Chimney Rock National Monument: A Durango Day Trip
Chimney Rock National Monument is one of those hidden gems that most Durango visitors drive right past without knowing it's there. It's an Ancestral Puebloan archaeological site about 45 minutes west of Durango, and it's worth a half-day of your trip.
What's There
The monument sits atop a high ridge with two distinctive rock spires — the chimney rocks — rising above the ancient pueblo ruins. The Ancestral Puebloans built a great house here around 1076 AD, aligned with the lunar standstill cycle. The archaeology is fascinating, and the views from the ridge are expansive — you can see into New Mexico on a clear day.
The Tours
Guided walking tours are the best way to experience Chimney Rock. Rangers lead groups up to the great house, explaining the history, astronomy, and daily life of the people who lived there. Tours typically run from May through September and last about two hours.
The walk involves moderate uphill hiking on a paved and gravel path. It's not strenuous, but the altitude (about 7,600 feet) and sun exposure mean you should bring water and a hat.
Tips
Check the monument's website for tour schedules and reservations. Morning tours are cooler and less crowded. The site is on Ute Mountain Ute tribal land and is managed in partnership with the Forest Service.
Combining with Other Stops
Chimney Rock is on US-151 near Pagosa Springs. You can combine a visit with a stop at Pagosa's hot springs for a full day trip. Or drive the scenic loop through Bayfield and back to Durango for a varied day.
Both of our Purgatory townhomes — Basecamp and Timberline — are right across from the resort with hot tubs, EV chargers, and free shuttle access.
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Planning a trip to Purgatory? Check availability and book direct — save 10-15% vs Airbnb/VRBO.