Animas River & Shops of Durango

Colorado
May 2001

Durango was originally a railroad town founded in the late 1800s. Today, much of the original character of the town is preserved, most notably, the configuration of the grid pattern of the streets, running parallel to the Animas River.
Like Estes Park and Vail, Durango takes advantage of this work of nature.

Looking thru the trees on the left bank of the river, you can pick out a grassy area, which is part of a park which lines the west bank of the Animas River. Along the east bank is a river walk which runs behind the shops of Main Street.
Two blocks up from Main Street, the flavor of the original town is still present in the various shops and restaurants. Like Breckenridge, a municipal trolley serves the downtown area making it rather easy to get around. As always, bicycles abound in Colorado, with Durango hosting major mountain bike competitions annually.