Captain Charles H. Baker, who discovered gold in the San Juan in 1860, led a party of prospectors to this area in 1861. They placer mined on El Rio de las Animas, built the first bridge (300 feet north), and established the town called Animas City. It was a mile and a half north of the present site of Durango. Many suffered great hardships. Some perished from the winter storms. When no profitable mines were found the area was abandoned for a decade. Baker joined the Confederate forces during the Civil War. Later he returned to the San Juan where he was killed by Indians. Baker's first bridge was used for half a century.

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The Baker's Bridge crossed the Animas River at this site.

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Missionary Ridge

Motorized vehicles must remain on roads designated with white arrows in the Missionary Ridge Area. In winter snowmobiles are allowed in all areas except the Weminuche Wilderness. For more details please consult a San Juan National Forest map to identify roads, trails, & areas that are open & the type of vehicles permitted.
Weminuche Wilderness
Motorized or mechanized equipment including mountain bikes, wagons, carts, & chainsaws are not permitted in the Weminuche Wilderness. (Wheelchairs are allowed.)

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Welcome to the San Juan National Forest
Travel:
Motorized vehicles must remain on roads designated with white arrows in the Missionary Ridge Area. In winter snowmobiles are allowed in all areas except the Weminuche Wilderness. For more details please consult a San Juan National Forest map to identify roads, trails, & areas that are open & the type of vehicles permitted.
Weminuche Wilderness:
Motorized or mechanized equipment including mountain bikes, wagons, carts & chainsaws are not permitted in the Weminuche Wilderness. (Wheelchairs are allowed.)

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© All Rights Reserved