Horse Gulch is Durango’s much-loved backyard trail network, and it starts just over a mile from downtown. This city-owned open space covers around 1,500 acres of rolling piñon, juniper and oak-covered hills, laced with more than 50 miles of natural-surface trails and wide, sunny meadows.

It’s best known as a mountain-biking hub, so expect to share the trail, but it’s a lovely place to walk too. Most hikers head up Horse Gulch Road, a wide non-motorised track where the steepest climb comes first. At the signed Meadow junction the views open up all around, and the 1.2-mile Meadow Loop makes an easy outing, with longer routes branching off for more ambitious legs.

The trailhead is on East 3rd Street on the east side of town, and there’s no fee. Shade is limited, so bring plenty of water and a hat. It’s popular with dog walkers and trail runners, and a friendly step aside for passing bikes keeps everyone happy.

Spring and autumn are our favourite seasons here, and summer mornings are perfect before the heat builds. Some trails in the wider area close from 1 December to mid-April for wintering wildlife, so check what’s open first, then settle in for a morning on Durango’s doorstep.

Trail conditions can change quickly in the mountains, always check current conditions before heading out.