As chilly temperatures arrive and snow falls in town and the surrounding mountains, Durango transforms into a winter wonderland, offering endless opportunities for adventure, celebration, and relaxation. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a festive holiday gathering, or a productive remote-work getaway, The Leland House Suites of Durango is your home base for creating unforgettable memories this season.
Explore Winter Activities in Durango
Photo Credit: Anthony D’Amato
Known year-round for its breathtaking scenery and thriving outdoor culture, Durango offers an abundance of activities throughout the winter, with options for everyone from avid skiers and snowboarders to families seeking a playful day in the snow and holiday festivities. Through January 4, the famous Polar Express™ Train Ride transports guests on a magical journey from the Durango Depot—located a short walk from The Leland House—to the “North Pole” aboard a vintage locomotive. The ride includes hot chocolate, holiday treats, a dazzling light show set to festive music, and a visit from Santa, making it a favorite attraction for families with children. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad also offers a winter journey to Cascade Canyon, featuring majestic views of the Animas River and snowclad Rocky Mountain peaks. Spanning a distance of 26 miles each way, this 5.25-hour roundtrip experience is available on select dates through May 2.
Just a 25-minute drive from The Leland House, Purgatory Ski Resort boasts world-class slopes, scenic 
vistas, and a variety of terrain perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. The resort offers discounts on lift tickets through December, so purchasing your ticket early is a great way to save!
If you’re looking for winter sports even closer to town, Chapman Hill is an affordable, family-friendly option just five minutes from The Leland House. Chapman Hill features an ice rink, 500 vertical feet of terrain maintained with snowmaking and expert grooming for skiers and snowboarders, and a bumps course. Ski and snowboard lessons with expert instructors are available for all ages and levels. The facility has recently installed improvements, with brand-new lighting and lift options slated to open in December 2024!
As local experts, the team at The Leland House is here to help you create an itinerary of winter activities tailored to your schedule and interests. From booking tickets for skiing, snowboarding, and even dog sledding to facilitating equipment rentals, our connections with other local businesses make planning your visit a seamless process.
Celebrate the Holidays at The Leland House and Lola’s Place
Are you seeking the perfect gift for a loved one—something that will be truly meaningful and memorable? Consider gifting an experience by reserving a stay at The Leland House! Our boutique hotel combines the cozy charm of a historic property with modern amenities like spacious suites equipped with kitchens or kitchenettes, high-speed WiFi, and personalized service. Whether you’re planning a family holiday celebration or treating someone special to a peaceful retreat, we provide the ideal setting to enjoy the best that Durango has to offer.
If you’re visiting over the holidays, we can help make your celebration stress-free. In addition to full kitchens in some of our suites—which provide you with the option of cooking your own meals—we can help you arrange a catered meal to be delivered right to your suite. Additionally, at our sister property, Lola’s Place, we have a full-time event coordinator on staff to assist you in making your event a success, whether you’re planning a family gathering, a holiday party with your work team, or anything in between. Enjoy our cozy, festively decorated space full of warmth and historic charm, as well as a variety of menu options and a bar stocked with locally crafted, premium beverages!
Snowdown Durango: An Annual Winter Tradition
The wintry magic of Durango extends beyond the holidays. From January 24-February 2, 2025, the 46th annual Snowdown Durango will celebrate the season with the theme, “Snowdown, The Board Game Edition: It’s Your Move.” As one of the largest annual seasonal celebrations in Colorado, Snowdown features more than 100 events, including everything from the Parade of Lights down Main Avenue (one block from The Leland House) to adults-only fashion shows to winter sporting contests. At Lola’s Place, we participate in the fun with our own events—be sure to check our calendar to learn more! Whether you’re a local looking for a base in the heart of Durango to enjoy easy access to Snowdown activities, or a visitor coming into town, The Leland House offers a convenient spot in the heart of the fun.
Enjoy the Coziness of Winter at The Leland House
Nestled in Durango’s charming Second Avenue District, The Leland House offers a unique blend of history, comfort, and convenience. Each of our 12 suites is thoughtfully designed to feel like a home away from home, complete with modern amenities and a dash of old-world charm. We welcome pets, ensuring that all members of the family can enjoy the festivities this season. Let us make your winter getaway seamless and memorable—contact us to book your stay, and be sure to ask about our current specials!
