Family-Friendly Bike Trails in Durango
Durango is a cycling town, but you don't need to be racing the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic to enjoy it. There are plenty of flat, paved, and scenic bike trails that work for families with kids of all ages. No technical skills required — just a bike, a helmet, and a willingness to cruise along the river for an hour.
Animas River Trail
The Animas River Trail is the crown jewel of Durango's family-friendly bike paths. This paved trail runs along the Animas River through town for about 7 miles, connecting parks, playgrounds, and downtown Durango. It's flat, well-maintained, and separated from car traffic for most of its length.
You can ride as little or as much as you want, with plenty of stops along the way. Start at the south end near the La Plata County Fairgrounds and ride north into downtown. Or park at one of the riverside access points (Santa Rita Park, Rotary Park, Schneider Park) and ride in either direction.
The trail is busy on summer mornings and evenings — walkers, joggers, cyclists, parents pushing strollers. Stay to the right, call out when passing, and watch for kids and dogs. The trail surface is smooth asphalt, perfect for road bikes, cruisers, and kids' bikes.
What You'll See
The trail follows the Animas River through a mix of residential neighborhoods, parks, and natural areas. You'll pass under historic bridges, ride past Victorian homes, and have constant views of the river and mountains. In spring, the river is high and fast from snowmelt. In summer, it's calm and clear, with kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders on the water.
Multiple parks along the trail have playgrounds, picnic tables, and bathrooms. Santa Rita Park is a favorite — right downtown with access to shops, cafés, and the riverwalk. It's a good midpoint stop for snacks or letting kids play before riding back.
Durango Recreation Path System
Durango's bike path system extends beyond the riverwalk into residential areas and neighborhoods. These paths are paved and separated from car traffic, making them safe for kids and casual riders. They connect schools, parks, and shopping areas, so locals use them for commuting as well as recreation.
The paths aren't as scenic as the river trail, but they're functional and well-maintained. Good option if you want to explore different parts of Durango or need a route that doesn't follow the same out-and-back pattern as the river trail.
Purgatory Flats Trail
While primarily a hiking trail, Purgatory Flats is also bikeable and offers a gentle, forested ride along Cascade Creek. It's not paved, so it's better suited for mountain bikes or wider tires. The trail is relatively flat and easy — about 4 miles one way through pine and aspen forest.
This is a good option if you want to get out of town and into the forest without tackling technical terrain. Kids who are comfortable on bikes can handle it, but younger riders on training wheels should stick to the paved paths in town.
Access is about 25 minutes north of Durango on Highway 550, just south of Purgatory Resort. Parking at the trailhead is limited, so arrive early on summer weekends.
Renting Bikes
Several Durango bike shops rent cruisers, kids' bikes, trailers, and trail-a-bikes. Staff will fit you and your kids for the right size bikes and helmets.
Hassle Free Sports has multiple locations in Durango and at Purgatory Resort. They rent everything from road bikes to e-bikes to kids' bikes and trailers. 2nd Avenue Sports also does bike rentals and has a good selection of family-friendly options.
If your kid is too young to ride independently, rent a bike trailer or trail-a-bike (a half-bike that attaches to the adult bike). Both options let you cover more distance without leaving anyone behind.
Tips for Biking with Kids
Start early. Summer afternoons in Durango can be hot, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August. Morning rides are cooler and calmer.
Bring water and snacks. Even a short ride will make kids thirsty and hungry. Pack more than you think you'll need.
Stick to shaded trails on hot days. The Animas River Trail has tree cover in some sections and full sun in others. Plan your route to maximize shade if it's a hot day.
Don't overestimate endurance. Durango is at 6,500 feet elevation. Even flat trails will tire out kids (and adults) faster than expected. Plan for a shorter ride than you think you can handle, especially on day one.
Helmets are mandatory. No exceptions. Make sure they fit properly — the helmet should sit level on the head, not tilted back.
Where to Stop Along the Way
The Animas River Trail has multiple access points with amenities:
- Santa Rita Park — playground, picnic tables, bathrooms, downtown access
- Rotary Park — playground, open fields, river access
- Schneider Park — baseball fields, picnic areas, parking
- Riverwalk downtown — cafés, shops, restrooms
Stop for coffee or ice cream downtown. Cream Bean Berry on Main Avenue has great coffee and pastries. Durango Natural Foods Co-op has smoothies, sandwiches, and healthy snacks if you need refueling mid-ride.
Combining Biking with Other Activities
Biking in Durango works well as part of a bigger day. Ride the river trail in the morning, stop at a park for a picnic lunch, then head to Durango Rec Center for swimming in the afternoon. Or ride to downtown, explore shops, grab lunch, and ride back.
For more family-friendly activities near Durango, check out our guides to Animas River in spring and Chimney Rock day trips.
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