Hermosa Creek Trail
**ATTENTION: MAJOR TRAIL DAMAGE 9/2922
Hermosa Creek Trail has been damaged in the Hope Creek area, approximately 8 miles from the north trailhead and 10 miles from the south trailhead. Hermosa Creek Trail may be IMPASSABLE for stock and some motorcycles.**
Located within the Hermosa Creek Special Management Area (SMA), Hermosa Creek Trail is a multiple-use trail including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and OHV riding. Single-track motorcycles are allowed along the entire length of the trail, but OHVs less than 50" (no sidecars) are allowed only from the upper trailhead to the junction with Salt Creek Trail #559. See Hermosa Creek SMA Map for clarification on the different recreation uses.
This popular trail is one of the premier backcountry mountain bike singletrack trails in the state. The upper (northern) section begins near Purgatory and follows Hermosa Creek. Although it may appear to be all downhill from the upper trailhead, be prepared for climbing as well. The trail is long and moderate, be sure to leave plenty of time.
In 2018, the Hermosa Creek Watershed experienced the 54,000-acre "416 Fire". As a result, there are burned area hazards in the Hermosa Creek Watershed. Entry into burned areas is at your own risk. Be aware of hazards such as falling trees, unstable soils, and debris flows.
The entire Hermosa Creek area is grazed by cattle. Beaver are prevalent in some streams. Bridges across crossings.
- Distance (one-way): 19 miles
- Upper trailhead elevation / maximum elevation: 8,880 feet
- Lower trailhead elevation: 7,820 feet
- Minimum elevation: 7,480 feet
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
General Information
Water is available in Hermosa Creek; purification recommended.
Hiking, biking, horseback riding and single-track motorcycle use only. OHV less than 50" are allowed only on the norther section of the trail. No motorized side-cars. For a full list of regulations, visit the Hermosa Creek Special Management Area page.
Getting There
Directions
From Durango, CO:
- Lower Hermosa Creek Trailhead: Head north approximately 10 miles on U.S. 550. Turn left (west) onto Co Rd 201. After 240 yards, turn right to stay on Co Rd 201. Continue straight onto FR 576 for 3.5 miles.
- Upper Hermosa Creek Trailhead: Head north approximately 26 miles on U.S. 550. Turn left (west) into Purgatory Ski Resort. Continue onto Hermosa Park Road, FR #578 for approximately 7.5 miles. Trailhead is located on the south side.
Recreation Opportunities
OHV Trail RidingOHV Trail Riding Info
Single-track motorcycles are allowed along the entire length of the trail, but OHVs less than 50" (no sidecars) are allowed only from the upper trailhead to the junction with Salt Creek Trail #559. See Hermosa Creek SMA Map for clarification on the different recreation uses.
Fishing - River/Stream Info
Hermosa Creek contains brook, rainbow and cutthroat trout. Fishing is good to fair the entire length.