The best running trails in Bor - Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area
4.7
(7)
666
runners
107
runs
Jogging in Bor - Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area offers a diverse landscape for runners. The region is characterized by the expansive Lake Nighthorse, the winding Animas River, and surrounding hills, providing a mix of flat paths and more challenging inclines. Running routes often follow the lake shore or riverbanks, with some trails ascending into the nearby mountainous terrain. This area provides varied running experiences, from gentle lakeside loops to routes with significant elevation gain.
Best jogging routes in Bor -…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.20km
00:27
60m
60m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
20
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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20
runners
11.6km
01:15
80m
80m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
runners
14.8km
01:52
360m
360m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
runners
6.41km
01:00
370m
370m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Bor - Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area
Tips from the Community
Dec. 1 through Apr. 15, the trail beyond this point (the actual summit of Smelter) is closed for wildlife protections. Please respect the winter closure.
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Dallabetta Park offers super-good views and facilities that are hard to match. The park has picknicking areas, a visitor’s center, and rest rooms. It is also the trailhead for the Animas River Trail.
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Located southwest of nearby Durango, Colorado, Lake Nighthorse is a great place to enjoy a myriad of recreational activities. It is one of Colorado’s newest man-made lakes that is open to the public. The Lake, for the most part, is surrounded by forests, ranches, and private properties. For the cyclist, it just makes a great relaxing place to have a break, even some food, while you look out over this beautiful lake. There are picnic benches available.
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The trail begins as singletrack and climbs from the gravel trailhead until you hit the ridge. Here there is a forest road to maintain the radio towers along the ridge. Once you hit the road the route is fairly level to the peak and offers fantastic views of Durango and the surrounding summits from the ridge.
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The Ridges Basin Dam is 270 feet tall and was filled in 2011 to create Nighthorse Reservoir. The epic name comes not from legend but from the middle name of a Colorado senator. The lake covers an old Pueblo/Anasazi site.
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Lake Nighthorse is owned and operated by the Parks and Recreation Service and is a fee area. The trails at the lake are smooth, double-track roads closed to motor vehicles. You can purchase a day-pass at the lake, or you can buy a season pass at the Durango Community Recreation Center. There is plenty of beach access close to the parking area.
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The road is wide and well maintained and hugs the Animas river across from the Animas River Trail. You get fantastic views of the river and of town from a few elevated portions of the road. There is not much shoulder at times but the turns are shallow so it is fairly easy to be seen by cars.
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The Animas River Trail totals more than 7 miles in one direction and hugs the Animas River the entire time. The entire path is paved with a few wooden bridge crossings. These southern miles are more secluded and include far fewer road crossings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available in Bor - Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area?
There are over 100 dedicated running routes in the Bor - Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. You'll find everything from easy lakeside loops to more challenging trails with significant elevation gain.
Are there easy jogging routes suitable for beginners or a relaxed run?
Yes, the area offers 14 easy jogging routes. A great option for a relaxed run is the Lake Nighthorse Trail, which is 2.6 miles (4.2 km) long and provides scenic views along the lake's edge.
What are the options for longer or more challenging running trails?
For those seeking a longer or more challenging run, there are 68 moderate and 26 difficult routes. The Animas River and Horse Gulch Loop is a popular difficult trail, covering 9.2 miles (14.8 km) through varied terrain including river paths and gulches.
Are there any running routes that follow the Animas River?
Absolutely. The Animas River Trail is a moderate 7.2 miles (11.6 km) path that follows the river, providing a relatively flat and consistent surface ideal for a steady run. Another option is the Oxbow Park and Preserve – Animas River Trail loop.
Can I find loop routes for jogging in this area?
Yes, many routes in Bor - Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area are designed as loops. For example, the Animas River and Horse Gulch Loop offers a comprehensive circular experience through diverse landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the running trails?
The region offers a diverse landscape for runners. You can expect a mix of flat paths along the lake shore and riverbanks, as well as more challenging inclines and mountainous terrain in areas like Smelter Mountain.
What do other runners enjoy most about jogging in Bor - Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Runners often praise the diverse scenery, from the expansive Lake Nighthorse to the winding Animas River, and the variety of routes catering to different fitness levels.
Are there any specific trails that offer great scenic viewpoints?
Many routes provide excellent scenic viewpoints, particularly those that ascend into the surrounding hills or follow the lake's edge. The Lake Nighthorse Trail is known for its beautiful lake views, while trails like Smelter Mountain offer panoramic vistas of the region.
Is Bor - Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area suitable for family-friendly running?
Yes, the area has several easy routes that are suitable for families. The flatter sections along the lake and river, such as parts of the Lake Nighthorse Trail, are generally well-maintained and offer a pleasant experience for all ages.
Are there dog-friendly running trails in the Bor - Lake Nighthorse area?
Many trails in the Bor - Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area are dog-friendly, though it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash and check specific trail regulations before heading out. The natural environment provides ample space for you and your canine companion to enjoy a run together.
What is the best time of year for running in Bor - Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area?
Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant running conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late evening runs are often preferred. Winter running is possible, but some trails may be icy or snow-covered, requiring appropriate gear.
Are there any hidden gems or less-trafficked running paths?
While popular routes like the Lake Nighthorse Trail are well-loved, exploring some of the 26 difficult routes or less-known segments of the Animas River trails can lead you to quieter, more secluded running experiences away from the main crowds.
Most popular routes in Bor - Lake Nighthorse Recreation Area
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