Purgatory Trail & Animas River Trail junction

The Purgatory Trail is generally considered a moderate hike. It involves a descent through forested gulches, often alongside Cascade Creek, and can be approximately 8.8 miles roundtrip if starting from the Purgatory Resort area. The terrain is natural and unpaved, transitioning to the paved, multi-use Animas River Trail once you reach the junction.

Yes, the Purgatory Trailhead can be accessed from Tacoma Drive near US-550 or from the Purgatory Community Center and Park near Twilight Lake. Parking availability can vary, especially during peak seasons, so arriving earlier in the day is often advisable.

The Purgatory Trail itself, being a moderate hiking trail with natural terrain, may be challenging for very young children or strollers. However, once you reach the junction and connect to the Animas River Trail, it is a paved, multi-use path that is highly accessible and suitable for all ages, including those with strollers, offering a family-friendly experience along the river.

Generally, dogs are welcome on both the Purgatory Trail and the Animas River Trail. However, it is always recommended to keep them on a leash and to practice Leave No Trace principles by cleaning up after your pet. Specific regulations may apply in certain sections, so check local signage.

The warmer months, typically late spring through early fall, offer the most pleasant weather for hiking and enjoying the river. To potentially see the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad steam train, visiting during its operating season (generally May through October) increases your chances, as the tracks run alongside the Animas River at the junction.

While there are no specific facilities directly at the Purgatory Trail & Animas River Trail junction itself, the Animas River Trail, which stretches through Durango, offers access to various parks and the community recreation center where restrooms and water sources may be available. It's advisable to carry your own water, especially when hiking the Purgatory Trail.

The forested areas of the Purgatory Trail and the riparian zone along the Animas River are home to various wildlife. Hikers might spot deer, elk, various bird species, and smaller mammals. Keep an eye out for raptors overhead and listen for the sounds of the forest and river. Always maintain a respectful distance from any wildlife encountered.

While the Purgatory Trail is primarily an out-and-back route to the junction, once you reach the Animas River Trail, you can extend your journey significantly. The Animas River Trail is a multi-use path stretching over 7-9 miles through Durango, offering numerous options for longer walks, runs, or bike rides. You could create a longer loop by utilizing other connecting trails within the Durango trail network, though a direct loop back to the Purgatory Trailhead is not readily available at the junction itself.

The Animas River Trail runs directly through the heart of Durango, providing easy access to a wide array of amenities. From the junction, heading south along the Animas River Trail will lead you to downtown Durango, where you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, pubs, breweries, and various accommodation options, including hotels and inns.

Winter hiking can be possible, but conditions will vary significantly. The Purgatory Trail, being a natural surface trail, may be covered in snow or ice, requiring appropriate gear like microspikes or snowshoes. The paved Animas River Trail is often plowed or sees enough foot traffic to remain passable, but icy patches can still occur. Always check local trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out in winter.