
Fort Lewis College Overlook Durango
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Durango and the San Juan Mountains from the beautiful Fort Lewis College campus.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
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Fort Lewis College Overlook Durango
Best Time
Maximize scenic views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Durango and the San Juan Mountains from the beautiful Fort Lewis College campus.
"Easily the most beautiful campus I have ever seen. Sitting on top of a hill overlooking the town of Durango and surrounding mountains."

🚗 Easy Access to Downtown
A new stair path offers a scenic 5-min walk to vibrant downtown Durango! :athletic_shoe:
🦌 Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for deer roaming freely on campus – a unique campus experience! :deer:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Views
Fort Lewis College Campus
Stunning vistas of Durango and the majestic San Juan Mountains provide an unforgettable backdrop.
Deer Roaming Freely
Fort Lewis College Campus
Witness local wildlife, including deer, peacefully grazing on the picturesque campus grounds.
Stair Path to Downtown
Base of the college hill
A newly constructed stair path offers a scenic and active route to vibrant downtown Durango.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Views, Plan Your Visit
Campus Charm and Community Feel
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Access to Downtown
A new stair path offers a scenic 5-min walk to vibrant downtown Durango! :athletic_shoe:
🦌 Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for deer roaming freely on campus – a unique campus experience! :deer:
📸 Capture the Scenery
The mountain backdrop is incredible for photos, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
🎓 College Visit Vibes
Great spot to get a feel for Durango and Fort Lewis College if considering it for studies. :mortar_board:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Access to Downtown
A new stair path offers a scenic 5-min walk to vibrant downtown Durango! :athletic_shoe:
🦌 Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for deer roaming freely on campus – a unique campus experience! :deer:
📸 Capture the Scenery
The mountain backdrop is incredible for photos, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:
🎓 College Visit Vibes
Great spot to get a feel for Durango and Fort Lewis College if considering it for studies. :mortar_board:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Fort Lewis College Overlook for its absolutely stunning panoramic views of Durango and the surrounding mountains, often calling it the most beautiful campus they've ever seen. The presence of freely roaming deer adds to the unique charm. However, some prospective students have encountered unexpected fees and communication issues during the admissions process.
"Went to a football game here as the visiting team fans. They were super nice. The campus is beautiful. Stadium has a mountain range for a backdrop- wow!! Had a good visit."
Mindy Banister
"I'm commenting from a visitor's perspective. Easily the most beautiful campus I have ever seen. Sitting on top of a hill overlooking the town of Durango and surrounding mountains, with deer roaming freely unsuspicious of people. Can drive to the vibrant downtown in 5 min, or climb a newly constructed stair path of 500 steps to town. Nice facilities. Must be a beautiful experience to study and live here."
Tao L
"I was planning to transfer here to finish my bachelors degree and possibly my masters. Sent in all of my transcripts, paid the admissions fee, and got accepted. Then they sent me an email saying I had to pay an additional $300 "confirmation fee" that they did not disclose beforehand. I informed them I'm a disabled veteran on a fixed income and depend on VA benefits to pay for 100% of school expenses and couldn't afford the fee as I'm on a fixed income and me and my wife just had a child so we don't have an extra $300 lying around. I asked if they could possibly wave or defer the fee, and they hit me with a "oh, that's too bad, maybe next year." The funny thing is that they probably just missed out on about $80,0000 the VA would have paid them over time for me to go to school there over a $300 fee they just made up to nickel and dime people, that they could have easily waved. Nice, hope that was a win for ya."
Joshua Luna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The overlook is located on the Fort Lewis College campus in Durango, Colorado. You can drive directly to the campus and find parking areas with access to scenic viewpoints. For a more active approach, a newly constructed stair path connects the campus to downtown Durango, offering a unique perspective.
While specific routes may vary, Durango offers public transportation options that may connect to the vicinity of Fort Lewis College. It's advisable to check the local transit authority's schedule for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, there's a scenic stair path that leads from downtown Durango up to the college campus, offering a pleasant walk with rewarding views along the way.
Walking is the best way to explore the campus and its overlooks. Wear comfortable shoes as there are hills and stairs.
Yes, there are parking lots available on the Fort Lewis College campus. Visitors can typically find parking to access the overlooks and campus grounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee or ticket required to visit the Fort Lewis College Overlook. Access to the campus and its scenic viewpoints is free for the public.
The overlook is generally accessible during daylight hours when the campus is open. It's best to visit when there is ample natural light to appreciate the views.
Fort Lewis College strives to be accessible. While the overlook areas are generally open, some paths may have inclines. It's recommended to check with the college's visitor services for specific accessibility information.
Yes, Fort Lewis College offers campus tours for prospective students and visitors. You can typically arrange these through the college's admissions office.
General campus visitor guidelines apply. It's important to be respectful of the academic environment and any ongoing events.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the breathtaking panoramic view of Durango, the Animas River Valley, and the surrounding San Juan Mountains. You might also see deer roaming the campus.
Besides enjoying the views, you can explore the campus, walk the trails, and if you're a prospective student, take a campus tour. The college also has strong cycling and lacrosse programs.
The campus is generally considered safe, and many visitors enjoy walking around. However, as with any college campus, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
Absolutely! The overlook provides a stunning backdrop for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. The campus itself also offers picturesque scenes.
Fort Lewis College is known for its unique mission to serve Native American students and its beautiful mountain setting. It's also recognized for its outdoor recreation programs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Fort Lewis College has dining facilities available for students and visitors, including a main dining hall and other eateries.
The college is a short drive or a walk down the stairs from vibrant downtown Durango, which offers a wide array of restaurants, from casual to upscale dining.
Dining hall hours can vary, especially on weekends. It's best to check the official Fort Lewis College dining services website for the most current operating hours.
For a nice dinner, consider establishments in downtown Durango that offer local cuisine or fine dining experiences. Many visitors recommend exploring the downtown area for diverse options.
Campus dining typically includes a variety of options, such as traditional cafeteria fare, grab-and-go items, and sometimes specialty stations.
📸 📸 Photography
The main overlook with the panoramic view of Durango and the mountains is a prime spot. The campus architecture and natural surroundings also offer great photo opportunities.
Golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape and campus photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers clear views.
Yes, you can photograph the deer and other wildlife you might encounter. Please maintain a respectful distance and do not feed the animals.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial photography or large-scale shoots, it's advisable to check with the college's media relations department.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain views. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife if you maintain a safe distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎓 Prospective Students & Families
🏞️ Outdoor Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Beauty of Fort Lewis College
Beyond the sweeping vistas, the campus is also known for its peaceful atmosphere and abundant wildlife. Deer are frequently spotted grazing on the lawns, seemingly unfazed by human presence, adding a unique charm to the college experience. This blend of natural splendor and accessible wildlife creates a serene environment that many find incredibly motivating and inspiring. The college's commitment to preserving this natural setting is evident in its well-maintained grounds and the overall tranquil ambiance.
For those looking for a more active way to experience the surroundings, a newly constructed stair path offers a direct and scenic route from the college down to downtown Durango. This provides an excellent opportunity for exercise while enjoying evolving views of the town and valley. It's a testament to the college's integration with the local community and its efforts to enhance visitor accessibility.
Fort Lewis College: A Hub for Native American Education and Culture
The college's commitment extends to providing tuition waivers for eligible Native American students, making higher education more accessible. This initiative underscores its dedication to empowering Indigenous communities through education. The campus often hosts cultural events, including feasts and celebrations, which are integral to the student experience and foster a strong sense of community.
Fort Lewis College also acknowledges its location on stolen Native land, a crucial aspect of its identity and its relationship with the Indigenous peoples of the region. This awareness informs its operations and its ongoing commitment to reconciliation and partnership with Native American tribes. The college serves as a vital center for learning, cultural exchange, and the advancement of Indigenous students.
Active Pursuits at Fort Lewis College
Beyond cycling, the college's location in the mountains makes it an ideal spot for track and field training. The elevated terrain and scenic environment provide a unique setting for athletes to hone their skills and build endurance. The campus facilities are well-suited for various athletic pursuits, attracting students who are serious about their sports.
For those interested in other collegiate sports, Fort Lewis College also has active programs in lacrosse and basketball, among others. The athletic department fosters a competitive spirit and provides opportunities for students to excel in their chosen sports while pursuing their academic goals.
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