Description

8,346-foot Perins Peak soars above downtown Durango, but hikers often forget about it because it's only open four months per year: August 1 to November 30.

However, if you manage to hike Perins Peak within that narrow window, you'll be richly rewarded! Since many hikers forget about this peak, you're unlikely to encounter much foot traffic on your way to the summit, " which creates a wonderful sense of calm and immersion in nature," according to [DurangoTrails.org](https://www.durangotrails.org/trails/perins-peak-trail). The hike winds up the flanks of the peak on an "easy-to-follow footpath [which] wanders through gambel oak and ponderosa pine habitat," according to Debra Van Winegarden on [DurangoHerald.com](https://durangoherald.com/articles/96379).

After gaining the top of the ridge, the hike slowly rolls up to the viewpoint at the end. The overhang at the edge of the mountain, "which is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Durango due to its sheer, dropping cliffside and jutting ledge, provides the perfect setting for incredible pictures and a place to relax while you enjoy the view of town," according to [DurangoTrails.org](https://www.durangotrails.org/trails/perins-peak-trail).

From the top of the mountain, you'll enjoy views of Downtown Durango and the [Hogsback](https://fatmap.com/routeid/2685423/hogsback-ridge/@37.6675647,-107.6767744,91202.7371131,-56.6280748,0,2648.0927383,normal) in Overend Mountain Park far below you.

The Hogsback is impressive in its own right, and now you get to look down on it from above! Once you've had your fill of the views, return to the car the way you came.

Take care to return via the same route, as there are several different paths to the top of Perins Peak, and you could very well end up on the other side of the mountain. Sources: [DebraVanWinegarden.blogspot.com](http://debravanwinegarden.blogspot.com/2015/09/perins-peak-8346-durangos-landmark.html) [DurangoHerald.com](https://durangoherald.com/articles/96379) [DurangoTrails.org](https://www.durangotrails.org/trails/perins-peak-trail)