5.0
(5)
29
hikers
16
hikes
Hiking in Hermosa Creek Wilderness offers access to a remote and rugged landscape characterized by diverse ecosystems. The area features significant elevation changes, from approximately 7,500 feet along Hermosa Creek to over 12,000 feet at its highest points, supporting varied terrain. Hikers can traverse through old-growth ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and aspen groves, with higher elevations leading to subalpine forests and alpine ridges. Hermosa Creek itself is a central feature, known for its clear waters and forested banks.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
1
hikers
3.77km
01:02
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
2.69km
00:52
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.08km
01:08
180m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.62km
01:19
220m
220m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.83km
00:39
190m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Hermosa Creek Wilderness
The old silver mine is a great short detour along the Colorado Trail. There are two buildings still standing and also a pretty slanted outhouse. A marmot has moved into the main building and there is a nice flat spot to pitch a tent. Enjoy the view of the mountains and Durango!
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From here you can start the OHV route up Diorite Peak. Darby Campground is just up the road from the trailhead and makes a great base camp from which to do a training camp or just explore the La Plata peaks.
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Snowstorm Peak is a 12,511-foot peak near the northern end of the La Plata Mountains. The summit is along a rocky ridge that requires some class 2 travel. Views of the basin from the peak are pretty remarkable.
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Muldoon Mine is famous for having mined lots of silver when the mine was operational. There are remnants of buildings and materials left over from the mining days in this area on the slopes of Cumberland Mountain.
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Cumberland Mountain is a 12,388-foot peak in the most northern section of the La Plata Mountains. The approaches to the summit aren't very long, but the trailheads are remote and help to make this peak vacant on a regular basis. The summit is just off of the Colorado Trail and looks southward through the heart of La Plata Canyon.
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Muldoon Mine is famous for having mined lots of silver when the mine was operational. There are remnants of buildings and materials left over from the mining days in this area on the slopes of Cumberland Mountain.
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Hermosa Creek Wilderness offers a good selection of easy hiking trails. You'll find 6 easy routes, perfect for a relaxed outdoor experience.
Easy hikes in Hermosa Creek Wilderness traverse a diverse landscape. You'll encounter old-growth ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and aspen groves. Higher elevations feature subalpine forests, and some trails offer views of striking crimson-colored red shale and sandstone formations. Hermosa Creek itself is a central feature, with trails often following its clear waters.
The easy trails in Hermosa Creek Wilderness are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars from 6 reviews. Hikers often praise the remote, pristine environment and the diverse natural beauty, from dense forests to alpine views.
The best time for easy hikes in Hermosa Creek Wilderness is generally from late spring through early fall. During these months, trails are typically free of snow, and the weather is pleasant. Fall offers spectacular aspen colors, while spring brings lush greenery.
Yes, easy trails in Hermosa Creek Wilderness offer several scenic highlights. You can enjoy views of the winding Hermosa Creek, explore diverse forests, and reach high-elevation alpine ridges for panoramic vistas. The area's unique red shale and sandstone formations also provide striking visual interest.
Absolutely. One popular easy route is the Highline Co. Trail to Taylor Lake, which leads through forests to the scenic Taylor Lake. Another option, The Notch & Snowstorm Peak, takes you through high country with impressive views.
Yes, Hermosa Creek Wilderness is rich in wildlife. On easy hikes, you have a good chance of spotting large herds of elk and mule deer. The Hermosa Creek itself is home to native cutthroat trout, and you might even catch a glimpse of peregrine falcons soaring overhead.
Yes, for those who prefer circular routes, the Cumberland Mountain loop from Kennebec Pass is an excellent easy option. This trail offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
While specific parking details vary by trailhead, access points for trails in Hermosa Creek Wilderness generally have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for the most accurate information regarding trailhead parking.
Yes, many of the easy trails in Hermosa Creek Wilderness are well-suited for families. Their shorter distances and manageable elevation gains make them enjoyable for children. Routes like the Highline Co. Trail to Taylor Lake offer engaging natural features for younger hikers.
Generally, dogs are permitted on trails within the Hermosa Creek Wilderness and Special Management Area, but it's crucial to keep them on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out pet waste.
Easy hikes in Hermosa Creek Wilderness typically range from 1 to 2 hours to complete. For example, the Highline Co. Trail to Taylor Lake takes about 1 hour, while The Notch & Snowstorm Peak is usually completed in about 1 hour and 19 minutes.
While the Hermosa Creek Wilderness is primarily known for its natural beauty, some trails may pass by remnants of historical activity. For instance, the Tomahawk Mine via Basin Creek OHV Trail offers a glimpse into the region's mining past, providing an interesting historical context to your hike.


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