Durango Scouting Day: A Ride, a Bear, and a Bald Eagle
Durango has been at the top of my relocation list for a while now, so I woke up with a real sense of anticipation about exploring it more deeply today. But before launching into the drive, I wanted to start the day on my bike. Riding gives me a unique sense of connection to a place—pedaling through the landscape helps me imagine what daily life could be like, especially since cycling is such a big part of my joy and recreation.
This morning started with a minor hiccup: a flat front tire. I pulled the tube out expecting a clear puncture but couldn’t find a thing. I reinstalled it, aired it back up, and to my surprise—it held. Gremlins, maybe. Either way, I considered myself lucky to be staying with Steve and Lori, just down the road from the San Juan National Forest. From their place, I hopped on my bike and started climbing.
The ride began on pavement but quickly turned to gravel. I climbed for about an hour, passing a campground at the top where the road gives way to bike trails. My gravel bike, lacking suspension, wasn’t up for trail riding, so I turned around and descended. The switchbacks on the gravel road made for a thrilling and slightly nerve-wracking descent. One wrong move and I could’ve gone down hard. It was overcast, cold, and windy—but still a satisfying ride.
After warming up back at the truck, I kicked off my driving tour of Durango by stopping at a local café that doubled as a plant shop—something I’d never seen before. The place was buzzing. I ordered a café Americano, pulled up my real estate app, and pinned a handful of properties to check out. This has become a kind of ritual for me: picking houses gives my scouting days some structure, and it’s far more engaging than aimlessly driving through unfamiliar neighborhoods.
I headed northeast out of town along Florida Road, which climbs up through forested terrain toward Lemon and Vallecito Reservoirs. On the way, I explored a few subdivisions, including Edgemont—a beautiful area with large one- to two-acre lots and modern homes. While driving the perimeter, I spotted a cinnamon-colored black bear about 50 yards away. At first, it looked like it was fleeing, but then it ran parallel to my truck for a short while before darting back into the woods.
The drive up to Lemon Reservoir was peaceful. I explored Durango Hills, a remote subdivision up a rutted gravel road better suited for a four-wheel-drive vehicle. The homes are tucked away and private—ideal for solitude, though probably too isolated for Robin’s taste. Still, it had its charm. I watched a bald eagle soaring overhead, keeping pace with the truck for a few seconds. Just like the bear earlier, this eagle seemed to be accompanying me for part of the journey.
From there, I made my way to Vallecito Reservoir, where I toured a few more lush subdivisions. Some had small creeks winding through the properties and very pretty homes. But they’re high in elevation and quite a haul from town. In winter, these roads would be treacherous—snowfall here is no joke.
Eventually, I made it back to Durango and stopped in at the Natural Foods Co-op. It was on the smaller side but well-stocked with everything you’d need for a quality organic meal. I also visited Natural Grocers hoping to pick up some fresh salmon, but they don’t carry fresh seafood or meat. City Market was my final stop—it’s a regional chain and today, it was packed. Probably the busiest grocery store I’ve ever been in, with barely a parking space to be found.
By the end of the day, I had traveled about 120 miles. Despite the gray skies and the wind, the day was filled with memorable moments—wildlife encounters, a beautiful ride, and a deeper glimpse into life in and around Durango. It gave me a lot to think about.
Morning ride into the National Forest
View on the bike descent
Plant side of the cafe. No googly eyes.