Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. A required item on the majority of our programs, a baseball cap helps to keep harmful sun off your face. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. We opted for the Durango Silverton train, and I booked tickets back in April to get us choice seats in the first-class Knight Sky car. The trail was beautiful but I felt anxious because of the confusion with camping. We recommend it as long as you are ready to stay 7 days in the backcountry! What a trip! PS. Parking is $10.00 per day for passenger cars and $15.00 per day for RVs. Absolutely incredible! We ride the narrow gauge train to the Needleton stop, where our trek will begin. Weminuche Wilderness Stewardship Fund: In 2019, SJMA launched the Weminuche Wilderness Stewardship Fund with the goal of empowering the local community to give back to our most treasured wilderness. 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. We met others that were completing this 36-40 mile trip as we were walking into the wilderness from Needleton. Parties must book together. They were all well marked but took extra time to navigate. The trail is always very clear and easy to follow. The Western Mountaineering MegaLite 30 Degree Sleeping Bag large cut sleeping bag for bigger folks or those seeking plenty of space. Altitude Elevations in the Weminuche range from 7,000 to 14,000 feet. 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. Waterproof Gore-Tex abrasion resistant polyester uppers with a patented TPU Thermo Tech Application. 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. Met amazing people and followed the creek for photography shots. As it typically goes in Colorado, just as you think you are accomplishing something big, a trail runner comes in from Purgatory trail that morning and does all four WHILE finding the energy to run back 16 miles. Columbine Pass and Chicago Basin probably were the highlights of the trip -- incredibly high and scenic alpine country. 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. : The Pine River alternates between meadows and canyon, frequently flowing peacefully on the flat valley floor. Feel free to text me at 616-443-9183. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock This 850+ down fill sleeping bag has a 64" shoulder girth and 39" foot girth. This is great, loved it! There aren't any roads to the trailhead so you have two options. 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. Thanks again. The soft yarn blend will provide a cozy sanctuary throughout winters chill. 15 Burnett Court The best times to visit this trail are July through September. 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. 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. Donations to this fund go directly to educate wilderness visitors and implement on-the-ground stewardship projects in the Weminuche. I'll be doing this loop this September 2023 except in reverse. Monday through Wednesday itineraries typically provide a slightly quieter experience in Chicago Basin and take advantage of the fact that in summer, your travel plans or work schedule might be a bit more relaxed and flexible. Funds remaining at the end of the year are used to help pay for training and equipment for these teams. Next morning at 7:30am I pushed up to Twin Lakes and then up to North Peak of Mt Eolus. There is a permanent fire ban for Needle Creek and all of its headwaters therefore there is no campfires or wood stoves in the Needle Creek/Chicago Basin area. 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. My two 15 year olds and I just completed it mid July 2021 and it took us five days. Have a fear of being closed in or perhaps a wide set of shoulders? Online reservations will be available soon. San Juan National Forest - Needle Creek Trail (504) - US Forest Service Needleton is now a flag stop on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. There was a new amazing view after every turn. Bookings must be made by phone. I'll never forget it. Check trailhead signs or Forest Service Offices for site-specific camping, campfire, and livestock regulations. For more information on accessing Chicago Basin, the San Juan Mountains and the Weminuche Wilderness area visit our Wilderness Access page here. Chicago Basin to Mount Eolus - AllTrails.com To exit we kept walking all the way to Purgatory. Don't be afraid of Mr. T. A good pair of wrap around sunglasses are an essential item for all of our trips. Trail conditions often change rapidly; please be well prepared! This is a long out-and-back hike, so make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks. Dont forget to use a wag bag. Be aware that as temperatures increase, snowmelt swells every creek and river making crossing challenging or even impossible. In my opinion its gonna be months before the snow melts and trails are accessible and even then there are a ton of trees that will still need to be cut and moved off the trail. Low-profile GORE WINDSTOPPER. Call our reservation office for dates and times of other flagstops. Although I can't say much about the route we took, I can definitely say this is not for the faint of heart. 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. Difficulty - Extremely Strenuous. Updated for touchscreen compatibility, the StormTracker Sensor Gloves are equally at home alpine climbing, ski touring or ice climbing. Dogs - Allowed. This hike covers 34 miles and involves more than 8,000 feet of climbing. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Trail: Chicago Basin from Needleton Needleton Elevation: 8,212 ft. Camp Elevation: 11,000 ft. . Our most popular items are: Whether you are a peak bagger, fly fisherman, avid backpacker, nature lover or all of the above, the Weminuche is a dream-come-true. Hiking The Elk Park/Needleton Loop Weminuche Wilderness 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. Hop aboard to be the first to hear about upcoming events, specials, and train news. The correct method is bywaving your hands horizontally across your knees. We had a couple of long days and some short days with lots of time to relax. 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. Rio Grande Southern Galloping Goose #5 Excursions, K-28 100th Anniversary Fall Photo Special, Ghost Crawl: Haunted Durango Train Museum Experience, http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/sanjuan/wilderness. The tough but stretchy, breathable but wind-resistant Ferrosi fabric stays cool during long approach hikes, moves with you while talus wrangling and high-stepping on the sharp end, and blocks wind during long hours of belaying up high. 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. Throw in access via an old steam-engine, narrow-gauge train and it becomes clear why this area grows in popularity every year. It took us 7 days to complete it. is_redirect && ! The best spot for camping was at Kite Lake, worth waking up to see the sunrise reflected on the lake. At that point, one of our trek members sustained a significant ankle injury. Durango, CO 81301 Ran I to some bad weather that chased us out on the 2nd day but we saw a few moose on this trail. To prevent altitude sickness, pace yourself, drink water, and eat snacks. Highlights were kite lake, columbine pass, and Chicago basin. Mulaz outsole with a technical edging platform and aggressive rear lugs for superior traction. Mt. Eolus - Chicago Basin Approach | Route | 14ers.com The Weminuche Wilderness area offers a variety of outdoor activities for adventurers of all ages and abilities, from multi day backpacking excursions to day trips on horseback or peaceful mornings with the fly rod. So beautiful with many waterfalls and accessible water along the way. The Boosters reversible design lets you choose. and found Eric and Whitney resting quietly just off the path leading to the bridge. Camping restrictions around Twin Lakes (accessed from Chicago Basin). The catwalk is much more low key than the YouTube video makes it look. Amazing views that are worth the effort. Be prepared for a lot of bugs and rain. #thelocalexperts #backcountryelevated #milliondollartraverse #ouraycolorado, 2022 San Juan Mountain Guides All Rights Reserved | Website by, Peru: Chopicalqui and Yanapaccha Expedition, Nepal: Ama Dablam and Kyajo Ri Expedition. 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. Cardiovascular activities such as running, swimming, and cycling are great to build heart and lung endurance. The second day we did ~13 miles which included two peaks with kite lake in between. The trail from Chicago basin was beautiful and full of goats every turn. United States. Debris form 2020 avalanches on the elk park section have been cleared but theres quite a bit of fallen trees blocking the needle creek trail out of the Chicago Basin. We strongly recommend advanced booking to assure seating. The trainride from Durango to Needleton is approximately 2.5 hours. Check local Fire Restrictions / Activity before you go: SJMAs online store provides many maps and guidebooks to help you plan your Weminuche adventure. 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. Avalanche debris was cleared. The downed trees that had once covered the trail in early June have since been cleared for the most part. The fund also supports SJMAs volunteer ranger program, which equips and trains local volunteers, empowering them to give back to the Weminuche. I just completed this route the July 11-15, 2022. Durango Silverton Train. The trails were easy to follow and well marked all the way up to Twin Lakes and on to the top of N. Eolus. Durango has a number of great hotels, suites, and vacation rentals for you to stay in while youre in the area. The trailhead for the Chicago Basin Hike can be found at the Needleton Flagstop along the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. 1 - 2 Large, durable bags for oragnizing and transporting your gear during airline travel etc. Hiking The Chicago Basin 14ers - San Juan Mountains, Colorado Anyone who purchases a current hunting/fishing license, or boat, snowmobile, ATV registration already contributes to the fund. Needleton train stop: Ride in on the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Currently there are no permits required for recreational activities in the Chicago Basin. The trailhead for the Chicago Basin Hike can be found at the Needleton Flagstop along the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Extremely durable and lightweight 3D Flex insert for excellent ankle mobility Vibram. This allows you to pick the cheapest days to fly if your trip allows flexibility and score cheap flight deals to Needles. Insulating water bottle parkas are recommended in the winter months, for ice climbing or cold weather alpine trips. I realized after spending 30 years in the San Juans, I havent put a dent in the terrain The best times to visit this trail are May through September. While it may be long and challenging, the Chicago Basin Hike is a beautifully scenic route that will expose you to some of the most beautiful views in Colorado. Mt. 1 2 3 4 5 6 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. Additional information websites:Weminuche Wilderness Trip Planning Information:http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/sanjuan/wilderness. From there, the Elk Creek Trail heads 9 miles though the Weminuche to a junction with the Continental Divide trail, past iconic peaks of the Grenadier Range including Arrow, Vestal, and the Trinity Peaks. After climbing through the basin, you will push up a steep slope to arrive at the shores of two stunning alpine lakes with gorgeous mountain views. Purgatory Flats trail heads straight down a series of switchbacks through a forest filled with aspen and xxx with the occasional view of the surrounding peaks (Twilights and Spud Mountain). 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. Give our office a call at 800-642-5389 if you have any questions about what would suite you best for this trip! Again, a lot of trees were down that we had to circumnavigate. You must flag the train to signal to the engineer that you wish to board. Two friends of mine and I did this backpack in 1995. We recommend wide mouth Nalgene (or similar) water bottles for the majority of our programs. Last section of Sunlight Peak. So minor experience is okay, but only if you have experienced guides and are in good physical condition. Trail to Chicago Basin. A really incredible trip with unbeatable views! An excellent investment for all of our programs. (we were going from Needleton to Elk Park). People may be added to a reservation but will need to supply the reservation number and let reservations know that they are adding to an existing reservation.From Flag stops:Unless you purchased your round trip tickets in advance, flagstop tickets originating from either Needleton or Elk Park must be purchased from the conductor (exact fare) at the point of origin on a space-available basis. Elk Park Train Stop to Needleton Train Stop is a 36 mile moderately trafficked point-to-point trail that features beautiful wild flowers. Excellent trip, lots of varied terrain, meadows, forests, small mountain ponds and lakes, avalanche tree slides, large and small rock slides, multiple high passes with great views. Disposal of human waste and wash water is prohibited within 100 feet (35 adult steps) of any water source. Chicago Basin area was very pretty, and not too crowded with tents. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. (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). Guiding and instruction with an AMGA Certified/Trained Guide, Group camping and cooking equipment (tents, stoves, etc. Took the train from Durango and got off at Needleton. Coming down from hunchback pass we had to climb over or around several (and I mean several) trees that were across the path. For more in depth information, check out the Continental Divide Trail Coalition webpage. We are early 50s, fairly fit experienced hikers from Durango, and we gave ourselves 5 nights/6 days. We reached the summit around 11 AM and headed back shortly after-about 12 hours round trip. If you are making multiple payments, a group leader can book a reservation that other members of the party will call to add with their reservation number. See also 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. We camped at ~9300 ft. Small town but free parking unlike Durango. At its core is a moisture-managing microfiber fabric that is wind resistant and able to control odor. Had to climb over a hundred trees, no joke. The Chicago Basin Hike is a challenging, but non-technical, adventure in the San Juan Mountains that will take you uphill for stunning views of the alpine terrain. Incredible hike all told, with amazing views, up-close wildlife, and streams/creeks the whole way. Serious Tallis and scree if youre between groups - missed the morning rush window and caught 6 people on their way down. We almost made the summit of Mt Eolus but due to more snow along the last 500' we opted not to chance it. My experience was only the indoor climbing gym and small, simple hiking excursions around my hometown. You will have to do some hand-over-hand rock scrambling on these boulders, however you're not in danger of falling off a cliff and there's plenty of choices/routes to take to make it easier for you. As you visit, you will join thousands of others who travel in the Weminuche each year. Marmots and mountain goats will explore your camp so be sure to hang your food, trash, and toiletries between two trees at least 10 feet from the ground or so. https://youtu.be/2iDmEsqbobA. There are no camping spots until you reach Chicago Basin. A secondary route climbs steeply to Twin Lakes. 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. From here, we hiked the 6 miles to get to Chicago Basin and our camping spot. Chicago Basin (7/19-21/11) - Wilderness Wanderings A trip to Chicago Basin provides the opportunity to climb three of Colorados 14ers Mt. Built for flash-storm protection, the 100% waterproof, super-breathable Helium II weighs an incredibly light 6.4 ounces. Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers. 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. Excellent 3-day trip!! Our Outside Magazine and Mens Journal Gear of the Year award-winning storm shell is engineered for fast-and-light alpine climbs and all-day backcountry tours. Buckhorn Limousine offers a shuttle as well. Clearly has not been maintained for a few seasons. Wilderness is a place where the imprint of humans is substantially unnoticeable, where natural processes are the primary influencers and human activity is limited to primitive recreation and minimum tools. 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. Official websites use .gov A .gov We just finished this trail. Chicago Basin 1: Sunlight & Windom Peaks - Greg Willis Check out our trail access page for more information. As with all high-altitude areas, storms can move in rapidly, bringing severe wind, lightning, rain, snow, or hail at any time of the year. The new BD Distance series poles are light, collapsible, and adjustable. This beautiful valley makes up the headwat. 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. From Columbine Pass it is nine miles down to the Needleton trailhead and civilization. The bridge at Vallecito Creek, near Johnson Creek, is still good. Online booking is not available at this time. Camping is not allowed within 100 feet of any water source. NOTICE: Starting 2019, only trains starting from Durango will drop hikers off at the Needleton stop. It's mainly visited for hikers departing on overnight backpacking trips into Chicago Basin. (Note: D&SNG does not assume any responsibility for your vehicle.) Consider supporting Colorado Search and Rescue by purchasing a 1-year or 5-year CORSAR Card. Nine miles long, the route climbs 3,760 feet to the Continental Divide. The unincorporated community of Needleton is very secluded east from the Highway 550. You then pass over the continental divide twice and the train picks you back up. It is a fairly difficult hike, but not one that isn't doable. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 6 min to complete. Bugs were pretty bad this year. For the cost of the card, you have helped ensure that trained and well-equipped search and rescue teams will respond should you become lost or in need of rescue and they will not have to incur undue expense due to your emergency. The Chicago Basin Hike | A Stunning Hike Into the Mountains - 10Adventures The alpine meadows are full of blooming wildflowers in late July and August. Waterproof, breathable and lightweight, the GORE-TEX Foray Pants provide dependable rain protection and shrug off the wear-and-tear of the trail and cityscape alike. on official, secure websites. Great trail and great mountains. One stream crossing after the Vallecito bridge about mid calf. Lip balm is important to bring on all trips. for areas you plan to visit (Chicago Basin, Emerald Lake, Vestal Basin, etc). Het maakt een stop (op verzoek) bij Needleton, een locatie in de buurt van de samenvloeiing van Needle Creek en de Animas. AVY Course and a Solid crew join the progression with us Day Hiking Trails Several hundred miles of hiking trails provide endless options for multi-day backpacking trips that promise high mountain passes, beautiful, flower-filled basins and views as far as the eye can see. 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. 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. Elk Park/Needleton Loop: Thanks to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, this is the most popular backpacking loop in the Weminuche. Small amounts of debris from avalanche on the Needles creek trail but easy to navigate. the train ride in makes this trail even more epic! Windom peak was my first 14er. Chicago Basin Trip Planning GuideSan Juan National Forest information. 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. The basin is a popular spot for climbers and backpackers and is home to three Colorado Fourteeners (mountains over 14,000 feet). We summitted Windom and saw how crazy the others looked so we went back to base camp in the rain and took a rest day the next day. Outfitter-guides who receive any form of compensation must obtain a special-use permit to operate on public land. There are many different ways to get involved with our stewardship efforts in the Weminuche Wilderness. We had been told by the forest service that we would encounter more avalanche debris fields in the basin. We estimated ~100 trees that we had to go over, under, or around - felt like a tough mudder. 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. The access point to Chicago Basin is somewhat unusual, but that's what makes this trip so special. San Juan National Forest Fire Restrictions, Rio Grande National Forest Fire Restrictions, provides many maps and guidebooks to help you plan your. High waters can also be the result of afternoon thunderstorms, so be prepared. I started at 630am and made my first summit to Mt Eolus at 8am, which was all to myself! Chicago Basin is situated within the Weminuche Wilderness at 11,200 ft elevation (timberline is 11,800 ft). Sad to see all the beetle damage. Overall was an exciting trip and really pushed myself to catch all the peaks with my 10lb backpack for weight training. These pants dig climbs that take them a few hundred feet off the deck. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 6 min to complete. Please refer to the timetable below to find the dates & times of the train scheduled to allow pick up and drop off at these flagstops. You'll eventually come to a rock wall composed of large, stable, granite boulders. ) or https:// means you've safely