For a relatively small mountain town, Durango craft beer scene brings it. Here are four can’t-miss breweries to visit this spring.
Carver Brewing Company
Durango’s OG brewery has been pumping out award-winning microbrews since 1983. Founded by brothers Jim and Bill Carver, this downtown hangout always draws a crowd. Its all-star lineup of brews includes the Lightner Creek Lager, a Great American Beer Festival gold medal winner, the citrusy and delicious Jack Rabbit Pale Ale, and the malty Colorado Trail Nut Brown Ale.
Steamworks Brewing Company
Another OG brewpub, Steamworks staked its claim to the Durango beer scene in 1996 and hasn’t slowed since. It’s a favorite among locals, and peddles a formidable assortment of brews. And the food’s not bad, either. The super-hopped Conductor Imperial is a must-try, as are the juicy Sultan of Stoke IPA, and ultra-smooth Colorado Kolsch. If you’re feeling adventurous, the habanero, poblano, and hatch green chile-infused Prescribed Burn is worth a gamble.
Ska Brewing
Off-the-charts vibes. Off-the-charts beer and food. Off-the-charts label art. Perhaps the flashiest of Durango’s breweries, Ska’s marketing is as bold as its namesake music genre. Just check out all the epic artwork and inventive names! Their beers rise to the occasion as well, with offerings like the Mesa Guava IPA, True Blonde honey ale, and Pink Vapor Stew sour ale fronting the 27-year-old brewery’s deep lineup of flagship brews.
Animas Brewing Company
A newer player on the Durango craft brew scene, Animas opened its doors in 2014. Its charming, modern digs make a great hangout, and its beer and food menus deliver as well. Its diverse beer menu features crowd favorites like the light Riverside Kolsch, the citrusy Class VI IPA, and the smooth Hogsback Black.
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