FATMAP by Strava

Haviland Lake: Wagon - Aspen Loop

Durango

A great four-mile loop on the flowiest trails at Haviland Lake.

Trail Running Moderate

Distance
6.7 km
Ascent
156 m
Descent
156 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
2.4 km
High Point
2.5 km
Gradient
Haviland Lake: Wagon - Aspen Loop Map

The trails at Haviland Lake aren't renowned as the best running 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.

Description

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.)

The route mapped here is a four-mile loop through the trail system that combines two of the most popular trails: Wagon and Aspen Loop.

The run begins by descending the Wagon Trail, which is a pleasure to blast down, passing through a beautiful section of woods and running over some small rock gardens and roots.

After suffering up a short but steep climb on Chris Park, you'll connect to Aspen Loop via Lech and Hermosa View. These trails in the interior of the network provide decent up-and-down running with small obstacles to overcome. Soon, you'll take a right to connect to Haviland View.

The Haviland View Trail also hides some short, punchy climbs and descents, but this section is also filled with gorgeous wildflowers to help you keep your mind off the suffering. Before you know it, you'll be back at the trailhead.

Difficulty

Moderate

Low Exposure

1 out of 4

The path is on completely flat land and potential injury is limited to falling over.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between May and October

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area