, casual, comfortable, friendly atmosphere. 800 Camino del Rio, inside Durango Downtown Inn, 970-259-5850, www.applebees.com

BAR D CHUCKWAGON SUPPERS

Old West music and comedy stage show with traditional barbecue supper. Fun for the whole family. Nightly, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Reservations required. 8080 County Road 250, 970-247-5753, www.bardchuckwagon.com

BART’S DELI

Delicious breakfast sandwiches and breakfast burritos. Tasty burgers, hot dogs, fries, hot pastrami, salads, specials and much more. Boasting “the best Reuben in town.” 1220 Carbon Junction Rd., inside the Exxon gas station across from Walmart, 970-247-1144

BASKIN-ROBBINS

Serving 42 delicious ice cream flavors, as well as a variety of ice cream cakes, smoothies, sundaes, shakes, and blasts. 32 Town Plaza, 970-247-1231, www.baskinrobbins.com

BREAD

Fresh homemade breads, pastries, cookies, and deli sandwiches served daily. From whole wheat to rye, ginger snaps to scones, Bread is fast, friendly, and fantastic. 42 County Road 250, 970-247-5100 and downtown at 135 E. 8th St., 970-247-2220, www.breaddurango.com

BUCKHEAD WEST BBQ

To-go BBQ right on main. Outdoor seating available. Closing daily when the food runs out. 600 Main Ave #103

BURGER KING

Redrock Foods, a Burger King Corp. franchisee, owns and operates the Durango location and 19 New Mexico and Colorado stores. Visit Burger King for the famous Whopper and chicken sandwiches. Order online, via phone, or in person. 1415 Main Ave., 970-247-9095, www.bk.com

BURGER THEORY

Lunch and dinner menu features burgers and Colorado craft beers, with a breakfast menu focused on the morning classics. Thirteen high-definition TVs promise no bad seat in the house, and the daily happy hour will keep your glass full. 21636 U.S. Hwy. 160 W., inside the Holiday Inn & Suites, 970-385-6387.

CARVER BREWING COMPANY

One of the Southwest’s original brewpubs – and located in historic downtown Durango – Carver’s o ers tours of its solar/wind-powered brewery and has 12 award-winning handcrafted brews on tap. Hearty and fresh creations for every meal. Kid-friendly. Organic produce grown at Carver Farms and other local sources. 1022 Main Ave., 970-259-2545, www.carverbrewing.com

CHANG THAI DURANGO

History has created the Thai recipes that have been around for generations. Eating at Chang Thai Durango isn’t just a culinary experience, but one rooted in culture. 2477 Main Ave, 970-501-0000

CHIMAYO STONE FIRED KITCHEN

Contemporary American bistro with a Southwestern flair. Creative small plates, salads, artisanal pizzas, plus fire-roasted steaks, chicken and seafood. Stone hearth ovens in an open-exhibition kitchen. Specialty cocktails, fine wines and local tap beer. Unique, casual fine dining. 862 Main Ave., 970-259-2749, www.chimayodurango.com

CHINA CAFÉ

Favorite longtime Durango restaurant, o ering delicious and traditional Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine. Full bar and beautiful riverside patio. Parking. Dine in or take out. 1525 Main Ave., 970-259-0868, www.durangochinacafe.com

COLD STONE CREAMERY

The secret recipe for smooth, creamy ice cream is to make it fresh daily in the store and then customize it with your choice of mix-ins on a frozen granite stone, and Cold Stone does this perfectly. Custom, signature ice cream cakes, pies, and cupcakes. 598 Main Ave., 970-259-5052, www.coldstonecreamery.com

COLLEGE DRIVE CAFÉ

Creative and large menu, fresh-roasted organic co ee, friendly folks and atmosphere. Daily, delicious specials and tried-and-true entrées. Everyone is treated like a regular at College Drive Café. Free Wi-Fi and cozy dining room. 666 E. College Dr., 970-247-5322, www.cafedurango.com

CREAM BEAN BERRY

Born of a desire to serve ice cream you can feel good about. This means using as many locally produced and organic ingredients as we can, as well as reducing waste through recycling and composting. 1021 Main Ave, 970903-1300, www.creambeanberry.com

CUCKOO’S CHICKEN HOUSE & WATERIN’ HOLE

Family sports eatery. Broasted chicken, 20-plus kinds of wings, most menu items under $12. HDTVs, satellite sports. Full menu and bar. Dine in or take out. 128 E. College Dr., 970-259-6322, www.cuckooschicken.com

DENNY’S

Family-friendly menu selections to satisfy everyone of all ages. Serving delicious and classic breakfasts, like pancake or egg platters; seafood, salad, and steak lunches and dinners, Denny’s provides a ordable and delicious meals. 666 Camino del Rio, 970-247-1512, www.dennys.com

DERAILED POUR HOUSE

An 1890s bar with a stage for local and touring musicians. O ering martinis, wines, 14 beers on tap, and fresh cocktails. Menu items made from scratch and eight sports screens. Everyone feels like a local. 725 Main Ave., 970-247-5440, www.derailedpourhouse.com

DIAMOND BELLE SALOON

Legendary Old West saloon in the heart of historic downtown. Famous ragtime piano, costumed Belle girls, cowboys and bartenders. Daily live music, lunch, happy hour, and dinner. Sunday brunch. Gunfights Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 5:30 p.m., June through October. 699 Main Ave., inside the Strater Hotel, 970-247-4431, www.strater.com/dining/diamond-belle-saloon/

DOMINO’S PIZZA

Fast, friendly delivery or carryout. A variety of delicious pizzas, chicken wings, breadsticks, pasta, sandwiches, salads, sodas, and more. Enjoy a classic meal anytime you crave it. Open for lunch, dinner, and late night. 1485 Florida Rd., 970-259-3660: 1185 S. Camino Del Rio, 970-478-3030, www.dominos.com

DUNKIN’ DONUTS

Long-running chain serving signature breakfast items, an assortment of co ee beverages, and of course, their famous donuts. Sign up for rewards through the Dunkin’ app as well as order ahead for quick and easy pickup. 1254 Escalante Dr., 970-764-4949, www.dunkindonuts.com

DURANGO BAGEL

Voted the “best bagel in the Four Corners.” Freshly baked bagels, cinnamon rolls and pastries. Great breakfast selections and lunch bagel sandwiches. Takeout lunches. 106 E. 5th St., next to the train depot, 970-385-7297.

DURANGO BEER AND ICE COMPANY

First founded in 1887, and continuing the tradition with a restart in 2020, the new railroad-inspired tasting room o ers local brews from High Trestle Brewing Company, along with great “pub grub,” including a variety of burgers and homemade red and green chile. 3000 Main Ave., 970-764-4466, www.durangobeerandice.com

DURANGO DELI

For a warming soup, a satisfying sandwich or mouthwatering burger, the airport deli is just the ticket. For a quick bite or just a place to relax while waiting for a plane, the Durango Deli is the perfect traveler’s haven. 1000 Airport Rd., inside the Durango-La Plata County Airport, 970-259-6964.

DURANGO DINER

On historic Main Avenue, “The Diner” is one of the town’s landmark eateries, known for its nostalgic no-frills meals and local camaraderie. Brand-name green chile and Southwest salsa are sold nationwide. Breakfast and lunch all day. 957 Main Ave., 970-247-9889, www.durangodiner.com

DURANGO DOUGHWORKS

Fresh donuts and bagels, breakfast burritos, lunch favorites—something for everyone. Grab a breakfast burrito or bagel sandwich or relax in the comfy dining room for a full breakfast or lunch. 2653 Main Ave., 970-247-1610, www.durangodoughworks.com

DURANGO GOURMET POPCORN

At Durango Gourmet Popcorn, we are passionate about creating the perfect snack experience. Our commitment to quality ingredients, innovative recipes, and exceptional customer service sets us apart in the industry. We can't wait to welcome you to our store and share our love for popcorn and more with you. 600 Main Ave., Ste 110, 970-403-3833, durangogourmetpopcorn.com/

DURANGO NATURAL FOODS CO - OP

Durango’s first and only community-owned food market and deli. The best local, organic produce; non-GMO groceries and bulk foods; locally raised meat and eggs; cruelty-free body-care products; and more. 575 E. 8th Ave., at the corner of College and Eighth, 970-247-8129, www.durangonaturalfoods.coop

Elevated Rustic Fare with 360° Mountain Views

Indulge in an unforgettable dining experience with farm-fresh dishes and Italian-inspired avors, or unwind with cocktails and dinner at our full-service bar.

Open Daily Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

VALLEY CLUBHOUSE, 212 N TAMARRON DRIVE

970 . 382 . 6775

theglacierclub.com/prospector-at-glacier

EAST BY SOUTHWEST

Voted Durango’s best happy hour, hottest date night, best dessert, best cocktail, and best bartender. Full sushi bar, vegetarian options, sake, Asian beers, libations. Comfortable, upscale urban setting. Kids’ menu. 160 E. College Dr., 970-247-5533, www.eastbysouthwest.com

EL MORO SPIRITS & TAVERN

Lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. El Moro is named after the early-1900s saloon that occupied the historic site. Comfortable, with exposed red-brick walls and hardwood floors. A “farm-to-table” restaurant featuring local fresh foods. 945 Main Ave., 970-259-5555, www.elmorotavern.com

EOLUS BAR & DINING

Locally owned and operated since 2013, Eolus is named for the famous peak near Chicago Basin. Featuring farm-to-table and vine-to-wine. Contemporary American cuisine. A fine array of local products. Elegant dining room, comfortable bar, rooftop patio with views. Reservations recommended. 919 Main Ave., 970-259-2898, www.eolusdurango.com

ELEVATED EATS

Two locations to choose from. Local chefs that know flavors. Some of the most amazing and fresh dishes you’ve ever enjoyed. Stay elevated! Food truck inside Durango Hot Springs, 6475 County Road 203 or 939 US Highway 3, 970-403-3696, www.elevatedeatsdurango.com

FAMBURGER

Burgers, coney dogs, hand-battered onion rings, soft-serve ice cream, milkshakes, floats, and fries. Everything you and your kids could want in a walk-up diner. Just 500 feet from the Animas River Trail. 1400 E. 2nd Ave., 970-422-8082, www.theoriginalfamburger.com

FATHER’S DAUGHTERS PIZZA

Family owned and operated and with a full bar, featuring the East Coast flavor of Sicilian- or New York-style pizza. Dough made fresh daily. Great salads, wings, and soups. Private parties welcome. 640 Main Ave., 970-385-0420, www.fathersdaughterspizza.com

FIRED UP PIZZERIA

Devoted to quality local and imported ingredients and the traditional method of artisan wood-fired baking. Always fresh, handmade, wood-fired pizza, plus sandwiches and salads. Gluten-free options, daily specials, full bar, family friendly, seasonal rooftop patio. 735 Main Ave., 970-247-0264, www.fireduppizzeria.com

FREDDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD & STEAKBURGERS

Retro-style chain restaurant o ering steakburgers, hot dogs, and other fastfood staples, plus frozen custard galore. 1246 Escalante Dr., 970-422-8655, www.freddysusa.com/store/durango

FRIDAS MEXICAN RESTAURANT AND CANTINA

Come try homemade recipes made only with the freshest ingredients. Enjoy a full bar with expertly made drinks and traditional Mexican cuisine all while enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere. 2525 Main Ave., 970-385-1595, durangofridascantina.com

GAZPACHO

Voted Durango’s favorite for Mexican food and margaritas. Traditional northern New Mexican fare. Hatch red and green chiles. Carne adovada, tamales, blue-corn enchiladas, stu ed sopaipillas, and vegetarian menu. Full bar. Parking. 431 E. 2nd Ave., 970-259-9494, www.gazpachodurango.com

GOOD ON THE BUN

Located in the Durango Elks Lodge parking lot. Open Monday-Friday, 1030230 for lunch. The Bun serves authentic Philadelphia cheesesteaks, hoagies, sandwich specials, and a selection of homemade soups. 901 E. 2nd Ave., 215-813-4205 Daily menu available at GoodontheBun@facebook.com.

GRASSBURGER

Award-winning restaurant serving burgers from 100% grass-fed, USA-raised beef; turkey and vegan burgers; sweet and regular fries; salads. Indoor/ outdoor seating, kiddie corral. Vegan, allergy, gluten-free friendly. The American burger made healthy, ethical, and delicious. Dine in or carry out. 726½ Main Ave., 970-247-1081, www.eatgrassburger.com

GRIEGO’S RESTAURANT

This very reasonably priced, popular Southwestern and American diner serves fajitas, carnitas, enchiladas, smothered burrito plates, and burgers. Vegetarian and kids’ meals and takeout. Great food and friendly service. Considered a classic, local favorite. 2603 Main Ave., 970-259-3558.

HAPPY PAPPY’S PIZZA & WINGS

New to the Durango area, Happy Pappy’s has a wide variety of build-yourown pizzas, flavorful wings, and beer. Using longtime family dough and wing recipes along with the best ingredients possible. Order online, over the phone, or in person. 2411 Main Ave., 970-764-4213.

HERMOSA CREEK GRILL

Locally owned café in the Animas Valley north of town, the perfect stop on the way to the mountains. Delicious and unique egg dishes, pancakes, cinnamon rolls. Daily specials. Sandwiches, burgers, authentic gyros, and salads. Full espresso bar. 32223 U.S. Hwy. 550 N., 970-247-0014, www.hermosacreekgrill.com

HIGHWAY 3 ROADHOUSE & OYSTER BAR

Open Wednesday – Friday known as a locals’ hangout. Serving Cajun/ Creole/Southern based menu with oysters and catfish Unique appetizers and full bar. Great for private parties. Weekly specials posted to Facebook on Wednesday. 955 CO Hwy. 3, 970-385-7444, www.highway3roadhouse.com

HIMALAYAN KITCHEN

Tastes from such top-of-the-world regions as Nepal, India, and Tibet. Daily gourmet lunch bu et. Dinner temptations include yak, lamb, chicken, seafood, and vegetarian. Fresh bread from the tandoor oven. 992 Main Ave., 970-259-0956, www.himkitchen.com

HOME SLICE PIZZA

Gourmet pizza, salads, and sandwiches, plus a full bar. Dine in, take out, or order online for in-town delivery. If you love fresh homemade pizza and friendly service, this is the place for you; just ask the locals. 441 E. College Dr., 970-259-5551; 2915 Main Ave., 970-422-8337; and 125 Mercado St., #105, 970-764-4207; www.homeslicedelivers.com

HUNT BROTHERS PIZZA

Carry-out pizza located inside the 4 Star Market, 10 toppings to choose from, 20800 W. US HWY160.

J. BO’S PIZZA & RIB COMPANY

Known locally as Bo’s, this fast, casual, family eatery serves pizza, ribs, grinders, burgers, salads, local microbrews, and more. Pool tables, jukebox, video games, live music. Eat in, take out, or delivery. 1301 Florida Rd., 970-259-0010, www.jbosdurango.com

JAMES RANCH MARKET & GRILL

Where unforgettable food and memories are made. Experience a table-onthe-farm organic restaurant, farm market, and ranch tours. 33846 U.S. Hwy. 550, 970-764-4222, www.jamesranch.net/grill

JEAN PIERRE BAKERY, CAFÉ & WINE BAR

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Wine room for small business meetings or private dinner parties. Live classical and/or jazz music on the weekends. Traditional yet innovative dinner menu. Full bar. Reservations recommended. Top-rated sweets on Trip Advisor. 601 Main Ave., 970-247-7700.

JIMMY JOHN’S

The popular franchise has featured gourmet sandwiches since 1983. Jimmy John’s is known for its irreverent attitude, low prices, great and healthy food, and speedy delivery, with more than 2,000 stores nationwide. 1316 Main Ave., 970-259-0577, www.jimmyjohns.com

THE JOINT

Located on old HWY 3 serving breakfast and lunch, open select evenings for dinner. Come enjoy delicious Southwest menu items and truly amazing local favorites that shouldn’t be missed. Indoor and outdoor seating. 939 Colorado HWY 3., 970 403-3696. www.elevatedeatsdurango.com

KACHINA KITCHEN

Delicious and traditional Southwestern foods along with Mexican and Native American dishes prepared fresh daily. Fast and e icient service, great prices and free parking. 325 S. Camino del Rio in the Centennial Center, 970-247-3536.

KENNEBEC CAFÉ

Taste Tuscany in the La Plata Mountains, just 10 miles west of Durango on Hwy. 160. Mediterranean- and American-inspired cuisine, bistro setting. Extensive wines, full bar, takeout, ever-changing seasonal menu. Events and banquets welcome. Reservations accepted. 4 County Road 124, Hesperus, 970-247-5674, www.kennebeccafe.com

LA BONNE PATISSERIE

Seasons change and so do their baked goods. Quality and consistency go hand-in-hand at La Bonne Patisserie. 3101 Main Ave, Unit 2, 970-403-3776, www.labonnedurango.com

LA HACIENDA

Recently changed to La Hacienda, this colorful family restaurant on the north side of town o ers great margaritas and delicious, authentic Mexican food. 2850 Main Ave., 970-375-2492.

THE LIFT

Located at Cascade Village just north of Purgatory Ski Resort, The Lift serves authentic modern American cuisine with impeccable views of the San Juan Mountains. 50827 U.S. Hwy. 550 N., 970-749-6200.

LOLA’S PLACE

Gather to enjoy healthy food from food truck partners, refreshing beverages from their bar and Taste Specialty Co ee, and exciting events o ered by the diverse cohort of businesses that call Lola’s Place home. 725 East Second Ave., (970) 385-6884, www.lolasplace.com

LOS AMIGOS DEL SUR

In the Main Mall downtown, this unassuming restaurant is small but features a great Mexican menu and handcrafted margaritas. Friendly, comfortable atmosphere serving everyone’s favorite dishes, including “street” tacos and vegetarian platters. 835 Main Ave., #106, 970-764-4042, www.durangoamigos.com

MACHO’S FAST MEXICAN FOOD & DRINKS

Fresh and bursting with flavor, great dishes prepared with the highestquality ingredients. Beto’s Burrito Bowl is a favorite! Authentic Mexican meals. Great atmosphere, friendly service, a ordable prices. Take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. 1485 Florida Rd., 970-422-8540.

MAHOGANY GRILLE

Featuring something for everyone. Menu items crafted by their master chef with meats, produce, and ingredients from local family-owned farms and ranches. 699 Main Ave., inside the Strater Hotel, 970-247-4431, www.strater.com/dining/the-mahogany-grille/

MAMMA SILVIA’S ITALIAN KITCHEN

Traditional Italian cuisine crafted by East by Southwest owners Hydi and Sergio Verduzco, featuring delicious and unique antipasti, farinacei, and insalate. Once inside, there’s a modern and comfortable design. Fun for the whole family. 150 E. College Dr., 970-247-5533, www.mammasilvias.com

MAY PALACE RESTAURANT

Some of the town’s best and most delicious Chinese food. Traditional specialties: Szechuan, Hunan, Mandarin, and 38 lunch specials. No MSG. Full menu for takeout. Full bar. Great location downtown. 909 Main Ave., 970-259-4836.

MCDONALD’S

Fast and friendly service. Order from the dollar menu or the regular value meals. Enjoy favorites like the Big Mac and classic French fries. 201 W. 6th St., 970-247-2446, www.mcdonalds.com/us/en-us.html

MI RANCHITO

Family restaurant o ering real street tacos. Daily specials, dine in, curbside pickup, delivery. 117 W. College Dr., 970-422-8514.

MICHEL’S CORNER CRÊPES

Longtime Durango chef Michel Poumay brings authentic sweet and savory French crêpes to the heart of downtown. Each made fresh to order. Perfect for grabbing unique fare to go or dine on the patio. 598 Main Ave., 970-769-0256, www.michelscorner.com

MONGOLIAN GRILL

Located in the Walmart shopping center and featuring tasty Peking and Mongolian barbecue, plus Hunan, Chinese, Mandarin and Szechuan cuisine. A variety of beer and wine, free parking, and all-you-can-eat dishes. Dine in or take out. 1135 S. Camino del Rio, #230, 970-259-7228, www.mongoliangrill.uorder.io

MOUNTAIN DOUGH BAKING CO.

O ering a wide variety of tasty treats, from classic chocolate chip cookies to whimsical cupcakes and cakes and fun desserts. They also o er dessert catering services for any event, big or small. 1537 Florida Rd, Suite 101, 970422-8235, www.mountaindoughbaking.com

NATURE’S OASIS

Durango’s great natural market is the largest provider of natural and organic products in the Four Corners. Fresh sandwiches, salads, soups, and hot foods daily in the deli. Largest selection of supplements and beauty-care products in the region. Also home to Jack’s Meat & Seafood, River Liquors, and Serious Delights Bakehouse. Locally owned since 1993. 300 S. Camino del Rio, 970247-1988, www.naturesoasismarket.com

NAYARIT RESTAURANT

Named after the Mexican state of Nayarit, o ering authentic Mexican food that cannot be found anywhere else in Durango. Best known for their selection of tequilas and margaritas, fresh seafood, and delicious tacos. 1135 S. Camino del Rio, #290, 970-259-4114, www.nayaritmexicandurango.com

NINI’S TAQUERIA

Food so good, you won’t trust the water! Funky, casual Mexican restaurant with a unique take on traditional Mexican food. Giant burritos, grilled quesadillas, and tasty tacos. A wide selection of world-famous margaritas and local beers. 552 Main Ave., 970-259-4221, www.ninistaqueria.com

OLDE SCHOOLHOUSE CAFÉ & SALOON

Lively place for great pizza, calzones, beer, and spirits. Just three miles south of Purgatory Resort, across from Needles Country Store. Stop in after a great day of skiing! 46778 U.S. Hwy. 550 N., 970-259-2257, www.oldeschoolhousesaloon.com

OSCAR’S CAFÉ

Voted “Durango’s best breakfast,” a ’50s-style diner with a train. Homemade hash browns, chili verde, pancakes, omelets, biscuits and gravy, French toast, cinnamon rolls, soups, salads, homemade pies, shakes, burgers, Reubens, and club sandwiches. Kids’ menu. Takeout. 18 Town Plaza, 970-247-0526.

PAPA MURPHY’S TAKE ’N’ BAKE PIZZA

Freshly prepared, ready to pop into the oven, pizzas, including Gourmet Delite®. Choose from Papa’s All Meat, Cowboy, Papa’s Favorite®, vegetarian. Gourmet, stu ed to thin, crispy crust, there’s a Papa Murphy’s pizza for everyone. 12 Town Plaza, 970-382-0961, www.papamurphys.com

PIZZA HUT

Find all your favorites at this national chain pizzeria. Pan-style, stu ed crust, thin and crispy, or hand-tossed styles. Ask about the Pizza Supreme. Bu alo wings, bread sticks, salads, sodas, and much more. Delivery and takeout. 1316 Main Ave., 970-259-2112, www.pizzahut.com

PJ’S GOURMET MARKET

Just north of Durango on U.S. Hwy. 160. Rare treats or necessities, fresh produce, meat, poultry, seafood. Deli with the best salads, meats, cheeses. Freshly baked breads, sweets, pastries. Everyday groceries. Fresh local and regional products: co ee, snacks, chips, sodas, salsa, honey. 67 Trimble Crossing, 970-247-0100, www.pjsgourmetmarket.com

PERBACCO CUCINA ITALIANA

Featuring all homemade pastas and desserts from the owner’s north and southern regions of Italy along with a variety of other delicious family favorites. Reservations recommended. 505 Main Ave. 970-403-3092.

POP SUSHI

Restaurateur Jimmy Nguyen, owner of Rice Monkeys, unrolled Pop Sushi. As executive chef, Ray Srisamer oversees a Japanese tapas restaurant with a full bar. Urban atmosphere, seating for 70. 42 County Road 250, #400, 970-422-8182, www.popsushidurango.com

PRIMI PASTA & WINE BAR

PRIMI, meaning first course in Italian, serves a unique and tasty variety of authentic and handmade pasta dishes, sauces, paninis, salads, gelato, and wine. O ering a casual atmosphere to relax in and enjoy. 1201 Main Ave., #102, 970-764-4138, www.primidurango.com

PRIMUS

We believe in raising the bar. Serving an array of fresh seafood, wild game and locally produced grains in this tasteful setting. With both upstairs and downstairs dining areas, Primus o ers a unique and exciting menu to those seeking to enliven their taste buds. 1017 Main Ave., 970-259-1945, www.primusrestaurant.com

PUBLIC HOUSE 701

A new-to-Durango upscale casual dining spot. Featuring personally crafted food, as well as beer and cocktails. Reservations encouraged through the RESY app. 701 E. 2nd Ave., 970-403-3079. www.publichouse701.com

PURGATORY RESORT RESTAURANTS

The resort o ers fun, convenient bars and restaurants, including indoor and al fresco options. From pastries, salads, gourmet burgers, pizza, steak, and pasta to fish entrées, choose a variety of delicious dining options. 1 Skier Place, seasonal hours apply, 970-247-9000, www.purgatory.ski

RAIDER RIDGE CAFÉ

Locals’ choice for healthy meals. Tasty wraps, deli sandwiches, breakfast burritos, vegetarian green chili, local organic co ee, and the very best fresh-fruit smoothies in town. Takeout orders welcome. 509 E. 8th Ave., 970-375-9727, https://raiderridgecafe.simdif.com/

RGP’S FLAME - GRILLED WRAPS

Homemade dough grilled over an open fire and filled with the freshest ingredients. Local favorite: Southwest turkey club. Also, pulled-pork barbecue and chicken pesto panini. In the heart of downtown, inside the Main Mall. 835 Main Ave., #107-B, 970-382-9868, www.rgpswraps.com

R ICE MONKEYS

Healthy, creative, delicious Asian food in a fast, friendly environment. Sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, traditional Vietnamese. Specialty rolls, rice bowls, egg rolls, and platters with such favorites as ceviche, seared black-pepper tuna, Saigon noodles, beef pho, ginger chicken. To-go party platters, delivery. 1050 Main Ave., 970-403-3852, www.ricemonkeysdurango.com

ROADHOUSE PIZZA COMPANY

Carryout pizza and wings, 123 CO-172, 970-247-4933

THE ROOST

Brought to you by the owners of Cuckoo’s Chicken House & Waterin’ Hole and The Animas City Theatre. Serving traditional American food—burgers, French fries, and prime rib. Wide selection of beer and wine. Dine in or take out. 128 E. College Dr., 970-764-4661, www.theroostdurango.com

ROXY’S

Roxy's serves up a playful harmony between the flavors of Mexico and India. We o er tacos, grilled burritos, naan, nachos, and rice bowls loaded with your choice of our handcrafted curries, guisados, and chutneys, all topped with citrus-herb kale slaw. 639 Main Ave, 970-422-5025, www.roxiestacos.com

SAGE: FARM FRESH EATS

From soil to soup and sprout to salad, Sage marries local food with fast, casual convenience. 3101 Main Ave., #5, 970-764-4270, www.sagefarmfresheats.com

SEASONS ROTISSERIE & GRILL

Changing dinner menu to showcase the area’s bounty. Wood-fired grill, great service, award-winning chef. Critically acclaimed, internationally awarded wine list. Main Avenue views, private-cellar dining, patio. Reservations encouraged. Dinner nightly beginning at 5:30 p.m. 764 Main Ave., 970-3829790, www.seasonsofdurango.com

SERIOUS DELIGHTS BAKEHOUSE

Local family bakery provides a wide variety of fresh breads, pastries, and desserts, and proudly o ers delicious gluten-free options. Treats are always handcrafted from scratch using local, organic ingredients when possible. Inside Nature’s Oasis market. 300 S. Camino del Rio, 970-749-8263, www.seriousdelights.com

SERIOUS TEXAS BAR-B- Q

Selected by Sunset Magazine as one of the best barbecue restaurants in the West. Smoked meats, huge sandwiches, and legendary ribs. Outdoor deck. 18-hole mini golf at south location. 650 S. Camino del Rio, 970-259-9507, and 3535 N. Main Ave., 970-247-2240, www.serioustexasbbq.com

SEVEN RIVERS STEAKHOUSE

For an authentic steakhouse experience, this restaurant wows with selections of mussels, giant prawns, lump crab, scallops, and shrimp. Prime cuts of beef, such as petite filet and New York strip. Beautiful décor. Reservations available. 14324 County Road 172, Ignacio, inside Sky Ute Casino Resort, 970-563-6235.

SIZZLING SIAM

A locals’ favorite with the wonderfully di erent, delicious, and healthy foods of Thailand made with the freshest ingredients by native Thais. Call in, carry out, or dine in. Very a ordable, healthy, and delicious. 519½ Main Ave., 970-385-9470.

SKA BREWING

Eat local while enjoying fresh craft beer right from the source. Built from repurposed shipping containers. Choose from brick-oven pizzas, sandwiches, soups, salads, and kid's options. Live music on Thursday nights. 225 Girard St., 970-247-5792, www.skabrewing.com

SKY UTE CASINO RESORT

For dining options: Seven Rivers Steakhouse for upscale steaks and seafood; Willows Café Bistro for breakfast, lunch, dinner; Rolling Thunder Grill for pub fare; 49 Lounge with TVs for sports fans, a full bar, and appetizers; Shining Mountain Café for Native American fare. 14324 Hwy. 172 North, Ignacio, 970-563-7777, www.skyutecasino.com/dining

SONIC DRIVE -IN

Breakfast and main menu items all day – American classics like cheeseburgers and fries. Happy hour (half-price fountain drinks and slushes) every day, 2-5 p.m. Monthly specials. 240 E. 8th Ave., 970-247-8160, www.sonicdrivein.com

SOUP PALETTÉ

Serving food out of their snazzy truck. Their passion is preparing healthy and delicious food. Vegan, gluten-free, meaty, and fresh. Truck is available to reserve for special events. 725 E. 2nd Ave., 970-759-9921, www.souppalette.com

STEAMWORKS BREWING CO.

Great spot for a casual lunch or dinner. Award-winning selection of beers, cocktails, and wines. Nightly food and drink specials. Games on several TVs. 801 E. 2nd Ave., 970-259-9200, www.steamworksbrewing.com

Soft Serve Gourmet Popcorn

Boba Tea

Sodas

SUBWAY

Fast, inexpensive and ready to go when you are. Perfect for backpacks or picnics. Delicious salads and sandwiches. Fresh meats, crisp veggies, breads baked daily. 2101 Main Ave., 970-259-0887; 1145 S. Camino del Rio, 970-3829511; https://restaurants.subway.com/united-states/co/durango

SUNNYSIDE FARMS MARKET

A full-service retail butcher shop with a complete line of fresh meats, poultry, and seafood. Sunnyside Farms Market provides grocery and butcher shop needs, and deli to-go orders. 1305 Escalante Dr., #101, 970-375-6400, www.sunnysidefarmsmarket.com

SWITCHBACK TACO BAR

Featuring unique Mexican-inspired street food like Sonora dogs, elote, and tacos; fresh cocktails; a ordable prices; fun, laid-back environment. 741 Main Ave., 970-422-8074, www.switchbacktaco.com

T’S SMOKEHOUSE & GRILL

Fast becoming a local favorite, with hickory-smoked barbecue, po’ boys, fresh-ground burgers, and Creole fare. Newly renovated interior. Largest patio in downtown, with a horseshoe pit and great views. Eat in, take out, delivery, catering. #3 Depot Pl., 970-259-6000, www.tssmokehouse.com

TACO BELL

Known for “thinking outside the bun” with original tacos, burritos, gorditas, Mexican pizza, chalupas, nachos, cheese roll-ups, quesadillas, taquitos, and taco salads. Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, extra cheese, rice, beans. 2902 Main Ave., 970-259-5588, www.tacobell.com

TACO BOY

Tacos, enchiladas, tamales, burritos, guacamole and chile rellenos. Everyone’s favorite Mexican dishes in the Three Springs neighborhood. Beer and wine. Fresh, authentic Mexican food. New “fast-casual” eatery seats nearly 100. Family-operated by Silvia, Juan, and Miguel Aguayo. 150 Confluence Ave., #101-C, 970-422-8399, www.tacoboycolorado.com

TACO LIBRE TAQUERIA AND COCKTAILS

Wrestle down some tacos at Durango’s newest taqueria. Serving lunch and dinner for dine in, take out, and delivery. Enjoy signature drinks at the full bar. 1150 Main Ave., 970-764-4186, www.tacolibredurango.com

TEQUILA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Hola! For an authentic Mexican food experience, Tequila’s is highly inventive, always surprising customers with their daily specials. Known for the town’s best margaritas. Wonderful food, drinks, and great service that you won’t soon forget! 948 Main Ave., 970-259-7655, www.tequilasmexicandurango.com

THAI KITCHEN

Tucked inside the Alpine Bank at 11th and Main, authentic Thai cuisine such as spring rolls, egg rolls, chicken satay, crab rangoon, wonton soup, chicken peanut salad, pad Thai noodles, curry dishes, and stir-fry. Eat in or carry out. 101 W. 11th St., 970-385-3903, https://thaikitchen99.wixsite.com/my-site

TURTLE LAKE REFUGE CAFÉ

Locally grown, wild-harvested, living-foods lunch. Soup, salad, entrée, dessert for suggested $15 donation. Raw, organic, vegetarian and vegan ingredients. Sharing the Victorian brick building with Rocky Mountain Retreat. Patio in summer; warm (greenhouse) second floor in winter. Open Tuesday and Friday 11:11 a.m.-2:22 p.m. 848 E. 3rd Ave., 970-247-8395, www.turtlelakerefuge.org

WEMINUCHE WOODFIRE GRILL

A fun family-oriented atmosphere on the edge of Vallecito Reservior serving fresh food and great drinks. After your adventures enjoy a meal with us, you’ll keep coming back again and again. 18044 County Road 501, Bayfield, CO 81122, 970-884-7153, www.weminuchegrill.com/

WENDY’S OLD -FASHIONED HAMBURGERS

Hot, juicy 100 percent pure beef burgers, savory chicken sandwiches, garden sensation salads, delicious French fries and frosty shakes. Try the Baconator®! Take out or eat in. Drive-through until midnight. 1840 Main Ave., 970-247-4505, www.wendys.com

YELLOW CARROT RESTAURANT AND BAKERY

Modern dining from Sari Brown. Creative vegetarian choices, including roasted cauliflower with kale rice; mango and coconut curry; tomato bombs with cabbage, raisins and caramel vinaigrette. Also featuring bisque, chowders, steaks, chicken, ribs, grits, and burgers. Catering available. 3206 Main Ave., Suite #1, 970-259-3773, www.theyellowcarrot.com

ZIA TAQUERIA

Fresh-Mex: burritos, quesadillas, tacos, enchiladas, tamales, soups, fish tacos, salads, rice bowls. Beer and margaritas. Daily specials, kids’ menu. Eat in, take out, catering, or online ordering. 2977 Main Ave., 970-247-3355, and 400 S. Camino del Rio, 970-247-1002, www.ziataqueria.com

Weminuche Woodfire Grill

ELEVATED FOR EVERYONE

by Graham Coffey

The parking lot of the Weminuche Woodfire Grill in Vallecito is packed on a midwinter’s night. The owner, Joe Zebas, talks passionately about his love for public lands as the pecan wood he picked out of an orchard this morning burns in the fireplace nearby. Across the room, locals play pool in a weeknight league. People of all ages commune while eating and drinking at the bar. Someone walks past the table every few minutes and stops to speak with Zebas. They’re all members of an extended adopted family that Zebas has created along the shores of Vallecito Lake.

“Vallecito is one of the last frontiers,” Zebas says. “You can only come up one way, and you can only leave one way. There’s no freeway system here. The people are amazing. You’ve got to get to know them. If you don’t, then you seem to think, ‘What’s Vallecito about?’”

Vallecito Lake is a gateway to some of Southwest Colorado’s best outdoor recreation. The winter season is ideal for snowmobiling, ice fishing, and Nordic skiing. With the spring thaw, adventure seekers can access 500,000 acres of the state’s largest wilderness area from the edge of town. Down below, anglers revel in the serenity and bounty of Vallecito’s cold blue waters.

How did Zebas, a successful attorney from Hobbs, New Mexico, come to own a restaurant in a town with less than 1,000 permanent residents? In 2016, Zebas looked online and saw a cabin for sale on the north end of the lake. When he arrived in Vallecito, he knew this must be the place. Zebas grew up poor and buying a 1,000-square-foot cabin next to a burbling mountain stream was the realization of a lifelong dream.

“ It was so peaceful,” Zebas says. “When the building came up for sale, I saw this as an opportunity to turn it into a welcoming place for families. I never intended to be a restaurant owner, it was an opportunity to give back.”

The Weminuche Woodfire Grill sits at the same site that was once Virginia’s Steakhouse. For years, Virginia’s was a local gathering spot where anyone stop -

ping through could get a meal.

“We’re not Virginia’s, but we respect what she did. There were great stories in this place, and we wanted to carry the torch for Vallecito. The fireplace here was a nerve center for the town, and we’ve tried to preserve the history.”

On this night, it is clear Zebas has succeeded in large part thanks to his ethos of inclusion, which has become the restaurant’s operating philosophy. Just as he sees the restaurant as a space for everyone, he also believes the restaurant’s namesake – the Weminuche Wilderness, which starts a stone’s throw from the restaurant – belongs to everyone.

“We need to have an understanding that public lands are for everybody, and the Weminuche, to me, is for everybody. No matter your race or religion, this is your place to enjoy Earth. Most people in America are never going to experience aspen trees, blue spruce, rivers, and majestic mountains…but they’re a symbol of who we are as Americans.”

Zebas’s desire for inclusion is reflected in the menu. The restaurant features light and hearty dishes, and the menu includes vegan options. Offerings range from steaks and patty melts to sweet potato salads. Many of the restaurant’s dishes are cooked on a grill that burns the same pecan wood

Austin White

Austin White

blazing in the fireplace. The pizzas are made from scratch—no easy task at 8,500 feet—and biting into one is a pleasant surprise. Despite being in the national forest, prices are on par with or less than those found in downtown Durango, which sits only 18 miles away.

Despite its proximity to Durango, residents hardly venture to enjoy the lake or Vallecito’s many recreational opportunities, Zebas notes. He hopes having a place to get a good meal and something to drink after a long day outside will help bring more people up the hill to enjoy the beauty of the area.

“Vallecito’s future is bright, and we’re excited to grow with the community. Are we going to help it? I don’t know, but I know through this restaurant, we’re going to try.”

Lisa Bourque

Austin White

Austin White

Austin White

Photo: 2022 People's Choice Award, Mantell-Hecathorn Builders

FRIENDS

MEDIA

PARADE of HOMES

Photo: 2022 People's Choice Award, Mantell-Hecathorn Builders

Buy Advance Tickets Here

2024 TOUR

MAP LEGEND

PARADE ENTRY

PARADE STOP

BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 6TH

Attendees are encouraged to pick up advance ticket sales at one of our platinum sponsor Parade stops:

Tile & Light Art of Durango 20 Design Center Rd

Smart Enterprises 1400 Main Ave

SoCo Wood & Windows 20909 HWY 160 West

Addresses for all other builder entries will be on your physical ticket. Tickets may be purchased on the day of the event at any parade location.

SEPTEMBER 6 - 8, 2024

Friday 12 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

PARADE of HOMES

SPECIAL EVENTS

HOMES UNDER THE STARS

Tour show homes with romantic evening ambiance and see how the incredible power of lighting can transform a space. All stops are open for touring.

• FRIDAY NIGHT STARTING AT 5 P.M. UNTIL 9 P.M. •

LIFE IS SHORT...EAT DESSERT FIRST!

Duck into Smart Enterprises for some sweet treats all weekend. Pick up your tickets and magazines and discover what’s in store for you. Peruse our Parade of Homes Specials on swim spas, hot tubs, fireplaces, stoves, fire pits, and more.

Address: 1400 Main Avenue Durango, CO 81301

Friday, 12 to 9 p.m. • Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WINDOWS, DOORS, BLUES, AND MORE!

Celebrate the opening of SoCo Wood and Windows’ brand-new showroom! Open all weekend, join us Saturday 10am-2pm for light refreshments and live music from The Kirk James Band. Discover the premier supplier of quality windows, doors, cabinets, and millwork for homeowners and builders throughout the Four Corners. Our specialists will guide you toward beautiful options that align with your vision and budget. For a sneak preview visit us online at socoww.com or give us a call at 970- 247-2088. Address: 20909 US-160 Durango, CO 81301

Friday, 12 to 9 p.m. • Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

DESIGN & DINE AT TILE & LIGHT ART’S BBQ BASH

Welcome to Tile & Light Art of Durango, Southwest Colorado’s premier supplier of tile, lighting, and countertops. Enjoy a self-guided tour through our combined showroom, fabrication shop, and slab yard, visit every “stop” for your choice of prizes at the end! Offering local delights, refreshments, and charcuterie from On Board Eats throughout the weekend. Stop by to see firsthand how our team can help you build your dream home. Learn more at tileartofdurango.com.

Address: 20 Design Center Road Durango, CO 81301

Friday, 12 to 9 p.m. • Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Sunday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

PARADE POKER place your bets.

parade poker rules

1 - Pick a card at all 4 Poker Parade Homes, then show your skill in a bean bag toss at Smart Enterprises (1400 Main Ave., Durango) to win $1500 from Durango ski & Patio.

2 - Present your POH ticket and Scorecard BEFORE drawing your card. A poh representative will stamp your card. No duplicate cards can be used.

3 - only one tally sheet per POh ticket holder is allowed.

4 - Aces count high for all hands. (e.g. a pair of aces beats a pair of kings)

5 - All decisions of the judges are FINAL! See Poker Hand Ranking on next page.

6 - Deposit the completed score sheet (next page) in the ballot boxes located at each Parade Home.

YOu

could win! a $1500 gift card from Durango ski & Patio

Parade poker official score card

Possible poker hands (Highest ranking to lowest)

ROYAL FLUSH: Run of sequential cards from ten to ace, with all cards of the same suit.

STRAIGHT FLUSH: Run of sequential cards, all cards in the same suit, but not ace high.

FOUR OF A KIND: Four cards of the same rank; e.g. four aces, four kings, etc.

FULL HOUSE: Three cards of the same rank plus a pair, e.g. three aces and a pair of kings.

FLUSH: Five cards all of the same suit.

STRAIGHT (RUN): Five sequential cards, not of the same suit.

THREE OF A KIND: Three cards of the same rank e.g. three aces, three kings etc.

TWO PAIR: Two sets of pairs eg. a pair of aces and a pair of kings.

PAIR: Two cards of the same rank e.g. two aces, two kings etc.

HIGH CARD: If you have none of the above, then the highest value card in your hand plays.

PARADE FOR PRIZES

TWO WAYS TO WIN!

Get your ticket stamped at all of the Parade Stops or find entry rules at hbasc.com. No purchase necessary.

RAINDROPS

WIN A $6000 ALFA 5 MINUTI PIZZA OVEN. raindrops4corners.carrd.co

DURANGO SKI & PATIO

WIN A $1500 GIFT CERTIFICATE TOWARDS THE QUALITY PATIO FURNITURE OF YOUR DREAMS. durangoskiandpatio.com

MOUNTAIN LUXE

WIN A $1000 IN-HOME INTERIOR DESIGN CONSULTATION. mountainluxeinteriors.com

FERGUSON

WIN TWO SIGNATURE HARDWARE STAINLESS KITCHEN FAUCETS, $489 & $389 VALUE. ferguson.com

FARHA ROOFING

WIN A $700 ROOFING DISCOUNT. farharoofing.com

ROCK SOLID

WIN A $700 GIFT CERTIFICATE TOWARDS THE COUNTERTOP OF YOUR DREAMS. rocksolidcustomgranite.com

TILE & LIGHT ART

WIN A $500 GIFT CERTIFICATE TOWARDS COUNTERTOPS, FLOORING AND LIGHTING. tileartofdurango.com

ASPEN DESIGN STUDIO

WIN A $500 GIFT CERTIFICATE TOWARDS HARDWARE AND ACCESSORIES. adsdurango.com

DURANGO RUG COMPANY

WIN A $500 RUG. durangorugcompany.com

HOME ROOTS HARDWOOD

WIN $300 OFF A REFINISH OR $500 OFF AN INSTALL OVER 500 SQUARE FEET. homerootshardwood.com

DIETZ MARKET

WIN A $120 “DURANGO FAVORITES” GIFT BASKET. dietzmarket.com

letter from the committee

We are so excited to welcome you to the 2024 Parade of Homes where you will nd an exciting array of homes, commercial builds, and fun sponsor events to ll your weekend. We have extraordinary prizes for you to win all generously donated, just purchase your ticket online anytime starting now!

Friday September 6th at 12pm start at any Platinum Sponsor stop to pick up your tickets (or purchase them there weekend of the Parade) they will be the gateways to the homes and are organized to provide an easy starting point. Once you pick up or purchase tickets at Smart Enterprises, SoCo Wood & Windows, or Tile & Light Art, your ticket will include addresses for the entries and you can continue on to stamp your ticket at all of the stops.

Friday Night at 5pm is the popular Homes Under the Stars event including all homes and stops. Take advantage of the opportunity to see the impact of lighting and its ability to create ambience and highlight precise craftsmanship. This is a fun and memorable opportunity to enjoy the homes in an evening setting.

There are more special events all weekend. Play your hand at the Poker Run for a chance to win an amazing prize, see live music, graze on meats, and eat sweet treats! Just be sure to get your ticket stamped at every location if you want to be eligible to win prizes.

The Parade of Homes is the beginning of an exciting journey that culminates with our awards Gala sponsored by Sun Glass Durango. At the Gala we tally your votes and give out awards for various categories, but the biggest prize is the Overall Winner. The Awards Gala is an industry event where we recognize the enormous collective e ort of the Sponsors, Builders, and the dedication and hard work of the Parade of Homes committee. We sincerely thank Sun Glass Durango for making our Awards Gala possible.

We hope you thoroughly enjoy this year’s diverse o ering of homes and spaces, generous prizes, and inspiring visions. We know you’ll love touring and talking to the Builders about exciting ideas, immersing yourself in options from our stops and sponsors, and dreaming of future projects. Inspired by spectacular craftsmanship, energy e ciency, and opulent nishes, we can’t wait for you to savor that unmistakable feeling...

Elevation Custom Builders

Perched on the edge of the mountainside with jaw-dropping views of Lake Nighthorse and the sweeping La Plata Mountains, Just One Look

was designed to encapsulate and highlight the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding setting with grand 12-foot ceilings, walls of glass, and indoor-outdoor living that captures unparalleled views from every from the custom lighting and 1,500-pound wine rack to the custom built-

• Unparalleled views of Lake Nighthorse and the La Plata Mountains

• indoor-outdoor living

• Every custom detail intentionally designed for beauty and functionality

SM Built’s mission is to create lasting partnerships with our local community members, homeowners, design team partners, and subcontractors by growing and sharing our knowledge of sustainable and the hard work of our team and community trade partners, we are pleased of the nearby La Plata Mountains, this custom-designed family home panoramic views of the rugged peaks, inviting the splendor of nature into together to unwind and connect in the family entertainment room around

• Mountain Modern home with a beautiful blend of stucco, stone, and metal siding

• Grand living and dining spaces with a towering 18-foot-high ceiling

• Exposed structural steel beams and columns

JTBuildersPro.com

Nestled in a tranquil neighborhood, this welcoming home blends

elevator and curbless showers ensures accessibility, while motion sensor the home lies in its open-plan layout, centered around a striking waterfall

integrates cutting-edge design with serenity, providing a cozy retreat in

• Large three-car garage and shop with elevator access to the house

• Sizable deck and patio to enjoy fantastic mountain views

• Great passive solar design by Eddie Martinez Design Build

homeowners worked with Krueger Group to design and build a retreat that comfortably hosts friends and family and provides several unique raw metal with natural elements like stone and premium woodwork,

boasts a custom elevator and other thoughtfully designed accessibility a stunning kitchen that opens into the living area with a double-sided

• Custom fabricated steel staircase, elevator,

• Handcrafted built-in bunk beds with attached bathroom for several guests

• Expansive views from multiple covered and heated outdoor spaces

Making Dream Surfaces Attainable

james bisogno midnight oil design co.

Katie bisogno Bisogno design

Grace Johnson Pasquini Tile & Light Art

Marianne & Corbet Hoover Durango Magazine

Brooke Guardiola Big Solutions

Jim Bommarito

Generations of Sweet Success

By Billy Grimes

Asweet local success story nestles under the Hermosa Cliffs ten miles north of Durango in the beautiful Animas River Valley. Three generations of the Culhane family have nurtured Honeyville into a must-stop destination for tourists and locals alike.

Honeyville began in 1918 when Vernon Culhane took an interest in honeybees and started his own hive. He discovered that his bees produced the best honey he had ever tasted. Vernon took his flatbed pickup to the Rio Grande Land Company in downtown Durango near the train depot, and locals would fill their containers straight from the truck.

What started as a hobby for Vernon became a thriving business. He expanded his offerings to include jams and jellies and created Honeyville's flagship product, Cinnamon Whipped Honey. A true entrepreneur, Vernon started cultivating chokecherries in the field next to the original honey house and perfected a honey-enhanced recipe that’s since blossomed into Honeyville’s famous Wild Chokecherry Jelly.

Vernon’s son, Danny, stepped into the honey business in 1974. These days, Danny, his wife, Sheree, and their son, Kevin, keep the 106-year-old honey business buzzing. Honeyville headquarters features 12,500 square feet of production and packaging facilities and a tasting room. Honeyville employs around 27 locals and celebrates 85 products in their catalog, including Bourbon Vanilla Whipped Honey, Cranberry Jalapeño Jelly, Apricot Habanero Jam, Chokecherry Chipotle BBQ Sauce, Honey Caramel Sauce, Chokecherry Lime drink mixer, and Honeyaki Marinating Sauce. Their booming mail-order business has expanded from 30 names

to more than 200,000, with the Christmas season providing the most significant sales of the year.

With his interest in distilling and observing how much Honeyville customers loved anything honey, the Culhanes added the Honey House Distillery at Honeyville in 2012. Years of planning, distillery tours, and industry-specific conventions led the entrepreneurs to create a micro-distillery like no other. Kevin and his distilling partner commissioned a 250-gallon, custombuilt copper still shaped like a beehive to distill their classic line of spirits, which showcase Rocky Mountain Wildflower Honey in every recipe.

Honey House has won numerous awards for its products, including Colorado Honey Bourbon Whiskey, Oak Barrel Aged Bourbon Whiskey, Hex Vodka (distilled from honey wine), Cinnamon Honey Whiskey, Colorado Botanical Gin, and Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur.

The Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur is crafted with local Durango Joes Coffee and boasts three Gold Medals. Other happy Honeyville collaborations with local partners include Ska Brewing Company’s True Blonde Ale, Carver Brewing Company’s Root Beer, Animas Chocolate Company’s Honey Whiskey-Infused Caramel Truffles, and Serious Delights Bakery breads.

The true heroes behind the business’s century-long success are, of course, the bees. All summer long, the bees travel only two miles from their hives, visiting wildflowers and alfalfa to collect nectar and pollen, which they turn into honey to eat during the colder seasons. The sturdy bunch stays awake throughout the winter, clustered inside the hive, eating honey and shivering their flight

HONEYVILLE

Photos by Ryan Nott

From left to right: Danny, Sheree and Kevin Culhane

muscles to generate heat. The bees make enough honey in the summer to last them throughout the winter—with leftovers for honey lovers to harvest.

The consistency of the honey is fairly thick, and each year’s flavor is slightly different, like wine. To keep up with demand, Honeyville sources honey with a similar taste profile from regional beekeepers within a 500-mile radius of the production facility. Honeyville’s honey undergoes a rigorous quality control process before entering the warehouse.

Honeyville is a big part of Durango’s local food culture and will remain so, as long as the bees keep buzzing and the flowers bloom. Honeyville has big plans for future growth over the next few years, including fashioning a larger barrel house for aging Honey House whiskey, producing canned cocktails, and developing a more robust body-care products line incorporating Honeyville honey.

Add sweetness to a lovely drive along Highway 550 with a stop at the Honeyville factory store to sample products and view one of the many active beehives behind a plexiglass container. Besides all varieties of honey products, the store features jams, jellies, sauces, dips, Colorado wines, and other unique items from around the Southwest.

Honeyville is located at 33633 Highway 550 and can be reached at 800-676-7690. The storefront and tasting room are open Memorial Day through Labor Day, 8 a.m. until 6 p.m., and Labor Day through Memorial Day, 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., with closures on Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Brett Rosenbaugh

ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOME & RANCH AT R1 COLORADO

125 Mecardo St. #107

Durango, CO 81301

970-946-7079

RMHomeandRanch.com

RMHomeandRanch@gmail.com

Brett Rosenbaugh, owner of Rocky Mountain Home & Ranch at R1 Colorado, brings local expertise and business acumen to every real estate transaction. A Durango native, Rosenbaugh's deep roots in the community fuel his passion for helping clients achieve their real estate goals. With a proven track record of implementing innovative marketing strategies and leveraging his insider’s perspective, Rosenbaugh ensures each client receives a tailored approach designed to maximize their success. Rosenbaugh's commitment to excellence guarantees a seamless experience from start to finish for everyone, from first-time homebuyers to clients interested in investment and luxury properties. Rosenbaugh goes above and beyond as a trusted guide in Durango's dynamic real estate landscape.

Zach Morse

LEGACY PROPERTIES WEST

SOTHEBY’S

INTERNATIONAL REALTY

743 Main Avenue

Durango, CO 81301

970-391-2600

Zachmorsedurangorealestate.com

Zach@lpwsir.com

Zach Morse is the owner/broker for Legacy Properties West Sotheby's International Realty. Zach has been directly involved in high-end property sales of over $350M for the past 15+ years. He has an intimate knowledge of active and private residential, ranch, and recreational properties in the region. Known for his positive attitude, "win-win" mentality, and solid reputation among his colleagues, clients and other professionals in the real estate industry, Zach is the top choice for buyers and sellers who want high-quality representation to smooth the sales process and maximize value.

Michelle Brown

BLACKMORE GROUP

2901 Main Avenue Durango, CO 81301

970-759-6958

Michellebrownhomes.com

Michelle@homesforsaledurango.com

I’m a luxury collection specialist and negotiations expert who relocated to Durango 25 years ago. I have been successfully serving my clients for the past 15 years; working every day to help them buy and sell real estate to live, build wealth, and sell investment portfolios. I am privileged to serve in God’s country, one of the most beautiful locations in the U.S. – Durango, CO.

Phil Wehmeyer

I will make the process of buying and/or selling your home easy. I offer a full-concierge service and work with many affiliate professionals; including photographers, videographers and designers to get the job done. Most of all, I offer my extensive knowledge, expertise, and good old-fashioned grit to give my clients more than they expect consistently and cheerfully. I will never give up and will work like no other to help you to find or sell your Colorado dream home!

DURANGO MOUNTAIN REALTY

24 Sheol St. Suite 113 A Durango, CO 81301 970-946-9984

philwehmeyer.durangomountainrealty.com wehmeyer54@gmail.com

Phil Wehmeyer has been the trusted Purgatory Resort area real estate specialist for 24 years. He is your go-to resource for buying and selling vacation rentals, second homes, and investment properties in the Resort and surrounding areas. Phil’s market specialization provides the highest level of service and expertise, ensuring his clients receive everything they want and more. Phil has unique marketing avenues for this market, ensuring his sellers get the best possible exposure and sales price. For buyers, Phil has answers to most questions readily available, resources to get additional questions answered quickly and expert negotiation skills to help them achieve the best values. Trust Phil Wehmeyer to make your Purgatory Resort property dreams a reality.

DURANGO RIDES HIGH

Cowboy Gathering Sets a New Record & Revives Western Spirit

by Ben Brewer

Under the vast, open skies of Durango, Colorado, the 2023 Durango Cowboy Gathering reignited the fiery spirit of the American West, weaving together the timeless tales, melodies, and traditions of cowboy culture. Taking place from September 28 to October 1, 2023, it was an unforgettable celebration that offered no less than 21 activities and performances, showcasing the talents of poets, musicians, and artists, all dedicated to preserving the spirit of the West.

“This year, we had about 6,800 attendees from all over the world, a record number,” said Sue McWilliams, president of Durango Cowboy Poetry Gathering, Inc. “They came for these cowboys, who are full of fun, adventure, and great stories.”

Cowboy poetry is a tradition that has triumphed over challenges, ranging from changing social landscapes to economic uncertainties. Originating from 19thcentury American West storytelling, cowboy poetry combines narrative style, rhyme, and oral history. Nearly forgotten in the 20th century, it was revived in 1985 by the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada.

Kevin O’Farrell, an attendee of the cowboy gathering in Elko, returned home to Durango and proposed a cowboy poetry event to a band of local songwriters. The group suggested autumn for the gathering, post-cattle market season, to boost the local economy during the tourism off-season. Thus, Durango Cowboy Poetry Gathering, Inc. was established as a non-profit in 1989.

Kathy Myrick

In its 35th year, the Durango Cowboy Gathering surged with renewed vigor, introducing activities that breathed fresh life into the proceedings.

“We had [four] new events this year, like the Petting Corral and 100 Kids and Horses,” McWilliams said. “For the parade itself, which is the largest non-motorized parade in Colorado, we had more entries this year than since COVID-19…It’s nice to see that kind of comeback.”

This year’s Grand Marshall was former U.S. Senator Ben Nighthorse-Campbell (Northern Cheyenne Indian Tribe). Nighthorse-Campbell was selected for his long-standing impact on the Durango community.

“We reached out to Ben and Linda, and they were just thrilled to be our Grand

Marshall,” McWilliams said. “We were very honored to have them.”

Nighthorse-Campbell is known for his jewelry-making craft, with his works prominently displayed at Sorrel Sky Gallery on Main Street, owned by his daughter, Shanan Campbell. The gallery hosted the “Cowboy Lineup Revealed” event, where the new logo for the Durango Cowboy Gathering was unveiled.

“Our traditional logo has been a photo of old cowboys for 35 years, but nobody knew who the people in the picture were or where it came from,” McWilliams said.

“So we did a new cowboy lineup. We had 29 local cowboys, cowgirls, and a little two-year-old in this picture. It was really special.”

The Durango Cowboy Gathering is critical in preserving and promoting

From left to right: R.W. Hampton and R.J Vandygri

Scott Smith

cowboy culture, ensuring that these stories and songs are not forgotten.

“You can’t separate the music, the poetry, and the clothes,” said R.W. Hampton, a celebrated performer and one of the headliners for the Cowboy Poetry and Music Event at the VFW Post 4031. “It’s America, and it’s important.”

Hampton, who grew up in Texas as a ranch hand, embodies the spirit of the Cowboy Gathering and the American West. He and his wife, Lisa, tour the country, serenading audiences nationwide with his rich baritone voice and frank lyrics. In Hampton’s mind, however, Durango stands out.

“There are two towns that come to mind that have that quintessential Western feel: Fort Worth, Texas, and Durango, Colorado,” Hampton observed. “You get out of the car and think, ‘Yeah, we’re in the West.’ There isn’t a better town in Colorado for that kind of event.”

Durango's natural landscapes, rich historical roots, and community deeply connected to the cowboy culture make this mountain town an unparalleled host for cowboy gatherings, appealing to everyone from traditionalists to modern enthusiasts.

“When you celebrate the ranching culture, you’re celebrating more than meets the eye,” Hampton said. “You’re celebrating the Black cowboys, the Native cowboys, the vaqueros, and the cowgirls.”

This broad appeal is precisely why the Board of the Durango Cowboy Gathering dropped “Poetry” from the event’s name this past year.

“It's more than a ‘Poetry Gathering,’” McWilliams noted. “We want to be inclusive…You don't have to like poetry, and you don't have to be a cowboy to come. It's open to anyone who wants to come and join us.”

The next celebration is already in the works. McWilliams and her team are planning the 10th Annual Durango Cowboy Gathering Barn Dance, Picnic & Silent Auction Fundraiser on June 9. Hosted by the River Bend Ranch, the Barn Dance will feature live music from the Tim Sullivan Band.

Proceeds will go to the 36th Durango Cowboy Gathering, which will run from October 2 to 6, 2024. The event will be even grander, too. This year’s gathering will feature the first-ever “Horseback Social” on October 5. Six blocks of Main Avenue will be barricaded so parade participants and other horseback riders can mingle and ride in historic downtown before the parade. There will be multiple exhibits and activities along the route to showcase rural, agricultural, and Western interests to residents and visitors.

At its core, however, the event will continue to honor the American cowboy’s legacy and reinforce the importance of community and cultural preservation.

“People have lost connection with the ranching lifestyle, to what they eat, what they wear, and where they came from,” Hampton said. “Events like the Durango Cowboy Gathering not only celebrate that lifestyle, they bring it back into focus for city people.”

Hampton paused, then added with his baritone voice.

"They don't see the cowboy anymore, but he's still there."

From left to right: Steve Jones, Lindy Simmons, and Tim Krebs

Linda Campbell and Ben Nighthorse Campbell (Former Colorado Senator)

Kathy Myrick

Kathy Myrick

Kathy Myrick

Elegance Redefined Mind, Body & Soul

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Experience tranquility at Durango Hot Springs Resort + Spa. Located amidst Durango’s beauty, the resort offers 32 natural geothermal hot spring pools, indulgent spa services, and stunning mountain views. Enjoy a calming soak, refreshing swim, or soothing massage. Customize your spa experience to support your health and well-being. Skilled staff members can offer suggestions for enhancements and add-ons tailored to your lifestyle or travel itinerary for the best experience possible. Embrace Your Soul at Durango Hot Springs.

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DURANGO KIDS

Durango Devo Cultivating an Endless Love for Cycling

By Leah Nott

Photos by Alex Gajdezcka courtesy of DEVO

With more than 50 miles of trails accessed from downtown, Durango prides itself on creating a common ground for mountain bikers of all abilities. From toddlers on pushbikes to adult beginners to race-winning pros like Sepp Kuss, winner of the 2023 Vuelta a España, cycling has a solid place in the heart of the community.

Besides the thrills it provides, cycling aficionados also tout the friendships built and passions grown along the way. Those friendships and passions are where Durango Devo comes in.

“Of course, riding bikes is super fun, but riding bikes with your friends is more fun,” said Levi Kurlander, Devo’s executive director. “Almost all of my closest and longest-lasting friendships have come from Devo.”

Kurlander explained Devo is a bike club for all age groups, from tikes on Strider

bikes to adults looking to improve their skills. Students learn from seasoned mountain bike coaches and apply those skills on Durango trails with teammates of similar ages. Classes meet in spring, summer, and fall.

“My number one focus is safety,” said Devo alumni and coach Shane Ellis. “Safety, then fun, and then becoming a better cyclist. We always ride through town in a group to get to the trails. It's good to teach the kids how to navigate the streets. I always tell my groups this will teach them independence. It gives the kids a sense of freedom and teaches them how to do it safely and in a group.”

Devo’s mission is to create a lifelong love for cycling in a safe and constructive way. Founded in 2006 by Sarah Tescher and Chad Cheeney, Devo is the first bike development program of its kind and has become a prominent part of Durango's cycling culture. The founders continue to play active roles in the non-profit organization, showcasing their enthusiastic dedication to cycling.

While its foundations lie in pursuing fun and growing excitement around the sport, many former students have evolved into world and national champions, like Olympians Howard Grotts and Christo -

pher Blevins. Most recently, Durango local and former “Devo kid” Sepp Kuss brought home the victory of La Vuelta a España. Kurlander noted that Sepp wasn’t always driven to race, but Devo gave him a lifelong passion for biking, which turned into a drive to excel.

“I think everyone comes to it with their own goals and reasons,” Kurlander said of Devo and biking. “Making high-performing athletes is never the objective that we're working toward. It usually happens as a side effect of kids having a fun time.”

For Kurlander, Devo’s influence extended into his collegiate and professional cycling pursuits. The bonds formed through Devo played a pivotal role in shaping Kurlander’s cycling journey, leading him to competitive endeavors and a drive to share the joys of the sport. Engaging in mountain and road bike racing, his stoke for cycling deepened over the years, becoming a central aspect of his identity.

Reflecting on the impact of Devo in the lives of students and coaches alike, it’s clear the program's influence extends beyond the realm of sports, shaping individuals into devoted cyclists who form a profoundly committed community. Mountain biking is an expensive sport to step into. Fortunately, youth interested in Devo can

access registration and find gear assistance from various resources. The Devo Scholarship Fund helps families with registration fees, bikes, and equipment. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and Devo’s focus on promoting diversity within the program.

Kurlander explained that the goal is to ensure financial constraints do not hinder any rider from participating in outdoor activities. Funding for the scholarship program ensures that most applicants who meet the financial criteria will receive support. Last year, participants received more than $24,000 in Devo scholarships, and the organization plans to increase support in the future.

Devo has pioneered an age-based, team-oriented cycling model for children, and the concept has since spread across Colorado, inspiring similar programs in states nationwide. Devo emphasizes the significance of building a community around cycling which fosters a love for the sport that transcends competitive ambitions, encouraging individuals to embrace cycling as a lifestyle. While the thrill of riding bikes is undeniable, the camaraderie of riding with friends elevates the experience and shapes social circles for years to come.

DURANGO HIGH SCHOOL’S JON HOERL NAMED

Colorado Principal of the Year

By Zach Hively

THERE

CAN HARDLY BE A BETTER PLACE TO GROW UP THAN THE DURANGO AREA.

The decision to raise a family here takes education into account.

With Durango High School Principal Jon Hoerl earning recognition as the 2024 Colorado High School Principal of the Year, local schools are receiving acknowledgment for their innovation and community-wide participation.

Photos by Ryan Nott

“Being a small town, it’s pretty cool to celebrate all the work we’ve done here,” Hoerl says. “It’s an even greater acknowledgment for our staff and incredible kids.”

Hoerl received the award in March 2024 from the Colorado Association of School Executives, which noted his focus on building a collaborative school environment, an emphasis on innovation, and DHS’s expansion of education opportunities.

“I’ve always said that I wanted to create a school that was good enough for my kids,” Hoerl says. “Because, if that’s the case, it will be good enough for every kid who walks through our door. That’s the mindset we bring to Durango High School. Our vision is to be the top public high school in the State of Colorado. If we come anywhere close to that, then we know we’re doing right by all our kids.”

Hoerl recognizes that education needs to adapt to the evolving needs of students and works tirelessly with educators and staff members to reinvent what a comprehensive high school experience provides students. Under his guidance, DHS has revamped its career and technical education programs, with 14 distinct pathways for students to earn certifications and other work-based learning opportunities.

“I want to continue to achieve the goal of getting kids ready for who they want to be and what they might want to do,” Hoerl says. “Our job is to help support them through that journey and spark an interest in what they’ll be doing next.”

The award, he says, simply validates the work happening at every level in the district and the community.

“And to put a little more Durango on the map?” he adds. “I think that’s pretty sweet.”

A STEP BACK IN TIME

Colorado Vintage's Tom Dragt

by Elizabeth Miller

Moseying inside Old Colorado Vintage at 1020 Main Avenue in downtown Durango is like stepping back into the bygone days of the Old West. Co-owners Tom Dragt and his wife, Carrie, have pieced together the store through antique pieces found here and there.

When Hogan’s Store, which specialized in men’s apparel, closed, the Dragts scooped up as many items as possible, and Old Colorado Vintage was born. They’ve since worked to preserve and share pieces of America’s past while creating connections with the downtown Durango community. The business is integral to events like Durango’s midwinter festival, Snowdown, and the Durango Cowboy Gathering, keeping the West’s history alive by providing costumes and entertainment with the train.

Over the years, owning a vintage clothing business has proved advantageous for Dragt, with various movie productions filming in locations throughout the Southwest. When a film crew hunted for costumes and props for a shoot, Dragt provided the vintage pieces and showed up to the set decked head-to-toe in 1920s period clothing to audition as an extra. Since then, Dragt has appeared in several films, including The Great Alaskan Race and Hostile Territory , styling his characters with clothing, hats, and accessories from Old Colorado Vintage.

Dragt has expanded his acting chops to include more wardrobe roles, using pieces from the store for clothing actors in all types of films shot around the Southwest. Dragt has also worked closely with photographer David Yarrow for the past three years, modeling for Yarrow in vintage outfits and providing the wardrobe for themed shoots.

A few of his favorite decorative items in the store include a hand-painted cowboy on a bucking horse that came from Nate Stein’s shop in the 1930s from Fiesta Days, a WWI “God Bless America” banner from Raton, New Mexico, and 1930s posters from Miller Western Wear in Denver. Showcasing items from all eras of Western history, including vintage work wear, textiles, and industrial artifacts, Old Colorado Vintage offers a little piece of history for everyone to discover.

“It’s a treasure hunt,” Dragt says.

Photo by Woody Henderson (Courtesy of Colorado Vintage)

DÜRÅÑGØ farmer's market

WHËRË HËÅLTHÝ FØØD

By Kathleen O’Connor

by Ryan Nott

It's summer in Durango, and nothing heralds an appreciation of the season more than the eagerly anticipated return of the Durango Farmer's Market. When approaching the market at the TBK Bank parking lot on West 9th Street, a sensory spectacle awaits as the aroma of hand-baked artisanal bread mingles with fresh flowers and crisp mountain air. Brightly colored produce adds harmony to the melodious tunes of a live band. Friends gather to catch up on life, and soon-to-be friends pass by with a smile.

The Farmer's Market is more than a transactional space where folks exchange money for food and goods. It's a vibrant social epicenter built around connection, sustainability, and local production.

"Farmer’s markets are important because they're such a beautiful intersection of community, culture, and nourishment," said Anna Knowles, Durango Farmer’s Market manager. Knowles moved to Durango in September 2022 and wasted no time becoming one of the outdoor market’s frequent visitors.

"I've always been a strong advocate for shopping locally, especially to support farmers," she added.

On Saturdays, from mid-May through October, locals and tourists converge to peruse locally grown organic fruits and vegetables,

farm-fresh eggs and cheese, grass-fed beef, and homemade baked treats. During the 2023 season, 125 local and regional vendors exhibited a spectrum of goods, from traditional produce to flavorful raw honey and tasty gourmet mushrooms. Vendors showcasing ready-to-eat vittles offer several breakfast and lunch options. The immense talent of regional artists is on full display through unique hand-crafted items, including jewelry, beadwork, pottery, and other eye-popping wares. Last year, Knowles brought the much-appreciated addition of three picnic tables to the market, perfect for munching a flaky pastry and sipping coffee while relaxing and listening to live music.

"We've got some regulars at the market who I adore," Knowles said. “They're here the entire time to listen to the music, eat breakfast, and drink coffee. Having picnic tables available makes a huge difference for families.”

Making a difference in the lives of community members is something the Farmer's

Photos

Market and Knowles hold as a top priority.

"We strive to be a lifeline for the Durango community," said Knowles.

This lifeline includes numerous community-backed offshoots to those who experience food insecurity. The Centura Health-sponsored "Fresh to Flourish" program provides doctors' prescriptions for fruits and vegetables to be redeemed at the market. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) assists low-income households in conjunction with the Double Up Food Bucks program, which doubles the monetary value of SNAP benefits for families. Besides SNAP funds, participants can also use Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) dollars to purchase fresh food items.

"The Farmer's Market and our producers are huge advocates of these community programs," said Knowles. "In fact, accepting these programs is one of our vendor requirements."

To witness community members on both sides of the booth help and support one another is a significant part of why Knowles loves her job.

"There's so much kindness and generosity that happens at this market," she said. "I've never seen a community come together in such mutual support for each other."

Knowles has big plans as the Durango Farmer's Market enters its 27th year in operation. She’s collaborating with the Colorado Farmers Market Association and other Western Slope farmers' markets to create a map showcasing farmers’ markets in the region. Farmer’s market patrons can collect stickers from each market for placement on the map. If visitors attend a specific number of markets on the map, they’ll become eligible for a prize drawing during Colorado Farmers Market Week in August. This initiative highlights a novel way to engage communities while spreading awareness about the preva-

lence of farmers' markets across the region. Knowles also looks forward to expanding partnerships with The Good Food Collective and Manna Soup Kitchen's "Buy One Give One" program, which welcomes shoppers to buy produce from any of the vendors to place in one of Manna's on-site coolers for donation to the organization.

As for her dream project, Knowles is brewing up the ultimate table-to-farm collaboration that will inspire visitors beyond their Saturday market meanderings.

"I'd love to work with our producers to create a Durango Farmer's Market cookbook with recipes from the vendors," she mused.

As the Durango Farmer's Market continues to evolve, one underlying theme will always remain: the celebration of community and the vital role farmers' markets play in cultivating healthy food systems for all.

For more information on the Durango Farmer's Market, visit durangofarmersmarket.com

THE GOOD FOOD COLLECTIVE: FRUIT FOR ALL

Words and photos courtesy of Good Food Collective

Durango’s Good Food Collective is on a mission to build a just and thriving food system for Southwest Colorado. The GFC’s Community Fruit Program upcycles a portion of our region’s estimated 2,660,000 pounds of feral fruit every year. This effort helps address food insecurity, reduces organic waste, and mitigates bear-human conflict.

Local foodies and community members are welcome to join the Community Fruit Program in many ways. You can donate fruit trees or veggie gardens for community harvests by listing your trees or gardens on the Fruit Tree Registry. This database showcases the location of fruit trees waiting to be plucked.

If you’re interested in volunteering, sign up for one of our weekly Community Fruit Harvests hosted on these local properties.

You’ll join fellow gleaners in harvesting fruit while learning about the region’s fruit history and contemporary local food system and how you can support our local food economy. Take as much fruit as you like; the Good Food Collective donates the remaining “good” fruit while local ranchers receive the leftovers for livestock.

The “good” fruit includes Grade-A fruit, which is shared with our 29-member Food Pantry Network. Meanwhile, Grade-B fruit goes to local cideries and our “Fruit for Good Social Enterprise,” which produces healthy, shelf-stable fruit products for consumers to access local fruit throughout the year. The Fruit for Good Social Enterprise’s dehydrated Apple Chips are donated to local food pantries or sold at James Ranch Market, Sunnyside Market, and the Old Fort Country

Store. Proceeds support the continuation of the Community Harvest Program.

The Community Fruit Program reaches a crescendo on the first weekend of October when more than 400 people coalesce for our annual Apple Days Festival, hosted in partnership with the Durango Farmer's Market. This family-friendly festival features food-related educational booths, artisanal food vendors, dance troupes, and music. If you love fruit as much as we do, you’ll love the live apple pressing, where you can turn that week’s Community Fruit Harvest into hand-pressed cider.

Raise a glass and toast to the growing base of a sustainable food system for all! The stronger our food system becomes, the more resilient we’ll be as a community. Learn more at goodfoodcollective.org.

LARGEST

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27 DIFFERENT SPANS FROM 56 FEET TO A WHOPPING 1400 FEET

INCLUDES HISTORIC DURANGO

TRAIN RIDE

GOURMET LUNCH BY THE RIVER

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FAMILY FUN THAT LASTS ALL DAY MEMORIES THAT LAST FOREVER