A variety of trails were available during our week-long stay near Durango. I hiked four, each providing a unique flavor of area terrain. Unfortunately, I failed to save these within the Runkeeper or AllTrails apps on my phone. I estimated the off-trail distances hiked in order to meet MFI at our predetermined rendevouz points, and added them to the official lengths shown in AllTrails. So, distances reported below should be relatively accurate.
Sailing Hawks Loop: 3.2 miles and 438′ elevation change. Trail climbed into Dalla Mountain Park where the loop occurred. The park was populated primarily with Ponderosa Pine, which filled the air with a pleasant pine fragrance. Weather was ideal.
Meadow Loop Via Horse Gulch: 3.68 miles and 482′ elevation change. Horse Gulch climbed to a vast hilly meadow east of Durango’s Half Ridge. A professional mountain bike race was underway on the day of this hike. Numerous race officials and prominently posted signs warned me to be aware of the traffic and associated dangers. I only encountered about 25 bikers as I trekked up Horse Gulch, but I will say they were traveling downhill extremely fast. I gave them substantial leeway. In the meadow, a Red-tailed Hawk reacted only with a head turn as I walked by. Weather was beautiful once again.
Animus River Trail: 3.6 miles and a 170′ elevation change as I headed down stream. The Animus flows through Durango. Its head waters are in the San Juan Mountains surrounding Silverton, CO, and the river eventually flows into New Mexico where it joins the San Juan River. The Animus is known for its high-quality white water, ranging from Class II (waves with fun splashes) to Class V+ (Rapids with major, difficult-to-avoid obstacles). The trail was paved, wide, circuited several city parks, and crossed the river at four places. I thought it was cool when at one point I saw an official canoe slalom course. Interestingly, there was a contraption that could raise and lower different gated courses above the river. It looked like some kind of training facility for future olympians (no pictures).
Lion’s Den Rim Trail: 3.6 miles and 630′ elevation change. The trail began with Sky Steps, a wooden staircase of over 500 steps constructed to connect Durango with Fort Lewis College. My non-stop 250′ stair climb was exhausting, while the descent was dangerous and required my full attention. The rim route provided more beautiful views and took me by an unexpected, 2-run, city ski area called Chapman Hill (maybe 300′ vertical). The return loop required I ascend an extremely rocky and steep maintenance road, which paralleled the ski slope. This piece of the climb was physically brutal but fortunately didn’t last long.
In my opinion, rim trails always seem to provide the most scenic views.
These four hikes rivaled the rim trail in Page, AZ for beauty, although both locations were unique. On rare occasions, MFI joins me for a hike. Otherwise, she drops me off and stays occupied by reading, knitting, enjoying a coffee, or having breakfast alone if the timing is off for eating together. Starbucks remains a favorite, when available, and we discovered Durango Joe’s coffeeshop. The residents have strong opinions about supporting local businesses, and therefore aren’t keen on Starbucks. When MFI can stave off her hunger, we share breakfast or a light, late-morning snack together once I return. Rupert’s on E. College St. had an excellent breakfast menu, and we recommend sitting at their small coffee bar in the back near the kitchen to avoid the line waiting for a table but still receive great service. We also tried Jean-Pierre Bakery on Main, and while the pastries were delicious and the atmosphere very comfortable, the rest of our meal was just OK. After my river hike, MFI and I met at a very unique grocery called Nature’s Oasis near where I exited the trail. Their smoothie bar was fantastic. I love hiking, but these moments together afterward certainly enhance the experience.
