Attractions and Places To See in La Plata County - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in La Plata County include a diverse range of natural landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Located in southwestern Colorado, the county features vast national forests, rugged mountains, and scenic rivers. It offers opportunities to explore both pioneer and Native American heritage, making it a destination for outdoor activities and historical discovery.
Best attractions and places to see in La Plata County
- The most popular attractions is Animas Mountain Trail, a trail that…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
Durango, Colorado
Highlight • Settlement
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Animas Mountain Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Lower Hermosa Creek Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
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Hogsback Peak
Highlight • Summit
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Vallecito Creek Trail
Highlight • Trail
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Muldoon Mine
Highlight • Historical Site
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Highline Trail, San Juan National Forest
Highlight • Trail
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Baldy Mountain
Highlight • Summit
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Raider Ridge Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Needleton Train Station
Highlight • Rest Area
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Popular around La Plata County
Tips from the Community
The old silver mine is a great short detour along the Colorado Trail. There are two buildings still standing and also a pretty slanted outhouse. A marmot has moved into the main building and there is a nice flat spot to pitch a tent. Enjoy the view of the mountains and Durango!
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The view is mind-blowing! Stopp and enjoy it. It can't get any better than this.
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There is a little parking area for the Hermosa Creek Trail system, which is quite extensive. And if you want to stay overnigt: The is a beautiful campground next to the trailhead, the Lower Hermosa Campground. It does not get much more convenient than this!
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Hermosa Creek Trailhead and Jones Creek Trailhead are located just next to each other, with two separate trails that take you into or along the edge of Hermosa Creek Wilderness. At Jones Creek Trailhead, you will find a primitive campground and pit toilets.
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The network of trails on Raider Ridge is rocky, dusty, and usually fairly steep. Hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers frequent the ridge and this lookout, which peers over the city, Animas Mountain, and the Perins Peak Wildlife Area.
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If you are already in the area, you should take some time for a stroll through downtown Durango – a Nationally Registered Historic District – with its beautiful historic buildings, nice restaurants and cool breweries. Durango is also the southern terminus of the famous steam train, that you can ride on between here and Silverton. If you plan to hike the long-distance Colorado Trail, Durango is practically the southwestern end with the terminus just five miles from here.
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Hogsback is an easily recognizable peak from town. There is a distinctive ridge traveling up to the summit, and the trail itself is as steep as they come. It's easy to get "spooked" when it's time to head downhill because of how steep the slopes are off the sides of the trail. The lookout from the top is worth the efforts to get up and down, though.
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The network of trails on Raider Ridge is rocky, dusty, and usually fairly steep. Hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers frequent the ridge and this lookout, which peers over the city, Animas Mountain, and the Perins Peak Wildlife Area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I explore in La Plata County?
La Plata County is rich in natural beauty. You can explore vast areas like the San Juan National Forest, which offers extensive opportunities for camping, fishing, and hiking. The La Plata Mountains provide rugged beauty with lofty peaks and sweeping valleys. The Animas River is popular for water sports, and you can hike trails like the Animas Mountain Trail for scenic views or the Vallecito Creek Trail through lush pine forests.
Are there any historical sites or cultural attractions in La Plata County?
Yes, La Plata County has a significant historical and cultural heritage. Durango, Colorado, is a Nationally Registered Historic District known for its historic buildings. You can also visit the Animas Museum, housed in a 1904 school building, or explore the Southern Ute Indian Tribal Lands and the Ute Mountain Ute Mancos Canyon Historic District to learn about Native American culture. The Muldoon Mine is another historical site, an old silver mine with standing buildings.
What are some family-friendly attractions in La Plata County?
Families can enjoy a variety of activities. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a scenic journey that's popular with all ages. Lake Nighthorse is a great spot for swimming and boating. The Needleton Train Station is also listed as family-friendly. Many trails, like parts of the Animas Mountain Trail, offer accessible options for family hikes.
What outdoor activities are available in La Plata County besides hiking?
Beyond hiking, La Plata County offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy whitewater rafting on the Animas River, mountain biking on extensive trail systems like those accessible from the Lower Hermosa Creek Trailhead, or road cycling on scenic routes. In winter, Purgatory Mountain Resort, Chapman Hill, and Hesperus Ski Area provide opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. For more cycling options, explore the gravel biking, MTB trails, and road cycling routes available in the county.
Are there any trails with scenic viewpoints in La Plata County?
Absolutely. The Animas Mountain Trail leads to the summit of Animas City Mountain, offering excellent views over the Hermosa and Animas Valleys. Hogsback Peak and Baldy Mountain are other summits known for their vistas. Additionally, the Raider Ridge Overlook provides intermediate-level trails with great views.
What is the best time of year to visit La Plata County for hiking?
The best time for hiking in La Plata County is generally from July through August. Trails at higher elevations, such as sections of the Highline Trail in San Juan National Forest, can still have significant snow well into the summer months. Lower elevation trails are often accessible earlier in the spring and later into the fall.
Are there opportunities for camping near attractions in La Plata County?
Yes, camping is available. The Lower Hermosa Creek Trailhead has a beautiful primitive campground nearby. Along the Vallecito Creek Trail, you can find nice spots to pitch a tent, particularly at the junction with Johnson Creek Trail. The San Juan National Forest also offers extensive camping opportunities.
What are some unique natural features to see in La Plata County?
La Plata County boasts several unique natural features. The Vallecito Creek Trail is known for its lush pine forests and unique rock formations shaped by the elements. La Plata Canyon features rugged mountains and snow-melt waterfalls. You can also visit Pinkerton Hot Springs for a natural hot spring experience.
What do visitors enjoy most about La Plata County?
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse range of experiences, from exploring the natural landscapes of the San Juan National Forest and the La Plata Mountains to discovering the rich history of Durango. The scenic trails, like the Animas Mountain Trail, are highly appreciated for their views, and the opportunity to engage with both pioneer and Native American heritage adds a unique dimension to their visit.
Are there any challenging hiking trails for experienced hikers?
Yes, La Plata County offers challenging trails for experienced hikers. Hogsback Peak is a challenging summit hike. The Highline Trail in San Juan National Forest, which follows a section of the long-distance Colorado Trail, also presents challenging sections, especially with snow chutes that can persist into July.
Can I find amenities like restaurants and breweries near attractions?
Yes, particularly in Durango, Colorado. As a Nationally Registered Historic District, downtown Durango is known for its beautiful historic buildings, a lively atmosphere, and a variety of restaurants and breweries. You'll find plenty of options for dining and refreshments there.
Most popular routes in La Plata County
Most popular attractions in La Plata County
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