Top 5 Winter Hikes in Durango

Just because there is snow on the ground, doesn’t mean that hiking season has come to an end in Durango, Colorado. Some may enjoy getting turns in on their skis or snowboard at Purgatory Resort every weekend, but sometimes you have to mix it up with other winter activities- especially ones that allow you to take the pups along with you! Whether you are looking for more of a stroll through the winter wonderland that is our little mountain town, or you are planning to trek through deep snow on your cross country skis or snowshoes, these top 5 winter hiking trails in Durango can be conquered by all who are looking for a little adventure. 

La Plata Canyon is the perfect place for those who want to take it easy AND those who are looking for something a little more hard-core. That’s the beauty of it. You can traverse in your snowshoes or cross country skis, but there are many hiking options in which your snow boots will work just fine! Check out the map to La Plata Canyon and more information here.

Unless it is late or early in the winter season, we absolutely recommend wearing snowshoes and bringing trekking poles for this one. Molas Pass is breathtaking any time of the year, but something about hiking this trail when there is snow on the ground just hits differently. There are many different trails you can go on so just drive to Molas Park and pick one!  Again, the Molas Pass trail in the Durango area is not for the faint of heart, so come prepared! Check out the map to Molas Pass and more information here

Andrews Lake is only about 30 minutes north of Durango and is stunning in the winter. Definitely check out the weather forecast before you go and pay attention to how much snow we’ve gotten throughout the winter season to be fully prepared for your hike. There are times when you will be able to traverse this trail with just snow boots, but if it’s the middle of snowfall season in Durango (January and February are peak snowfall months) then definitely bring snowshoes! Check out the map to Andrews Lake and more information here. 

There are many paths to take along Animas Mountain in Durango. This is a very moderately easy hike for anyone who is looking for a short hike to take the dogs on and get the blood pumping. The upper portion of Animas Mountain Trail is closed during the winter months for animal migration, but the lower portion is still quite beautiful, especially in the snow. Located in the heart of Durango, Animas Mountain is the perfect hike for anyone who is looking for an afternoon excursion in town. Check out the map to Animas Mountain and more information here.

We wouldn’t quite call this one a “hike” per se, but the Animas River Trail is so peaceful in the winter time in Durango that we couldn’t leave it off of the list. Enjoy a bike ride or simply walk around the trail that takes you through the heart of town while listening to the trickle of the river as it flows south of town. Make a day trip of it and stop at one of the many local restaurants in Durango and enjoy a brew! Check out the map to the Animas River Trail and more information here.