La Plata: Forest, Water and Trails

Forest Areas and Seasonal Activities

The Columbine Ranger District manages 691,310 acres of the San Juan National Forest in Colorado’s La Plata and San Juan counties. The managed area therefore spans both counties and places La Plata within a larger forest and landscape region. This provides a useful framework if you also want to consider nature and outdoor activities when choosing a hotel.

In summer, hiking, camping, backpacking, fishing, and picnicking are possible in the La Plata Mountains. In winter, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, mountaineering, and snowmobiling are possible there. The season therefore changes the range of activities: a summer trip offers different options from a winter stay. Hiking opportunities in La Plata Canyon run along La Plata Canyon Road and Forest Road 561. When planning, you can distinguish between seasonal mountain activities and hikes along two named roads.

Lakes and Winter Activities

Motorboating is permitted at Vallecito Reservoir. From its calm waters, you can enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and mesas east of La Plata County. Boating rules may vary; check them before making plans. When the reservoir freezes over in winter, ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are possible on the ice. The same location can therefore offer motorboating or activities on the ice, depending on the season.

The Vallecito Nordic Center offers a groomed winter trail network for non-motorized recreational activities. Grooming varies seasonally, so it’s a good idea to check conditions in advance.

Lake Nighthorse has designated public areas for swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking. Non-motorized boating options include kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, canoeing, and more. The lake is home to rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon, which can be fished there. Since fishing regulations may change, it’s a good idea to check them before fishing. Lake Nighthorse therefore offers a range of options, from activities on land to different ways of enjoying the water.

Trails and Railroad

The Animas River Trail is a paved, 7-mile multi-use trail that runs through Durango along the banks of the Animas River. The trail is open to walking, running, cycling, and e-biking. Along the route are fishing spots, river access points, picnic areas, and beaches. The trail also passes through several habitats and bird- and wildlife-viewing areas. Its use as a trail therefore goes hand in hand with opportunities to observe nature and with various stops along the river.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has operated continuously between Durango and Silverton since 1882. During the May-to-October summer season, its route runs 45.4 miles along the Animas River from Durango to Silverton; the seasonal schedule may vary. Unlike the 7-mile trail, this figure describes the rail route between two towns. The two distances refer to different offerings, not to a single shared route.

Regional Orientation

Durango-La Plata County Airport is the primary regional airport for southwestern Colorado, northwestern New Mexico, and the entire Four Corners region. Its role extends across several areas of the Southwest and offers a broad geographic reference point for trip planning.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Durango, Hesperus, Ignacio, Bayfield, San Miguel, Douglas, Lake County, Rio Blanco County.

Return to the main travel overview: Colorado.