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Engineer Mountain (508)
Engineer Mounatin Trail #508 is in good shape and maintains an even, uphill grade. This trail offers access to Engineer Mountain, the possibility for loop hikes, and views of both the lower valley and the Needle and Grenadier mountain ranges. This is a very popular mountain bike point to point ride, starting at Coal Bank Pass (Pass Creek Trailhead) and ending at the Mtn Guard Station. The trail is situated primarily on south-facing slopes and is usually accessible during late spring.
From the trailhead at the Mtn. Guard Station, the trail traverses up through a beautiful aspen grove, spruce-fir forest and gradually winds up to sub-alpine meadows which are fantastic for seeing native wildflowers in July and August. The trail intersects with Pass Creek Trail #500 (very popular), Coal Creek Trail #677, Engine Creek Trail #657 and ends at the intersection with Twin Sisters/Colorado Trail #555. Water availability is limited on this trail.
- Distance (one-way): 11 miles
- Starting elevation: 9,400 feet (at Mtn Guard Station)
- Ending elevation: 12,200 feet (at Twin Sisters / Colorado Trail)
At a Glance
| Best Season: | Spring, Summer and Fall |
|---|---|
| Restrictions: | Non-motorized use only |
| Closest Towns: | Durango, CO |
| Water: | Limited. Purification recommended. |
| Restroom: | None. Practice Leave No Trace. |
| Information Center: | Columbine Ranger District |
General Information
Directions:From Druango, CO:
- Mtn. Guard Station: Travel 31 miles north of Durango on U.S. 550. Turn west 2/3 of a mile past Cascade Village on FDR #817 and follow this road 100 yards. The trailhead is on the north side of the road just past the cattle guard.
- Pass Creek Trail: Travel about 34 miles north of Durango on U.S. 550 to the top of Coal Bank Pass. Turn west on the dirt road and follow it 50 yards to the trailhead. Follow this trail 2.2 miles to the junction with the Engineer Mountain Trail.
The Engineer Mountain Trail can also be accessed from the Rico-Silverton Trail.
Parking:
Engineer Mtn. Guard Station: There is adequate parking alongside the dirt road near the trailhead. Do not park off road or out of the established parking area.
Pass Creek Trail: There is a parking area at the end of the dirt road to the trailhead. This often fills quickly and additional parking may be available at the Coal Bank Rest Area off US 550 just prior to the trailhead turn.