Durango Day Two: Exploring Valleys, Rec Centers, and Rural Beauty

Last night’s temperatures dipped close to freezing, so I had to experiment a bit to get warm—layering up until I found the right combo to sleep comfortably. Yes, I’m still sleeping in the back of the truck, even though I’m staying at Steve and Lori’s. The setup is just that cozy. Some might call this moochdocking—camping in a friend’s driveway while taking full advantage of their hospitality—but I like to think of it as driveway glamping.

This morning’s ride was a peaceful 15-mile loop through the Animas Valley. The terrain was gently rolling, passing through quiet neighborhoods and stretches of farmland. The scenery was stunning, but I was surprised by how much traffic there was for an area that carries a reputation for being laid-back and sleepy.

After breakfast, I gave Lori a hand troubleshooting their Wi-Fi extender at the new workshop. I managed to get it working again, which felt like a small but satisfying win. Then I headed into Durango to continue my scouting adventure for the day.

First stop: the Durango Community Recreation Center. It’s a well-appointed facility with everything you’d expect—lap pool, climbing wall, fitness equipment, and a full slate of classes. Definitely a plus if we were to live nearby.

From there, I explored several areas west and southwest of town. One spot that stood out was Falls Creek—a tucked-away neighborhood nestled in its own little valley, adjacent to Animas Valley. It’s an older area with larger lots and a secluded feel.

I continued out to the Hesperus area and then over to Mancos. These regions are much more rural than Durango itself but still offer lush surroundings and, in many places, long views of the mountains to the north. The quiet and space out there were appealing.

One of the things I love about this region is how quickly you can access nature. You can drive for an hour east to west and always be within a few minutes of the San Juan National Forest, with its network of trails and gravel roads. 

On my way back to Steve and Lori’s, I stopped in historic downtown Durango and walked the length of Main Street—seven to ten blocks lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants. I swung by the visitor center to ask a few questions and soak up a bit more local flavor.

All in all, it was a full and rewarding day. But I’m starting to feel the pull of home.

I miss swimming laps.