Description

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.) 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 hike begins by descending the Wagon Trail, which is a pleasure to walk, passing through a beautiful section of woods. 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 hiking 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.