In town
Animas River walks in Farmington
A river walk is a good way to give a driving holiday a slower hour. Choose the section, not just the destination.
Choose an access point first
Farmington’s river trail network connects parks and local attractions; Animas Park and Berg Park are established access points. The visitor bureau describes a mixture of paved, dirt, wood-chip and cobblestone surfaces. This is a network to explore in sections rather than one uniform, fully paved promenade. The official trail listing and linked maps are the starting point for choosing an entrance.
Make an out-and-back plan
For a first visit, choose one access point and return the same way. Decide your turnaround time before setting off, keeping some margin for rests and photographs. A loop can be attractive, but it is less flexible if a crossing is closed or a path surface proves unsuitable. Note the name of the park where you left the car instead of relying on a generic river pin.
Match the surface to the group
If anyone uses wheels or finds uneven ground difficult, identify the actual segment and ask about present conditions. “Riverside trail” does not describe gradient, bridge approaches or the surface after bad weather. Treat an accessible parking place and an accessible walking route as separate questions. For young children, select a turnaround landmark that does not depend on reaching the far end of a long circuit.
A quiet wildlife stop
The trail corridor is used by birdwatchers, and the Riverside Nature Center is one of the places connected with the park system. Bring binoculars if you have them, keep a comfortable distance from animals and let observation set the pace. There is no need to turn a short walk into a species-counting exercise. Keep children close beside the water and use designated paths.
Fit it around the rest of the day
We suggest pairing one short section with a meal or a museum, rather than using it as another timed attraction. Check park notices before you leave and change the plan if the conditions are poor. The museum guide offers a different way to spend a slower day.
Check before you go
Official sources reviewed on 24 September 2026. Opening arrangements, access and conditions can change; use these links for your travel date.