
Best Backpacking Destinations in Durango, Durango, Mexico
1. Paraíso Cañón del Río Turbio
Explore the Canyon of River Turbio, offering a unique combination of river rafting and hiking.
- Natural Wonders: Experience stunning waterfalls and towering canyon walls.
- Adventure Activities: Enjoy white-water rafting, rappelling, and hiking.
- Wildlife Sightings: Spot diverse wildlife such as jaguars, pumas, and ocelots.
2. Nahua National Park
Immerse yourself in the pristine wilderness of Nahua National Park for a true backpacking experience.
- Endemic Species: Spot the endangered Durango dusky-footed woodrat.
- High Altitude Trails: Traverse rugged terrain reaching up to 3,000 meters in altitude.
- Cultural Experiences: Interact with local Tarahumara indigenous communities.
3. El Fuerte de Loreto
Backpack through the historical town of El Fuerte de Loreto and discover its rich colonial past.
- Historic Sites: Visit the 16th-century mission and fortress.
- Marine Life: Explore the Sea of Cortez, home to over 900 species of fish.
- Island Hopping: Discover nearby islands like Coronado and Danzante.
4. Canyón del Zorro
Explore the Canyon of the Fox, an off-the-beaten-path backpacking destination.
- Spectacular Landscapes: Experience towering canyon walls and cascading waterfalls.
- Remote Trails: Hike remote trails with few other visitors.
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot foxes, javelinas, and various bird species.
5. Sierra Madre Occidental
Backpack through the Western Sierra Madre mountain range for breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems.
- Biodiversity: Explore diverse habitats, from pine forests to cloud forests.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Challenging Terrain: Traverse steep slopes, cross rivers, and navigate dense forests.
6. Cerro del Gallo
Summit Cerro del Gallo for stunning views of Durango city and the surrounding area.
- Urban Hiking: Hike within the city limits for a unique experience.
- City Views: Enjoy panoramic views of Durango and its surrounding landscape.
- Historic Sites: Visit the historic Zacatecas-Durango highway.
7. El Salto del Agua Verde
Explore the Green Waterfall (El Salto del Agua Verde) and its surrounding jungle.
- Waterfalls: Experience the beauty of the green-tinted waterfall.
- Jungle Trails: Hike through lush, tropical jungles.
- Swimming Opportunities: Swim in crystal-clear pools at the base of the waterfall.
8. Cerro del Cubilete
Climb Cerro del Cubilete for panoramic views and ancient rock paintings.
- Rock Art Sites: Discover ancient rock paintings dating back thousands of years.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Challenging Terrain: Traverse steep terrain and navigate rocky outcrops.
9. Cerro Gordo Mine
Backpack to the abandoned Cerro Gordo mine and explore its historic ruins.
- Historical Ruins: Witness the remnants of a once-thriving silver mining town.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding canyons and mountains.
- Remote Trails: Hike remote trails with few other visitors.
10. El Potrero Chico
Experience world-class rock climbing at El Potrero Chico, surrounded by stunning landscapes.
- World-Class Climbing: Climb routes suitable for all skill levels.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding canyons and mountains.
- Community Atmosphere: Connect with an international climbing community.
11. Grutas de Nombre de Dios
Explore the underground caves of Nombre de Dios and marvel at their stalactites and stalagmites.
- Underground Exploration: Discover an underground world filled with crystal-clear pools and limestone formations.
- Historic Significance: Learn about the ancient Mayan and indigenous cultures who inhabited the area.
- Limestone Formations: Marvel at the incredible stalactites and stalagmites found within the caves.
12. El Sótano de las Golondrinas
Discover El Sótano de las Golondrinas, a massive underground cavern teeming with bats.
- Underground Exploration: Traverse the extensive network of underground tunnels.
- Wildlife Sightings: Spot millions of bats roosting within the cavern.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views from the entrance, looking out over the surrounding landscape.
13. Cerro de la Muerte
Hike Cerro de la Muerte for panoramic views of Durango city and the surrounding landscape.
- Urban Hiking: Hike within the city limits for a unique experience.
- City Views: Enjoy panoramic views of Durango and its surrounding landscape.
- Historic Sites: Visit the historic Zacatecas-Durango highway.
14. El Salto de San Bartolo
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of El Salto de San Bartolo waterfall.
- Waterfalls: Marvel at the breathtaking 150-meter tall waterfall.
- Swimming Opportunities: Swim in crystal-clear pools at the base of the waterfall.
- Jungle Trails: Hike through lush, tropical jungles.
15. Los Huitziros Cave
Discover Los Huitziros Cave and its ancient rock paintings dating back thousands of years.
- Rock Art Sites: Witness the remnants of an ancient culture.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
- Remote Trails: Hike remote trails with few other visitors.