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Animas River Trail: Durango's Scenic Spine

Explore Durango's heart on the Animas River Trail: a scenic path for recreation, transportation, and enjoying the beauty of the San Juan Mountains.

The Animas River Trail is a paved, multi-use path that stretches over 7 miles through Durango, Colorado, following the Animas River. It serves as a central recreational and transportation corridor, offering access to parks, downtown, and various outdoor activities.

A brief summary to Animas River Trail, Colorado

  • Animas River Trail, Durango, Colorado, US

Local tips

  • Bring water and sunscreen, as shade can be limited along certain sections of the trail.
  • Be aware of other trail users, especially cyclists, and announce your presence when passing.
  • Take advantage of the many access points to customize the length of your walk or bike ride.
  • Check out the interpretive signs along the trail to learn about Durango's history and the surrounding environment.
  • Consider visiting the Durango State Trout Hatchery, located along the trail, for a free and interesting experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Animas River Trail is easily accessible from downtown Durango. From Main Avenue, head east towards the Animas River. Multiple access points are available near hotels, businesses, and parks. Look for trail signage near the Durango Public Library or Rotary Park. No costs are associated with accessing the trail on foot.

  • Public Transport

    Durango Transit's 'The Lift' bus system has several stops near the Animas River Trail. Check the Durango Transit website or app for the nearest bus stop and schedule. From the bus stop, follow the signs to the trail. A single ride on The Lift costs $1. Free Durango Transit services are available from June 1-August 31.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available in Durango. Request a ride to a specific access point along the Animas River Trail, such as Santa Rita Park or Rotary Park. A typical short taxi ride within Durango costs approximately $15. Taxi rates start at $1.50 per mile.

  • Parking

    Several parking locations provide access to the Animas River Trail. These include the Durango Public Library, Rotary Park, Schneider Park, and Santa Rita Park. Parking fees and availability vary by location. Metered street parking is available in downtown Durango. Municipal lots can be found on 2nd Avenue. The first 30 minutes are free at the Durango Airport.

Discover more about Animas River Trail, Colorado

The Animas River Trail (ART) is the centerpiece of Durango's trail system, acting as both a recreational haven and a vital transportation link for the community. This paved, shared-use path meanders for over 7 miles along the banks of the Animas River, offering stunning views of the river, the San Juan Mountains, and the surrounding landscape. The trail's route is mostly concrete and asphalt and takes users through the heart of Durango, providing easy access to a variety of parks like Santa Rita Park, Schneider Park, and Animas City Park, open spaces, and other natural surface trails. It also connects key community locations such as the Durango Recreation Center, the public library, downtown Durango, and several neighborhoods and schools. The trail crosses the river multiple times via picturesque bridges and features underpasses and a tunnel, allowing users to traverse the city without street crossings. Along the trail, interpretive signs share the history of Durango, including its mining past and the impact of immigrants and pioneers. The trail's route shares some right-of-way with the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a relic from the 1880s. The Animas River itself is one of the last free-flowing rivers in Colorado, adding to the trail's appeal. It is a popular spot for fishing, rafting, and kayaking.

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