Cappie’s Scoop: I’ve been on different parts of the Colorado Trail and this part climbed up the mountains which was really cool! There weren’t a lot of trees but the weather was good so I didn’t need the shade. I saw some hoomans on mountain bikes and they were going very slow up the hills so I had time to say hello as I ran past them. Mom and I agreed that the next time we go back, we will hike much farther on this trail to see what else is out there! Don’t hesitate to add YOUR scoop in the comments below!

Tips: We parked our car and started this hike at Molas Pass just south of Silverton. The summit parking lot is at 10,912 ft, has gorgeous views and connects to the Colorado Trail. You could also start this trail at the Little Molas Lake parking lot near the campground. The difference is less than a mile from our start and you avoid crossing highway 550. But we wanted to hike past the lake so that’s why we started at the summit lot. The incline up into the mountains is very gradual and not steep at all but we rated it moderate due to the elevation you start at. You can take this trail all the way to Durango but we decided to only hike a portion and return the way we came.

Directions: From the town of Durango head north on US-550 for about 40 miles until you see the turn off on your right for Molas Pass Overlook/Summit parking lot.

Cappie’s Scoop: So much space to zooom but mom said we had to stay on the trail and for a good reason. There were hoomans on bikes and on horses so it’s good that I stayed close to mom. It was very sunny out and I remember finding a very good tree to stand under for some shade. I think mom and I should come back here when it’s snowing because I could run very far and in big circles in this big area! Don’t hesitate to add YOUR scoop in the comments below!

Tips: This 1,500 acre area was designated to preserve archaeological sites associated with the basketmaker culture. Please leave all artifacts and fossils where you find them, and leave structures intact. Note some of the ruins are closed to the public. There are a number of trails in this area that criss-cross and connect so you can make your own loop. Mountain bikers and horses also use these trails so keep your eyes open especially if your dog is off-leash. We agree with rootsrated.com that this would make a great area to snowshoe or cross-country ski!

Directions: From the town of Durango, head north on Main Street and turn left on W 25th Street which becomes Junction Street. Once Junction Street turns into Junction Creek Rd/CR 204, take it for almost 2 miles and then turn right onto CR 205. After another 2.5 miles, you’ll see a small dirt parking lot next to several large boulders and a sign for the Falls Creek Archaeological Area. You can park here, or continue up the road to several other small parking areas.

Cappie’s Scoop: This trail is very tricky. I went down the trail very quickly because it was all downhill to the cool river. You have to be very careful being next to the river because there is a train track. Mom said the train does use the track so we should not get close at all to that area. So we explored the river and I got my paws wet. Then it was very tough to go back because it’s all uphill. So take is slow furiends on this trail and save your energy for the way back! Don’t hesitate to add YOUR scoop in the comments below!

Tips: We parked our car and started this hike at Molas Pass just south of Silverton. The summit parking lot is at 10,912 ft, has gorgeous views and connects to the Colorado Trail. This was a reverse hike (so to speak) as all the elevation gain was on the way back. So we hiked down to the river for a great view and then back up the steep trail. There’s a wooden bridge to cross the river and it brings you next to the train tracks. Please stay clear of the tracks and do not cross them. There is an active train coming through multiple times per day which is really cool to see! In fact, we wish they allowed dogs on the train but if you get a chance (without your pup), take a train ride for some authentic railroad history dating back to 1882. For more info, www.durangotrain.com.

Directions: From the town of Durango head north on US-550 for about 40 miles until you see the turn off on your right for Molas Pass Overlook/Summit parking lot.