Durango, CO offers many in-town trails in addition to the incredible trails found in the surrounding areas to enjoy by foot, bike, or even horseback. The Sky Steps Trail is a unique in-town trail with just over 500 steps connecting downtown and the Fort Lewis College mesa.
The Sky Steps in Durango, CO
Built by Durango Trails and opened to the public in 2017, the Durango Sky Steps gains approximately 250 feet in elevation in just .1 miles! These foot-traffic-only stairs are great for exercise (think a mini Manitou Incline), commuting to/from Fort Lewis College, and enjoying 360-degree views. We are fortunate to have Durango Trails serving our community; it is a local nonprofit organization that builds and maintains trails, and educates the community and visitors about trail safety, conditions, and etiquette.
Durango Sky Steps Location
The lower trailhead for the Sky Steps is located at the corner of E 6th Avenue and 10th Street, just blocks from historic downtown. At the same trailhead, the Nature Trail - sometimes referred to as the ABC Trail due to the letters ascending with the trail - is a roughly one-mile trail suitable for hiking and biking. It starts and ends alongside the Sky Steps but offers a stairless option with switchbacks throughout.
Other Nearby Trails
Also on the Fort Lewis College mesa, the Rim Trail traces the west facing ridgeline for a fairly flat trail featuring expansive views over town. Multiple benches and access points create the perfect spot to catch your breath and take in the views. Lion’s Den and the Chapman Hill Flow Trails can be reached via the Rim Trail.
Just southeast of Fort Lewis College, you’ll find the Horse Gulch Trail System, an expansive network of trails for all skill levels. Popular routes include the Meadow Loop, Powerline, and Telegraph. This trail system also connects to the Grandview Trail System and Spur Line Trails in Three Springs.
Outdoor recreation is at the core of the Durango lifestyle, which is why we love it so much and are grateful to call it home! For more information about living in Southwest Colorado, please contact Max Hutcheson and Deven Meininger, Broker Associates at The Wells Group Durango.
