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Hike These Top-Rated Trails in Southwest Colorado

Southwestern Colorado is home to some of the most highly regarded hikes in the country. With picturesque mountains, pristine alpine lakes and vibrant wildflowers, hiking here is an experience that you don’t want to miss. Whether you’re new to hiking or an experienced hiker, there’s a trail for everyone. Read on to learn about five of the top rated trails in Southwest Colorado.

Purgatory Trail

Located in the Hermosa Creek Wilderness Area, Purgatory Trail is worth checking out. Approximately 1.25 miles in, hikers can stop to take in the inspiring vantage point that offers sweeping views of Lime Creek and Animas River. At this point, you can turn back around or, if you’re feeling adventurous, continue on for a nearly 9-mile hike to the Animas River. 

Potato Lake Trail

Situated between Durango and Silverton, Potato Lake Trail comprises a relatively short and sweet trail at just over three miles. Hikers will enjoy scenic views of the lake the whole way, with plenty of spots to sit down and rest, snap photos or enjoy a picnic. 

Falls Creek Loop

If you’re looking for an option that is suitable for the whole family, then be sure to check out Falls Creek Loop. This 4.1-mile loop trail, located in the San Juan National Forest, is complete with beautiful waterfalls, luscious forest views and a colorful array of wildflowers. 

Ice Basin Lake

Located in the San Juan National Forest, Ice Basin Lake is known for its spectacular views. The hike is found just outside of Silverton, which is approximately a one hour drive from Glacier. Throughout the 8.3-mile round trip trail, explorers will enjoy views of two lakes, meadows filled with wildflowers and a handful of waterfalls.

Looking Back: The History of Our Glacier-Carved Landscape

From the past to the present, Glacier has been synonymous with endless adventure and an abundance of beauty. Tucked away in the San Juan Mountains, Glacier offers a getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. To understand how Glacier became what it is today requires taking a step back in time. Read on to learn about the community’s storied history and how it became the sought-after destination it is today.

Back to the Beginning

Spanning the Continental Divide, the San Juan mountains are known for their mesmerizing beauty and jagged volcanic summits, 13 of which tower to over 14,000 feet. This area is home to snow-capped mountains, alpine lakes and lush rolling green hills. Minutes away from Glacier sits the town of Durango, a quaint, historic town that was founded in 1881. The town was established by the Denver & Rio Grande Railroad and operated as a hub for the San Juan mining district. 

The Formation of Glacier​​

 In the early 1970s, Glacier’s sprawling property was home to a series of hotels, a convention center, meeting facilities and a ski area. In 2001, everything changed when Rick Carlton purchased the property with dreams of creating a new vision. Carlton set out to create a private, luxury club in the undeniably beautiful Southwest Colorado. Since then, Glacier has blossomed into an impressive real estate development filled with modern, sleek homes and homesites for sale. An ode to the past, the club embraces the region’s western history.

A Look Into the Present 

Today, Glacier Club celebrates its 17th year as one of the most reputable residential locales in the Rockies. It is known for its one-of-a-kind community, picturesque beauty and plethora of activities and adventures for the whole family. No matter the season, there is always something exciting taking place here. 

Residents and visitors have access to two golf courses, two state-of-the-art clubhouses, three swimming pools, casual and fine dining options, tennis and pickleball courts. Start your morning off with 36 holes of golf and end your evening dining at the Mountain Clubhouse, Glacier’s premier member basecamp. The epitome of mountain living, Glacier Club is a haven for nature enthusiasts.