Goulding Creek Trail is especially nice in September and early October when the aspen groves are shimmering gold. It’s a moderately difficult, 6-mile round-trip hike that climbs above Hermosa Cliffs near Tamarron Resort. Three miles up the trail is a spot that offers a view into the secluded Hermosa Creek Roadless Area, one of the best elk summering grounds in Southwest Colorado.
To access Hermosa Creek Southern parking area: From Durango, take highway 550 North from Town and turn left at Hermosa Park Road. Cross the railroad tracks and follow up the road to the southern Hermosa Creek Trailhead located about 4 miles up Lower Hermosa Road which starts near the railroad track crossing in the small town of Hermosa north of Durango. Find the trail heading north near the junction of several dirt roads near the parking area.