Lion’s Den Trail
Durango to TH
1 Miles
Gain
725 Feet
Condition
Fair
Region
Trail Length
1.3 Miles
Part of the Fort Lewis College trail system.
Lion’s Den Trail is a relatively easy trail, great for kids. As with all trails in the area, there is a chance of wildlife sightings. This path is a multi-use trail, so hikers should use caution since the trail is also used by bikers.
Lion’s Den features a nice bench overlooking the Animas Valley mid-way up the trail, which is a common turn-around point for trail users looking for a shorter outing.
The very top of Lion’s Den is a popular brick-covered area that overlooks the city of Durango and the La Plata Mountains. The upper part of the trail is located across from Fort Lewis College Recreation Complex, complete with a playground, covered picnic areas, restrooms and softball fields. The lower trailhead is located at Chapman Hill Ice Skating Rink, going up from the dirt lot towards the Fort Lewis Mesa.
Map & Directions
Map Coordinates: 37.288121, -107.862433
Where's the Trailhead?
dIRECTIONS TO TRAILHEAD
Parking at Chapman Hill
Fort Lewis College Stadium Parking Lot (Free)
From 9th Street and Main Avenue in Durango, head east on 9th Street toward Fort Lewis College mesa. Take a left hand turn on East 3rd Avenue and continue on 3rd Avenue. At the three-way intersection with Florida Road, veer right onto Florida Road and continue straight through the roundabout at Chapman Hill. Shortly after, turn right into the Chapman Hill Parking Lot.
Trailwork
help build our trails!
No upcoming trailwork events are currently scheduled.
Love the Trails Like a Local
Say Hi
Greet all trail users by saying hi when passing on the trail.
Announce Yourself
Say "on your left" as approaching other trail users from behind.
Pick Up After Yourself
Pick up after yourself and your pet. Please don’t litter.
Keep Dogs on a Leash
Keep your dogs on a leash or leave them at home. Off-leash dogs are not allowed on City Open Space and are the number one source of trail conflict.
Stay on the Trail
Help protect natural areas and habitats by staying on established trails. Creating "social trails", cutting switchbacks, or ignoring trail closures leads to greater erosion and impacts on ecosystems.
Give Uphill Traffic the
Right of Way
Uphill traffic always has the right of way. Downhill traffic must be in control, especially around blind corners, to avoid coming in contact with uphill traffic.
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