Mud Season in Durango: What Locals Actually Do
Every mountain town has mud season — that awkward stretch between ski season ending and summer beginning when the snow melts, the trails turn to mush, and the tourists disappear. In Durango, that's roughly late March through mid-May. And honestly? Locals kind of love it.
What's Open
Downtown Durango is fully operational year-round. Restaurants, breweries, shops — all open. Steamworks Brewing doesn't close for mud. Zia Taqueria doesn't care what month it is.
What to Do
Lower elevation trails dry out first. Animas Mountain and the trails around Horse Gulch are often hikeable by April. The riverwalk along the Animas is always available.
Drive the Million Dollar Highway on a clear day — the high passes are dramatic with lingering snow on the peaks and waterfalls starting to flow.
Visit Mesa Verde. The park is open year-round, and spring is one of the best times to visit — fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures.
The Upside
Lodging prices drop. Restaurants have no wait. You can actually park on Main Avenue. The town feels like it belongs to the people who live here, and there's a neighborly energy that's hard to find in peak season.
Both of our Purgatory townhomes — Basecamp and Timberline — are right across from the resort with hot tubs, EV chargers, and free shuttle access.
Planning a trip to Purgatory? Check availability at purgatory.pretzinger.com
Planning a trip to Purgatory? Check availability and book direct — save 10-15% vs Airbnb/VRBO.
