May might be one of the most underrated months to explore Durango. The days are long and warm, but the trailheads are empty. If you know where to go (and what to bring), you can have some of the best adventures of the year.
Here’s how to make the most of it.
Spring in Durango is all about contrast.
You’ll find:
Snow lingering up high
Dry, rideable trails down low
Crisp mornings and warm afternoons
A few weekends left to hit the desert before it gets hot
It’s not peak season—but that’s exactly why it’s so good.
Early-season hiking is all about elevation. Look for:
Lower elevation trails (usually 8,000 feet or less)
South-facing slopes (they dry out faster)
Routes with mixed sun exposure
Avoid (for now):
Alpine routes (still snow-covered)
Muddy trails that are easily damaged
Mid-elevation trails with non-bridged creek crossings
Gear tip: Waterproof footwear and layered clothing can go a long way this time of year.
May is prime time for:
Gravel riding
Lower elevation singletrack
Quick after-work rides
Watch the weather—trail conditions can change quickly, so it’s worth checking social media or word of mouth before heading out.
Bring:
A repair kit (spring = surprises)
Extra layers
Plenty of water
If you're heading out for your first camping trip of the year, keep it simple.
What people forget:
Nights can still dip below freezing
Wind can be a nuisance, especially in the desert
Overpacking can ruin the experience
Smart approach:
Start small
Test your gear setup
Prioritize warmth and dryness
You don’t need a full gear overhaul to enjoy May—you just need the right essentials.
Focus on:
Versatile layers
Reliable footwear
Weather protection
Simple, functional camping gear
This is also one of the best times of year to buy used gear in Durango—you can get high-quality equipment at a fraction of the price.
At Durango Outdoor Exchange, we’re big believers in buying used when it makes sense.
Great to buy used:
Jackets
Packs
Camp gear
Accessories
Better to buy new:
Safety gear (helmets, climbing equipment)
Highly technical items with wear concerns
A mix of both usually gives you the best setup for the least cost.
May isn’t about perfect conditions—it’s about getting back outside. Start small. Stay flexible. Embrace a little mud and sand in your teeth. And if you need gear, advice, or just a place to start, we’re here to help.
For many hikers, summiting one of Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks is a lifetime achievement. Others make it their entire personality, working for years and even decades to climb all of them. Some make a goal of climbing them all in a single season while others try to ski them all.
Summer is here, and Durango and the rest of Southwest Colorado and the greater Four Corners is your playground. Accessible just a short drive from Durango is everything from low-desert rivers to high-alpine tundra, and there’s just about everything in between. If you’re into outdoor rec, this is the spot for you, and Durango Outdoor Exchange is here to help make it happen.
This is your ultimate field guide to outdoor recreation and the gear you need for a summer in and around Durango. In it you’ll find a rundown of local recreational opportunities and the gear each sport requires, plus recommendations for staying safe and dry.
Overheating in the outdoors can be more than an annoyance—it can be dangerous.
From heat exhaustion to heatstroke, overheating can damage organs, leave you hobbled, cause disorientation, and worse. With summer here, it’s time to learn which gear can help you stay cool.
We see firsthand how proper gear helps people stay cool, comfortable, and safe in the outdoors. If you’re planning to hike, bike, paddle, camp, or explore this summer, here are some of the best types of gear to help keep things comfy.