Hiking in Durango
Numerous hiking trails can be found on the San Juan National Forest in the Durango area. Trips from just a few hours to several days are possible. It is recommended to prepare well, bring food and plenty of water. Consider altitude change when visiting this area as you will need to stay well hydrated.
Heavily Used Trails
Elk Creek: This trail leads to the Animas River and Elk Park and is a major access to the heavily used Weminuche Wilderness.
Vallecito Trail: Starting at the Vallecito Campground, the trail is a major access to the heavily used Weminuche Wilderness.
Pine River Trail: One of the major access trails to the Weminuche Wilderness. Private land along the first few miles of the trail. Please observe signs.
Needle Creek Trail: The most heavily used trail leading to the Weminuche Wilderness.
Moderately Used Trails
Hermosa Creek Trail: Access to many hiking, fishing and hunting opportunities at elevations generally less than 9,000 feet. Short or long trips are possible.
Ice Lake Trail: Steep trail to the Ice Lake Basin area Trail elevation is all above 9,000 feet.
Lake Eileen Trail: Two mile trail built by the Youth Conservation Corp. to picturesque Lake Eileen. Near Vallecito Reservoir.
Potato Lake Trail: Short ( 1 1/2 mile) trail to Potato Lake. Has three short, steep sections.
Lost Lake Trail: Short (1/2 mile) trail to small Lost Lake. Near Lemon Reservoir. Off of East Florida Road.
Cascade Creek Trail to Purgatory Flats and Animas River: Also provides access to Needleton and the Weminuche Wilderness.
Lightly Used Trails
Little Molas Lake Trails: Numerous trails leading into the San Miguel Roadless area above Little Molas Lake. Short day trips possible.
Crater Lake Trail: Begins at Andrews Lake and leads to Crater Lake near Twilight Peak through portions of the Lime Creek Memorial Forest.
Goulding Creek Trail: Steep trail providing access to and up the Hermosa Cliffs. Near Tamarron.
Shearer Creek Trail: Access to southern portion of Missionary Ridge. Passes through private property at beginning. Please observe signs.
Highline Trail: High elevation trail somewhat difficult to follow. Affords excellent views of Hermosa Creek.
Taylor Lake Trail: High elevation, one mile trail to small lake. Access by jeep road to Kennebec Pass.
Haflin Creek: Early access to Missionary Ridge. First trail available in spring.
