Bakers Bridge, Southwest Colorado Travel Guide

4.7 (381)

Discover the scenic beauty and historical significance of Bakers Bridge in Durango, Colorado, a landmark with ties to the region's mining past.

Bakers Bridge, located 15 miles north of Durango, Colorado, is a picturesque bridge known for its stunning views of the Animas River Valley and its historical significance tied to the early mining days of the region. Once a popular spot for cliff jumping, it remains a notable landmark attracting visitors with its scenic beauty.

A brief summary to Bakers Bridge

Durango, Colorado, 81301, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bakers Bridge.

Respect private property; stay on public paths and avoid crossing fences.
Pack out all trash to help keep the area clean and pristine.
Be mindful of the environment; leave rocks, trees, and plants undisturbed.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Pinkerton Hot Springs

Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Royal Gorge Bridge & Park

Discovery Museum At-Powerhouse

Mesa Verde National Park

Explore Bakers Bridge on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Bakers Bridge, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Durango, head north on Highway 550. Turn east onto County Road 250. Continue for about half a mile; the bridge will be visible with a small pull-off area for parking. Parking is limited, especially during peak seasons. There are no parking fees.

Discover more about Bakers Bridge

Bakers Bridge, situated along County Road 250, approximately 15 miles north of Durango, Colorado, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. The bridge is named after Captain Charles H. Baker, who led a group of prospectors to the area in 1860 and discovered gold in the San Juan Mountains. In 1861, Baker's party established a mining camp near the Animas River and constructed the first bridge about 300 feet north of the current structure, founding the town of Animas City. Although the town was short-lived due to harsh winters and limited gold, Baker's legacy remains.Today, Bakers Bridge is recognized not only for its historical importance, marked by a historical marker on the northwest side of the bridge, but also for its scenic views of the Animas River Valley. The area was once a popular spot for swimming and cliff jumping, even serving as a filming location for the iconic movie "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid". However, much of the land around the bridge is privately owned, and recent years have seen increased restrictions to protect the area from trespassing and damage. Visitors are encouraged to respect property lines and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.The bridge and surrounding area provide a glimpse into Colorado's mining history and offer a place to appreciate the natural landscape. The Animas River, which flows beneath the bridge, adds to the area's charm, with its clear waters and the surrounding Ponderosa forest. While access to some areas may be limited, Bakers Bridge remains a worthwhile destination for those seeking a peaceful and scenic spot with a touch of history.