The drive from ABQ to Durango is 3 hours.

You are going to feel altitude where ever you start IF it is going to bother you.

A lot has to do with how in shape your are prior to getting to altitude. The rest has to do with being careful. There are some good threads on here about altitude.


http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34865407

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34935779


Drink water, take it easy -especially in the sun, use suncreen, little [ preferably non] alcohol will go a long way to making your feel comfortable.

The first time I came to visit area, I went from New York suburbs [ so basically sea level] to Denver. I didn't have any problems until I went over 11,000 feet. And they didn't last long.

Just be sure to avoid Telluride 9/12 to 9/14.
Deb

I agree with DebitNM to cut Telluride down to one night.

In Durango, have not stayed in the Apple Orchard B&B (but look forward to on next trip to Durango) We stayed at both the General Palmer and the Strater....would recommend the Gen. Palmer which is much quieter than the Strater (busy lobby with guests and non-guests visiting this historic hotel and also, you can hear the train since the tracks are located right behind the hotel).

Far View Lodge a MUST but I know it can book up quickly...don't miss dinner and sunset at the rooftop terrace..one can see Shiprock on a clear day.