From Chapman, the trail heads north uphill, crossing three water bars. Stay to the left at the fork and go along the power line to the first switchback. Then climb up switchbacks to Lion's Den, a log and stone structure built in the 1930's, which offers great views (including an overlook of Durango). City playgrounds and barrier-free restrooms are located .5 mile south. The trail then heads south on the west side of Rim Drive beside Hillcrest Golf Course to the top of Chapman Ski Hill. The trail then drops steeply north back to the parking lot.
Directions from Durango, Colorado: CHAPMAN HILL ACCESS: In Durango, follow East Third Avenue northeast to merge with Florida Road (County Road #240). Continue .4 mile and turn right into the north end of Chapman Hill Ski Area parking lot. The trail is located between two green buildings past the fence's north end. Take the single track just south of the larger green building. FORT LEWIS COLLEGE ACCESS: In Durango, follow East Third Avenue northeast to merge with Florida Road (County Road #240). Continue 1.7 miles, turning right onto College Drive. Follow uphill for 1 mile and take the second right west onto Rim Drive. Follow for .5 mile to the edge of the mesa. Turn left into the first dirt parking area to your right. Or turn right and follow Rim Drive north to Lion's Den where off-road parking is available on the left.
Seasonal Information:
Normally Open:
Early Spring through Late Fall .
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