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Animas Overlook Trail: Panoramic Views of Durango

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the Animas River Valley from this easily accessible trail near Durango, Colorado.

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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.
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Getting There

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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Discover more about Animas Overlook Trail

The Animas Overlook Trail is a short, paved loop that provides visitors with breathtaking views of the Animas River Valley and the surrounding San Juan Mountains. Located a short drive from Durango, Colorado, the overlook is easily accessible and offers a serene escape into nature. The trail itself is a gentle, paved path designed to be accessible to all, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. Along the loop, interpretive signs offer insights into the area's geological formations, the history of agriculture and ranching in the Animas River Valley, and the native flora and fauna. Several overlooks provide stunning vistas of the valley below, where the Animas River meanders through lush landscapes. The area holds historical significance, having been home to the Ute tribes. The Animas River has been a vital water source for agriculture and ranching in the valley for over 150 years. The overlook provides a unique vantage point to appreciate the interplay between the natural environment and human activity in the region. While the trail is short, it's a popular spot for picnics and enjoying the scenery. The overlook is particularly beautiful in the fall when the aspen groves display vibrant foliage.

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