Durango, Colorado is a vacation destination that’s made for travelers with interests of all kinds to enjoy. This year-round getaway is loved by those seeking adventure and fun as well as those who are looking to relax and unwind at their own preferred pace. If you happen to be someone who is enthusiastic about time spent in the great outdoors and there’s nothing you find more refreshing than time on the trails, then hiking in Durango is sure to be a highlight of your stay. This scenic and inspired experience is truly one-of-a-kind in Durango for those ready to lace up their boots and set out on a pathway or quest that takes them through nature and time. As rich in history as it is in spectacular scenery, Durango hiking is a dream come true. Within just 50 miles of the town center, outdoor adventurers will find easy access to everything from alpine meadows, and spruce-fir forests, to high deserts, and caves. Every trek here is entirely unique and tells a story of nature’s awe-inspiring work. There’s no shortage of wonders to discover in Durango on foot and with over 300 miles of local trails within 30 minutes of the city waiting to be enjoyed, you’ll have options to customize your outing according to style and skill level. When you’re looking to maximize every moment out on the trails, consider this your ultimate guide to hiking in Durango, CO.
The Ultimate Guide to Hiking in Durango, Colorado
If you combine the hiking and biking trails that run through and around Durango, you find more than 2,000 miles of pristine pathways just waiting to be discovered. Each hosts an array of natural features and wildlife to check out, making a hiking-focused journey to Durango unforgettable from start to finish. Hikers of all skill levels will find a trail that meets their needs whether you’re looking for more of a leisurely and scenic stroll, or you can’t wait to conquer some of the most treacherous mountain treks out there. The trail system in Durango moves seamlessly between in-town options and out of the way retreats so you can pick one or the other or combine the best of both for a truly memorable stay. Elevation gains are the norm when hiking in Durango so no matter where you roam, it’s good to keep altitude and steep grades in mind. The in-town trails and those that aren’t far out of the way all enjoy a collection of helpful trail maps to use when you’re looking to re-route or learn more about your surroundings as you’re out exploring. Whether you hit the trails solo, alongside friends or opt for a guided experience in the great outdoors, don’t be surprised if your hiking journey brings you back to Durango time and again.
Spend Time on the South Durango Trails
For travelers who are spending time in the southern portion of the city, the South Durango trail system is a great option. Both the Grandview Ridge and Three Springs trail systems offer up an extensive network of hiking options along powdery and relatively flat terrain. If you start your adventures over at Grandview Ridge, you’ll encounter a collection of 11 trails that go in all directions, each boasting a varying difficulty level to choose from. The Three Springs trail system in South Durango is shared by hikers and mountain bikers thanks to its scenery and six miles of inviting terrain to trek.
Check Out West Durango Trails
For outdoor adventurers looking to hike on the west side of Durango, the trail systems here include the Perins Peak State Wildlife Area, the Overend Mountain Park, and Twin Buttes. While all of these trails are more suitable for intermediate and skilled hikers, the Perins Peak Trail is particularly inviting to those who are advanced trekkers. At 5.9 miles long, this trail is dotted with complex grades to navigate. When you take to this trail, you’ll be asked to conquer a 2,000-foot ascension in a very short amount of time. It’s not for the faint of heart, but you’ll certainly be rewarded in the form of great views!
Savor the Sights on East Durango Trails
Over in East Durango, the trail systems have earned a reputation for offering hikers access to truly beautiful vistas at just about every turn. Both the Horse Gulch trail system and the Fort Lewis College trail system showcase the Animas River Valley at its very best. The Fort Lewis College trail system stretches five miles long and is rated moderately difficult for its 500 sky steps included on the route. The Horse Gulch trail system hosts 22 different routes to pick and choose from that vary drastically in difficulty level.
Enjoy Every Moment on the Scenic Animas River Trail
Yet another amazing route to check out when hiking is your activity of choice in Durango is the Animal River Trail. This 7.1-mile route is paved from start to finish making it a great and family-friendly option for a day out and about exploring. The trail runs along the Animas River with plenty of options to hop off at just about any point and check out local stores and coffee shops. The elevation gain here is just 337 feet so you don’t have to worry about steep inclines as you admire your lush surroundings.
Explore High-Country Trails Between May and Mid-October
You don’t have to travel far outside of Durango to enjoy some of the best high-country hiking around. These intense trails and treks are options between May and mid-October each year and are richly rewarding in terms of views and wildlife watching. The Coal Bank Pass trail system is a great place to start and can be accessed just 27 miles North of Durango. There are six trails that make up this trail system and in total, you’ll have 23 miles of terrain to cover. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced hiker, there’s a route in this high-country system designed just for you. Many of the trails host a great collection of streams, spruce-fir forests, and meadows that are filled with wildflowers in the springtime. When you’re looking for trails that showcase great views of the Needle Mountain and the Grenadier Range in particular, look no further than the Molas Pass trail system. Located near Silverton, this system is made up of the Molas Trail and the Elk Creek Trail. The Molas Trail is 4.4 miles long, while the Elk Creek Trail takes hikers along 8.9 miles of scenic high-country terrain. The rocky and grassy pathways offer up amazing views and places to pause and take stock of your surroundings along the way. Over at the Weminuche Wilderness trail system, just 17 miles from Durango, you’ll find a perfect place to access a wilderness that sprawls across nearly 500,000 miles. For a fantastic 3.1-mile route to explore, consider adding Fourmile Falls to your list which starts around Pagosa Springs.
Mid-Country Trails That Are Sure to Inspire
Hikers who want to be challenged during their Durango stay but aren’t up to tackling the highest summits of the mountains will find the collection of mid-country trails in the area to be the perfect fit. These routes typically showcase lush forests, lots of great wildlife and stunning views too without the drastic elevation changes always included. Over at the Mission Ridge trail system, hikers can make the most of treks through aspen forests and historic sites too. This 28-mile network is made up of five inviting trails with elevation gains ranging anywhere from 1,500 to 3,000 feet. The Hermosa Area trail system is equally inviting with 14 routes winding their way through 105 miles of terrain. It’s a popular place for wildflower admiring in the springtime and the San Juan Mountain views are truly spectacular from just about every imaginable vantage point. For a hike that comes with the reward of a lakeside stay, consider adding routes found within the Vallecito and Lemon Reservoir trail system to your must-try list while you’re here. The expansive lakes that can be enjoyed along these scenic pathways are great for rewarding yourself for the trekking effort with some time on the water. Yet another mid-country trail system to check out while you’re in Durango is the Church Camp trail system. Running through an idyllic valley dotted with Ponderosa Pines and tall grasses, this trail system is scenic and sensational. The hiking routes here boast gentle dirt grades to navigate with very few obstacles or obstructions making it a great choice for those who are newer to hiking.
Take time to Explore Surrounding Area Routes and Trail Systems
Durango is within easy reach of some truly spectacular surrounding areas and if you’re fortunate enough to have an extended period of time to make the most of your hiking journey, you won’t want to leave them off your itinerary. The best of the American Southwest is on display in places like Manco, Dolores, Silverton, Cortez, and Mesa Verde where the vast majority of trails and networks are open all year long. There are also opportunities when you’re visiting Durango to set your hiking sights on the trails that run through and around Mesa Verde National Park. The trail system here puts you in the heart of history and you only have to travel about 48 miles to reach it. Hikers will have access to 12 trails that encompass 30 miles ranging from easy to moderately difficult. Because this area is a sacred location to 26 indigenous tribes, you’ll encounter meaningful landmarks and artifacts along the way.
Hiking Outfitters in town
Before you set out on any of the above-mentioned trails or network of pathways, it’s important to stock up on the outdoor essentials you’ll need to make it a fun, successful, and safe excursion. Places like Pine Needle Mountaineering in downtown Durango offer casual and technical clothing, shoes, apparel, and more that can keep you feeling comfortable out in nature. Gardesnwartz Outdoor is another local outfitter maintaining an impressive inventory of outdoor and sporting goods to pick and choose from while Backcountry Experience has the specialized gear and extras you might be looking for as well.
Guided Hiking Options in Durango
While hitting the trails at your own preferred pace in Durango can be a delight, there are also options to book guided hikes alongside the experts when you’re new to the sport or just looking for an insightful experience in nature. Over at San Juan Expeditions, guests can book guide services year-round that include everything from summer hikes to ice climbing in the winter. Qualified experts will show you a new side of the Durango trails and are happy to point out details you might otherwise miss hiking on your own. They’ve been serving the greater Silverton and Durango for years and can easily customize a guided outing to fit your needs, preferences, and skill levels upon request.
What to Pack for Your Hiking Adventures
Hiking in Durango promises to be inspiring, but it’s important to be prepared for changing conditions and scenarios before you head out. When you’re hiking here, always be sure to have the proper navigation tools on hand including a GPS, your phone, a map, and a compass in case you reach areas where cell service isn’t available. Sunscreen is always highly recommended for a day of hiking and is especially important for those who are heading up the mountains at higher elevations. A first aid kit is a must in any hiker’s bag in Durango while a headlamp is useful for longer hikes that might see you returning along the trail when the sun has already gone down. If you have any plans to camp overnight and hike back the next day, it’s important to have basic fire-making tools available as well as a multi-tool for any field repairs that might be necessary. Always bring plenty of water and snacks for any trek out and when it comes to packing apparel, clothing for all occasions is key. A sun-protective shirt is ideal while synthetic shorts and pants are a must. A fleece jacket to layer in the transitional months is useful as well as a rain jacket. A wood hat comes in handy when you’re heading up the mountains while synthetic gloves are good for gripping hiking poles. A buff or neck gaiter can serve multiple purposes in colder months on the trails or as a sweat block during the summer months.
Book Your Getaway to Durango Today
Take time to enjoy the best Durango has to offer and let Durango Colorado Vacations make sure you have amazing accommodations to match. Contact us now to discover more about our inviting and exciting cabin rentals in Durango, Colorado. Let us assist you in maximizing every moment of your time in town. We can’t wait to welcome you to the picturesque beauty of Durango, Colorado soon!
Plan your next vacation with the kids to a locale full of four-seasons beauty, mountains, and plenty of outdoor fun. Get it all and more when you schedule your next trip to Colorado. Once you’ve settled on Colorado, point your compass to Durango. While you’re there, you may want to get out and explore the surrounding area with a hike. There are plenty of trails, many of which are perfect for the kids, no matter what their skill level may be.
Animas River Trail
While the 13.7-mile long paved out-and-back style trail may sound difficult, the small elevation change of just 341 feet is considered a fairly easy route. Hiking the whole trail takes approximately 4.25 hours. The trail meanders along the river for a great view, so you’ll likely run into road bikers, runners, walkers, on-leash dogs, and others. The trail is open year-round.
Church Camp Trail
Another easy hike for the kids is the Church Camp Trail through the Falls Creek Archaeological area. The 3.5-mile out-and-back trail takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete. You’ll be joined by mountain bikers, runners, walkers, and on- and off-leash pups for the 446-foot elevation change. Visit May-October for the best experience. At the end of the trail is a waterfall, which is on private property. Please stay on the defined trails and posted paths.
Haviland Lake Trail
The trail is just three-point-eight miles in length and takes under two hours to complete. The loop is moderately challenging with an elevation change of 554 feet. Enjoy birding, camping, and cross-country skiing in addition to the hike. The best time of year for hiking the area is May-September. Please note dogs may be off-leash in some areas.
Purgatory Trail
Located in the Hermosa Creek Wilderness Area, the out-and-back trail is 10.3-miles in total with an elevation gain of 1,820 feet and is considered moderately challenging. The whole hike takes approximately 5 hours, and you’ll share the trails with other hikers, as well as equestrians and dogs. It’s primarily used for camping, as the switchbacks head down into the forest and into Purgatory Flats on Cascade Creek. There’s a “rest stop” for the main campsite, and you can explore other trails from here, too. Make the trek sometime between March and October for the best experience.
Sailing Hawks Loop
The 2.4-mile loop in Memorial Park Phase One takes approximately an hour to complete and is considered moderately challenging. The 439-foot elevation change attracts runners, hikers, and walkers, some with their dogs. The forest scenery and views are not to be missed, so you may want to encourage the kids to step out of their comfort zone a little. Limit your visit to May-September.
Animas Overlook Trail
Make your way through part of the San Juan National Forest on the easy, 0.7-mile paved loop. The small 59-foot elevation change is easy to complete in around 15 minutes. Bring a picnic lunch with you and stop at the picnic area before heading back. You’ll share the trail with hikers and walkers, and on- and off-leash dogs. The best hikes are May-October.
Highline Trail to Taylor Lake
The 2.8-mile out-and-back trail is kid-friendly and only takes about an hour to complete. The 200-foot elevation change is easy to negotiate, and the payoffs of breathtaking mountain views, the lake, a waterfall, and wildlife in its natural habitat are not to be missed. You may run into mountain bikers, walkers, dogs, and bird watchers along the way, so please share the trail.
Spud Lake Trail Via Lime Creek Road
The 4-mile out-and-back trail takes less than two hours. The trail winds through the forest on a steady elevation change of 538 feet. Get views of the river, wildflowers, and wildlife as you make your way to the serene Spud Lake. For families looking for a longer hike, you can take a rest and have a picnic by the lake, then head on to Potato Lake.
Destination: Durango Trails
To create a stay as unique as you and your loved ones, make sure the first thing on your planning to-do list is to book a vacation rental home with VacationDurango.com. After you’ve enjoyed a day hike through Colorful Colorado, prepare a filling and re-energizing home-cooked meal in the fully equipped kitchen. Relax in a private bedroom or on a comfortable couch and watch a movie or TV show or play a game together in an open living space. Relax and unwind in outdoor spaces like expansive decks, patios, balconies, and other outdoor spaces. For a cozy stay, choose a one-bedroom unit for you and your small family, or plan a family or group reunion and book a sprawling six-bedroom unit to fit everyone!
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Enjoy some of the best views in Durango, CO, when you traverse these great hiking trails! There’s nothing quite like exploring the backcountry of a new town, snapping photos and making memories. Luckily for guests of Durango Colorado Vacations, there are so many pristine trails nearby. Check out our picks for the best Durango hiking trails!
Before you head out to explore these Durango hiking trails, fuel up with a delicious meal! Click here to get our recommendations for the best activities in town. Our Guide has helped so many guests plan their trip in no time.
Our Favorite Spots for Durango Hiking
Animas Mountain Trail
The Animas Mountain Trail in Durango, CO, offers some of the best views in town. It is perfect for a wonderful afternoon in the great outdoors. It’s about six miles in length and moderate in difficulty. There are many additional trails that branch off this one as well.
Falls Creek Trail
A scenic trail surrounded by ponderosa pines, the Falls Creek Trail in Durango is conveniently located near the downtown area. It’s an easy hike and dog-friendly, so that all visitors can enjoy this experience.
Purgatory Trail
The Purgatory Trail in Durango, CO, is a little over five miles, and a great option for a fun and easy hike. There’s plenty of wildlife to see along the way and you can even bring your dog along.
Hermosa Creek Trail
A favorite spot for Durango hiking, the Hermosa Creek Trail has all kinds of surprises waiting for you. You can use this trail for almost any activity you can imagine, like horseback riding, mountain biking, snowshoeing, motorcycling, ATV riding, and much more.
Perins Peak
About six-mile round trip walk, this is a fun trail for all ages. The trail to Perins Peak in Durango features incredible, jaw-dropping views and boulder climbing opportunities.
Spud Lake Trail
This leisurely trail, about a two-mile round trip, is great for all ages. You’ll be able to see an abundance of wildlife along the way and go fishing once you reach the Spud Lake in Durango at the end of the trail.
Goulding Creek Trail
This is the perfect trails for those looking for a bit of a challenge. The Goulding Creek Trail in Durango is a little over five miles long and includes a few steep climbs. You’ll get to see waterfalls, meadows, and even a horse corral along the way.
Colorado Trail
This famous trail is a long-distance, winding path that stretches through 485 miles of picturesque scenery and breathtaking views. The Colorado Trail is an avid hiker’s dream; you’ll be able to see the gorgeous state of Colorado from an entirely different perspective as you climb and descend the various segments of this trail.
Stay in the Best Accommodations During Your Durango Hiking Trip
Stay with Durango Colorado Vacations to get the best selection of rental properties in town! After your stay of exploring these Durango hiking trails, you’ll want to relax in one of our luxurious properties. Consider booking Cabin on the Lake, a two-bedroom, two-bathroom adobe home with plenty of space and elegance. Enjoy the view of La Plata River or the beautiful gardens.
Check the rest of our vacation rentals and book today! We look forward to having you.
If you’re looking for more thrills, you’re in luck! We have partnered with Durango Rivertrippers & Adventure Tours to help you book fun activities during your trip. From rafting excursions to group tours, there’s so much excitement to be had!