What’s it like to live in a small town in the Four Corners Region? It’s living in an easy-going, laid-back atmosphere, full of outdoor activities and visits to historical sites. In this region of southwestern Colorado, you’ll have room to experience the true meaning of freedom.
Living in Cortez or Durango
Living in this part of the Four Corners area is like a breath of fresh air. The summers are warm, dry, and clear, and the elevations of Cortez (6,200 ft.) and Durango (6,500 ft.) offer perfect weather for all kinds of winter snow sports, from downhill skiing and snowboarding to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Durango is the largest of the two communities and a great hub to jump off to Telluride, Ouray, Silverton, Pagosa Springs, and Alamosa. Durango offers something for everyone in the family from nearby national parks to hiking trails, river rafting, and of course, skiing at the famous Purgatory ski resort.
Durango has an active downtown area, including award-winning restaurants, shopping, and night spots.
Fifty miles to the west of Durango lies the laid-back town of Cortez, a perfect fit for those who want to have easy access to the great outdoors. Mesa Verde National Park is nearby plus many other national monuments that preserve Ancestral Puebloan ruins.
In the Cortez area of the Four Corners, wide open spaces beckon you to get out and explore the wonders of nature. There are many reasons to move to Cortez and here are some more.
Discover Outdoor Activities
In the Cortez/Durango area, there’s an exciting list of outdoor activities like:
- Hiking
- Cycling
- Fishing
- Skiing
- Hunting
- Rock climbing
Mesa Verde National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has some of the most well-preserved archeological sites in the nation, including more than 600 cliff dwellings.
Close to Mesa Verde is the Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, where the eight kivas and 40 rooms of the Lowry Pueblo will give you a glimpse into the life and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans.
Also nearby are the Hovenweep National Monument, the Cortez Cultural Center, and the Crow Canyon Archaeological Center.
Some of the best mountain biking in the world can be found at Phil’s World mountain bike trail and its famous Rib Cage, a must-do item on every mountain biker’s bucket list. Around Cortez, there are more than 50 hiking trails, like the Dolores River Canyon trail and the Greer Natural Hiking Area.
Around Town in Cortez and Durango
There’s plenty of good eating in this area of the Four Corners. Cortez has several exceptional restaurants, local shops, and brew pubs. You can also swing by the Cortez Farmer’s Market and pick up fresh ingredients to whip up a delicious meal at home.
If it’s exercise you’re looking for, Cortez has one of the largest park systems for a community its size in the country. Enjoy: – –
- 250 acres of parks and open space,
- A 16-acre golf course.
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Tennis and pickleball courts
- Soccer, softball, and baseball fields
- A BMX track
- Duck ponds
- Fishing ponds
- Walking and hiking trails
- A recreation center with an indoor pool and racquetball courts.
Cortez is home to several festivals like the Ute Mountain Mesa Verde Birding Festival, the Enchanting Hot Air Balloon Spectacle at the Cortez Rendezvous Hot Air Balloon Rally, the Four Corners Home and Garden Show, and much more.
Durango is made for family fun. This vibrant city offers a wide range of family-friendly activities that are sure to keep everyone entertained.
There’s the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a historic steam train ride through the majestic San Juan Mountains.
The kids will enjoy the interactive Durango Discovery Museum, the Durango Fish Hatchery and Wildlife Museum, and the hands-on exhibits at the Powerhouse Science Center.
Downtown Durango is a happening place with a wide variety of restaurants and shops. When the sun sets, Durango shines its brightest. Whether you’re in the mood for a cocktail in a cozy bar or want to crank it up a notch or two at a bustling club, Durango is the place to be after the sun goes down.
There are plenty of local craft breweries and distilleries, not to mention the thriving Durango music scene, with live performances almost every night.
Both Durango and Cortez have a wide assortment of hotels, motels, and B&Bs available that are sure to satisfy your expectations and price range.
Living Your Best Life
If you’re looking for friendly, small-town flavor coupled with stunning vistas and outdoor recreation, Cortez and Durango should be at the top of your list to visit.
Your best life awaits you here!
