Hiking in Durango, CO

A gradual hike with amazing views that passes between Rolling Mountain and Beattie Peak to the stunningly blue, glacial Lake Hope.

The path less traveled in La Plata Canyon is the old mining road leading to Tomahawk Basin. Some route finding and trail blazing is required but yields huge rewards in the way of views and solitude.

A local favorite, this 8-miler offers stunning views for hikers of all levels.

Discretely tucked away behind the hubbub of Durango, the Falls Creek trail system undulates through what many locals call Hidden Valley. These easily accessible trails follow the remote CR 205 through a wide, grassy meadow with white sandstone cliffs flanking it on either side.

The Highland Mary Lakes hike delivers crystal clear lakes nestled in open expanses of wildflower-strewn meadows within the majestic San Juan mountains.

A visible landmark and cultural staple, Hogsback is Durango's answer to the stairmaster. A steep climb yields amazing views in all directions all centered over the bustle of downtown Durango.

Engineer Mountain is one of the most iconic peaks in this area. If an advertisement for Durango doesn’t have a picture of the D&SNG train, it will undoubtedly feature this raw and spiny mountain.

There are few places in the world that can compare to the raw, boundless beauty of Molas Pass. At 10,910 ft. above sea level, Molas Pass affords uninterrupted views of the oft-snowcapped peaks that make up the Twilights, the Needles, and the Grenadiers.

Spend an afternoon at peace in nature, walking alongside the rushing Cascade Creek and wandering through long meadows painted with wildflowers. The Cascade Creek Trail, which sits just below Engineer Mountain, is a calm and quiet alternative to many of the more grandiose hikes in the area.

Haflin is a wonderful option for hikers who want to spend more time on the trail than in the car. 10 miles round trip with a steep, steady climb won’t disappoint those looking for a challenge as well as a photo-op.

Engineer Mountain gets the glory, and the traffic, of celebrated summer hikes near Durango. For fewer crowds, more wildflowers, and – perhaps – better views head over one drainage to Jura Knob.

Despite stunning views and a rigorous hike, Elbert Creek Trail remains less traveled than many others in the area. However, the crowds will gather here on a bright fall day to watch the changing colors.