Numerous hiking trails can be found on the San Juan National Forest in the Durango area. Backpacking trips from just a few hours to several days are possible. A recreation map for the San Juan National Forest identifying trails, campgrounds, and roads is available for $3.00 from District offices in Pagosa Springs, Bayfield, Durango, Mancos and Dolores. Topographic maps are also available from local sporting good stores in the Durango area.
Heavily Used Trails
Elk Creek: This trail leads to the Animas River and Elk Park and is a major access to the heavily used Weminuche Wilderness.
Vallecito Trail: Starting at the Vallecito Campground, the trail is a major access to the heavily used Weminuche Wilderness.
Pine River Trail: One of the major access trails to the Weminuche Wilderness. Private land along the first few miles of the trail. Please observe signs.
Needle Creek Trail: The most heavily used trail leading to the Weminuche Wilderness.
Moderately Used Trails
Hermosa Creek Trail: Access to many hiking, fishing and hunting opportunities at elevations generally less than 9,000 feet. Short or long trips are possible.
Ice Lake Trail: Steep trail to the Ice Lake Basin area Trail elevation is all above 9,000 feet.
Lake Eileen Trail: Two mile trail built by the Youth Conservation Corp. to picturesque Lake Eileen. Near Vallecito Reservoir.
Potato Lake Trail: Short ( 1 1/2 mile) trail to Potato Lake. Has three short, steep sections.
Lost Lake Trail: Short (1/2 mile) trail to small Lost Lake. Near Lemon Reservoir. Off of East Florida Road.
Cascade Creek Trail to Purgatory Flats and Animas River: Also provides access to Needleton and the Weminuche Wilderness.
Lightly Used Trails
Little Molas Lake Trails: Numerous trails leading into the San Miguel Roadless area above Little Molas Lake. Short day trips possible.
Crater Lake Trail: Begins at Andrews Lake and leads to Crater Lake near Twilight Peak through portions of the Lime Creek Memorial Forest.
Goulding Creek Trail: Steep trail providing access to and up the Hermosa Cliffs. Near Tamarron.
Shearer Creek Trail: Access to southern portion of Missionary Ridge. Passes through private property at beginning. Please observe signs.
Highline Trail: High elevation trail somewhat difficult to follow. Affords excellent views of Hermosa Creek.
Taylor Lake Trail: High elevation, one mile trail to small lake. Access by jeep road to Kennebec Pass.
Haflin Creek: Early access to Missionary Ridge. First trail available in spring.
Move on to Trail Finder: San Juan National Forest
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