Wildlife Division
Colorado Parks and Wildlife - Durango
Durango Wildlife Museum: A Glimpse into Colorado's Natural World
Discover Colorado's wildlife at this educational museum and fish hatchery in Durango.
The Durango Wildlife Museum, located alongside the Durango Fish Hatchery, offers visitors a chance to explore the diverse wildlife of Southwest Colorado. With exhibits featuring over 50 species, it's an engaging and educational experience for all ages.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Durango Wildlife Museum
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
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Getting There
Walking
From downtown Durango, head north on Main Avenue (Highway 550) for approximately one mile. Turn right onto E 16th Street. The Durango Wildlife Museum is located at the Durango Fish Hatchery. Note that during construction, there is no on-site parking, and access may be limited to the Animas River Trail.
Public Transport
Durango Transit offers bus and trolley services within Durango, including service to the Fish Hatchery. Check the Durango Transit schedule for routes and times. The fare is typically $1. From the bus stop, follow E 16th St to the museum. Note that during construction, there is no on-site parking, and access may be limited to the Animas River Trail.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Lyft and Uber are available in Durango. A short trip from downtown Durango to the Durango Wildlife Museum will cost approximately $10-$15. Note that during construction, there is no on-site parking, and access may be limited to the Animas River Trail.
Local tips
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Combine your visit with a tour of the Durango Fish Hatchery to see how fish are raised and stocked in local rivers.
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Bring quarters to feed the fish at the hatchery for a hands-on experience.
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Explore the Animas River Trail, which is easily accessible from the museum, for a scenic walk.
Discover more about Durango Wildlife Museum
Located in Durango, Colorado, the Durango Wildlife Museum provides an opportunity to discover the region's diverse ecosystems and wildlife. The museum showcases over 50 species through taxidermy displays, offering an up-close look at local fauna, including birds of prey, bobcats, and bears. These exhibits provide insights into the habitats and characteristics of these animals.
The museum is located on the same property as the Durango Fish Hatchery, the oldest state-owned fish hatchery in Colorado. The hatchery raises various trout species and kokanee salmon, stocking local rivers and reservoirs. Visitors can observe the fish-raising process and learn about the hatchery's role in maintaining the region's aquatic ecosystems.
Throughout the year, the Durango Wildlife Museum hosts educational programs and events. These initiatives aim to deepen understanding of wildlife and promote the importance of conservation. The museum's location near hiking trails and scenic landscapes makes it a starting point for outdoor explorations.
Note that the Durango Wildlife Museum is currently closed for the 2025 season due to construction. The customer service center has been temporarily relocated to 415 Turner Dr.
A brief summary to Durango Wildlife Museum
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