The best running trails around Durango

Imagine a run where the river is your constant companion, winding through the heart of a vibrant town. The Animas River Trail delivers just that, offering continuous picturesque views of the Animas River as it hugs its banks. This moderate jogging route, stretching 5.4 miles (8.8 km) with a gentle 97 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic way to experience Durango's natural beauty and urban charm, taking about 54 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to the Animas River Trail is straightforward, as it's a central part of Durango's infrastructure with numerous access points. You'll find parking readily available at various public parks along the route, such as Oxbow Park and Preserve. The trail is well-maintained and largely separated from vehicle traffic, making it a safe and enjoyable option for a jog any time of day, though mornings are particularly pleasant.

Beyond the scenic river views, the Animas River Trail is rich with local flavor. You'll pass by art installations, mosaics, and interpretive signs detailing Durango's history. Keep an ear out for the distinctive whistle of the 1880s-era Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which parallels parts of the trail, adding a unique historical backdrop to your run. It's a truly multi-faceted experience.

The Animas River Trail offers a delightful and accessible jogging experience, winding alongside the picturesque Animas River through the heart of Durango. You'll enjoy continuous scenic views, passing through public parks and natural areas, with the added charm of seeing kayakers and inner-tubers in the water during warmer months. The trail's mostly flat, hard-surface path, primarily paved with concrete and asphalt, makes it a smooth journey, though some sections south of the US 160 bridge might have cracks and tree roots to watch out for.

This moderate 7.2-mile (11.6 km) route, with a gentle 274 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 14 minutes, making it perfect for a relaxed outing. The trail is easily accessible from various points in downtown Durango, connecting to the community recreation center, library, and neighborhoods. With multiple bridges, underpasses, and a tunnel, you can navigate the city without street crossings, and convenient parking is available along the route.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Animas River Trail is a cultural and historical pathway, running parallel to the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, offering glimpses and sounds of old locomotives. The route is adorned with mosaics, music installations, sculptures, and interpretive signs detailing Durango's rich history, making it more than just a jog—it's a journey through the city's past and present.

The Animas Mountain Loop offers a truly immersive jogging experience, winding through diverse terrain from smooth dirt to rocky singletrack. As you ascend, you'll be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the Animas River Valley, the town of Durango nestled below, and the majestic San Juan and La Plata peaks in the distance. The trail transitions between sparse ponderosa pine forests and Gambel oak, with opportunities to spot wildflowers and abundant wildlife like mule deer and hawks.

This difficult 5.7-mile (9.2 km) loop, with its significant 1467 feet (447 metres) of elevation gain, is a serious workout that typically takes around 1 hour and 22 minutes. The trailhead is easily accessible from downtown Durango, but be mindful of potential parking limitations, especially on busy days. It's also worth noting that sections of the trail may have partial closures for wildlife protection during certain months, usually from December to April or July.

Known as one of the best jogging trails in Durango, the Animas Mountain Loop is a local favorite for its challenging nature and the fantastic viewpoints it offers. Beyond the physical exertion, the trail provides a chance to connect with nature, observe the distinctive oxbows of the Animas River, and enjoy the unique high-desert ecosystem. It's an iconic route that perfectly blends accessibility with a rewarding outdoor adventure.

The Skyline Trail in Durango offers a rewarding, advanced jogging experience with a quick ascent and incredible panoramic views. This 4.2-mile (6.8 km) route features numerous switchbacks, leading you up 821 feet (250 metres) of elevation gain in about 57 minutes. It's a moderate but intense cardio hike, perfect for those seeking a challenging workout with a stunning visual payoff over Durango and the Animas Valley.

Planning your visit to the Skyline Trail is straightforward, as it's part of the Fort Lewis College trail system. Due to limited shade along the ridge, remember to carry ample water and apply sun protection. An early morning start is recommended to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid the peak sun, making your jog more pleasant.

This trail stands out as a popular choice for a Skyline Trail running guide in the Durango area, especially for its reputation as a great cardio hike. Its advanced rating within the Fort Lewis College system makes it a local favorite for those looking to push their limits and enjoy scenic viewpoints on Skyline Trail for jogging.