Animas River Trail
The Animas River Trail is an excellent trail for day hikers, backpackers, and stock riders. The Animas River Trail is an alternative to taking the train to get to Chicago Basin by connecting Purgatory Flats Trail #511 to Needle Creek Trail #504. The trail follows the riverbanks for much of its distance, offering fishing possibilities. Steep river canyon walls shade this trail through most of the day. There are many good campsites along the way. This trail is used by horse outfitters; expect to see horse traffic and be respectful of other trail users.
- Distance (one-way): 5.4 miles
- Maximum elevation: 8,300 feet
- Minimum elevation: 7,700 feet
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
General Information
Animas River. Purification recommended.
Non-motorized, no e-bikes
Address: 367 Pearl Street Bayfield, CO 81122
Phone: (970) 884-2512
Hours: Friday only, 10:00am-4:30pm (Closed on federal holidays)
Getting There
Trailhead/Starting Points
This trail is only accessible from the Purgatory Flats Trail or Needle Creek Trail
Purgatory Flats Trail #511: Travel ~26 miles north of Durango on U.S. 550. Across the road from Purgatory Ski Resort, turn right (east) on Tacoma Drive. In approximately 0.2 miles, trailhead will be on the right and parking area on the left.
Needleton Train Stop: Take Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to the Needleton stop. Follow the Needle Creek Trail #504 approximately 3/4 miles to the junction with Animas River Trail.
Recreation Opportunities
Fishing - River/Stream Info
The Animas River is rated good for brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout.