Date: October 6, 2018
Distance: 3.8 mile loop, 700 ft elevation change
Rating: Easy
Wildlife: Owl (likely a Great Horned), deer
This was a great hike to do in the fall! It would also be a good one in the summer with kids and/or dogs as it travels along a creek alot of the way. There is also no strenous climbing. The trail rises and falls which is a nice change from the mountains.
The trail starts northeast of Mancos in the transfer campground. Take Hwy 160 from Durango about 30 miles, turning right at the light in Mancos onto CO 184. Less than half a mile on the right is the turn onto West Mancos Rd. After 10 miles, turn right into the campground. Drive in a little ways and park in the area that looks like this:
Behind you will be the trailhead. Already there is a nice view of the La Platas!
Follow the trail down hill towards the west fork on the Mancos River. The trail winds through a lovely aspen grove. It was cloudy and damp when I was there and it reminded me of New England.
Turn right at the sign (the West Mancos trail goes left)
The walk along the river is beautiful with many nice picnic spots and swimming holes.
The trail winds up and down, then past a water project that is fenced in. Just after that, the trail meets a dirt road and the Box Canyon Trail. Take this uphill to the right to head back.
About a half mile uphill to another dirt road. Stay to the right at the clearing. You will be following the Rim Trail for the what I think was the best part of the hike! The sign had an arrow pointing left to the Rim Trail, but take the single track (more trail looking) way to the right or you will miss the views.
The Rim trail alone would even be a great option for someone not wanting to walk as far or downhill. It can be started in the Transfer Campground as well. Did I mention the views?!? The La Plata mountains can be clearly seen.
The range includes Sharkstooth, Centennial and Hesperus peaks
The rim trail will lead back to an overlook with some history and information plaques and the road. Take is to the right a short distance to the parking area.
Enjoy the hike! Let me know what you think after you go 🙂
Getting there is ALL the Fun 