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Thursday, August 30, 2007

A Colorado Ski Vacation At The Durango Mountain Resort

By Mike Singh

Located 25 miles north of Durango in southwestern Colorado, the Durango Mountain Resort is located in the beautiful San Juan Mountains. The mountain has a summit elevation of 10,822 feet and a vertical drop of 2,029, with an annual snowfall of 260 inches. Featuring more than 2,500 acres of ski areas and 75 ski trails, Durango Resort has much to offer skiers, snowboarders, and guests on all levels.

Durango has 11 lifts, with an uphill lift capacity of 15,050 people per hour: 1 surface lift, 1 magic carpet, 3 double chairs, 4 triple chairs, 1 hi-speed quad, and 1 hi-speed 6. The Durango Ski Resort claims that there are approximately two people per acre on their slopes during operation hours.
With this sort of statement, we realize that the area is peaceful, quiet, and a place to get-away. The crowds are small, and lift lines do not exist. This is why people choose Durango over crowded, larger ski resorts.

Even though the annual snowfall of 260 inches occurs during the winter nights, the warmer days following it are considered "bluebird days". This has given rise to the Durango Mountain Resort being ranked as the #1 ranking resort in North America for winter weather. In addition, it's winter grooming is considered by some as being the best in Colorado for its alpine skiing, cross country, snowcat skiing, snow tubing, and snowboarding.

Durango, the little town south of the resort, is surrounded by the San Juan Mountains and has a history that goes clear back to 1890. Many of its historical buildings are still standing, being used in the historic districts of Main and Third Avenues. Lodging can be found at the Durango Resort, or in the town of Durango itself.

Eating establishments can also be found in Durango, with as many eating establishments in its downtown as per capita in San Francisco, the restaurant capital of western United States. If you stay at the resort, make sure that you visit the town while you are there. While the town is small, there is much to see and do.

Rentals are available for both ski and snowboarding equipment, and private and group lessons are also available at the Durango Mountain Resort. There are plenty of activities and events, both at the resort and in Durango, to keep everyone in your family happy. When it comes to family ski vacations, this is one area you don't want to miss!

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