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San Juan National Forest Columbine Ranger District The Hermosa Creek Trail begins near the confluence of the main and east forks of Hermosa Creek. Renowned among mountain bikers, this trail offers a lengthy trip back to Hermosa, mostly paralleling the creek, with great side hikes and loop trips. Toilets, picnic tables, a corral, and a parking area are at the trailhead. This trail is also used by hikers, horses, motorcycles and ATVs. Usually done downhill from north to south, the trail loses 1300 feet but regains several hundred feet south of Dutch Creek, which is bridged. In some years, the south end can be ridden earlier than many higher trails, but you must return the same way. Directions from Durango, Colorado: Take U.S. Highway 550 north from Durango for 27 miles to the Hermosa Park turnoff at Purgatory ski area. Take Hermosa Park Road (Forest Road #578) to the trailhead located by the junction of the east and north forks of Hermosa Creek, 9 1/2 miles from U.S. 550. Seasonal Information: Normally Accessible: Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend .
