Animas Overlook Trail: Panoramic Views of Durango
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Animas River Valley from this easily accessible trail near Durango, Colorado.
The Animas Overlook Trail offers an easily accessible, paved loop with stunning panoramic views of the Animas River Valley and the San Juan Mountains near Durango, Colorado. The trail features interpretive signs detailing the area's history, geology, and ecology, making it a worthwhile stop for tourists and locals alike.
A brief summary to Animas Overlook Trail
- Durango, Colorado, 81301, US
Local tips
- Visit during the late spring through early fall for the best weather conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Animas River Valley and the San Juan Mountains.
- Take your time to read the interpretive signs and learn about the area's history and ecology.
Getting There
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Driving
From downtown Durango, head north on Main Avenue to 25th Street. Turn left onto 25th Street, also known as Junction Creek Road (County Road 204), and continue for approximately 7 miles. You'll pass the Colorado Trail trailhead and Junction Creek Campground. Continue on Junction Creek Road (Forest Road 543) to Milepost 7. Turn right into the paved parking lot for the Animas Overlook Trail. The road becomes dirt for a portion of the drive. Parking is free.
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Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to the Animas Overlook Trail, Durango Transit is launching DuranGO! Outside, a microtransit service that will serve popular recreational amenities. The service operates daily from June through September from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and costs $2 per ride. Use the DuranGO! app to request a ride from any location within city limits to the Colorado Trail at Junction Creek, which is close to the Animas Overlook Trail. From the Colorado Trail trailhead, it is approximately a 7 mile drive to the Animas Overlook Trail.
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Taxi/Ride-share
From downtown Durango, a taxi or ride-share to the Animas Overlook Trail will take approximately 30 minutes. The estimated cost for a one-way trip is between $40 and $60, depending on the company and time of day. Taxi services available in Durango include Durango Cab and Animas Transportation.
Discover more about Animas Overlook Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
La Plata County Historical
7.1 km
Discover the captivating history of La Plata County at the La Plata County Historical in Durango, Colorado, where stories of the past come alive.
Chapman Hill Ice Rink and Ski Area
8.9 km
Chapman Hill Ice Rink and Ski Area: Your gateway to winter sports and family fun in the heart of Durango, Colorado.
Animas Brewing Company
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Discover the essence of craft beer at Animas Brewing Company, a vibrant brewery in Durango, Colorado, offering unique brews and a welcoming atmosphere.
White Rabbit Books & Curiosities
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Explore a charming used bookstore in Durango, Colorado, filled with literary treasures and unique curiosities that inspire and delight.
Durango Sustainable Goods + Cafe & Mocktail Bar
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Buckley Park
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Ghost Walk Durango
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11th Street Station
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Durango Craft Spirits
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Carver Brewing Co.
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Create Art and Tea
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El Moro Spirits and Tavern
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Earthen Vessel Gallery
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Blue Rain Gallery
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Sticks & Stones Handmade
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gudy's Rest
4.5 km
Hike to Gudy's Rest on the Colorado Trail for stunning views of Durango and the San Juan Mountains. A tribute to a trail visionary.
Durango Hot Springs Resort & Spa
4.5 km
Relax and rejuvenate in Durango's natural mineral hot springs, offering a unique blend of history, wellness, and stunning mountain scenery.
Oxbow Park and Preserve
6.4 km
Discover Durango's natural haven: riverside trails, diverse wildlife, and tranquil picnic spots await at Oxbow Park and Preserve.
Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours
6.5 km
Experience Durango's wild side with Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours: Rafting, Jeep tours, and adventure packages for all ages!
Dalla Mountain park
6.7 km
Explore Durango's natural playground: hiking, biking, and world-class bouldering among towering sandstone formations.
Animas City Park
6.9 km
Discover a relaxing riverside escape at Animas City Park in Durango, Colorado, offering green spaces, playgrounds, and scenic views for all to enjoy.
Animas Museum
7.1 km
Discover Durango's heritage at the Animas Museum, where local history comes alive in a beautifully preserved 1904 schoolhouse.
Memorial Park Phase II
8.0 km
Riverside relaxation and recreation in Durango, Colorado, featuring art, trails, and Animas River access.
Perins Peak State Wildlife Area
8.3 km
Escape to Durango's wild side: Hike, explore, and discover stunning views and diverse wildlife at Perins Peak State Wildlife Area.
Lions Den
8.5 km
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Durango Botanic Gardens
8.9 km
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Durango Wildlife Museum
9.0 km
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Durango State Fish Hatchery
9.1 km
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Wildlife Division
9.1 km
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The Powerhouse
9.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Serious Texas BBQ North Durango, CO.
6.5 km
Experience authentic barbecue at Serious Texas BBQ in Durango - where flavor meets tradition in every bite.
The Yellow Carrot Restaurant
6.9 km
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Zia Taqueria
7.3 km
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Griegos Restaurant
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Sustainable Goods
9.5 km
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PRIMI Pasta & Wine Bar
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Taco Libre - Taqueria & Cocktails
9.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Taco Libre - your go-to taqueria in Durango for authentic tacos and refreshing cocktails.
Backcountry Gourmet
9.6 km
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Thai Kitchen
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Oscar's Cafe
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Rice Monkey
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Primus Restaurant
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Himalayan Kitchen
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Experience authentic Himalayan cuisine in Durango with flavorful Indian dishes at Himalayan Kitchen - a must-visit culinary gem.
Durango Diner
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Tequila's Family Mexican Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dunn Deal Resale Store
7.1 km
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Rose Duds An upscale consignment store
7.7 km
Explore Rose Duds, an upscale consignment shop in Durango, Colorado, where unique fashion treasures await every discerning shopper.
Roam
8.5 km
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Second Time Around
9.6 km
Discover the charm of Durango at Second Time Around, a unique consignment shop filled with vintage treasures and stylish finds.
Crystal Boutique
9.7 km
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Old Colorado Vintage
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Dreams of Tibet
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Tippy Canoe
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BluesMtnSoul
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Eureka Dan's
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Urban Market
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Barefoot Durango
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Dolce
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There's No Place Like Home
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Lively (A Boutique)
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Union Social House
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Skyridge Tavern
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El Rancho Tavern
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Starlight Lounge
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The Subterrain
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The Oxford
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The Peeples Bar
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Orio's Roadhouse
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Balcony Bar & Grill
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Wild Horse Saloon
10.3 km
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8th Ave. Tavern
10.6 km
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Million Dollar Highway Saloon
13.2 km
Discover the charm of the Million Dollar Highway Saloon in Durango, CO - a lively bar with delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mancos Brewing Company
35.4 km
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Chavolo's Mexican Restaurant
35.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Chavolo's Mexican Restaurant in Mancos, Colorado - a must-visit dining destination for tourists.
Fenceline Cidery
36.0 km
Experience the finest craft ciders in Mancos, Colorado, at Fenceline Cidery, where local ingredients meet breathtaking views.
