Apr 10
22
Engineer Mountain
Distance: 4.4 miles RT
Elevation Gain: 2300′
Starting Elevation: 10,660′
Rating: Difficult
View From the Top of Engineer
Engineer Mountain is a must for any local to Durango and a rite of passage for those who live here. The peak is very distinct and lies north of Durango Mountain Resort and is easily accessible from Hwy 550 just across the parking lot at Coal Bank Pass. There is a good parking area here but it fills up quickly during the prime hiking months.
If you plan to hike all the way to the top get an early start to avoid the afternoon storms. Over half of this hike is in an exposed area where lightning will be particularly dangerous. Many people hike to the meadow area where the steep climbing begins to enjoy the colorful array of wildflowers during July/August. The mileage mentioned above is for an out and back hike. There are other options if you want to do a longer hike. Check out Hiking Trails of Southwest Colorado for more details about these.
Wildflowers Along Engineer Mtn Trail
If you choose to hike all the way to the top you will be rewarded with far reaching views but be mindful as there are some areas where you will be scrambling over rocks in an exposed part of the trail (not for people that are afraid of heights). This is not a good hike for dogs as the climb over exposed sharp rocks is a little too steep and hard on the paws.
The first part of the hike (1.5 miles) is through a meadow and forest and steadily climbs up until your reach an open tundra area. From this point you will be able to see your destination. The hike continues to climb until you reach the beginning of the actual peak where it is rocky and turns into a steeper trail. Navigating from this point can be challenging as the trail is not always obvious so be mindful and turn back if you’re uncertain about which way to go. You could easily end up in a precarious situation here.
Many people that hike this mountain have to try a few times before they succeed. So, don’t feel badly about turning around and trying again another day.
After this hike, stop in to the village area of Durango Mountain Resort and take a load off at Purgy’s or Creekside Cafe and take a run down the Alpine Slide to cool off on a hot summer afternoon. Durango is the place to go for a tasty dinner at any one of many restaurants such as Red Snapper for delicious seafood or Randy’s if you’re in the mood for steak or seafood.
Gear Recommendations (besides the 10 essentials):
Hydration Pack
Heavy Duty Boots for good ankle support
Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Extra food
Latitude 40 map for Durango Colorado
