fbpx

hike

Explore the hiking trails of the San Juan Mountains

from a quick, lunch-break hike, or a longer adventure in the high country, there's a hiking trail for everyone.

Durango, Colorado is a hiking paradise. With over 300 miles of trails within 30 minutes of downtown Durango, it’s easy to find the perfect hike to discover the best of the San Juan Mountains!

Our hiking trails are categorized into four key regions: in-town, located within Durango’s city limits; mid-country, a quick drive from downtown Durango; high-country, requiring a day or more to explore; and surrounding areas, comprised of nearby areas such as Pagosa Springs, Cortez, and Moab.

Search all hiking trails below, or browse our recommended hikes to find something new.

Search all hiking trail segments

HIKING TIPS

  • Always bring more water than you think is necessary, as well as snacks, even if you are just going for a quick hike.
  • Weather in SW Colorado can quickly change. Be sure to check the forecast before heading out, wear layers, and bring rain gear.
  • Tell someone where you are going and when you plan on returning.
  • Check all trail information ahead of time, including distance, difficulty, elevation change, and time needed to make sure it matches your goals and skill level.
  • Always follow proper Trail Etiquette and Safety & Trail Tips.

Choose Your Adventure

all hiking trail systems

The three stacked loops of Alien Run offer a variety of riding for everyone.
Located just past Molas Lake, Andrews Lake is an easy loop around the lake. In the winter it is good for touring skiing and snowshoeing.
A popular and iconic trail located in-town Durango, just minutes from downtown Durango.
The Animas River Trail, a hard surface shared-use path, is a very enjoyable paved trail great for all ages and skill levels.
The Aspen Loop is a 39 mile double track loop. There are some steep climbs and some rocky areas, but in general a very rideable, hikeable trail.
Blackhawk Pass is a highly rated 9 mile popular black diamond singletrack trail located near Rico Colorado. This multi-use trail can be used both directions.
McPhee-Trail-Dolores-Colorado-Trails-2000
The Boggy Trailhead also hosts three other trails that offer a wide variety of terrain and range of difficulties.
Church Camp trails are a great way to experience some easier options of Durango's in-town trails.
The iconic Colorado Trail stretches 500 miles from Denver to its terminus in Durango and is one of the state’s great recreational assets.
Hiking on the Colorado Trail near Durango
The iconic Colorado Trail stretches 500 miles from Denver to its terminus in Durango and is one of the state’s great recreational assets.
Cutthroat is a 5.5 mile trail above the East Fork of Hermosa Creek beginning at the intersection of Relay Creek and Cascade Divide Road.
Dalla Mountain Park is a popular destination among climbers, hikers and mountain bikers alike.
A system of trails located directly in-town on the Fort Lewis College Mesa, with many different options for different ages and skill levels.
The Grandview Ridge trail system includes several very fun local trails and is easily accessible from downtown Durango, located next to (and connecting to) the Horse Gulch trail system.
Dog on snow-covered trail
This scenic 9-mile network of trails sits between Elbert Creek and Highway 550, connecting Haviland Lake Park and Chris Park. This network is used year-round by equestrians, hikers, bikers, skiers and snowshoers.
Golden aspen leaves in the Hermosa Trail Area
The Hermosa Creek trails connect you to a variety of high country routes from Jones Creek to Pinkerton or upper Hermosa to Bolam Pass or Hotel Draw.
Durango has dozens of miles of high country trails located just outside of town, perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring Southwest Colorado.
Biking on the Horse Gulch Trail System near Durango, CO
The Horse Gulch/Telegraph Trail System is the perfect trail system for all levels and user types. Located right in-town, it is a local favorite for hiking and mountain biking, and with so many different connectin
ALERT: Ice Lakes Trail is CLOSED. A fire was reported on the afternoon of October 19, 2020, west of Silverton, CO on the north side of the South Mineral Creek Road (FS585). The fire area includes the Ice Lakes Trail and the Clear Lake Road. Public entry into this area is prohibited for the safety of users.
La Plata Canyon is in an area west of Durango with many mid country trail options.
Log Chutes is a multi-use trail located just above the Colorado Trail Trailhead at Junction Creek in Durango
The Missionary Ridge trail network is an unknown gem even to most locals with moderate to expert trails.
The main area of Overend Mountain Park encompasses about 300 acres, located right in-town of Durango. Easily accessible, it's a favorite among Durango locals.
Perins Peak Trail is a rather lengthy and difficult hike, but it is also one of the most rewarding day hikes Durango has to offer.
Divinity Flow Trail, or Purgatory Flow Trail, located at Purgatory Resort, is a 1.5 mile intermediate trail, and Durango’s longest downhill flow trail.
This 16.8 mile out and back trail leads to stunning views of the Hermosa Creek Wilderness. You may not see anyone else while on your adventure, but please still anticipate dogs off leash.
John Fitzpatrick Sand Canyon Trail Views
Located near Cortez, Colorado, this National Monument boasts the largest concentration of Pueblo Indian (Anasazi) ruins and archaeological sites.
The Saul’s Creek trail system is in the San Juan National Forest about 3 miles east of Bayfield, Colorado.
Near Silverton you’ll find a number of thirteeners that can be completed as day hikes, including Kendall Mountain, Kendall Peak and Stony Peak.
Smelter Mountain is a 1-mile hike from the parking area to the top and climbs steadily 1,000 feet to spectacular views.
Located just a little over 2 hours from Durango, Telluride's trails offer a range of outdoor activities
Twin Buttes view from the Meadow
While a popular mountain bike location, Twin Buttes is also a multi-use trail system just west of Downtown Durango.
San Juan National Forest Roads are closed seasonally to wheeled motorized vehicles to protect critical wildlife habitat and/or to prevent damage to road surfaces.
Vallecito Lake offers a variety of year-round trails just 40 minutes from Durango.

Get Outside

recommended hikes for all levels

Support the trails that connect you to the outdoors

Trails are the cornerstone of our community and the gateway to the outdoors.

Help support our work so you can continue to connect to the outdoors by giving to Durango Trails!