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United States
Colorado
La Plata County

Hermosa Creek Wilderness

Easy hikes and walks in Hermosa Creek Wilderness

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.

Best easy hiking trails in Hermosa Creek Wilderness

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Highline Co. Trail to Taylor Lake, a 2.3 miles (3.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 2 minutes to complete. This path leads through forests to the scenic Taylor Lake.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Cumberland Mountain loop from Kennebec Pass, an easy 1.9 miles (3.1 km) path. This route offers views of the surrounding mountains and forests from Kennebec Pass.
  • Local hikers also love the The Notch & Snowstorm Peak, a 2.2 miles (3.6 km) trail leading through high country, often completed in about 1 hour 19 minutes.
  • Hiking in Hermosa Creek Wilderness is defined by diverse forests, high-elevation alpine ridges, and the winding Hermosa Creek. The network offers options for different ability levels, including many easy hiking trails.
  • The routes in Hermosa Creek Wilderness are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 6 reviews. More than 30 hikers have used komoot to explore Hermosa Creek Wilderness's varied terrain.

Last updated: April 25, 2026

1

hikers

#1.

Highline Co. Trail to Taylor Lake

3.77km

01:02

60m

60m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Hermosa Creek Wilderness

The Colorado Trail — Hiking from Silverton to Durango

Other adventures in Hermosa Creek Wilderness

The Colorado Trail — Hiking from Silverton to Durango

Hiking Collection by

Lael

Tips from the Community

Caro "Bandit"
August 22, 2025, Muldoon Mine

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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Matthew
December 19, 2023, The Notch

The Notch is in reference to a "hole" in the rocky saddle between two 12,000-foot peaks (Snowstorm Peak and Cumberland Mountain) in the La Plata Mountains. You can see the city of Durango in one direction and the San Juan Mountains in the other.

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Zachary
November 20, 2023, Darby Trailhead

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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Matthew
November 20, 2023, Snowstorm Peak

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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Matthew
November 20, 2023, The Notch

The Notch is in reference to a "hole" in the rocky saddle between two 12,000-foot peaks (Snowstorm Peak and Cumberland Mountain) in the La Plata Mountains. You can see the city of Durango in one direction and the San Juan Mountains in the other.

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Matthew
November 20, 2023, Muldoon Mine

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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Matthew
July 21, 2023, Muldoon Mine

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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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available in Hermosa Creek Wilderness?

Hermosa Creek Wilderness offers a good selection of easy hiking trails. You'll find 6 easy routes, perfect for a relaxed outdoor experience.

What kind of landscapes can I expect on easy hikes in Hermosa Creek Wilderness?

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.

What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Hermosa Creek Wilderness?

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.

When is the best time of year to go on an easy hike in Hermosa Creek Wilderness?

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.

Are there any specific natural attractions or scenic views to look out for on easy trails?

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.

Can I find easy trails that lead to lakes or specific peaks?

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.

Are there opportunities to see wildlife on easy hikes?

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.

Are there any easy loop trails in Hermosa Creek Wilderness?

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.

Is parking available at the trailheads for easy hikes?

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.

Are the easy trails in Hermosa Creek Wilderness suitable for families with children?

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.

Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails in Hermosa Creek Wilderness?

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.

What is the typical duration for an easy hike in Hermosa Creek Wilderness?

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.

Are there any historical points of interest along the easy trails?

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.

Most popular routes in Hermosa Creek Wilderness

Hiking in Hermosa Creek Wilderness

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