From Family Shop to Outdoor Store

In the 1890s Aaron Gardenswartz arrived to Durango from Poland with a big dream and a love for the outdoors. As a cattleman working between Bayfield and Denver, he passed down his passion for the outdoors to his sons.

Interior of a western apparel store with hats, jackets, shirts, and accessories displayed on racks and shelves

A Legacy of Adventure:

Providing top gear since 1928.

The adventure began in 1928 when brothers Lester and Sam Gardenswartz opened the first sporting goods store right here in Durango. Even a dramatic fire in 1974 couldn't dampen their spirits – they simply moved to our current home at 863 Main Avenue and kept helping folks gear up for their next adventure.

In 1996, we grew our family of stores with Gardenswartz Outdoors. Even after the business was transferred out of the Gardenswartz family in 1988, new ownership has maintained the welcoming, knowledgeable atmosphere that made us a Four Corners favorite.

Whether you're planning your first camping trip or you're a seasoned mountaineer, we're here to share our 90+ years of outdoor expertise with you. Just like the generations of adventurers before you, you're now part of our ongoing story – a story of community, outdoor passion, and the joy of helping neighbors find the perfect gear for their next outdoor adventure.

Interior of an outdoor or hunting store with mounted animal heads, a wooden Smokey Bear statue, camping gear, a display case, and a dog lying on the floor.
Dog lying on the floor next to a stuffed animal resembling a rodent, inside a store with various products in the background.
Interior of a Western clothing store with cowboy hats, jackets, and casual wear on display
Interior of an outdoor gear store with tents, clothing, backpacks, and accessories displayed.