Durango Short Loop

Along with the Durango Long Loop, the Durango Short Loop is a self-guided tour within an easily accessible section of Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument. 

At 1.8 miles, this hike is about a half mile shorter in length than the Long Loop, and traverses much of the same area. Beginning at a signed trailhead with a scannable QR Code that offers information corresponding to different areas along the trail, the path descends into the unqiue formations formed by the wash. The trail tends to stick to a simple route with the geologic formations at a short distance to either side, however hikers get a view of the eroded formations and can choose to walk over and explore.

The trail soon reaches a fork with the longer loop trail - the short loop veers left and heads through additional landscape at the low area of the wash. A couple signs encouraging user participation in monitoring the area pop up along the way. The trail emerges from the wash and soon curves back toward the trailhead. This is a simple walk with views of the immediate formations, along with the larger mountains that stand to the north and west of the monument area. 

Hikers should be aware that there is no shade and no water or bathrooms available along this route.