Warm weather, blooming wildflowers, and a historic train make Easter Sunday a special event in Durango, Colorado. Rather than coordinate a stressful holiday at home, join the fun of mountainside egg hunts, forest trail rides, and family-friendly brunch. With plenty to do in town and even more to explore on the trails, there’s a Durango vacation for every family.
Come explore the town where all of Colorado vacations. We’re sharing our favorite Easter events and activities to look forward to in Durango.
Events
1. The Hops & Hops Train Ride | April 20
A quintessentially Durango event, the Hops & Hops train ride brings visitors deep into the heart of Cascade Canyon along the historic narrow gauge railway. Parents enjoy a hoppy craft brew while kids make crafts with the goodies from their their easter basket. Upon arrival to cascade canyon, smile for photos with the Easter Bunny, join the wild egg hunt, and take in one of Colorado’s most stunning views. Book now through the Durango Train website.
2. Ski Easter Saturday | April 13th
Kick off Easter week with chocolate treats, skiing, snow tubing, and one great big easter egg hunt at Purgatory Resort. The River Church in Durango is hosting its 2nd annual Ski Easter, where you and your loved ones can hunt for eggs on the hill, explore the miniature village, and catch treats at the ski-thru chocolate station. Whether you ski, board, or prefer to keep your feet on the ground, all are welcome to join in the fun. Sign up today!
3. Beach Party with State 38 | April 21
Live music, beach balls, and sunscreen may make for an untraditional Easter Sunday, but Durango is enjoying a extra long ski season. Come listen to State 38 jam out from 2PM-4:30 on April 21st, carve some snow and unwind from a heavy Sunday brunch.
4. Easter Egg Hunt at Fort Lewis College | April 20
After strolling Durango’s historic district, take a drive up to the local Fort Lewis College for the annual Easter Egg Scramble. Sponsored by Four Corners Broadcasting, this community favorite event will begin at the Smith Sports Complex at 9:45AM. Enjoy the sun, meet the Easter Bunny, and indulge in sweet treats with a birds eye view of town. Don’t forget to bring your own basket!
5. The Free Easter Egg Hunt at the Apple Orchard Inn | April 20
Durango’s cozy and eclectic Apple Orchard Bed and Breakfast invites guests to feel at home in the mountains. The inn is hosting its annual easter egg hunt, welcome to all, at 11am on April 20th. With more than 700 eggs hidden around the property and a few mystery golden eggs to claim, it’s a fun activity for kids of all ages. There will be three separate hunting areas, for toddlers to 2 year olds, 3 to 4 year olds, and 5 to 8 year olds.
Activities
Easter Brunch with the Family | April 21
Seasons, Mahogany Grille, Carver Brewing and El Moro are just some of the many local restaurants hosting a Sunday Brunch. Bring the whole family for a full menu of southwestern treats and soul food. Seasons often prepares honey glazed ham, prime rib, smoked salmon, and more for Easter Sunday, to go along with the traditional breakfast menu. Adults can sip some of the best mimosas at Jean Pierre’s or invite the entire family for lunch or dinner mocktails at 11th Street Station, Ore House or Pop Sushi. There’s no alcohol in Ore House’s extra tasty and fun springtime Nada Colada.
For even more information on Durango’s best brunch spots, check here.
A Group Trail Ride at San Juan Sky Outfitters
Take advantage of the perfect weather by exploring your national forest, southwest style. Just 20 minutes from Durango, San Juan Sky Outfitters offers half and full day trips around mountain peaks. You’ll pass a 60 foot waterfall, overlooks to the historic railroad, and sweeping vistas of the mountains. Take up to six people on a two hour ride for unforgettable memories.
More information here.
Hike the Animas River Trail
Take the kids out for a stroll on the river. The seven mile Animas River Trail is a hard-surface wheelchair accessible path that winds through town and follows the Animas River. Stop to feed the trout at the wildlife hatchery or rent a few bikes and discover every one of Durango’s local parks along the way.
