La Plata Canyon Road

The La Plata Canyon Road trail, also known as County Road 124, starts just northwest of Durango, Colorado. Parking is generally available along the initial, well-maintained dirt and gravel sections of the road. As you venture further, the road becomes more rugged, and parking options may change. The Darby Trailhead is a key access point.

The difficulty of this trail varies significantly. The initial miles are relatively easy, suitable for a leisurely hike. However, beyond Boren Creek, the road becomes substantially steeper and rockier, requiring a more strenuous hike. The trail gains almost 3,000 feet in elevation towards Kennebec Pass, with the final two miles being particularly challenging due to craggy exposed rock and loose rock over steep grades.

Yes, the first several miles of the La Plata Canyon Road are considered relatively easy. These sections offer minimal elevation gain and wind alongside the La Plata River through picturesque aspen groves and pine forests, making them suitable for families and those seeking a less strenuous hike.

Yes, the La Plata Canyon Road trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially given the potential for wildlife encounters and varying terrain. Please practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all waste.

The best time to hike La Plata Canyon Road is typically in summer and fall. Summer offers a profusion of wildflowers in the meadows. Fall brings stunning aspen colors. In winter, parts of the road are groomed for fat biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, offering a different experience.

The La Plata Canyon Road trail is located within the San Juan National Forest. Generally, there are no specific hiking permits or entrance fees required for day use along the main La Plata Canyon Road. However, always check the latest regulations from the U.S. Forest Service for any updates, especially if planning dispersed camping or specific activities.

Along the trail, you'll encounter diverse scenery, from aspen groves and pine forests to meadows with wildflowers. Higher up, you'll find breathtaking views of the Colorado Rockies and exposed rock above timberline. Notable features include Bedrock Creek Falls, and remnants of the canyon's rich mining history, such as old mining equipment, abandoned mines, and sites of former mining towns like La Plata City.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. It connects to the famous Colorado Trail at Kennebec Pass. Additionally, sections of the La Plata Canyon, Basin Creek OHV Trail, Madden Creek Proper OHV Trail, and Bedrock Creek OHV Spur Trail are part of or branch off from this route.

The La Plata Canyon Road trail is primarily an out-and-back route. While there are side trails that branch off, the main road itself follows the canyon, leading up towards Kennebec Pass and requiring you to return the way you came.

The La Plata Canyon Road trail offers opportunities to spot various wildlife. Common sightings include deer, elk, marmots, moose, and foxes. Black bears are also present in the area, so it's important to be bear-aware and carry bear spray.

Yes, parts of the La Plata Canyon Road are groomed in winter, making it suitable for activities like fat biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. However, access may be limited due to snow, and conditions can be challenging, especially in the higher elevations.

La Plata Canyon is often less crowded than other popular areas within the San Juan Mountains, offering opportunities for solitude. To further avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekdays, during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall), or starting your hike earlier in the morning.