The best cycling routes in Durango

Durango offers a diverse range of terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find routes along paved multi-use paths, such as the scenic Animas River Trail, as well as road cycling routes that traverse open valleys and foothills with moderate elevation changes. The region is characterized by river corridors, open plains, and distant views of the La Plata Mountains.

Yes, Durango has options for easy touring cycling. For instance, the Ojo de agua del Obispo loop from Durango City is an easy 12.1-mile trail that takes about 1 hour 8 minutes. Another easy option is the Guadalupe Victoria Dam – Puente Nayar loop from El Nayar, which is 7.4 miles long.

Durango's touring cycling routes offer stunning natural beauty. You can enjoy views of the Animas River, the vast San Juan National Forest, and the distant La Plata Mountains. Routes often pass by scenic bodies of water like Lake Nighthorse and offer glimpses of the historic railroad along the Animas River Trail.

Durango is excellent for cycling across multiple seasons. While specific conditions vary, the region generally offers pleasant cycling weather from spring through fall. Summer provides warm days ideal for exploring, and fall brings vibrant foliage. Winter cycling options might be limited to paved, cleared paths, but the area is known for year-round outdoor activities.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Durango offers several difficult routes. The Guadalupe Victoria Dam – Puente Nayar loop from La Ferrería is a difficult 32.3-mile trail with substantial elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours 41 minutes. Another demanding option is the Cieneguita Station – Cieneguita Climb loop from Cerro de mercado, which covers 29 miles with significant climbing.

The komoot community rates touring cycling in Durango highly, with an average score of 4.3 stars from 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from river valleys to mountain foothills, and the variety of routes suitable for different ability levels. The scenic backdrop and well-maintained paths are frequently highlighted.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Durango are designed as loops. Examples include the Loma Fray Diego loop from Cerro de mercado, a moderate 32.2-mile path, and the Ojo de agua del Obispo loop from Durango City, an easy 12.1-mile route. These loops provide a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point.

Absolutely. The Animas River Trail is a prime example of a family-friendly option. This paved multi-use trail runs along the Animas River, offering easy, flat terrain with scenic views and access to various parks, making it ideal for cyclists of all ages and skill levels.

Many routes in Durango offer excellent viewpoints. The Animas River Trail provides continuous river views and glimpses of the historic railroad. Road cycling routes like those leading towards Vallecito Reservoir or the Hermosa Valley via CR 250 & CR 203 loop offer expansive views of the La Plata Mountains and surrounding natural landscapes.

Durango has a strong cycling culture with easy trail access. For specific parking information for trailheads, it's best to consult local resources or the starting points of individual routes. The Animas River Trail, for example, has multiple access points within the city, often with nearby parking. For public transport, Durango Transit provides bus services that may offer access to certain areas, though specific bike-friendly routes should be verified with their current schedules.

Durango's vibrant outdoor community means you'll find various amenities close to popular cycling areas. The Animas River Trail, for instance, runs through the city, providing easy access to numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs in downtown Durango. Many local businesses cater to cyclists, offering a great spot to refuel or relax after a ride.

The touring cycling routes in Durango cater to a range of abilities. Out of the five routes listed, there are two easy routes, one moderate route, and two difficult routes. This variety ensures that both casual riders and experienced cyclists can find suitable challenges.