photos by Stephen Eginoire

Folks have long enjoyed the beautiful ponderosa pine forests and sublime overlooks of Animas Mountain. For Durango, it is the quintessential backyard stash. This gently tilted mesa, composed of multiple sandstone formations, rises to an elevation of 8,161 feet above sea level, nearly a 1,500-foot vertical jaunt from town. Hikers, bikers, climbers and horseback riders are just a few of the folks who come to Animas City Mountain for a stellar piece of the Durango outdoors, now available in a user-friendly snow-free format.

Angelina Skowronski and her pup, Emmy Lou, head up the Animas Loop Trail. Mike DAnna soaks in the hard-earned view from the summit overlook on the Animas Mountain Trail. A showy male grouse blends into the branches of a ponderosa pine. The trail map beckons users at the 32nd St. trailhead

 

In this week's issue...

December 18, 2025
Let it snow

Although ski areas across the West have taken a hit, there’s still hope 

December 18, 2025
Look, but don't take

Lessons in pottery theft – and remorse – from SW Colorado

December 11, 2025
Big plans

Whole Foods, 270 apartments could be coming to Durango Mall parcel