The Fort Lewis Trail System can be accessed by climbing from the bottom of Chapman Hill off of Florida Avenue, or by driving up to the top of the mesa by Fort Lewis College and following the college’s Rim Drive.

The trails within this system vary from easy to difficult, and offer many different options for different ages and skill levels. All trails are easy to reach from downtown Durango, offer chances of wildlife sightings, and come with great views of town.

There are multiple trails which are relatively easy and great for kids (including Rim Trail and Lion’s Den), and there are multiple trails which connect the mesa to the in-town neighborhoods directly below.

The Nature Trail/Sky Steps features a 500 step stairway that extends from Durango to Fort Lewis College. It’s a popular spot for trail runners as well as those looking for a short hike, and the Nature Trail provides an up-close look at the nature and landscape in Durango.