The city of Dolores was first established as a city in 1900, when it became a major stop on the Rio Grande Railroad. The town lost distinction as a commercial center when 1950 brought the abandonment of the rail line. Today, it is a center for recreational activity.

Dolores boasts the second largest lake in Colorado, McPhee Lake whose sloping, timbered shore makes for interesting views. Here you can water ski, sail, or jet ski, as well as fish from a boat for large and small-mouth bass, blue gills and crappies. Or try the Dolores River, named by two Spanish friars in honor of "Our Lady of Sorrows," where the nutrient-rich waters are teaming with rainbow, brown, cutthroat and brook trout. At the rivers you can also kayak. During winter months, downhill ski at Telluride, or for fewer crowds, visit the hills at Durango Mountain Resort (FKA Purgatory) or Hesperus. Snowmobiling and cross country skiing are also available in the area.

This area also has exceptional hunting, with an abundance of wildlife and big game. See the area's beautiful archeology at the Anasazi ruins, and learn about them in the nearby Anasazi Heritage Center museum that has over 2 million artifacts, educational and participatory exhibits. Hike, jeep, or horseback ride in the San Juan National Forest, from the Dolores River Valley to 14,000-foot peaks in the Mount Wilson Primitive Area. Take the scenic byway, the San Juan Skyway, that goes northeast to Telluride on Highway 145 or southeast to Durango. Once called "America's Most Beautiful Drive," the drive from Dolores to Telluride is especially magnificent.

Dolores Area is near: Dove Creek, Telluride, & Mesa Verde Area