Haviland Lake: Outer Loop
Circumnavigate the small but scenic Haviland Lake Trail System.
Difficult Hiking
- Distance
- 9.3 km
- Ascent
- 252 m
- Descent
- 252 m
A beautiful loop visiting the Miners Trace Waterfall.
Hiking Moderate
The trails at Haviland Lake aren't renowned as the best hiking trails in the Durango area, but they're awfully convenient if you happen to be camping at the Haviland Lake Campground. And for those who are willing to investigate, they also hide some beautiful sites and peaceful spots.
This trail system is extremely popular with horseback riders, largely thanks to the nearby Bears Ranch stable that offers guided horseback rides. However, the stable is closed at least one day per week—on Sundays in the summertime and Mondays in the fall—providing a perfect window of opportunity for hikers and runners to get out on the trails. (Note: even though commercial rides won't be happening, you can still encounter horses on these trails.)
This route combination has one objective: visiting the beautiful little waterfall along the Miners Trace trail! This cascade is tucked away in a small rocky ravine below the trail, providing a beautiful destination that offers surprising beauty in this small, underrated trail system.
The Miners Trace trail itself is a fairly rocky trail with rock gardens, ledges, and small slabs. A few sections of the trail are a bit exposed, too, providing views and a delightful airy feeling. At the bottom, you'll pass some old mine sites from whence this trail receives its name—complete with an informational sign.
This route recommendation loops back up to the trailhead on the Wagon Trail—one of the nicer trails in this network. The return climb is pretty mellow and scenic, although without the beauty of the stream. Alternatively, you could also choose to hike an out-and-back route to the waterfall without doing the loop.
Moderate
Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.
Circumnavigate the small but scenic Haviland Lake Trail System.
Difficult Hiking
18 m away
This mellow hike to Forebay Lake is a sleeper hit, located just outside of Durango.
Easy Hiking
36 m away
Connect a series of beautiful trails together at Haviland Lake for a fantastic four-mile loop.
Moderate Hiking
2.7 km away
A beautiful fall hike with stunning views from the top of the ridge.
Difficult Hiking
6.8 km away
An approachable hike leads to a stunning view point from the top of Castle Rock.
Difficult Hiking
9.8 km away
Traverse a stunning, isolated mountain valley.
Moderate Hiking
10 routes · Alpine Climbing · Hiking