Needleton is a popular trailhead for hiking into the Needle Mountains. Coffee is the lifeblood of champions. So beautiful with many waterfalls and accessible water along the way. We like the Spatha knife for its size, weight, versatility, and ability to clip onto a harness. We recommend wide mouth Nalgene (or similar) water bottles for the majority of our programs. Trailhead Location - Needleton Trailhead (Train Stop) or Purgatory Trailhead. Mechanized means of transport are not permitted (mountain bikes). It has been our group's favorite for several years. If symptoms persist, seek medical aid. Continue another 2.5 miles to reach the junction with the Animas River and the Animas River Trail. Packs will be loaded and stored in a boxcar under the supervision of the train crew. Advance Registration is required for this program. They were all well marked but took extra time to navigate. All participants must read and sign an Assumption of Risks/Liability Waiver and agree to our Reservations and Cancellations Policies. The top of Columbine Pass is the end of Needle Creek Trail and beginning of Johnson Creek Trail #821, which descends over 3,500 feet in 7 milesto Vallecito Creek. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Coal Bank Pass to Engineer Mountain Summit Hike. We did North Eolus instead, which had more of those large granite boulders that took us to the top. Select a pair that fits well, is warm, and is comfortable. Our trek group of 6 - ages ranging from 17 to 64 years. Give our office a call at 800-642-5389 if you have any questions about what would suite you best for this trip! The day after that we hiked out. Needleton Stop Needle Creek Trail: Originating at the former mining camp of Needleton, Needle Creek Trail climbs along an old stage road that follows its namesake seven miles into Chicago Basin. This is a unique experience and adds an interesting start and finish to our trekking trips unlike any other in the US. On day two, we encountered an even larger debris field between Beaver Pond and the ascent to the miner's shack. Each year this area receives about 10,000 visitor use days. Mulaz outsole with a technical edging platform and aggressive rear lugs for superior traction. Distance - 21 - 38 miles round trip (33.80 - 61.26 km) Elevation gain - 8,913 - 12,329 feet (2,716.68 - 3,757.88 m) Duration - 15 to 25 hours (book time) Hike Class: Class 3. This is a few blocks away from where you board the train. While it did have some beautiful parts, Particularly at the top of the Continental Divide and Columbine Pass, I was disappointed by the avalanche debris in the first 6 miles and the lack of trail maintenance on the section below hunchback pass to the Vallecito Bridge. Owing to its easy access via the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, its proximity to three of Colorados 14-ers, and its scenic beauty, Chicago Basin is a very popular backpacker destination in the Weminuche Wilderness. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 6 min to complete. Made it down and across the rocky gully - this was certainly my least favorite part as there were little cairns and you got to pick your own adventure over slabs of various sized rocks at pretty quick gains. I carried 2 liters but could've gotten away with 1 bottle. It was chilly at night dropping below 30 but we had enough gear and food. Weve chosen a couple more popular routes to highlight below, but if you study a map, you will see the endless backpacking trails and route possibilities within the Weminuche. Manage Settings Situated in the Needle sub-range of the Rocky Mountains, at 4,287 m, Sunlight Peak is one of three fourteeners in the area alongside Windom Peak and Mount Eolus. Featuring a lengthy overall distance, rugged terrain, and plenty of elevation gain, the Chicago Basin Hike is a challenging adventure that will require experience and a good degree of planning. The Silverton Steam excursion departing at 9:00am will not service any wilderness stops. Legendary San Juan local @sbrunso said it best: The traverse showed me things I had never seen before. Don't be afraid of Mr. T. A good pair of wrap around sunglasses are an essential item for all of our trips. Gain access to the San Juan National Forest and the Weminuche Wilderness for backpacking, day hikes, rafting, and fishing trips via the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad during the summer season. Backpackers with plenty of time on their hands might hike the Divide Trail north to either Stony Pass or the Highland Mary Lakes area.Vallecito Creek Trail:Heading south, the route leads to Hunchback Pass and from here to the upper end of the Vallecito Creek Trail. Trip, Outdoor Research Filament Hooded Down Jacket, Outdoor Research Stormtracker Sensor Gloves, Longs Peak: Rocky Mountain National Park. Other articles such as groceries and extra equipment will be also be handled as freight and additional charges will apply based on weight. Ended up summiting North Eolus instead. https://youtu.be/2iDmEsqbobA. Summited at 10:30am. The new BD Distance series poles are light, collapsible, and adjustable. Originating at the former mining camp of Needleton, Needle Creek Trail climbs along an old stage road that follows its namesake seven miles into Chicago Basin. Two friends of mine and I did this backpack in 1995. Stable construction and 2.5-inch thickness offer greater comfort for a full night of sleep, so you won't feel the uneven, rough terrain beneath you. From either vantage point, a commanding panorama of the Needle Creek drainage is possible.Chicago Basin:Aside from its splendid hiking terrain, Chicago Basin also serves as a base camp for mountain climbers intent on scaling summits. The Colorado Trail passes through the Weminuche from Stony Pass to Molas Pass as it links 486 miles of trails from Denver to Durango. This is an optional item on our programs. Unless you have a current Season Pass OR originate in Silverton, there will be a freight charge per backpack. Needle Creek to Chicago Basin: Accessed from the Needleton Train Stop or the Animas River Trail, this well-maintained trail climbs steadily up Needle Creek for approximately 5 miles to Chicago Basin. Coming down from hunchback pass we had to climb over or around several (and I mean several) trees that were across the path. Be sure to bring any necessary equipment and supplies for a long journey into the mountains. The trail is always very clear and easy to follow. Camping is not allowed within 100 feet of any water source. The San Juan and Rio Grande National Forests maintain hundreds of trails for these activities outside the wilderness boundary. Nine miles long, the route climbs 3,760 feet to the Continental Divide.Continental Divide Trail:At the Divide, the trail connects with the Continental Divide Trail. A secondary route climbs steeply to Twin Lakes. This pack is well suited for weekend excursions or quick overnight forays when you are toting less than 40 pounds. Its relatively easy to walk over/around them, but be patient and expect a slight delay. Needle Creek Trail:Originating at the former mining camp of Needleton, Needle Creek Trail climbs along an old stage road that follows its namesake seven miles into Chicago Basin. A small knife is an indispensable tool to carry with you in the mountains. By purchasing a CORSAR card you are contributing to the Search and Rescue Fund, which will reimburse these teams for costs incurred in your search and rescue. On day three, we made our way up and over the Continental Divide and into the beautiful meadow just below Hunchback Pass. Parties must book together. Will definitely be back to try again and spend more time here - amazingly beautiful hiking area. My two 15 year olds and I just completed it mid July 2021 and it took us five days. Backpackers with plenty of time on their hands might hike the Divide Trail north to either Stony Pass or the Highland Mary Lakes area. Recent avalanche activity over the winter/spring created several debris fields that required us to do some significant trailblazing. (970) 247-4874, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sanjuan/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=43092&actid=50, Minimumelevation: 8,230 feet (Needleton train stop), Maximum/ending elevation: 12,680 feet (Columbine Pass). Take some time here to explore the area surrounding the alpine lakes while also soaking up the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including the three nearby fourteeners: Mount Eolus, Sunlight Peak, and Windom Peak. #climbing #mixedclimbing #sanjuans #mountains #ice #icefestival #iceclimb #winter #eureka #climbing_photos_of_instagram #climbice #ice #rockymountains #alpinist #colorado #whorehouse #steepice #climbing_is_my_passion #alpine #optoutside #mountains, Shredding in the San Juans with Guide Jason Denley There are many different ways to get involved with our stewardship efforts in the Weminuche Wilderness. Big snow storm coming in tomorrow, winter conditions expected for rest of year. Altitude Elevations in the Weminuche range from 7,000 to 14,000 feet. Cell phone service is limited. However, a good pair of trekking poles is a worthy piece of gear to have with you for long approaches or treks through the mountains. Please refer to the Short Stop Table (to be added) to determine which train will be stopping at your desired flag stop on the date you will be boarding. Have a fear of being closed in or perhaps a wide set of shoulders? FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. The catwalk is much more low key than the YouTube video makes it look. We will meet at the San Juan Mountain Guides office at 0730 and then proceed to the Durango and Silverton Railroad Station where we board the historic Narrow Gauge Train. Animas River seen from Needleton Suspension Bridge. While phones these days offer excellent quality, nothing beats the reliability of a dedicated digital camera. Here, you will exit the dense cover of the forest and pass through a sparsely wooded meadow, continuing uphill alongside Needle Creek for another 2.6 km. The basin is a popular spot for climbers and backpackers and is home to three Colorado Fourteeners (mountains over 14,000 feet). Hiking Colorados Weminuche and South San Juan Wilderness Areas: A Guide to the Areas Greatest Hiking Adventures. The summit provides quite a view of various 14ers, Elk Park basin, Sunlight, Windom, and a couple alpine lakes. The Weminuche is home to three of Colorados 14ers, Mount Eolus (14,083 ft), Sunlight Peak (14,059) and Windom Peak (14,082 ft), as well as multiple peaks over 13,000 ft. With the continental divide running through the heart of the Weminuche Wilderness, this area is the headwaters for the 5 rivers: Los Pinos (The Pine), Piedra, San Juan and Animas rivers on the west of the continental divide and the mighty Rio Grande river on the east side. Durango has a number of great hotels, suites, and vacation rentals for you to stay in while youre in the area. For trekking trips in Colorados Weminuche Wildernessyou should be ready for: Durango is located in the SW corner of Colorado, at the intersection of the sandstone towers of the desert, and the jagged, San Juan Mountains. Brandon why didnt you ask for Tiffanys number??? Our 3 day 2 night Chicago Basin Backpacking/Trekking trip is an excellent introduction to wilderness trekking, and a great way to see the incomparable Chicago Basin in a relatively short period of time. We loved this trail and would highly recommend! If I were to do it again, I wouldve done a few more miles the first day - theres a nice campsite before the first peak. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. The darker the better. #sanjuanmountainguides #thelocalexperts #ouray #silverton #powderday #powderskiing #mountains #adventure #winter #skimountaineering #skirando #colorado #skitour #getoutstayout #rockymountains #skimo #ski #splitboarding #backcountryskiing #earnyourturns #adventurelife #springskiing #skiingislife #skitouring #optoutside, Family ski outing with guide @brooklynwarren Once at the saddle, choose which mountain to summit (or do both). Backpackers and hunters may arrange for firearms to be transported as freight. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); gform.initializeOnLoaded( function() {gformInitSpinner( 13, 'https://mtnguide.net/wp-content/plugins/gravityforms/images/spinner.svg' );jQuery('#gform_ajax_frame_13').on('load',function(){var contents = jQuery(this).contents().find('*').html();var is_postback = contents.indexOf('GF_AJAX_POSTBACK') >= 0;if(!is_postback){return;}var form_content = jQuery(this).contents().find('#gform_wrapper_13');var is_confirmation = jQuery(this).contents().find('#gform_confirmation_wrapper_13').length > 0;var is_redirect = contents.indexOf('gformRedirect(){') >= 0;var is_form = form_content.length > 0 && ! Disposal of human waste and wash water is prohibited within 100 feet (35 adult steps) of any water source. Click here for more information on parking.SILVERTON:You are invited to park your vehicle at our Silverton Depot on 10th& Cement Streets at no charge. Due to the popularity of the Weminuche Wilderness, it is important to choose your camp wisely. Once up the scree field, the trail picks up again on the right hand side but isn't always obvious. United States. The correct method is bywaving your hands horizontally across your knees. Every mountain we encountered was amazing! We covered the .8 miles back to the Needleton bridge in about 20 mins. You have the option to either call our office and register via phone or utilize our secure Online Reservation System. Chicago Basin comprises the upper portion of the Needle Creek watershed in the Needle Mountains (Colorado), . My group did it in 5 days, but I would recommend giving yourself 6 or 7 so you aren't having to push yourself to get to the train on time. The Outdoor Research Echo Hoody also offers good sun protection. The trees down are no joke - this probably added an hour to our day. Similar to the base layer top. Operating under special use permit in the San Juan National Forest and the Grand Mesa/Uncompahgre National Forest Denali National Park Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Silverton BLM Moab BLM. All in all beautiful scenery and a great hike. There was a new amazing view after every turn. I was a little nervous after getting dropped off at the trail via train and watching it ride away! Exposure on both sides but beautiful weather. The four debris fields we crossed we scary enough. As a visitor, you must be able to exist with what you can take in (and out) and rely on your own outdoor skills. the train ride in makes this trail even more epic! Be aware that as temperatures increase, snowmelt swells every creek and river making crossing challenging or even impossible. But always be aware of thunderstorms and get an early start when summiting a mountain! City of Ouray Ouray Ice Park Ouray Via Ferrata. It is obvious where people have camped so be sure to follow suit. wow! With its jagged peaks, mountain sides blanketed with wildflowers, cascading waterfalls and endless creeks, streams and rivers filled with fish, the Weminuche Wilderness is a dream-come-true for backpackers and mountaineers. Fog and trees seen from Chicago Basin. All summits in the Rocky Mountains require varying amounts of mountaineering skills; those attempting any of them should be mindful of the hazards of afternoon thunderstorms, sudden drops in temperature, and precipitous terrain. Do not be drawn up the climbers trail to the twin lakes between Eolus, Sunlight and Windom. Two 1 liter bottles is the standard for days in the mountains. 1-877-872-4607 Sign Up To Receive Our Emails The best times to visit this trail are May through September. Don't forget the 14ers.com mobile app. You may want to drop off the rest of your party and gear closer to the train and then park the car. Located in Southwest Colorado, the Weminuche Wilderness area (pronounced whem-a-nooch) is the largest Wilderness area in Colorado, spanning 499,771 acres across the San Juan and Rio Grande National Forests. Elevations in the Weminuche range from 7,000 to 14,000 feet. Spruce beetle infestations and avalanche falls have led to thousands of downed trees that block trail access and affect local ecosystems. Click here to find out more about the Backpacker Special CALL FOR RESERVATIONS! Day 1: Needleton -> Chicago Basin Distance: 7.4 mi Elevation: 3,773 Time: 4:40 hrs Day 2: Chicago Basin -> Sunlight & Windom Peaks Distance: 6.2 mi Elevation: 4,352 Time: 12:40 hrs Day 3: Chicago Basin -> Needleton Distance: 7.4 mi Elevation: -3,773 Time: 3:30 hrs Colo 14er Rank: #39, #32 Difficulty: Sunlight - class 4, Windom - class 2+ + There are a few small stream crossings and some muddy areas but overall good conditions. Route. There are two other peaks very close by and it is possible to do all three in one day. #sanjuanmountainguides #thelocalexperts #ouray #silverton #powderday #powderskiing #mountains #adventure #winter #skimountaineering #skirando #colorado #skitour #getoutstayout #rockymountains #skimo #ski #splitboarding #backcountryskiing #earnyourturns #adventurelife #springskiing #skiingislife #skitouring #optoutside #coloradogram #visitcolorado, Be sure to check out @skimagazine and the article by @tesswstrokes for an awesome feature on our hut-to-hut-to-hut adventure, The Million Dollar Traverse!Combining the epic terrain between the @opushut @redmtnalpinelodge and @haydenbackcountry this is a one of a kind trip in the heart of the range. Posted on August 4, 2022 by jim. Download Agreement, Release, and Acknowledgement of Risk: Drive to Durango and follow signs to the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The three tallest 14,059 foot Sunlight Peak, 14,084 foot Mount Eolus and 14,087 foot Windom Peak are the most popular climbs, but there are many other peaks offering mountaineering challenges and scenic wonder. Thanks again. There are 3 bridges at around 3 miles, 5.5 miles and 7 miles. To reach Chicago Basin, use the Approach Page. At the higher elevations, winter snow can last until early or even mid-July. This hike is definitely a good one! We took the Durango train to the Needleton train stop ($116 round trip, must purchase over the phone). NOTICE: Starting 2019, only trains starting from Durango will drop hikers off at the Needleton stop. We made it to Chicago Basin and I made it to the "saddle" of Sunlight peak before talking myself out of going up the rest of the way (regretting it to this day). Book This We saw deers, elk, mountain goat, beavers. Want to report conditions for this trail? There are 31 trailheads providing several hundred miles of maintained trails, including sections of the Colorado Trail and the Continental Divide Trail. Stopped about 150 feet from the peek to turn around and glad we did - rain rolled in and made the trails very sleek and muddy.
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