The best gravel rides in Blm - Animas City Mountain
40
riders
5
rides
Gravel biking in Blm - Animas City Mountain offers challenging routes through varied terrain. The area features significant elevation changes, with trails climbing from approximately 6,700 feet to 8,200 feet. Landscapes transition from piñon-juniper woodlands to ponderosa pines and gamble oaks, providing panoramic views of the Animas River Valley and distant mountain ranges. The mountain itself is a cuesta, presenting unique geological features for riders.
Best gravel bike trails in Blm - Animas City Mountain
- The most popular gravel bike…
Last updated: May 7, 2026
6
riders
27.1km
01:56
400m
400m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
26
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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5
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
10
riders
40.7km
03:07
630m
630m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This trail connects Horse Gulch to Durango Mesa Park. It's great as a warm-up or to traverse from one park to the other.
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Little Baldy Mountain sits isolated from its neighbors and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Its strategic location at the perfect elevation makes it an ideal spot to enjoy the beauty of the nearby mountain ranges, including the majestic Big Baldy that stands tall in the distance.
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The trail is a flat, paved multi-use path which follows the Animas River through Durango between Oxbow Park to the north and Dallabetta Park to the south. There are plenty of access points to jump on and off the trail and connect with other routes around town.
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This is a fantastic trailhead in the center of downtown Durango. There are restrooms, river access, and plenty of parking. From here you can cross the Fassbinder Bridge to follow the Animas River north or take a left at the water to wind south along the river through Durango.
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Horse Gulch Road is a wide double-track trail that is the main access trail in the Horse Gulch Trail System. The path climbs steadily for the first mile before leveling out some. You can ride this trail straight through the area and pop out on a smooth dirt road that connects to CR 234.
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At just under 7,000 feet elevation and with a little over 2,000 full-time residents, Bayfield is a quiet town just outside the mountains of Colorado. There are a lot of paved roads and highways passing through town that have wide shoulders and are great for biking.
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Durango, Colorado, is a famous mining town and railroad city that is an outdoor mecca today. There are towns of trails, roads, and paths for outdoor enthusiasts, and riding through downtown gives you a taste of old and new with old buildings and new businesses lining the streets.
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Horse Gulch Road is a smooth gravel road with a low gradient.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Blm - Animas City Mountain?
Gravel biking in Blm - Animas City Mountain offers a challenging experience with varied terrain. You'll encounter rocky and loose sections, technical climbs, switchbacks, and even some rock gardens. The landscape transitions from piñon-juniper woodlands to thick ponderosa pines and gamble oaks as you gain elevation.
What are the elevation changes like on these gravel routes?
The trails in Blm - Animas City Mountain feature significant elevation changes, climbing from approximately 6,700 feet to 8,200 feet. This provides substantial workouts and rewarding descents, with routes like Horse Gulch Trailhead – Horse Gulch Road loop from Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad gaining over 1200 meters.
Are there any specific routes recommended for experienced gravel bikers looking for a challenge?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the area offers several difficult routes. Consider the Horse Gulch Road – Horse Gulch Trailhead loop from Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which spans over 107 kilometers with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Little Baldy loop from Little Baldy, a 42-kilometer route with challenging climbs.
What kind of views can I expect while gravel biking in this region?
You can expect stunning panoramic views throughout your ride. The trails offer breathtaking vistas of the Durango area, the meandering Animas River Valley, and distant mountain ranges such as the La Plata Mountains and the San Juan Mountains.
Are there any seasonal closures or best times to visit for gravel biking?
Yes, seasonal closures are in place to protect wildlife. Trails are typically closed from December 1 to April 15 for winter wildlife habitat. Additionally, parts of the upper loop may be closed until July 31 for falcon nesting areas. It's always advisable to check current conditions before planning your ride. The spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery.
Can I connect to other trail systems from Animas City Mountain?
Yes, the trail system on Animas City Mountain offers excellent connectivity. It links with other popular systems like the Horse Gulch trail system and Dalla Mountain Park, allowing for extended exploration and varied riding experiences.
What wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
The diverse flora and natural environment support a variety of wildlife. Riders might spot hawks, hummingbirds, horned lizards, mule deer, and elk. Occasionally, you might even catch a glimpse of a moose, adding to the natural appeal of the rides.
Are there any moderate gravel biking routes available?
Yes, there are moderate options for gravel bikers. The Horse Gulch Trailhead – Horse Gulch Road loop from La Plata County is a popular moderate route, covering about 27 kilometers. Another good choice is the General Palmer Hotel – Historic Downtown Durango loop from Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which is around 28 kilometers and offers a balanced experience.
How accessible is Animas City Mountain from Durango?
Animas City Mountain is very accessible due to its proximity to downtown Durango. This means you can easily reach trailheads from the city, allowing for a quick transition from urban amenities to natural landscapes.
Are there any specific permits required for gravel biking in Blm - Animas City Mountain?
Generally, no specific permits are required for recreational biking on the public trails of Animas City Mountain. However, it's always a good idea to check the latest regulations from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for any updates or specific area restrictions. You can find more information on the BLM website: blm.gov/visit/animasgrandviewskyline-rmz.
What makes the geology of Animas City Mountain unique?
Animas City Mountain is a classic cuesta, an asymmetrical ridge that presents unique geological interest. This distinctive landform contributes to the varied terrain and scenic beauty you'll experience while riding.
What is the overall sentiment of other komoot users about gravel biking here?
Over 50 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Blm - Animas City Mountain's varied terrain. Users frequently praise the challenging climbs, rewarding descents, and the stunning panoramic views that make it a memorable destination for adventurous gravel riders.
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