Fort Lewis Campus Map
Introduction
Fort Lewis College is a public liberal arts college located in Durango, Colorado. It is known for its beautiful campus situated on a mesa overlooking the city and the surrounding mountains. Whether you are a student, a faculty member, or a visitor, there are plenty of things to see and do on and around the campus. This travel guide will help you explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, and more.
Top Attractions
The Skyhawk Statue
The Skyhawk Statue is located at the entrance of the college and is a popular spot for taking photos. It is a bronze sculpture of a Skyhawk, the college’s mascot, with its wings spread wide.
The Clock Tower
The Clock Tower is a landmark on the campus and is located in the center of the campus. It is a four-story tower that houses the bell that rings every hour.
The Animas River Trail
The Animas River Trail is a scenic trail that runs along the Animas River. It is a popular spot for walking, jogging, biking, and fishing.
Hidden Gems
The Native Plant Garden
The Native Plant Garden is a small garden located near the Geosciences, Physics, and Engineering Hall. It showcases the native plants of the Four Corners region and is a peaceful spot to relax.
The Observatory
The Observatory is located on the roof of the Chemistry Hall and is open to the public for stargazing events. It has a 16-inch telescope and offers stunning views of the night sky.
The Fort Lewis College Art Gallery
The Fort Lewis College Art Gallery is located in the Fine Arts Building and showcases the works of local and regional artists. It is a great place to appreciate art and support local talent.
Food Scene
The Student Union
The Student Union is the hub of campus life and offers a variety of dining options. From fast food to coffee shops to full-service restaurants, there is something for everyone.
The Durango Farmers Market
The Durango Farmers Market is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It is held every Saturday from May to October and offers fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.
The Ore House
The Ore House is a steakhouse located in downtown Durango. It is a local favorite and is known for its delicious food and historic ambiance.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Pack a Picnic
One of the best ways to save money on food is to pack a picnic. There are plenty of scenic spots on the campus and around Durango where you can enjoy a meal.
Take Advantage of Free Events
The college and the community offer a variety of free events throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, and festivals. Check the calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
Explore the Outdoors
The best things in life are free, and that includes the great outdoors. There are plenty of hiking trails, parks, and scenic drives around Durango that won’t cost you a dime.
Outdoor Adventures
The Rim Trail
The Rim Trail is a scenic trail that runs along the rim of the mesa. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for hiking and biking.
The San Juan Mountains
The San Juan Mountains are a world-renowned destination for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and biking to skiing and snowboarding, there are plenty of adventures to be had in this rugged landscape.
The Animas River
The Animas River is a popular spot for water sports, such as kayaking, rafting, and tubing. There are plenty of outfitters in town that offer guided trips.
Historical Landmarks
The Old Fort
The Old Fort is located on the campus and is a historic site that dates back to the 19th century. It was originally a military fort and later became a Native American boarding school.
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a historic train that runs between Durango and the mining town of Silverton. It offers stunning views of the mountains and the Animas River.
The Strater Hotel
The Strater Hotel is a historic hotel located in downtown Durango. It was built in 1887 and is known for its Victorian architecture and old-world charm.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Fort Lewis College Community Concert Hall
The Fort Lewis College Community Concert Hall offers a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year, such as concerts, plays, and dance performances.
The Durango Discovery Museum
The Durango Discovery Museum is a hands-on museum that offers interactive exhibits on science, technology, and the arts. It is a great place for kids to learn and explore.
The Powerhouse Science Center
The Powerhouse Science Center is another science museum located in downtown Durango. It offers exhibits and activities on physics, chemistry, and engineering.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
The Anasazi Heritage Center
The Anasazi Heritage Center is located in Dolores, about an hour’s drive from Durango. It offers exhibits and artifacts on the Ancestral Puebloan culture and is a great place to learn about the region’s history.
The James Ranch
The James Ranch is a working ranch located north of Durango. It offers farm-to-table dinners, tours, and workshops on sustainable agriculture.
The Vallecito Lake
The Vallecito Lake is a scenic lake located about 30 minutes from Durango. It offers fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities and is a great place to escape the crowds.
Natural Wonders
The Mesa Verde National Park
The Mesa Verde National Park is located about an hour’s drive from Durango. It offers tours of the Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The San Juan Skyway
The San Juan Skyway is a scenic drive that circles the San Juan Mountains. It offers stunning views of the mountains, the valleys, and the forests.
The Colorado Trail
The Colorado Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that runs from Denver to Durango. It offers a challenging and rewarding adventure through some of the state’s most beautiful landscapes.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Animas City Theatre
The Animas City Theatre is a historic theater located in downtown Durango. It offers live music, comedy shows, and film screenings.
The Balcony Bar and Grill
The Balcony Bar and Grill is a rooftop bar located in the heart of downtown Durango. It offers stunning views of the city and the mountains and is a great place to unwind after a long day.
The El Rancho Tavern
The El Rancho Tavern is a local dive bar located on the outskirts of Durango. It offers cheap drinks, pool tables, and live music.
Local Markets
The Durango Farmers Market
The Durango Farmers Market is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It is held every Saturday from May to October and offers fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.
The Durango Artisan Market
The Durango Artisan Market is a weekly market that showcases the works of local artists and artisans. It is held every Sunday from June to September.
The Four Corners Folk Festival
The Four Corners Folk Festival is an annual music festival held in Pagosa Springs, about an hour’s drive from Durango. It offers live music, food, and crafts from the Four Corners region.
Beaches and Mountains
The Durango Whitewater Park
The Durango Whitewater Park is a man-made whitewater course located on the Animas River. It offers kayaking, tubing, and rafting opportunities in the heart of the city.
The Purgatory Resort
The Purgatory Resort is a ski resort located about 30 minutes from Durango. It offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports in the winter and hiking, mountain biking, and other activities in the summer.
The Navajo Lake
The Navajo Lake is a scenic lake located about an hour’s drive from Durango. It offers fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities and is a great place to cool off in the summer.
Cultural Immersion
The Dur