Horse Gulch Road

About

Horse Gulch Road is a 4.1-mile non-motorized access route in Durango, Colorado, serving as the primary approach to the broader Horse Gulch Trail System. The trail begins at a free parking lot located off 8th Avenue and 3rd Street. The initial segment involves a climb of approximately 1100 feet over 1.2 miles to reach the Meadow Loop intersection, which is noted as the most challenging section for beginners. The road surface consists of dirt and rock, described as rocky, dusty, and potentially loose, with some steep sections. It provides access to various connecting trails, including the Meadow Loop, Sugar Trail, and the Skyline/Raider Ridge area. The trail is used year-round for hiking, mountain biking, and winter recreation such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Summer conditions are hot, requiring ample water. The trail is well-marked with signs at major intersections. The area was preserved in the early 1990s through efforts by Daryl Crites and Noel Pautsky, with easements gifted to La Plata County and later purchased by the City of Durango.