The 5 Most Amazing Peaks around Durango

For expansive views overlooking Durango, the Animas and Hermosa Valleys, and even Mesa Verde and Shiprock in the distance, consider peaks like Animas Mountain Trail, Hogsback Peak, and Perins Peak. Hesperus Mountain in the La Platas also provides breathtaking vistas.

Yes, Durango offers several challenging climbs. Hogsback Peak is known for its steep trail and distinctive ridge. Engineer Mountain, though less than five miles, involves significant elevation gain and loose shale near the top. For those seeking 14ers, the Needle Mountains, including Mt. Eolus, Sunlight Peak, and Windom Peak, are rugged and require extensive trips, often accessed via the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.

For more accessible options, peaks closer to town like Animas Mountain Trail offer scenic hikes with excellent views. Smelter Mountain also provides views to the north over Durango and the Animas River. While not a peak, the nearby Lions Den Trail is an easy hiking option.

The terrain varies significantly. Peaks like Hogsback Peak feature steep climbs, while Engineer Mountain has loose shale near its summit. The La Plata Mountains offer scenic hikes with wildflowers and waterfalls from snowmelt. Trails on Raider Ridge, for example, are described as rocky, dusty, and often steep. Always check current conditions and prepare for varying difficulties.

You can expect to see diverse natural features. The La Plata Mountains are known for wildflowers and waterfalls. Engineer Mountain boasts abundant wildflower fields in spring and summer. Many peaks offer panoramic viewpoints of the San Juan Mountains, including the Grenadiers and San Miguel Range. Perins Peak is recognizable by its prominent cliff face.

The best time to hike is generally spring through fall. Spring and summer bring abundant wildflowers, especially around Engineer Mountain. However, some areas like Perins Peak have seasonal closures (December 1st to July 31st) for wildlife protection, such as Peregrine Falcon nesting. The upper parts of Animas Mountain Trail may also close for elk calving. Always check local conditions before heading out.

While general day hiking on most trails around Durango does not typically require permits, accessing certain wilderness areas or specific 14ers, especially those in the Needle Mountains via the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, might involve specific access fees or regulations. It's always advisable to check with the local Forest Service or land management agencies for the most current permit requirements, especially for overnight trips or specific high-altitude climbs.

Beyond hiking and climbing, the area around Durango's mountain peaks offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Purgatory Mountain is a major draw for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. In warmer months, the Animas River Valley provides opportunities for various activities. You can also find numerous running trails, such as the Animas River Trail, and additional hiking options like the Raiders Ridge Trail.

While many peaks offer challenging routes, some areas provide more moderate options suitable for families. For example, the Lions Den Trail is an easy hiking option nearby. When planning, look for trails with lower elevation gain and shorter distances, and always consider the fitness level of all family members.

Hesperus Mountain, the highest point in the La Plata Mountains, holds cultural significance as one of four mountains sacred to the Navajo People. It is easily recognized by its prominent geological bands near the summit.

The La Plata Mountains, a sub-range of the San Juans, are home to many high peaks. Hesperus Mountain is the highest at 13,232 feet. Other notable summits include Lavender Peak (13,228 ft), Mount Moss (13,192 ft), Babcock Peak (13,180 ft), and Centennial Peak (13,062 ft).

Yes, the broader San Juan Mountains, accessible from the Durango area, include several 14ers. The Needle Mountains feature peaks like Mt. Eolus, North Eolus, Sunlight Peak, and Windom Peak. Further afield, but still considered accessible from Durango, are Handies Peak, Redcloud Peak, Sunshine Peak, and Uncompahgre Peak, which are often considered among the 'easier' 14ers to summit in Colorado.