photos by Stephen Eginoire

Spring has finally arrived, and the trails have dried, the river is raging, and flowers are blooming. The last piles of snow are gone and life is returning to the Animas Valley. In case you havent had time to check out the spring splendor, here are a few panoramics to get you through the work week and reiterate that there is life beyond those four walls.

A quick 15-minute drive up Junction Creek Road brings you to Animas Overlook. This vantage point is equipped with an ADA Accessible trail, picnic tables and informative signage. Views west from Smelter Mountain reveal that boaters still have a few weeks to get their feet wet. Sunlight begins to flood Durango as the sun crests Raider Ridge from this early morning view atop Smelter Mountain.

 

In this week's issue...

June 4, 2026
Tougher on trash

As human-bear conflicts rise, new state law targets ‘knowingly’ allowing attractants

June 4, 2026
Redefining the business of art

Colorado’s new A Corp model helps creatives retain control while attracting investment
 

May 28, 2026
Quick 'n' Dirty

Help for the Demon Bridge, Highway 550 N closure, and fire mitigation falls off