Sure, you love — or live — to run. You pound the city pavement on a regular basis, getting in mile after mile.
And if staying on pavement is your preference, there are plenty of annual road races in the Four Corners region.
But are you up for running on a more challenging trail with twists and turns, elevation gains, and rugged terrain?
These 5 difficult running trails in the Four Corners Region will give you a run (pun intended) for your money. As these trails tend to be more remote, be sure to let someone know where you’re going and when you plan to be back.
Or better yet, grab a friend, lace up your running shoes, and get ready to hit the best trails for those who love a challenge.
Whether your run takes you through town or along tough trails like these, Brown’s Shoe Fit in Farmington has the right shoe for every adventure, including trail running shoes, essential for these outdoor adventures.
Sand Canyon Trail
Trail Info: Out & Back; 12.4 miles; 1,918-foot elevation gain
Head out on this 12.4-mile out-and-back journey near Cortez, Colorado. Considered a challenging trail in the Four Corners Region, the initial part of the hike starts off relatively easy, but the last stretches pose a more significant challenge.
This trail is a favorite spot for bird watchers, hikers, and horseback riders, meaning you’re likely to meet other people on your run. The ideal months to run this trail are from March to October. Dogs can join the fun, provided they are leashed. Be sure to carry plenty of water with you since the route is mainly unshaded.
The Sand Canyon Trail offers stunning canyon vistas, scenic views, pleasant sunny conditions, and clear trail signs. Along the way, you’ll encounter Ancestral Puebloan ruins before reaching the summit. Numerous detours branch off the main trail, inviting further exploration of the area. This particular trail continues beyond the standard markers to San Canyon Pueblo.
Hermosa Creek Trail from Hermosa
Trail info: Point to point; 18.6 miles; 2,791-foot elevation gain.
Regarded as a demanding trail due to the length and elevation gain, the Hermosa Creek Trail near Durango, Colorado, is known for being well-maintained and having convenient nearby parking. Even though it’s demanding, you’ll enjoy scenic views and a few small creek crossings as you tackle this trail.
It’s popular with backpackers, bird watchers, and campers, but it can offer moments of tranquility, especially during less busy times. It remains accessible throughout the year and is a picturesque setting in any season. Dogs are allowed, with some sections permitting them to roam off-leash (be sure to pick up after them to avoid spreading diseases to wildlife).
It’s worth noting that the first part of the trail has little shade due to previous fires. The trail’s terrain is well-maintained, featuring minimal inclines. Encounters with wildlife and wildflowers are a bonus feature of this trail in the Four Corners Region.
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First Fork and Red Creek Loop Trail
Trail info: Loop; 9.5 miles; 2,319-foot elevation gain.
Located in the San Juan National Forest, about 11 miles from Durango, this challenging trail offers beautiful scenery, wildlife viewing, and plenty of shade. Although it’s a great spot for bird watching, hiking, and horseback riding, it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people on your run. In the spring, you can count on seeing wildflowers and mountain views, making it worth the effort. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas.
Sunlight Peak via Animas River Trail and Needle Creek Trail
Trail info: Out & back; 34.0 miles; 10,236-foot elevation gain.
This trail is for the toughest of the tough and should only be attempted by experienced hikers or runners. But if you’re an ultra-marathoner and want to challenge yourself by running in the Four Corners Region, then this is for you.
Near Durango, Colorado, this is a popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping. The best times to visit this trail are June through September. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas. Because of the elevation, you can expect plenty of snow in the winter. It’s more important than with other trails mentioned here that you take plenty of water and snacks, and dress for the weather.
For a tough trail like this, make sure your shoes are up for the challenge. Stop by Brown’s Shoe Fit in Farmington on your way to this trail. They’re sure to have a pair of trail running shoes that will be perfect for this adventure.
Colorado Trail to Gudy’s Rest
Trail info: Out and back; 9.1 miles; 1,309-foot elevation gain.
Explore this beautiful trail near Durango, Colorado. Often described as moderately challenging due to its length and elevation gain, it shouldn’t pose too much of a challenge for avid runners and hikers. Because it’s a popular trail for hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing, you’ll probably run into a few other hikers or runners on your outing.
The trail is open year round, providing a picturesque setting in every season. In the San Juan National Forest, dogs that respond to voice commands can be off leash in many sections, though it may be safer for them and wildlife if they stayed leashed.
The Best Shoes for Outdoor Adventures
Every experienced runner knows there’s no substitute for good running shoes, but shoes designed for running on asphalt or sidewalks aren’t the best fit for trail running. Trail running footwear can handle the rough unpaved trails, ensuring a good grip as you move across rocky surfaces or other uneven areas. Brown’s Shoe Fit in Farmington caters to runners in the Four Corners Region, offering an extensive selection of footwear for either city runs or adventures on more demanding trails.
