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 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.

The Lions Den and Rim Trail Loop offers a captivating jogging experience, guiding you through serene white cedar and hardwood forests before revealing dramatic, expansive views of Lake Michigan from 90 to 100-foot bluffs. You'll traverse well-maintained paths, including boardwalks and crushed limestone, but the highlight for many is the descent via a roughly 100-step wooden stairway to the intimate Lion's Den Gorge Beach, where you can walk along the stony shore. This route provides a unique blend of forest tranquility and stunning coastal vistas.

This moderate 4.5-mile (7.3 km) jogging loop, with 506 feet (154 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 56 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a varied workout, especially with the stair challenge. The preserve is dog-friendly and generally accessible, though spring can bring muddy sections. Fall is particularly beautiful with changing foliage, making it an ideal time to visit.

Beyond its scenic beauty, the preserve is an ecological gem, providing public access to one of the last undeveloped stretches of bluff land along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Ozaukee County. It's a haven for diverse habitats, including unique grasslands, and is a prime spot for birdwatching, especially during spring migration. This combination of natural beauty, varied terrain, and ecological significance makes it a standout trail in the region.