Hiking from Twin Lakes to the summit of North Eolus took 2 hours, 45 minutes. This will lead to the trail to Chicago Basin and the beginning of the climb. This is a popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Needle Creek Trail #504 to Chicago Basin, CO Hike There was another group who did this, and the train staff didn't seem to have any problem with it (we had paid for a RT ticket anyway). You then pass over the continental divide twice and the train picks you back up. Online reservations will be available soon. Planned on doing South Peak as well but conditions were too snowy/icy for me. To prevent damage to your own and others equipment, we require objects such as ice axes, crampons, and fishing equipment to be enclosed in a protective covering. The Chicago Basin Hike | A Stunning Hike Into the Mountains - 10Adventures For information regarding trail conditions, to acquire a trail map, or to purchase back country insurance (highly recommended), contact the U.S. Forest Service at 970-247-4874. 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. This popular trail leads to beautiful, high subalpine lakes nestled meadows blanketed with wildflowers in late summer with sweeping views of the majestic Grenadier Range. Our new hooded version of the Filament has the same design as the popular hood-less version and a DWR-treated shell of ultralight 10D Pertex Quantum GL keeps moisture away from premium 800-fill down inside. 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. Highly recommend! Im assuming forest service will clear this soon. 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. Be aware that as temperatures increase, snowmelt swells every creek and river making crossing challenging or even impossible. I'd definitely had Sunlight (class 4) and Windom ("hard class 2" according to me). 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. Too many people and not enough camp spots. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas. 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. Some route finding on the way to the top to Eolus. We camped here and summited North Eolus the following day (we were wanting to summit Mount Eolus as well, but once we got to the saddle between the two, Mount Eolus looked way more exposed and precarious). We highly encourage the consumption of coffee on our programs. This is a few blocks away from where you board the train. However, after the first couple of miles and adjusting to altitude, I love it! I was feeling brave so I decided to go with the 4:30 am start, figuring that if I was running late I could run the downhill from Chicago Basin to Needleton. is_confirmation;var mt = parseInt(jQuery('html').css('margin-top'), 10) + parseInt(jQuery('body').css('margin-top'), 10) + 100;if(is_form){jQuery('#gform_wrapper_13').html(form_content.html());if(form_content.hasClass('gform_validation_error')){jQuery('#gform_wrapper_13').addClass('gform_validation_error');} else {jQuery('#gform_wrapper_13').removeClass('gform_validation_error');}setTimeout( function() { /* delay the scroll by 50 milliseconds to fix a bug in chrome */ jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery('#gform_wrapper_13').offset().top - mt); }, 50 );if(window['gformInitDatepicker']) {gformInitDatepicker();}if(window['gformInitPriceFields']) {gformInitPriceFields();}var current_page = jQuery('#gform_source_page_number_13').val();gformInitSpinner( 13, 'https://mtnguide.net/wp-content/plugins/gravityforms/images/spinner.svg' );jQuery(document).trigger('gform_page_loaded', [13, current_page]);window['gf_submitting_13'] = false;}else if(!is_redirect){var confirmation_content = jQuery(this).contents().find('.GF_AJAX_POSTBACK').html();if(!confirmation_content){confirmation_content = contents;}setTimeout(function(){jQuery('#gform_wrapper_13').replaceWith(confirmation_content);jQuery(document).scrollTop(jQuery('#gf_13').offset().top - mt);jQuery(document).trigger('gform_confirmation_loaded', [13]);window['gf_submitting_13'] = false;wp.a11y.speak(jQuery('#gform_confirmation_message_13').text());}, 50);}else{jQuery('#gform_13').append(contents);if(window['gformRedirect']) {gformRedirect();}}jQuery(document).trigger('gform_post_render', [13, current_page]);} );} ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_3" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Experience this 17.4-mile out-and-back trail near Silverton, Colorado. Train to Needleton stop. Vallecito Creek is challenging to ford, and is especially dangerous during the spring runoff (mid May through Mid June) but also prepare for afternoon thunderstorms throughout the summer. A midlayer for anything from ski tours to alpine ascents, the CoEfficient Hoody features Polartec Power Dry High Efficiency fleece with a gridded interior for increased wicking performance and added breathability. Pine River to Emerald Lake: The Pine River alternates between meadows and canyon, frequently flowing peacefully on the flat valley floor. Incredible hike all told, with amazing views, up-close wildlife, and streams/creeks the whole way. There were at least 5 if not 6 avalanche debris fields on the Elk creek trail. The day after that we hiked out. Packs will be loaded and stored in a boxcar under the supervision of the train crew. Book This Great trail and great mountains. Essential for all of our programs. Be prepared to spend on average 5 days to complete the loop, and make the proper arrangements. You must flag the train to signal to the engineer that you wish to board. In 2020, SJMA wilderness volunteers rose to the challenge of skyrocketing visitation by patrolling busy trails to promote Leave No Trace principles, distribute REStop bags to prevent human waste from polluting the backcountry, clean graffiti from rocks, and to remove trash from our trails. The 8:15am Silverton Diesel excursion will service all short stops for wilderness access through August 13. ) or https:// means you've safely Elk Park Train Stop to Needleton: 42 Reviews, Map - AllTrails San Juan Mountain Guides connected to the .gov website. The elevation is what makes this so hard. Route Information Backcountry Campground No When to do May-September Pets allowed Yes - On Leash Family friendly No Route Signage Average Crowd Levels Low Route Type Out and back Chicago Basin Hike Elevation Graph From either vantage point, a commanding panorama of the Needle Creek drainage is possible. This trail is often used as an approach for climbing the four 14ers found in the Needle Mountains. There are no southbound stops at Needleton for departures from Silverton. The darker the better. An excellent investment for all of our programs. There are two ways to get into the Chicago Basin - a looong hike in from Purgatory or a ride on the Durango Silverton Train. This is a popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Box 2261 (mailing) 15 Burnett Court (physical) Durango, CO 81302 970.385.1210 info@sjma.org, 2018 - All Rights Reserved - San Juan Mountains Association | Web Design by Sweet P Web Development, The Continental Divide Trail traverses more than 3,000 miles from New Mexico to Canada, with more than 80 miles within the Weminuche Wilderness. Durango Silverton Train - Best Way To Get To The Chicago Basin What a trip! There are plenty of flies and bugs along the trail, so dont forget the bug repellent. Pack it for those days where you need just a touch of down insulation, or on those cold days on the chairlift when an extra layer might be crucial. Built for flash-storm protection, the 100% waterproof, super-breathable Helium II weighs an incredibly light 6.4 ounces. There are many different ways to get involved with our stewardship efforts in the Weminuche Wilderness. Had never seen so many mountains (we're from OK). The trailhead for the Chicago Basin Hike can be found at the Needleton Flagstop along the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Today well have the opportunity to explore Chicago Basin and potentially hike a 14er, Windom Peak (14,083 ft.) if weather allows. The under-the-helmet hood and full-length zipper let you regulate temperature on the go, so you dont find yourself overheating a half hour into the day. Parking is $10.00 per day for passenger cars and $15.00 per day for RVs. Needleton trail from train drop to chicago basin is in pretty good shape except for 2-3 avalanche patches towards the top. Then made my way back down to my camp at 12:30pm, packed up, and hauled butt back to the 3:45pm train, made it to train stop by 3pm. Heading to a 14er soon? Avalanche debris was cleared. Was able to summit 3 out of 4. We camped in the Chicago Basin, which was about a five hour hike from the train stop including a lunch break. It does not pay medical transport which includes helicopter flights or ground ambulance. San Juan National Forest - Needle Creek Trail (504) - US Forest Service We ride the narrow gauge train to the Needleton stop, where our trek will begin. We took the train on a Thursday to Needleton, backpacked up too Chicago Basin that night, and allowed for climbing peaks on Friday and Saturday. By following this drainage downstream for 8.5 miles, it is possible to hike up Johnson Creek for a little over five miles to Columbine Pass. If you are planning a trip to the Chicago Basin area during this time, you will have to share your wilderness experience with quite a few other people. The catwalk is much more low key than the YouTube video makes it look. The downed trees in forums were cleaned up and the trail was very well maintained. Same spirit, same guts, and same award-winning hybrid-mapped design of the Cathode Hooded Jacket, minus the sleeves and hood. Funds remaining at the end of the year are used to help pay for training and equipment for these teams. The only southbound option for wilderness access will be Elk Park. At the Divide, the trail connects with the Continental Divide Trail. Please remember, Colorado weather can change in an instant, so always be prepared for heat or cold, rain or snow! Choose your footing wisely here as rocks will shift and fall away. It was quite a workout, but well worth it. One stream crossing after the Vallecito bridge about mid calf. Taking day hikes with your loaded backpack at a local park will help train your legs for the mileage you will do in the mountains. 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. 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. Hop aboard to be the first to hear about upcoming events, specials, and train news. We meet at the San Juan Mountain Guides office in the afternoon or early evening in order to go over equipment, food, and logistics issues for the following morning. The best time to visit the Weminuche is early July through mid-September. I realized after spending 30 years in the San Juans, I havent put a dent in the terrain Last section of Sunlight Peak. The trail connects Wolf Creek Pass approximately 30 minutes east of Pagosa Springs, CO to Stoney Pass near Silverton, CO by traveling through the rugged beauty of both the San Juan and Rio Grande National Forests. A mecca for climbing, hiking, cycling, and foodies; make sure you plan to spend some time in town before and after your SJMG trip. The Weminuche Wilderness faces a lot of challenges and if we as a community dont stand up for the Weminuche, nobody will. It was chilly at night dropping below 30 but we had enough gear and food. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock Wilderness Access - Official Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad The trail from basin up to any of the 4 peaks is impossible to find due to heavy snow coverage still. The Boosters reversible design lets you choose. Route NOTICE: Starting 2019, only trains starting from Durango will drop hikers off at the Needleton stop. I got injured jumping off the bridge there, so we couldn't complete the hike north over hunchback pass, and down Elk creekwe were kinda bummed. My experience was only the indoor climbing gym and small, simple hiking excursions around my hometown. The trail connects Wolf Creek Pass approximately 30 minutes east of Pagosa Springs, CO to Stoney Pass near Silverton, CO by traveling through the rugged beauty of both the San Juan and Rio Grande National Forests. Did this route from July 28 to August 3. The fourth day we hiked from Chicago basin to the needleton train stop, which was an easy ~7 miles downhill. We did this trip in September. Backpacking from the Train - Official Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge No conditions reported in the past 7 days. The Weminuche, named after one of the seven bands of Ute people who made the Southwest Colorado Rockies their home, was designated by Congress in 1975, and expanded by the Colorado Wilderness Acts of 1980 and 1993. Legendary San Juan local @sbrunso said it best: The traverse showed me things I had never seen before. We know that by working together, doing the hard work on the ground, and the slow work of building a wilderness conservation ethic, that we can protect the amazing wild character of the Weminuche for ourselves and for future generations. Of the 14 of us that started out for the summit, 12 reached the top; the two that didn't summit suffered from altitude sickness or a fear of our height. ( Supported by the Weminuche Wilderness Stewardship Fund, the San Juan Wilderness Stewardship Crewprovides a boots on the ground education and stewardship presence in the wilderness to improve access, restore damage, and enhance the visitor experience. While out hiking the trail, you will work your way through the forested basin alongside Needle Creek, before making the final push through the alpine landscape to reach the shores of the Twin lakes. Many hotels offer a free shuttle pickup. The delightful mountain towns of Durango, Silverton, Pagosa Springs, South Fork and Creede surround and provide access into the wilderness. This is a very popular area for camping, fishing, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Chicago Basin comprises the upper portion of the Needle Creek watershed in the Needle Mountains (Colorado), . wow! As always, being in excellent physical shape is an important component of our our programs. Summited at 10:30am. Ran I to some bad weather that chased us out on the 2nd day but we saw a few moose on this trail. 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. We ended up finishing around 5pm on the 5th day, so instead of waiting around for the return train to Durango on day 6, we took the train to Silverton for lunch, then rode the whole return trip to Durango. A cap of 15 people per party exists with a total cap of 9 parties per day at Needleton. The fund also supports SJMAs volunteer ranger program, which equips and trains local volunteers, empowering them to give back to the Weminuche. From here, we hiked the 6 miles to get to Chicago Basin and our camping spot. Each year this area receives about 10,000 visitor use days. In 2020, SJMA wilderness volunteers rose to the challenge of skyrocketing visitation by patrolling busy trails to promote Leave No Trace principles, distribute REStop bags to prevent human waste from polluting the backcountry, clean graffiti from rocks, and to remove trash from our trails. This hike is definitely a good one! Head out on this 17.4-mile out-and-back trail near Silverton, Colorado. Outfitter-guides who receive any form of compensation must obtain a special-use permit to operate on public land. From Highway 550, the Molas Trail winds its way down 4 miles to the Animas River and the entrance to the Weminuche. Anyone who purchases a current hunting/fishing license, or boat, snowmobile, ATV registration already contributes to the fund. Although I can't say much about the route we took, I can definitely say this is not for the faint of heart. These special areas require the visitor to be mentally and physically prepared to take nature on its own terms and to be able to travel without mechanical transport. The most difficult/technical part of the climb was sort of bouldering, but basically scrambling up a pile of rocks-not difficult, but also not a walk in the park. Columbine Pass and Chicago Basin probably were the highlights of the trip -- incredibly high and scenic alpine country. Chicago Basin is easily spotted as it's where the trees clear out and you're met with a grassy meadow with patches of trees to camp under. Wilderness Access is only available during our summer season which runs May-October. Molas Lake to Animas River via Molas Trail, Vestal Basin via Colorado and Elk Creek Trail, Stony Pass, ATV Trail 821, and Cinnamon Pass OHV Route. Absolutely incredible! It makes a stop (when requested) at Needleton, a location near the confluence of Needle Creek and the Animas. We did North Eolus instead, which had more of those large granite boulders that took us to the top. 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. Elevations range from 8,000 feet at trailheads to over 14,000 at the peaks. Cardiovascular activities such as running, swimming, and cycling are great to build heart and lung endurance. Found it really hard to find camping and the usfs map of the basin didnt seem to match closures of where you can camp. This pack is well suited for weekend excursions or quick overnight forays when you are toting less than 40 pounds. Get fit for summer with our fitness planning guide! During its peak period of use (July 4th through Labor Day), Chicago Basin is crowded by wilderness standards, and campsites can be hard to find. Once you have taken in the views and had your fill of exploring the rugged, mountainous terrain, you will follow the same route back downhill through the Chicago Basin to return to the trailhead where you began your lengthy adventure. Spruce beetle infestations and avalanche falls have led to thousands of downed trees that block trail access and affect local ecosystems. On our final day well hike to the top of Columbine Pass in the morning to enjoy some incredible scenery then pack up and hike out via the Needle Creek Trail where well eventually meet up with the train at Needleton and the finish of our trek. and found Eric and Whitney resting quietly just off the path leading to the bridge. Unless you have a current Season Pass there is a freight charge per backpack ($15). Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. All freight itemsmust be properly tagged with ownership and destination. Check out our trail access page for more information. Local: 970.325.4925 Follow the fork east along Needle Creek for approximately 0.75 miles. SILVERTON DEPARTURES:You will be booked on one of the afternoon trips out of Silverton and arrive at Elk Park flag stop about 30 minutes after leaving Silverton. I'll be doing this loop this September 2023 except in reverse. There are a lot of trees down throughout the Johnson Creek and Needle Creek drainages - another hiker counted 155 trees across the trail on the way down from Chicago Basin to Needleton, but it looks like the FS is working their way up, clearing from the bottom up. 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 consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. The boundary of the Weminuche Wilderness is 2.7 miles up the trail, the fishing is fantastic. The Silverton Steam excursion departing at 9:00am will not service any wilderness stops. It is 6.6 miles from Needleton to Chicago Basin. The trees down are no joke - this probably added an hour to our day. Some of these areas can be accessed via a narrow gauge train that runs between Durango and Silverton. Be sure to check for both your SOUTHBOUND and NORTHBOUND trips!SEATING:You will be booked SPACE in a standard-class car but specific seat assignments will be provided by the conductor when you board the train.
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