Rotary Park

Imagine a run where the river is your constant companion, winding through the heart of a vibrant town. The Animas River Trail delivers just that, offering continuous picturesque views of the Animas River as it hugs its banks. This moderate jogging route, stretching 5.4 miles (8.8 km) with a gentle 97 feet (30 metres) of elevation gain, is a fantastic way to experience Durango's natural beauty and urban charm, taking about 54 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit to the Animas River Trail is straightforward, as it's a central part of Durango's infrastructure with numerous access points. You'll find parking readily available at various public parks along the route, such as Oxbow Park and Preserve. The trail is well-maintained and largely separated from vehicle traffic, making it a safe and enjoyable option for a jog any time of day, though mornings are particularly pleasant.

Beyond the scenic river views, the Animas River Trail is rich with local flavor. You'll pass by art installations, mosaics, and interpretive signs detailing Durango's history. Keep an ear out for the distinctive whistle of the 1880s-era Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which parallels parts of the trail, adding a unique historical backdrop to your run. It's a truly multi-faceted experience.

The Animas River Trail offers a delightful jogging experience, winding along the scenic Animas River with its distinctive blue-green waters. You'll traverse a mostly flat, paved surface of concrete and asphalt, passing through numerous public parks and over picturesque bridges. Keep an eye out for the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which shares a corridor with the trail, adding a unique historical element to your run. This route is perfect for a relaxed, long-distance jog, providing continuous river views and urban amenities.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is a central artery in Durango, easily accessible from various points like Rotary Park. It's a great option for a casual run at any time, with no permits or fees required. The trail's gentle grade and paved surface make it suitable for all ages and skill levels, though some sections south of the US 160 bridge may have cracks and tree roots to watch for.

Often called the "spine of Durango's overall trail network," the Animas River Trail is more than just a jogging path; it's a vital link for recreation and transportation. Beyond the natural beauty, you'll find interpretive signs detailing Durango's history, along with mosaics, music installations, and sculptures, enriching your experience. This 10.8-mile (17.4 km) route, with a minimal 211 feet (64 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 47 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a long, easy outing.

Embark on the Animas River Trail Loop for a moderate jogging experience that winds through the heart of Durango. This route offers continuous, picturesque views of the Animas River, passing by public spaces like Rotary Park. You will cover 4.0 miles (6.5 km) and gain 113 feet (34 metres) in elevation, typically taking around 40 minutes to complete. The paved terrain ensures a smooth run, providing glimpses of the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is easily accessible with numerous access points throughout Durango. Ample parking is available, making it convenient to start your run. The path is primarily a hard-surface of concrete and asphalt, designed for accessibility for all users. No permits or fees are required to enjoy this popular jogging route.

This trail is considered one of the best jogging options in Durango, Colorado, offering a pleasant and accessible outdoor experience. As you jog, you might even spot local wildlife, such as bald eagles or deer, adding to the scenic beauty along the Animas River. The route connects you to various points of interest within the city, making it a central and engaging way to explore.