Overview
The Animas River Trail in the national forest is less visited than the famous paved path through downtown Durango, but it offers something the city trail cannot: actual wildland. Beginning at the Junction Creek Trailhead just 4 miles north of town, this dirt path enters the forest immediately and follows the Animas River corridor through riparian habitat, open meadow sections, and ponderosa pine woodland.
The 5-mile out-and-back gains a modest 400 feet, making it accessible to a wide range of hikers. It's not a dramatic summit route or a high-alpine experience, but it's a genuinely pleasant walk through a section of San Juan National Forest that sees less traffic than the headline destinations to the north. The river itself is the draw: clear mountain water, good bird habitat, and a natural soundtrack that the trails higher up in the subalpine zone don't provide.
Birders, casual hikers, families with younger children, and visitors who want a real forest walk without committing to a strenuous all-day effort consistently find this route rewarding. It's also a solid option for early and late season when higher routes remain snowed in.
The Route
Miles 0 to 1.5: Junction Creek Trailhead to River Approach
From the trailhead, the trail moves through a transition zone of Gambel oak and ponderosa pine before dropping toward the river corridor. The first 1.5 miles gain some elevation before descending toward the water. Junction Creek, which gives the trailhead its name, runs nearby. Several junctions with other trails are present; stay on the river-bound route by following signs toward the Animas.
Miles 1.5 to 3.5: River Corridor
The middle section of the trail runs closest to the river, passing through cottonwood and box elder riparian forest. The Animas River can be seen and heard from multiple points along this section. Watch for osprey and bald eagles, both of which use the river corridor. Deer are common in the morning along this section.
Miles 3.5 to 4.5: Upper Meadow and Turnaround
The trail opens into a broader meadow section before reaching the standard turnaround at approximately mile 4.5. The mountain views to the north are best here, with the San Juan peaks visible in the background. This is a good lunch spot before the return to the trailhead.
When to Visit
May through November offers the widest access window. The lower elevation (starting around 7,000 feet) means this trail is accessible before and after the high-alpine routes open. May and June bring high water in the river and good bird activity. Fall color in the riparian corridor peaks in late September and October.
Summer temperatures at this elevation are warm but manageable, especially with morning starts. Afternoon thunderstorms in July and August are a consideration, though the forested corridor provides more protection than exposed high routes.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry:
- 1 to 2 liters of water
- Insect repellent (mosquitoes can be active near the river in early summer)
- Binoculars for bird watching along the river corridor
Consider bringing:
- A light rain jacket for afternoon showers in summer
Practical Details
Vault toilets are available at the Junction Creek Trailhead. Cell service is limited but sometimes available. Parking is free (as of 2026). The trailhead also serves as the start of the Junction Creek Trail, which extends into more demanding terrain higher in the forest. Signs at the trailhead make the junction clear.
For principles on responsible trail use, see Leave No Trace. Dogs should be on leash near the river corridor to protect riparian wildlife.
Getting There
From Durango, take US-160 west approximately 1 mile from downtown, then turn right (north) on Junction Creek Road (County Road 204). Follow CR-204 north for approximately 3.5 to 4 miles to the Junction Creek Trailhead. The road is paved throughout. The trailhead is well-signed.