Hermosa Creek is one of Durango’s great backcountry rides, and a real bucket-list day for visiting mountain bikers. The trail runs around 19 miles through the Hermosa Creek Special Management Area in the San Juan National Forest, next to the protected Hermosa Creek Wilderness, following the creek past open meadows, aspen groves and tall ponderosa pines.

Most riders ride it point to point, starting at the upper trailhead on Hermosa Park Road above Purgatory Resort and finishing at the lower trailhead near Hermosa, north of town. It loses well over 1,000 feet overall, but there are proper climbs along the way, plus loose, rocky and rooty sections, so it suits confident intermediate riders and up.

Local companies run bike shuttles in season, or you can leave a car at each end. You’ll share the trail with hikers, horses and single-track motorbikes, so ride with your head up. Expect creek crossings, and bring plenty of water, a filter and snacks for a long day.

Late June to October is our favourite window, when the high snow has gone and the aspens turn gold in autumn. The area still bears scars from the 2018 416 Fire and Hermosa Park Road has had construction closures, so check access first, then settle in for a big day in the forest.

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