The best MTB trails around Durango

Durango offers a diverse range of mountain biking terrain. You'll find everything from high-desert rides characterized by rock and silt, to dense forested singletrack, and challenging high-country trails that ascend above the tree line. This variety caters to all skill levels, from accessible in-town loops to advanced alpine adventures.

There are over 45 mountain bike trails around Durango. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars, and have been explored by more than 600 mountain bikers.

Yes, Durango has options for beginners. While many trails offer technical challenges, there are 4 easy routes available. For example, the in-town trail systems like Horse Gulch offer a maze of singletrack loops with varying difficulty, including more mellow sections suitable for those starting out.

Advanced riders will find plenty of challenging routes in Durango, with 23 difficult trails available. High-country rides such as those from Molas Pass to Engineer Mountain offer journeys above 12,000 feet through remote wilderness. The Horse Gulch loop via Mike's and Sidewinder trails is another difficult option, exploring a local favorite trail system known for its singletrack loops.

Durango offers mountain biking opportunities across multiple seasons. The region's diverse terrain means you can find rides from spring through fall. High-desert trails are often accessible earlier and later in the season, while high-country routes are best enjoyed in the summer months once the snow has melted, typically from late June to early October.

Yes, Durango offers family-friendly options. The Animas River Trail provides a paved, casual ride along the river, suitable for all ages. Additionally, some sections of the in-town trail systems, like Horse Gulch, have more mellow loops that can be enjoyed by families.

Absolutely. Many trails in Durango provide stunning vistas. The region is set against the backdrop of the San Juan Mountains, offering dramatic scenery. For example, the Raiders Ridge Loop offers views of red cliffs, and the high-country trails around Molas Pass provide panoramic vistas of vast peaks and alpine lakes. You can also find great views from Raider Ridge Overlook.

Durango's trails are surrounded by stunning natural beauty. You can encounter the towering San Juan Mountains, deep river valleys, and canyons with red cliffs. Notable landmarks and viewpoints include Hogsback Peak, Baldy Mountain, and Raider Ridge Overlook. The Animas River also flows through Durango, offering scenic riverside views.

Yes, many mountain bike trails in Durango are designed as loops, offering a complete riding experience without needing to retrace your path. The Animas Mountain Trail – Durango is a popular loop that takes you through varied mountain terrain. The Horse Gulch Trail System is also known for its maze of singletrack loops.

Durango is known for its vibrant downtown and proximity to outdoor activities. Many in-town trail systems, such as those around Horse Gulch and Overend Mountain Park, are just minutes from downtown Durango, where you'll find numerous cafes, pubs, and breweries to enjoy after your ride.

The mountain bike routes in Durango are highly rated by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 5.0 stars from over 7 reviews. This indicates a high level of satisfaction among riders who have explored the area.

Yes, during the summer months, Purgatory Resort Bike Park, located north of Durango, offers lift-served downhill mountain biking. It features a range of trails from flowy intermediate lines to more technical features, providing a different kind of riding experience.