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.
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.
You know the drill: Melting snow, sloppy trails, and that in-between season that can make a mess of your boots, your bike, and your Subaru.
But this year? It’s a little different. A drier-than-usual winter and spring means mud season isn’t quite living up to its name this year, and that opens a new set of opportunities to get outside earlier than expected.
Here’s how to make the most of it with help from Durango Outdoor Exchange.
The rivers are rising, your permits are secured, and the raft is pumped up. Ready to hit the river? Before you hit the put-in, make sure you’ve packed these essential but easily overlooked gear items.