Whether it’s a smashed PB&J alongside a mountain trail or a full dinner spread beneath a leafy tree, it’s hard to argue that food tastes better when eaten outdoors. Late summer and autumn are prime picnicking times, with countless picturesque spots around Durango and within an easy hour’s drive.
There are no rules about what constitutes the perfect picnic: homemade or grabbed from the grocer’s deli, al fresco dining is what you decide to make it. But the ideal spot should be priority No.1 since even a plain sandwich is more thoroughly enjoyed with a beautiful view.
We all feel like venturing outside Durango’s grid now and then. Alan Peterson, director of visitor services for the San Juan Mountains Association, has plenty of suggestions for amazing picnic spots within an hour’s drive – load up your cooler, picnic basket or backpack and make it a day trip.
“It is really beautiful because of the views you get there, and the hiking trail right on the side that goes up to Crater (Lake) can be done as a day hike,” Peterson said. “But even if you don’t make it all the way to the lake, it’s a beautiful trail in and out of forested areas, and you can see Engineer in the distance, and Twilight peak. You don’t have to commit to the full hike.”
Andrews is well-stocked with trout, for those who want to add fishing to their day’s activities, and it’s all easily accessible from US 550. Haviland Lake, Chris Park campground and Spud Lake are also great options, if you’re heading north.
“They have a trail right outside the building, very short, that goes back to a kiva. You can picnic there, go to their wonderful museum and do a little hike,” Peterson said. The Center offers permanent and special exhibits, a picnic area, great views and 100 acres of beautifully-landscaped grounds featuring native grasses, flowers, shrubs and cacti.
Choose from 10 shaded picnic sites (or take whatever’s left – it’s a popular spot) on a gentle slope near the water on the east shore of Vallecito Reservoir, 1.5 miles north of the dam on County Road 501A (Forest Service Road 603).
This area, 16 miles north of Pagosa off Piedra Road on Forest Service Road 635, offers four, sunny day-use sites adjacent to the Piedra River. Hike the Piedra River trail, which takes you 2.5 miles to a footbridge over the river. “It starts in a meadow, and then you’re down in a canyon, then it opens up again – all lower elevation, so for folks who want an easier outing, that can be a nice one to explore,” Peterson said.
Don’t have the time or energy for an all-day adventure? We’re hardly lacking for beautiful in-town spots.
“Up at Fort Lewis on the rim, there are incredible views overlooking the community,” said Jack Llewellyn, executive director of the Durango Chamber of Commerce. “There’s also the Lion’s Den, up above the Hillcrest Golf Course.”
Don’t fret if you have a large pack of picnickers. “The Kiwanis pavilion near Smelter (rapid) is great for large parties, and you can reserve them through Parks and Rec,” Llewellyn said. “Or, it’s first-come, first-served.”
Good shady options: Fassbiner/Triangle Park (140 W. Park Ave.), Viles Park (245 E. Park Ave.)
Good for the Littles: Jenkins Ranch Park (435 Jenkins Ranch Rd.), with play areas suitable for both toddlers and bigger kids.
Good for paddler-watching: Smelter rapid at Santa Rita Park.
Good for train-viewing: Animas City Park, off 32nd Street.
For a peaceful evening or lazy Saturday outing, consider the Animas Overlook – gorgeous views and just a short drive past the Colorado Trail trailhead at Junction Creek. You can hike a bit after your picnic if you’re feeling ambitious, or wade in the creek if you’re not.
Trimble Hot Springs welcomes picnickers too, and it’s hard to beat a soak after enjoying a perfect meal on the sprawling lawn. Personal-size coolers are allowed with the standard entry fees, but anything larger will cost you an extra $10.
No time to cook or pack up a picnic? It’s definitely not cheating to grab a blanket and head to a nice outdoor spot and purchase a tasty dinner. Ska’s Thursday night Ska-BQ feels downright picnic-like if you enjoy a pulled pork sammy and a Mexican Logger from the grassy hill behind the stage (through Sept. 29). And Foxfire farms in Ignacio offers wine, food and music every Friday night through Sept. 30.
There’s still a bit of leisurely summer time remaining to enjoy simple al fresco meals with family and friends. And once the hustle and bustle of school season begins, outdoor dining can be a nice way to reconnect with loved ones or add a little fun to a day’s hectic schedule. Who says picnics can’t take place along the soccer field sideline?
Principles of peaceful picnicking
Whether you’re on a backcountry trail or visiting a local park, keep Leave No Trace Principles in mind when picnicking, including:
Pack food in reusable containers and minimize waste
Pack out whatever you pack in. Do not leave any trash or food waste.
Leave what you find. Whatever cool rocks, plants or other items of interest you discover, they belong where you found them.
Don’t share your food with anyone but your fellow diners. Feeding wildlife endangers their health and may alter their natural behavior.
Let nature’s sounds prevail. Respect any other visitors to your picnic spot who may also be trying to enjoy the peace of the outdoors.
Read more about Leave No Trace principles at https://lnt.org.
Bobbi Maiers
Picnic basket checklist
Plates, flatware, serving utensils, napkins
Drinking glasses
Small cutting board and knife
Paper towels or wet wipes
Bottle opener
Trash and recycling bags
Blanket
Sunscreen and protective sun gear
Towels, if your spot is near water and you and/or the kids want to play
