Animas River and Horse Gulch Loop

The loop offers a diverse experience. The initial section along the Animas River Trail is generally paved, flat, and easy. As you transition into the Horse Gulch Trail system, the terrain changes dramatically to natural surfaces, including dirt paths and rocky sections. Expect varied footing and significant climbs and descents, especially in Horse Gulch, which can be quite strenuous.

You can typically find parking at various points along the Animas River Trail or directly at the Horse Gulch Trailhead. Given its accessibility from town, many joggers start directly from Durango's downtown area or nearby parking lots.

The combined loop is rated as difficult due to the challenging sections within Horse Gulch. While the Animas River Trail portion is beginner-friendly, the ascent into Horse Gulch can be strenuous, featuring significant elevation changes and varied terrain. Beginners might find the full loop challenging, but you can customize your experience by sticking to easier meadow loops within Horse Gulch or primarily using the Animas River Trail.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for jogging this loop, with milder temperatures. During warmer months, especially summer, the Horse Gulch area can become very hot, so it's crucial to carry ample water and consider jogging earlier in the morning or later in the evening. Winter conditions can vary, with potential for snow and ice on trails.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on both the Animas River Trail and within the Horse Gulch Trail System. However, it's important to keep your dog on a leash, especially in more crowded areas and to protect local wildlife. Always remember to clean up after your pet.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the Animas River Trail or the Horse Gulch Trail System. Both are publicly accessible for recreation. For official information, you can check the City of Durango's website.

The loop offers a striking contrast in scenery. The Animas River Trail provides picturesque river views, winding through Durango's heart, past parks and downtown areas. You might spot kayakers or the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. In Horse Gulch, you'll experience a high alpine desert landscape with wide-open meadows, sage bushes, and pinon trees, offering panoramic 360-degree views of Durango and the La Plata Mountains from higher elevations.

Yes, along the Animas River, you'll pass by the Santa Rita Whitewater Park. Once you climb into Horse Gulch, the higher elevations provide stunning panoramic viewpoints of Durango and the surrounding La Plata Mountains. The Horse Gulch and Meadow Loop Trail itself offers beautiful open meadow vistas.

Yes, this combined route utilizes sections of the Animas River Trail and the extensive Horse Gulch Trail System. Within Horse Gulch, you'll find it intersects with numerous trails, allowing for customization. Some of the official trails along this route include the Animas River Trail, Old Spanish Trail - Northern Route - Carracas to Durango, Telegraph Trail, and Crites Connect Trail, among others.

Given the varied terrain and potential for challenging sections, especially in Horse Gulch, it's recommended to bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Wear appropriate trail running shoes with good grip, and consider sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. A map or GPS device is also helpful for navigating the Horse Gulch trail network.

The Animas River Trail portion is very family-friendly due to its paved, flat surface. However, the Horse Gulch section, with its significant climbs, varied natural terrain, and potential for rocky sections, might be too challenging for younger children or families seeking an easy jog. Families with older, more experienced jogging children might enjoy the diversity, but beginners should be aware of the difficulty.