Ewing Mesa:
Trails 2000 has been actively involved in the Telegraph Trail System
with many behind-the scenes meetings, including the process of a
potential road alignment. Over 14 year ago, Trails 2000 negotiated with
the private property owner to secure trail easements on trails such as
the Meadow, Telegraph, Crites, Sidewinder and Anasazi. Those easements
were deeded to the County in perpetuity with the intention that if the
area were ever developed, the trails would remain (perhaps the
alignment might change). It is important to remember, we have those
trail easements due to the generosity of the land owner. Trails 2000
built and has maintained those trails due to the hard work of the
community members of Durango. Our goal is to continue to work with the
private landowner, the County, City and BLM to fortify the quality and
quantity of trails in the Telegraph Trail System.
We welcome your comments as this long-term process continues. Your input is what will make this process successful.
Horse Gulch Mountain Biking Tour is the perfect trail for EVERYONE. It accommodates beginners or advanced riders, short rides, long rides. You can start this trail any time of day. It gets dark around 7-8pm, depending on the time of year, so you'll want to be done by then. In summer these trails are mighty hot so bring lots of water.
Location: The Horse Gulch/Telegraph Trail head is located just off of 8th avenue and 4th street. If you are coming from the south end of town (past Durango Mall), it will be on your right hand side. Turn off of 8th avenue when you see Building Specialities and Sonic. There is parking on this gravel road by the trailhead. There will be a gate, and paths going around either side. This is the beginning of the ride. You'll start with a half mile climb that many people just walk up. But this walk/ride is worth it. Once up in the meadow, there are signs giving variations of different rides. For rides involving the whole family, or less experienced riders, I would suggest sticking to the "meadow loop". It is relatively short and flat. There are many options for longer rides. The trail is very well marked with trailhead signs at major intersections.
