Mountain roads are one of Southwest Colorado’s top outdoor attractions. Whether you’re exploring in a Jeep, Toyota, Polaris, ATV, or other off-highway vehicle (OHV), there are many trails to discover and breathtaking vistas to take in. From summer through fall, after all the snow has melted and before the next round of winter arrives, Southwest Colorado offers incredible opportunities to explore the backcountry. With a variety of trails ranging in difficulty and length, from technical high-clearance routes to easier day trips, here are some of the most popular overlanding trails near Durango, CO.
Colorado Scenic Byway - The Alpine Loop
Perhaps the most well-known is the OHV version of “The Loop”, which connects Silverton, Ophir, Telluride, Ouray, and Lake City (a small and quaint mining town) through the mountains. The closest access to the Alpine Loop is one hour north of Durango, in Silverton, CO. Here, you’ll see the headwaters of the Animas River and have the option to choose which roads and passes you want to explore based on where you’d like to visit. The infamous 65-mile loop takes you through the Rockies, traversing the well-known Engineer Pass and Cinnamon Pass, with exceptional views in every direction. High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are highly recommended for the entirety of this trail.
Lime Creek Road
This through-trail offers an easier yet equally stunning overlanding experience. Lime Creek Road is a 12-mile dirt road with mild, less technical terrain that follows along Lime Creek. The southern access point is at the Cascade Creek turn 2.5 miles past Purgatory Ski Resort, while the northern entrance/exit is another 8 miles north off of Highway 550. The Spud Lake trailhead is 3 miles in from the southern entrance, with a “local’s secret” waterfall also nestled in the area. Dispersed camping is allowed with many spots along the trail. A vehicle with high clearance is recommended for this road.
La Plata Canyon - Kennebec Pass
Located 18 miles west of Durango (Highway 160 W to Hesperus, CO, then take a right on County Road 124 to head north through May Day to the La Plata Canyon dirt road), this 15-mile out-and-back excursion ends at the Kennebec Pass summit. This OHV road starts off easy - and also doubles as a cross-country ski trail in the winter - following along the La Plata River before gaining elevation as the trail progresses. Winding through turns and past beautiful water features and possible campsites, the final stretch leads to Kennebec Pass. A little gem in the mountains, the 180-degree views to the east are breathtaking, though the road ends suddenly and can be a little nerve-racking! A quick one-mile hike to Taylor Lake adds to the allure of this area.
Renting Vehicles & Guided Tours
If you would rather sit back and enjoy the views, Mild to Wild and Durango Rivertrippers offer guided tours in open-air vehicles, perfect for taking pictures! Custom and group tours are available to personalize your Rocky Mountain experience. These guides know the best spots and backcountry safety protocols, so you can focus on soaking in the views. Similar services offering RZRs and other Polaris OHVs are available in Silverton and Ouray as well.
Want to explore more OHV trails near Durango? Take a look at Ophir Pass, Black Bear Pass, Yankee Boy Basin, and Animas Forks Trail for more picturesque adventures. Wildflowers are abundant here in the late spring and summer, and wildlife sightings are always possible.
Please research trail information and conditions before heading out and always respect the trails. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather and make sure your vehicle is equipped for the adventure! Please let us know if you have any questions or if you’re interested in making Durango your San Juan Mountain adventure basecamp!
