Colorado is packed with legendary outdoor experiences, from hiking on rugged trails like the Colorado Trail to fly-fishing in famed trout-rich waters like the Animas River. However, if you find yourself looking for unforgettable thrills on two wheels, Durango mountain biking should be at the top of your list of things to do this summer (or fall). This high-desert mountain town is a mecca for mountain biking, with hundreds of miles of singletrack trails slicing through alpine forests, open meadows, red rock canyons, and high-country terrain.
From smooth, rolling mountain bike trails perfect for intermediate riders to steep, technical descents that challenge even the pros, Durango bike trails offer something for every level of adventure. Of course, it’s not just about the bikes. Durango is a destination worth visiting in any season. You’ve got historic downtown packed with galleries, shops, and local eats, the legendary Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, and endless opportunities for hiking, rafting, fishing, and sightseeing. If you’re looking for things to do in Durango between rides, you won’t have to look far.
After a full day out on the Durango mountain biking trails, there’s no better place to recharge than at Antlers on the Creek, the top-rated Durango, Colorado bed and breakfast. Tucked just outside downtown, our upscale inn offers the perfect blend of luxury and comfort, featuring gourmet breakfasts, daily happy hours, cozy suites, and a peaceful creekside setting ideal for post-ride recovery. Whether you’re in town for a weekend getaway or planning a full mountain bike tour, we’d love to be your go-to basecamp for the best mountain biking in Colorado. Book your stay today!
Durango Mountain Biking: What to Know Before You Ride
Durango mountain biking is nothing short of exhilarating. Home to one of the most respected bike cultures in the country, Durango has produced world-class athletes and hosted major biking events like the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic. There are more than 300 miles of Durango bike trails, ranging from beginner-friendly loops to advanced technical terrain. Thanks to the region’s unique geography, you can ride high alpine singletrack in the morning and desert slickrock in the afternoon, all within a short drive or ride from town.
Durango mountain biking season typically runs from late spring through mid-fall, depending on the snowpack. You’ll find trailheads minutes from downtown, and plenty of local bike shops offer rentals, repairs, and gear. For those seeking to elevate their ride or uncover hidden gems, guided mountain bike tours offer an excellent way to experience the area. Regardless of how and what trails you ride, keep an eye on trail conditions. Late summer can bring surprise storms and muddy stretches.
Our owner has spent hours on trails in and around Durango, so we’d love to share personalized recommendations and tips to make the most of your Durango mountain biking adventure. Below, we’ve listed a few of the most popular Durango bike trails to explore!
8 Exceptional Mountain Bike Trails in Durango
- Though the Purgatory Bike Park is closed for 2025 while they make improvements, we’re keeping it on our list as one of the best places to go mountain biking in Durango. Please keep it on your radar for adventures in 2026 and beyond!
- For the most epic Durango mountain biking adventure, don’t miss the Colorado Trail. This trail is a true Colorado classic, and it starts right here in Durango. The Junction Creek Section, in particular, is a great place to test your bike skills. It offers challenging climbs, epic descents, and beautiful, forested terrain.
- For mountain biking this summer, don’t miss the Horse Gulch Trails. This is one of Durango’s most popular trail networks, and it’s just minutes from downtown. Horse Gulch offers loops and connectors for all skill levels, making it a great introduction to Durango mountain biking with well-marked trails and stunning canyon views.
- The Overend Mountain Park Trail System is another great place to go biking near Durango. With a fantastic range of singletrack trails, bridges, banks, and jumps right in town, it’s an easy place to get a taste of what Durango mountain biking trails really have to offer.
- The Phil’s World Trail System is technically in Cortez, but it’s a network that’s worth the 45-minute drive. It’s fast, flowy, and ridiculously fun, known for its roller-coaster-style singletrack through high desert terrain. As a bonus, this mountain biking trail offers exceptional views of Mesa Verde National Park.
- The Twin Buttes Trail System, located just west of town, is a favorite among locals and is perfect for those seeking a quick, close-to-town ride. You’ll find a mix of technical switchbacks, flowy descents, and stunning overlooks of the Animas Valley.
- Don’t miss the Animas Mountain Trails. The main loop here is a leg burner, but the views of the city and river valley below make it worth every pedal stroke. It’s a shorter loop, but steep and technical, making it great for advanced riders looking to squeeze in a quick challenge.
- There are plenty of intense rides in and around Durango, but if you’re looking for a paved trail that’s a bit more leisurely, the Animas River Trail is it. As the name suggests, the trail winds along the Animas River, offering plenty of scenic views and an enjoyable way to experience the Durango area.
Dust Off and Unwind at our Durango Bed and Breakfast
Whether you’re chasing technical climbs, flowy descents, or just a fresh perspective on Colorado’s wild beauty, Durango mountain biking brings the kind of adventure you’ll be talking about long after your wheels stop spinning. With terrain that shifts from high alpine meadows to sandstone canyons in a single afternoon, every trail offers something new, and the diversity of options means there’s always another loop to explore. It’s no surprise that mountain biking in Durango has earned a reputation as some of the best mountain biking in Colorado, especially for riders who want it all: scenery, challenge, and solitude.
But adventure doesn’t stop when the ride ends. After a day exploring Durango bike trails, there’s nothing better than returning to a place that feels like a reward in itself. At our Durango Bed and Breakfast, you’ll trade dusty boots for a glass of wine by the creek, a soak in the outdoor hot tub, or a nap in your luxurious suite. Don’t forget about our daily happy hour, of course. And in the morning, we’ll fuel you up for a full day on the trails with our gourmet breakfasts.
Most importantly, you’ll find that our peaceful location, just outside town, offers easy access to everything without the noise of in-town accommodations. Our B&B offers mountain-town comfort at its finest. Whether you bring your gear or rent from one of Durango’s excellent local shops, we hope you’re ready for an adventure that will leave you inspired and energized. We can’t wait to see you on the trails. Book your stay at our top-rated Durango Bed and Breakfast today!
