LIVING IN LA PLATA
Many people who come to La Plata County visit once and soon start imagining life here. They’re drawn by the landscapes, the local pride, and the way people look out for one another. The mountains may be rugged and the distances wide, but our towns and rural communities are connected by a shared commitment to place.
Life here changes with the seasons. In summer, mornings might begin with a walk along the river in Durango, a ride through the pines near Bayfield, or chores on a small ranch in the Pine River Valley. Many residents travel between towns for work, school, or errands, turning that time into part of the day’s rhythm rather than a rush. Summer evenings often bring community concerts, youth sports, or paddle boarding on Lake Nighthorse.
Winter brings its own rhythm. Sunlight fills most days while snow settles in the high country. Residents ski at Purgatory, sled in neighborhood parks, or gather for local celebrations like Durango’s Snowdown festival.
La Plata County is also a place that values education and family life. Our schools consistently rank among Colorado’s best, with strong districts in Durango, Bayfield, and Ignacio. Higher learning and workforce training opportunities abound through Fort Lewis College, Pueblo Community College, and Project RUN. Families here balance the realities of rural living with an unparalleled quality of life and a strong sense of belonging.
In every direction, the landscape shifts and so does the lifestyle. The north reaches toward the San Juan Mountains; the south opens into high desert rich with Ancestral Puebloan history. The east offers wide valleys for ranching and farming, while the west blends rugged mesas with a frontier spirit. Deciding to make La Plata County home is often the easy part. Choosing which corner fits you best takes a little exploration—and that’s part of the adventure.