Adventure, Travel, Rhythms, and Boating
TH E E XPLO RE ISSU E J U LY 2 02 5
TRUE BLUE LANDSCAPE & DESIGN Durango’s Trusted Landscaping Experts for Over 25 Years From cozy backyard gardens to large-scale commercial landscapes, True Blue Landscape & Design brings decades of expertise to every project. Our team of skilled landscapers and horticulturists crafts custom outdoor solutions tailored to your needs, taste, and budget that are beautiful, functional and water-wise. ✔ Custom Landscape Design & Installation ✔ Lawn Maintenance & Seasonal Cleanups ✔ Tree & Shrub Care | Irrigation Systems ✔ Water-Conscious Landscape Planning ✔ Residential & Commercial Projects Reliable. Experienced. Local.
970-799-0277 | Durango, Colorado 81301 TrueBlueLandscape.com
Home . Kitchen . Jewelry . Clothing
680 Main Ave
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Adventure Awaits
July 2025 PUBLISHER
Branden (Brandy) Murray branden.murray@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R
Denise Leslie | denise.leslie@citylifestyle.com
Durango proudly stands as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering endless opportunities to connect with nature through all four elements. Whether you're carving through hundreds of miles of mountain biking trails, rafting the wild waters of the Animas, or just soaking in the sunshine—this is the season to embrace it all. This month, we’re spotlighting the local businesses that can outfit you for every kind of summer adventure. From our curated gear guide to a look at a local packraft company, we’ll help you find exactly what you need to get out there. Prefer to roam a little farther from home? We’ve got that too. Dive into stories from international travel pros who call Durango home and are ready to help you make the most of your summer abroad. Here’s to a season of discovery, near or far. Stay safe, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to say yes to something new.
E D I TO R
James Leonard | james.leonard@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R
Jessica Valdez | jessica.valdez@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Rachel Rosenthal | rachel.rosenthal@citylifestyle.com, Jennifer Mason | jennifer.mason@citylifestyle.com, A.C.E. Ridenour | a.ridenour12@gmail.com, Denise Leslie C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S
Andy Wingerd, Courtesy Thom Chacon, Steve Fassbinder, Rob Gowler, Jeanne Randazzo Szczech, Miguel Paredes Garces
Corporate Team B R A N D E N ( B R A N D Y ) M U R R AY, P U B L I S H E R @DURANGOCITYLIFESTYLE
CEO Steven Schowengerdt COO Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Durango City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Durango area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle
Visit our Instagram CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/DURANGO
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Durango City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
Focus. Determination. Resiliency. All skills she’ll need later on.
inside the issue JU LY 2 0 2 5 | EX P LO R E
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22
Featured
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22 26 30 6
30 Departments
Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Two International Tour Guides Emphasize Outdoor Experiences to Cultivate Traveler Transformation
Two-wheeled Freedom: Summer 2025
Durango’s own 2nd Ave Sports provides expert insights for go-to gear this summer
Strings & Streams
The Storyteller’s Path of Thom Chacon
A Rapid Row-mance
Alpacka Raft Celebrates 25 Years of River-lutionary Packraft Design
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Lifestyle Letter
8
City Scene
10
Business Monthly
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Road Trip AUTO + MARINE
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Outdoor Adventure TRAVEL
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Gear Guide SPORTS + RECREATION
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Must See LIFE + CULTURE
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Get Active SPORTS + RECREATION
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Events
34
Happy Hour FOOD + BEVERAGE
ENJOY THE FIREWORKS NOT THE WATER WORKS
CALL VIP 970.426.5131
VIP Plumbing is your local, master-certified Durango plumber ready to help. From repairs, remodels, and new builds, to trenchless drain restoration, VIP Plumbing does it all. Don’t let plumbing problems ruin you holiday. Get them fixed now.
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J U LY 2 0 2 5
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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2
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COURTESY OF DURANGO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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COURTESY OF BLUE RAIN GALLERY
5 COURTESY OF LOCAL FIRST
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DENISE LESLIE
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COURTESY OF TAD SMITH
COURTESY OF SWCF
COURTESY OF ALPINE BANK
1: Blue Rain Gallery in Durango welcomes visitors to admire works by Tony De Luz. 2: Durango Chamber of Commerce welcomes Sunward Federal Credit Union. 3: Animas Trading Company owners, Doug and Cathy Wakeman and new owners, Amanda and Wes Bierma. 4: Denise Leslie, Director, with members of the Thoughtful Ukulele Orchestra at Stillwater Music Student Showcase. 5: Tad Smith, artist, and guests at opening ‘Voices Inside My Head’ Durango Arts Center . 6: Southwest Community Foundation’s CAUSE Internship program participants start their journeys. 7: Alpine Bank’s Eric Eicher, Beth Drum, and Mike Burns are celebrating 20 years in Durango.
Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ D U R A N G O C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E
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C I T Y SC E N E
J U LY 2 0 2 5
business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
Stay Cool with VIP Plumbing Stay cool this summer with energy-efficient MINI-SPLIT AC systems from VIP Plumbing. Whether upgrading your home’s air conditioning or adding cool comfort to a new space, mini-splits are quiet, powerful, efficient, and perfect for the high-desert mountains of Southwest Colorado. As always, VIP’s work is fully guaranteed, their prices are great, and you get the hometown personalized attention you deserve. Call VIP Plumbing now and get on the schedule for a new mini-split system: 970-426-5131
Scan to read more
Manna Soup Kitchen 40th Anniversary Manna has operated in Durango for 40 years since 1985. Our organization was founded to address hunger through the distribution of food and the eventual founding of our soup kitchen. Our mission and model have grown to provide nutritious food and meals, supportive services, and employment readiness, addressing the root causes of poverty in our community. Volunteers are core to the operations of our community kitchen. Go to mannasoupkitchen.org to inquire how you can help.
Custom Camper Vans for Exceptional Adventures • Full Conversions
• A-la-carte Services, Build Components & Consulting
• Suspension, Lift Kits, Lights, Bumpers, Racks & Accessories • Vans, Trucks, and Expedition Campers
1166 South Skylane Drive, Building 6, Durango www.vanlabdurango.com || VB
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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY
Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / D U R A N G O
Salt 360 Float Studio Explore relaxation experience at salt 360, where we specialize in rejuvenating infrared sauna sessions and soothing float therapy. Our tranquil oasis is designed to help you unwind, detoxify, and revitalize your body and mind. Our floating tanks are filtered and sterilized between sessions, and filled with an epsom salt solution that increases buoyancy for effortless floating, reduces inflammation and muscle aches, and hydrates your body’s skin, providing the ultimate reset for your mind and body.
Scan to read more
ENRICHING ENVIRONMENT
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NUC
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QUALITY CARE
INDIGENOUS
ARTIST MARKET & JURIED SHOW SEPTEMBER 5th • 6th • 7th at the Sky Ute Casino Resort PRESENTED BY THE
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REGISTRATION OPEN APPLY ONLINE OR IN-PERSON AT THE MUSEUM
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OUR SERVICES: Daycare
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Enrichment
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Call Us: 970-259-0018
6510 County Road 203 Durango, CO 81301
JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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moving to the beautiful san juan mountains of olo a o Furnishing a home in a small mountain town can feel overwhelming. From sourcing high-quality pieces to managing complex deliveries and installations, the process often brings more stress than serenity.
At Mountain Luxe Interiors, we make it easy to create the mountain retreat you’ve been dreaming of—without the hassle. Our full-service interior design takes care of every detail from concept to completion, so you can relax and focus on enjoying your mountain life!
design@mountainluxeinteriors.com 970-880-4648 mountainluxeinteriors.com @mountainluxeinteriors
Join Us! Durango • Southwest Colorado
Vadim Gluzman
Daniel Raiskin
Artistic Director
2025 Principal Conductor-in-Residence
Classical Music Festival • July 10 – August 3, 2025
Don’t miss this exceptional summer music festival with musicians of the highest caliber from across the globe. For more information, call 970-385-6820 or visit MusicintheMountains.com
A VAN BUILT FOR THE JOURNEY Advent ure-Ready Comfor t , Built for the Wild Roads A head
ARTICLE BY GAVIN MCCALDEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROB GOWLER
Based in Durango, Colorado, Van Lab is redefining what it means to travel in comfort, style, and rugged functionality. Their latest custom build—crafted on the ultra-capable Ford Transit Trail platform—comes with an additional 2-inch lift and suspension upgrade by VanCompass and is ready to tackle everything from winding mountain roads to desert trails. Outside, this rig is equipped with an Aluminess Powerlift bike rack that easily lifts up to 150 lbs from waist height to above the rear storage box—perfect for e-bikes. A Fiamma 45s 10-foot motorized awning creates instant shade, while the sleek SCA pop-top roof includes an integrated skylight, adding ventilation and stargazing potential.
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R OA D T R IP | AUTO + MARIN E
Inside, the Murphy bed layout offers both sleeping space and flexibility, while a flip-up back seat allows for versatile seating. The kitchen is streamlined with a 15” sink and a two-burner induction cooktop. Up front, heated Scheel-Mann seats with swivels turn the cab into a lounge. Storage is thoughtfully designed with a mix of soft-sided and hard-sided upper cabinets, elegant bamboo plywood in the galley, and rugged hexply laminate cabinetry in the rear—framed in durable aluminum. Front tire bike hoops on the rear doors round out the build, making this van a true home-on-wheels for adventure seekers.
JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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REAL ESTATE IN DURANGO AND BEYOND
TIME IN THE REAL ESTATE MARKET BEATS TIMING THE MARKET If you’re torn between buying now or waiting, don’t forget that it’s time in the market, not timing the market that truly matters. Let’s connect if you want to talk about what you need to do to get the process started today. STRENGTH. INTEGRITY. TRUST
#1 in Colorado within the network Over 50 years in the real estate business
BHHSCO.COM
(970) 403-3289
Effortless, discreet, and designed for how you live.
Animas Valley Arborist Inc. We are a full service Tree Care company, providing tree Pruning and Removal services, Plant Health Care services, Disease and Insect control, and Planting and Transplanting services. We have woodchip mulch and firewood for sale, too! Give us a call to setup a free 30 minute onsite consultation and estimate for your tree and shrub care needs!
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“THANK YOU!!! All of you are the absolute BEST. Not many companies go above and beyond these days, but you and your crews definitely do. It seems that every one of you takes pride in your work, and with helping people. Not many businesses or their practices impress me but AVA does!!!” - Julie S.
970-422-8072 | B
www.animasvalleyarborist.com
Owning a second home should feel like an escape—not another job. At Elevation Home Management, we handle the details others don’t—so you can come and go with ease. From walkthroughs and vendor coordination to grocery stocking, project oversight, and concierge services, we’re your trusted presence when you’re away.
1. Property Oversight & Vendor Coordination 2. Personalized Concierge Services 3. Home Arrival & Departure Prep 4. Renovation & Project Management
Effortless. Personalized. Peace of mind—elevated.
970.799.5558 | www.elevationhomemanagement.com
Find Joy in Gardening—
Even in Durango Gardening in the Four Corners can be tough—hard soil, harsh weather, and hungry wildlife. At Botanical Concepts, we’re here with honest advice and the tools to help you succeed. Indoor Inspiration Explore our curated selection of houseplants for green beauty inside and out.
Healthy Soil, Happy Garden Summer calls for compost! We carry composted bark, kitchen-scrap compost, and soil amendments that boost biodiversity, conserve water, and strengthen roots.
Natural Pest Solutions Beneficial bugs for aphids, salvia to deter deer, and tips to protect your blooms—including when a fence really is the best option.
F R E E C O N C E RTS | B U C K L E Y PA R K | D U R A N G O, C O
Locally Grown Plants From seed-grown vegetables to native, drought-tolerant perennials—everything we grow thrives in our unique climate.
Let’s grow together.
Visit Botanical Concepts—where Durango gardens begin. 970.946.4580 | botanicalconceptsdgo.com
Bringing the Irish Luck to Your Event!
JUNE 26 Nosotros
JULY 3
Will Overman
97 0- 88 0- 208 9 PUB PA CK A GE S JULY 10
Nefesh Mountain
JULY 24
Afrosonics
JULY 17
A Tribute to JT
with Brice Beaird Dallas All-Star Band
JULY 31
After Midnight
FREE CONCERTS BUCKLEY PARK
PRESENTED BY
THURSDAYS @ 5:30 PM AUGUST 7 Leon Timbo
JUNE 26-AUGUST 7
Leprechaun Beer, Wine and Seltzer Service
Shamrock Beer, Wine, Seltzer Service with Two Signature Cocktails
Dublin Full Pub
Booking for 2025! Let us bring the party to you with customizable Pub Packages and fun add-on Pub Boosts tailored to your event. Contact us today to reserve your date—let’s make your celebration unforgettable!
MIN T JULE PS 1/4 oz Simple Syrup 8 Fresh Mint Leaves 2 oz Bourbon 1 Fresh Mint Sprig (Garnish) Instructions In a cup, lightly muddle the syrup and mint. Add bourbon and pack tightly with crushed ice. Stir until the cup is frosted on the outside. Top with more crushed ice to form an ice dome and garnish with a mint sprig.
durangoconcerts.com
JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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Somewhere Over the Rainbow Two International Tour Guides Emphasize Outdoor Experiences to Cultivate Traveler Transformation
Roar! Smash! Whoosh! Just like that—the tornado snatches Dorothy and transports her to the land of Oz. She’s lost. She doesn’t know anyone. Everything and everyone she encounters are equal parts unfamiliar and dazzling. She’s exhilarated and discombobulated, and all she wants to do is go home. In many ways, Dorothy’s adventure in Oz is the perfect simulacrum of traveling abroad. But for Chris and Jeanne Szczech, co-owners of Meadows and Mountains, Global Hiking Vacations, there’s a much deeper symbolism at play. Chris explains, “What these trips always remind me of is Joseph Campbell’s hero’s journey concept. I feel like that happens on trips—you start in your normal world, and then you come to a new world. You gain special powers. By the end of these trips, you’ve seen things, you have new insights, new powers—maybe even a couple of words of Spanish or a beautiful alpaca sweater—whatever it is.”
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER MASON PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIGUEL PAREDES GARCES AND JEANNE RANDAZZO SZCZECH
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O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | T RAVE L
In other words, traveling abroad is all about transformation. By the time the hero returns home, he or she is a different person— stronger, wiser, and better dressed to withstand the elements. But for many people, coordinating a trip to a foreign country can be extremely daunting. When’s the best time to go? Where should you stay? What should you eat—or avoid? By providing supported and guided excursions abroad, Chris and Jeanne remove all the guesswork. They send packing lists, detailed itineraries, descriptions of activities, and difficulty ratings for hikes. They’ll explain which converters to bring for electrical devices and whether or not to pack trekking poles. Ninety to ninety-five percent of meals, lodging, gear rentals, and other costs are covered in their adventure package.
And unlike many international tour companies, the Szczechs focus less on glittering metropolises and more on the splendors of natural landscapes. Guests on their trips spend ample time trekking through the wilderness, touring archaeological sites, and learning about a place’s history and culture through its terrain. But it’s not all roughing it in tents, munching trail mix. The Szczechs curate a balance of outdoor adventure and city sightseeing—with real beds to sleep in. “People have a desire to do the big thing, but it’s either organizing it or the burden of carrying too much,” Jeanne notes. “With the supported treks, it’s just light backpacks—and then you can accomplish something you might not accomplish on your own.” Like ascending into the Andes to visit Machu Picchu, for example.
At their core, the Szczechs are lifelong educators with a zeal for the outdoors. Both former teachers, Chris and Jeanne often took their students on weekend hiking trips to share the infectious magic of the woods, fields, and fens. For sixteen years, they channeled their passion into Colorado Mountain Expeditions, leading outdoor adventures across Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico. Eager to replicate that success abroad, they launched Meadows and Mountains in 2022. The Szczechs warmly welcome anyone to try a global hiking adventure with them: couples, singles, families, or groups of lifelong friends. Whether you’re an intrepid explorer or a hesitant homebody, you can embark on the hero’s journey of transformative travel. But unlike Dorothy, you can sidestep the cyclone—and travel by plane. And whether the trip is to Peru, Ireland, Italy, or the Czech Republic, Jeanne offers an important travel advisory: “The goodbyes at the end of these trips are hard. People don’t want that feeling to end. It is such a good feeling.”
JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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DURANGO ARTS CENTER REPERTORY THEATRE 2025 SEASON LOVERS & SINNERS -15TH ANNUAL 10-MINUTE PLAY FESTIVAL MAY 30TH - JUNE 1ST, FRIDAY AND SATURDAY AT 7:30, SUNDAY 2 PM. -5 LESBIANS EATING A QUICHE JULY 18TH-27TH, THURSDAY, FRIDAY AND SATURDAY AT 7:30 PM, SUNDAY AT 2 PM. -THE SPITFIRE GRILL: A MUSICAL AUGUST 15TH-30TH, FRIDAY & SATURDAY AT 7:30 PM, SUNDAY AT 2 PM. -HI HO SILVER! SEPTEMBER 19TH - OCTOBER 5TH, FRIDAY & SATURDAY AT 7:30 PM, SUNDAY AT 2 PM. SPECIAL PWC MONDAY PEFORMANCE 9/29 AT 2PM -RICHARD O'BRIEN'S THE ROCKY HORROR SHOW OCTOBER 24TH - NOVEMBER 1ST, THURSDAY & FRIDAY AT 7:30 PM, SATURDAY AT 7:30 PM AND 10 PM, SUNDAY AT 2 PM -5TH ANNUAL 24 HR THEATRE NOVEMBER 22ND AT 7:30 PM.
DURANGOARTS.ORG // 9702592606 // 802 East 2nd Avenue, Durango, Colorado 81301
970.903.5931 | durangocabinetco.com durangocabinetco@gmail.com
DURANGO CABINET CO
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970.880.4799 | mountainhyperbarics.com Programs for veterans available at no cost or deeply discounted. JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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Two-wheeled Freedom: Summer 2025 DURANGO’S OWN 2ND AVE SPORTS PROVIDES EXPERT INSIGHTS FOR GO-TO GEAR THIS SUMMER ARTICLE BY AHDON RIDENOUR | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANDY WINGERD
2nd Ave Sports has a reputation for supplying Durango with the best brands for everyone from the bike-curious to the cycling evangelist. As trends and technology shift, it takes an expert to stay in gear and on top of new terrain. Your LBS (Local Bike Shop) 2nd Ave Sports has the gear to fit your needs, and an experienced team to make sure it fits well. Conveniently located downtown on the corner of Second Ave and College, the 2nd Ave Sports staff is prepared to give you the full-service experience. Every season brings fresh opportunities and challenges, so the 2nd Ave Sports team put together a Summer Gear Guide with what new toys and tools are at the top of their lists this season. Drop into 2nd Ave Sports for a custom tune up, or to check out what new gear and gadgets are available for the summer bike punk in you.
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G E A R GU ID E | SP O RTS + RE CRE AT ION
F o r t h e G n a rl o r d s:
P I V O T T R A I L C AT S L The all-new TrailcatSL is ultra-light, responsive, and designed to handle any terrain with poise. From critical uphill pounds, to aggressive downhill switchbacks, the technical 120mm of dw-link suspension adapts to your ride so well Pivot has dubbed it “The Ultimate Trail Companion.” Underneath, the Live Valve Neo automatically adjusts for speed and obstacles, providing top-of-class efficiency and capability. Then, the Pivot Toolshed™ offers rattle-free downframe storage, so you can keep your focus on the trail, instead of worrying about heavy bags.
F o r t h e R o a d i e s:
GA R M I N VA R I A RC T 7 1 5 “It sees what you can’t.” The Garmin Varia RCT715 squeezes a 1080p rear-view camera, a bright red tail light, and reliable radar into one compact device. Link it to the Varia app or Edge bike computer to view live footage of what’s going on behind you. 4-6 hours of battery life allow you to ride while the camera automatically captures anything out of the ordinary. The Varia RCT715 provides radar awareness up to 153 yards beind, and lets you know when a vehicle is approaching, while the bright red light returns the favor to drivers.
F o r t h e G r o m s:
E A R LY R I D E R S E E K E R X 1 6 The EarlyRider Seeker X16 is a kid-friendly bike that doesn’t forgo modern tech or quality components. A grease-free Gate Carbon Belt Drive means maintenance-free riding for the little Grom for up to 20,000 km. Equipped with Promax hydraulic disc brakes, the bike provides superior stopping power and control, even in wet conditions. The Seeker X16 features a fixed fork, stable geometry, and sliding dropouts (for adjustment) all built using 6061 aluminum. Big 2.25’’ tyres mean there’s more air underneath, and a safer, more enjoyable for your tyke.
JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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YOGA. PILATES. NUTRITION.
DWolf Designs is proud to announce our Guest Artist for the month of August,
LUKE WOLF Luke is a very talented wildlife artist who will experience his first solo exhibition in his Mom’s gallery.
OPENING RECEPTION FRIDAY AUGUST 1ST 5-7PM LIGHT REFRESHMENTS SERVED. SEE YOU THEN!
www.dwolfdesigns.net • 503.314.3596 925 Colorado 3, Durango, Colorado 81301
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PAUSE • RESET • THRIVE Discover the joy of a healthier, more confident & empowered you. RIVERSIDE STUDIO AND NUTRITION SERVICES:
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PURPLE CLIFFS STUDIO: 1305 ESCALANTE DR, STE 202
SCAN TO JOIN
You’re One Connection Away From Business Growth. You’re great at what you do—but growth happens when the right people know your name. At PWN’s Monthly Networking Event, you’ll build beneficial connections, gain referrals, and open doors to new possibilities.
PWN 2nd Thursdays Women’s Networking info@pwndurango.org • pwndurango.org JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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STRINGS & Streams Thom Chacon singer/songwriter
THE STORYTELLER’S PATH OF THOM CHACON ARTICLE BY DENISE LESLIE | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THOM CHACON
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M UST SE E | L I FE + C ULTU RE
Thom Chacon on stage in Balzano, Italy where they call him Durango's Dyan!
Fly-fishing guide trip down the San Juan River.
In the rugged high country of Durango, Colorado, singer-songwriter Thom Chacon moves between two rhythms: the quiet pull of a fly line over water and the steady strum of his guitar. Both have become storytelling tools—one reflecting the pace of nature, the other the pulse of human experience. Born in Chula Vista, California, near the border with Tijuana, Chacon grew up surrounded by voices that shaped him. His father was a newsman, his mother a teacher, and he was one of six siblings in a household rich with stories. “At three years old, I heard Glen Campbell’s ‘Rhinestone Cowboy’ on the radio,” Chacon recalls. “I learned every word. That was my gateway.” Later, in the Sacramento Valley, he picked up a guitar and started writing. “A friend taught me ‘Wish You Were Here’ in high school theater class, and something just clicked,” he says. Influenced by the lyrical honesty of Neil Diamond, Springsteen, John Prine, and Lucinda Williams, Chacon developed a sound rooted in Americana grit and poetic storytelling. CONTINUED >
JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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But songwriting isn’t his only calling. Chacon is also a fly-fishing guide on the legendary San Juan River in northern New Mexico, where ancient mesas tower overhead and every ripple of water seems to whisper something sacred. “You spend enough time around 70-million-year-old rock formations, and you start to think a little differently,” he says. “It gives you perspective. It shows you what’s worth writing about.” Closer to home in Durango, Chacon finds peace on the Animas River, where he’s floated for years. One of his songs, “Easy Heart,” was inspired by time spent drifting through its bends. “That song came from many moments of stillness,” he says. “Just me, the river, and that deep breath that nature invites.” Though Chacon doesn’t write much on the water—“I’m either focused on the fish or trying not to fall off a horse,” he laughs—the outdoors permeates his music. He used to pack a guitar on mule-supported overnights, serenading clients around campfires beneath open skies. His music occasionally crosses into his other creative frontier—film and television. He’s written original songs and acted in projects like The Outlaws (Apple TV) and Wild West Chronicles (Amazon Prime). “It’s all storytelling,” Chacon says. “Just a different lens.” He’s now developing a docuseries that blends fly-fishing and music—a natural fusion of his two worlds. And Chacon shows no signs of slowing down, with another album and a European tour planned for 2026. Whether he’s on the San Juan, the Animas, or in his home studio, Thom Chacon remains a guide— through rivers, stories, and songs that echo long after the line settles.
THOM’S RIVER KIT: TALES, TROUT, & TWANG
Want to fish like a singer-songwriter? Or at least look good doing it? Here’s what Durango’s own musical guide brings along when he hits the water: A Beater Guitar Yep, he used to strap it to a mule. These days, it might live in the truck, but the campfire still gets a tune or two when the fish stop biting. Hat with a Story Worn, dusty, and probably older than some of his clients. It’s less “gear” and more “personality,” but no day on the San Juan or Animas is complete without it.
“I move between two rhythms: the pull of a fly line and the strum of a guitar.” — Thom Chacon
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Pocket Notebook Not always used, but always there. Lyrics sneak in when he’s not looking. “Sometimes a trout gives me a line,” he jokes. River Wisdom “Keep it simple. With fish and with songs. If you try too hard, you spook ’em.”
Explore more: • Stream: Thom Chacon on Spotify and Apple Music • Watch: Wild West Chronicles (Amazon Prime), The Outlaws (Apple TV) • Follow: @ThomChacon on Instagram and Facebook Want to connect with your own creative current? Try spending an afternoon near water. Studies show proximity to rivers or lakes improves focus, mood, and imagination.
Providing traditional & holistic pet care for dogs, cats, and exotic pets. High quality veterinary home visits & office appointments with specialized senior pet services available.
970.759.2325 | ponderosapet.com | PonderosaPetVet@gmail.com 135 Burnett Dr Unit 3, Durango, Colorado 81301
Achieving Overall Wellness for Your Horse with Dry Salt Therapy Your horse’s health and happiness depend on more than just proper nutrition and exercise - it also relies on optimal respiratory, skin, and immune system function. That’s where dry salt therapy, or halotherapy, can make a powerful difference. Contact us for more information or to schedule your session!
HOLISTIC HORSE CLINIC ON JULY 19TH FROM 10AM - 3PM • Equine dry salt therapy • Equine naturopathy/stem cell rejuvenation/energy • Equine osteopathy
CALL (814) 795-4757 TO REGISTER YOUR HORSE OR TO AUDIT SALTOFTHEEARTHRANCH.COM | 4086 COUNTY ROAD 119 HESPERUS, CO
JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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A R A PID ROW-MANCE ALPACKA RAFT CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF RIVER-LUTIONARY PACKRAFT DESIGN ARTICLE BY JENNIFER MASON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVE FASSBINDER
Car keys. An allowance. A later curfew. These are the typical requests young people make of their parents. Thor Tingey, however, asked his mother, Sheri, to make him a boat capable of withstanding the feral thrashing of an Alaskan river. There’s only one reason why a young man demands the impossible or seeks the improbable: love. Thor had fallen head-over-heels in love with packrafting. The sport enabled him to embrace the essence of exploration.
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“To me, explore means going places that are new to you,” Thor explains, going on to note that one needs the gumption to stray from the prescribed path. “The original concept of packrafting is that.” Although historians can trace the origins of packrafting as far back as the 1845 Franklin Expedition, it remained a nascent, niche, and pioneering sport up through the late 1990s. Not surprisingly, packrafting gear—especially the raft—was still rather rustic. Thor traversed hundreds of river miles in Alaska using inflatable rafts that barely functioned. Meanwhile, Sheri was an avid outdoor enthusiast, a kayaking fanatic, and a clothing designer who had been custom-designing ski, climbing, and other outdoor apparel since the 1960s. “Mom’s talent is 98% in design and innovation. That’s what she does. That’s what she lives for,” Thor attests. Fast-forward to 2000—the Tingeys launched Alpacka Raft, a company devoted to hand-crafting the most durable, userfriendly, and lightweight packable rafts. A few years later, they moved their operations from Alaska to Mancos, Colorado, where they could manufacture every boat in-house rather than outsource production. “The employee base here is really great,” Thor notes. “We have a large number of workers in Montezuma County who are looking for jobs like what we have, who have the skill set to meet those jobs, and who are willing to do that work.” With a staff of roughly 40 employees, the packraft manufacturer can produce anywhere from 80 to 120 boats per week. Each packraft is hand-cut and hand-sewn, with all materials sourced in the United States (minus a cargo-fly zipper from Germany).
“To me, explore means going places that are new to you...” —THOR TINGEY Marking their 25th anniversary in 2025, the Alpacka Raft crew is proud to have revolutionized the packrafting sector of the paddle sports industry through constant design innovations. The company’s extensive philanthropy supports local schools and nonprofits that nurture outdoor education and promote wilderness conservation. As Thor notes, exploration—especially with the right equipment—is easy. “The hard part,” he says, “is keeping it secret.”
JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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events A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LO C A L E V E N T S JULY 5TH
Durango Farmers Market the beauty of the seasons with Legacy Properties West. Whether you're looking for a cozy mountain retreat or a spacious family home, our expert agents are here to guide you every step of the way. Let us help you make your real estate dreams come true in this stunning corner of Colorado!
TBK Bank, 259 W. 9th Street Durango, CO 81301 | 8:00 AM Join us downtown for the Durango Farmers Market—a vibrant celebration of local agriculture, food, and community. Shop fresh-picked produce, pasture-raised meats, handmade goods, and locally prepared eats. Enjoy live music from Tongue Mountain, kids’ activities, chef demos, and more. All vendors come from our five-county region, keeping your dollars local and supporting small farms and businesses. Visit us at DurangoFarmersMarket.com JULY 9 TH
True Western Roundup presents Cowgirls Kickin' Cancer Women's Rodeo LaPlata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave., Durango, CO 81301 | 6:30 PM Bring your family and friends for an evening of wild Western entertainment at La Plata County Fairgrounds. This rodeo is a benefit for Breast Cancer Awareness. Show your support by sporting your best pink fashion! Check TrueWesternRoundup.com for details. Gates open at 5 P.M. Ticket sales are final. Rain or shine, we rodeo. JULY 11TH
Four Corners Gem and Mineral Show LaPlata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave., Durango, CO 81301 | 10:00 AM
743 Main Avenue, Durango | 970.624.0444 legacypropertieswestsir.com © 2024 SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY® IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK AND USED WITH PERMISSION. EACH SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY OFFICE IS INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED, EXCEPT THOSE OPERATED BY SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY, INC. ALL OFFERINGS ARE SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES INCLUDING PRICE OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY.
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The Four Corners Gem and Mineral Club hosts over 60 vendors of rocks, minerals, meteorites, beads, and jewelry. They will be located in both buildings and two outdoor areas. There is also a silent auction where fantastic items can be won for a steal, a kids' gold panning and geode cracking area, and food trucks. Check us out at DurangoRocks.org!
J ULY 1 7 T H
Concert Hall @ The Park featuring A Tribute to JT with Brice Beaird & the Dallas All-Star Band Buckley Park, 1250 Main Ave., Durango, CO 81301 | 5:30 PM The Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College welcomes A Tribute to JT with Brice Beaird & the Dallas AllStar Band as part of the “Concert Hall @ The Park” series. Picnics, blankets, and lawn chairs are encouraged. Wanderful Wheels will showcase its gear, and Grassburger offers food and beverages. Visit DurangoConcerts.com to learn about these FREE events! J ULY 1 8T H
San Juan Mountain Association & Durango Nature Center's Star Party
SAFE KEEPING FREE LIVING RV/ Boat | 24 Hour Access | Drive-up Units Personalized Code Entry | Video Surveillance
Durango Nature Center 63 County Road 310 Durango, CO 81301 | 8:00 PM
970.387.6008 | trimblelanestorage.com 678 County Road 252, Durango, Colorado 81301
All are welcome, amateur astronomers and enthusiasts alike, for a family-friendly event discussing and observing our night skies – the moon, planets, star clusters, galaxies, and nebulae. Just before sunset, an expert from the Durango Astronomical Society will lead discussions on what we will be seeing that evening, providing informative backstories and fascinating fun facts about the night sky.
THIS IS WHAT CALM LOOKS LIKE.
J ULY 2 9 T H
Give her what they actually want this year. Peace. Relief. A Quiet Mind.
A gift of float at salt 360 float studio is more than rest—it’s a reset. Because the people you love give so much of themselves.
Locals at LaPlatt's Pond L-Ranch, 311A CR 501, Bayfield, CO 81122 | 5:00 PM Live music by Rob Webster, food trucks, fishing, and family fun. Bring your chairs or blankets, a picnic, or enjoy food from the Crazy Coop. Dress for typical Colorado summer weather and pack layers or blankets for cool evenings by the lake. Visit lbarjranch.com for more community fun!
THIS TIME, GIVE AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE SHE WON’T BELIEVE. • A guided pre-float moment with a calming herbal serum. • 75 minutes of uninterrupted float time in warm, mineral-rich stillness. • A post-float tea and snack service to ease her return to the world.
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• A gift of recovery-focused magnesium lotion to extend the benefits at home.
G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ DURANGO
salt360float.com | 970-422-8284 3750 Main Avenue, Unit 5, Durango, CO JULY 2 0 2 5 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / D UR A N G O
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Crafting Cocktails with Fresh Garden Ingredients
Summer is here and what better way to quench your thirst than with drinks crafted from the season’s fresh produce? Embrace the natural sweetness of sun-ripened fruits and the invigorating zest of garden-fresh herbs. From crisp berry infusions to fragrant herbal blends, enjoy the art of crafting delicious and revitalizing beverages that celebrate the fresh flavors of summer.
RO
S E M OJ
ITO
Ingredients: • 10 fresh mint leaves • 1 lime, cut into wedges • 2 tablespoons white sugar (or simple syrup, to taste) • 2 ounces white rum • 1 ounce rose water (adjust to taste, as it can be potent) • Club soda or sparkling water • Garnish: Mint sprigs, lime wedges, edible rose petals (optional) Instructions: Muddle: Place the mint leaves and lime wedges in a glass. Add sugar. Use a muddler to gently crush the mint and lime. Pour the white rum and rose water into the glass. Stir well. Fill the glass with ice. Top with club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently. Garnish with a mint sprig, a lime wedge, and, if desired, edible rose petals.
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Y GRAP AR E M
UIT FR
E MINT M I L
ROS E
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
DRINKS UP PE
AR FIZ
Z
Ingredients: • 2 oz Gin (or Vodka) • 1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice • 1 oz Pear Liqueur (or Pear Juice) • 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice • 1 sprig of Rosemary • Sparkling water • Garnish: Rosemary sprig, grapefruit slice, pear slice Instructions: Place the rosemary sprig in a cocktail shaker. Lightly muddle the rosemary to release its oils. Add the gin (or vodka), grapefruit juice, pear liqueur and lime juice to the shaker. Add ice. Shake well until thoroughly chilled. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water or Prosecco. Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a grapefruit slice, and a pear slice.
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Andy Wingerd 970.749.3728 ignitedimagery.com