Switcher Loop

About

The Switcher Loop is a 1.7 to 1.8-mile hiking trail located in Durango, Colorado, on the Western Slope. The trail is managed by the City of Durango and sits within the Three Springs Spur Line trail system. It is classified as easy to moderate in difficulty, making it suitable for beginners and families. The route offers a total elevation gain of approximately 56 to 209 feet, depending on the specific path taken through scrub oak stands and small ravines. The surface is dirt, and the trail is generally exposed to sunlight with limited shade. Parking is available directly at the trailhead, which also features a kid-friendly bike pump track. The loop allows hiking and leashed dogs. Bicycles are permitted on the trail, but horses, motorcycles, ATVs, and high-clearance vehicles are not. The trail is open year-round from January through December. It was established in late 2017 through a collaboration between Trails 2000 and Purgatory Resort. The trail is designed for beginner-friendly terrain, serving as a popular spot for both hikers and mountain bikers.