





+ 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
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
Route and Elevation
Segments
Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
---|---|---|---|
Full Animas, East ↗️ Road ↘️, Gate 2 Gate | 5.75 mi | 1,444 ft | 0.3% |
Wapiti Climb | 0.66 mi | 371 ft | 10.6% |
Full Animas East Climb | 2.87 mi | 1,450 ft | 9.5% |
Short Animas Sufferfest | 1.09 mi | 604 ft | 10.4% |
East rim climb to raptor closure | 2.66 mi | 1,329 ft | 9.4% |
Animas East Climb | 1.83 mi | 968 ft | 10.0% |
Animas Mountain East Climb | 2.21 mi | 1,076 ft | 9.2% |
Animas West Descent | 1.96 mi | -1,083 ft | -10.5% |
Down the middle | 1.68 mi | -889 ft | -10.0% |
Lets Get Rowdy | 1.77 mi | -1,115 ft | -11.9% |
Dancing shoes | 0.20 mi | -151 ft | -14.4% |
Bombs Away! | 0.17 mi | -157 ft | -16.9% |