Area Info

Used gear hits the sweet spot for quality, performance, and cost

Taking the fam car camping is almost a guaranteed good time—you can light out to the wilds but bring most of the comforts of home with you. Favorite pillow? Check. Bluetooth speaker? Check. G&T with ice? Check check check.

The Durango area has hundreds of miles of trails open to hiking, leading you everywhere from quiet in-town riverside trails to 13,000-foot peaks–all of which can be done as a day hike.

Whilethe scenery may be memorable, your hike will be better if you are prepared for what you might encounter on and off the trail. Packing a few essentials will ensure you are safe, warm (or cool), and happy. Here’s a list of items to consider when packing to hike in Durango.

Paddleboards make it easy and fun to get out on the water. They are inexpensive, small enough to put in a backpack, durable enough for expedition adventures, and all around fun. No wonder you see so many of them on Durango’s lakes and rivers.

But not all paddleboards are the same. Which paddleboard—AKA SUP, short for stand-up paddleboard—is best for you? And what should you look for when buying one? The pros atDurango’s best outdoor store, Durango Outdoor Exchange, are ready to help you have plenty on hand to sell this summer and can help you find the SUP of your dreams.

Colorado's San Juan Mountains are top on many people’s list of backpacking destinations. With soaring jagged peaks, azure alpine lakes, hidden waterfalls, and verdant green valleys, even a single overnight can be a memorable experience.

Spending the night in the mountains can significantly elevate the experience–especially if you are well-prepared. While setting off from the parking lot and hiking into the mountains for a night or two or more can seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be. A small amount of good gear will keep you safe, warm, and comfortable.