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+ 66

Animas Mountain Loop

Trail Running Route

Hard
5.79 mi
1,506 ft
One of the most popular trail runs in Durango.

Animas Mountain is one of the most popular hikes and trail runs in Durango, and for good reason. This short (but steep) loop offers up some of the most stupendous views in the region! With vistas over Durango, a front-and-center perspective of the red rock cliffs nearby, and long-range views of the San Juans off in the distance, you'll find yourself constantly pulling out your phone to snap photos of the incredible scenery!

The route begins right in town Durango, gaining elevation quickly up the flanks of Animas. The climb is steep and consistent, gaining elevation via a narrow, rocky, switchbacked trail.

After a few miles of climbing, the trail traverses over to the rim of the mountain, and you start enjoying incredible views as you climb! Be sure to look behind you and take in the views over downtown Durango.

When you reach the top of the mountain, you'll realize that the opposite side of Animas ends in a sheer cliff. The exposed rock faces provide the perfect spot to take in the incredible views of the San Juans! Stop and enjoy a snack—there are few places with scenery this incredible.

Once you've had your fill of the views, continue following this loop to descend Animas Mountain via a different trail than you climbed. This unique loop-style route to the top of a mountain makes for original scenery both up and down, providing a delightful change of pace from the standard out-and-back route. Written by Greg Heil
Created By
Strava Routes

Route and Elevation

Segments

NameDistanceElev. Diff.Avg. Grade
Full Animas, East ↗️ Road ↘️, Gate 2 Gate5.75 mi1,444 ft0.3%
Wapiti Climb0.66 mi371 ft10.6%
Full Animas East Climb2.87 mi1,450 ft9.5%
Short Animas Sufferfest1.09 mi604 ft10.4%
East rim climb to raptor closure2.66 mi1,329 ft9.4%
Animas East Climb1.83 mi968 ft10.0%
Animas Mountain East Climb2.21 mi1,076 ft9.2%
Animas West Descent1.96 mi-1,083 ft-10.5%
Down the middle1.68 mi-889 ft-10.0%
Lets Get Rowdy1.77 mi-1,115 ft-11.9%
Dancing shoes0.20 mi-151 ft-14.4%
Bombs Away!0.17 mi-157 ft-16.9%