CO - Durango Terminus Section

The Durango Terminus Section of the Colorado Trail encompasses the final miles of the 486-mile route, descending through the Junction Creek drainage to the official terminus marker in the city of Durango. For thru-hikers who have walked from Waterton Canyon near Denver, this section represents the triumphant conclusion of a journey of several weeks through some of Colorado most magnificent mountain terrain. For day hikers, it offers a satisfying out-and-back or shuttle experience through beautiful San Juan foothills country.

The Junction Creek corridor provides welcome shade under ponderosa pine and Gambel oak after the exposed high-country traverses of the preceding San Juan sections. The trail follows the creek closely through a narrow canyon before emerging near the Durango trailhead and terminus monument. Mountain bikers share the lower sections of this trail, which is also part of the local trail network surrounding the outdoorsy college town. The terminus monument sees frequent celebrations as thru-hikers complete their journeys, sign the register, and absorb the satisfaction of having walked the length of Colorado on this remarkable trail. Durango itself offers excellent restaurants and accommodations for post-trail recovery.