Smelter Mountain is a popular day hike in Durango that offers scenic views of the Animas Valley and Downtown Durango.
The hike is 1-mile from the parking area to the top and climbs steadily 1,000 feet to spectacular views. The base of Smelter Mountain is Durango’s off-leash dog area and open year-round.
Near the base of Smelter Mountain and the dog park are the iconic class III-IV Smelter rapids on the Animas River.
Note: This trail is not open to bikes and is closed for seasonal wildlife closures from December 1 to April 15.