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. 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. Whether you want to be involved in a long term effort like our volunteer program, join for a single-day campsite clean up or donate to SJMAs Weminuche Wilderness Stewardship Fund. Synthetic socks area must for all outdoor activities. Also wish I packed in a small pack for the day hikes because our backpacking packs were large and felt a little unstable at some of the steeper parts. The best times to visit this trail are May through September. Our trek group of 6 - ages ranging from 17 to 64 years. You ride the Durango/Silverton Steam Train and it drops you off. There are two ways to get into the Chicago Basin - a looong hike in from Purgatory or a ride on the Durango Silverton Train. We almost made the summit of Mt Eolus but due to more snow along the last 500' we opted not to chance it. Remember, wilderness areas prohibit mountain bikes as well as motorized vehicles. The boundary of the Weminuche Wilderness is 2.7 miles up the trail, the fishing is fantastic. Sunlight Peak : Climbing, Hiking & Mountaineering : SummitPost Route NOTICE: Starting 2019, only trains starting from Durango will drop hikers off at the Needleton stop. Thanks again. The only southbound option for wilderness access will be Elk Park. Head out on this 17.4-mile out-and-back trail near Silverton, Colorado. Although I can't say much about the route we took, I can definitely say this is not for the faint of heart. 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+ + Avalanche debris was cleared. From here, it's a 6 mile hike to reach Chicago Basin. This trail travels east from the railroad, climbing into the upper reaches of the Needle Mountains. The San Juan and Rio Grande National Forests maintain hundreds of trails for these activities outside the wilderness boundary. When the sun shines brightly on fresh snow in the mountains your eyes will thank you for a quality pair of shades. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. The trail is approximately 3 miles, one way, but can be made into a 7.8 mile loop via a segment of the Continental Divide Trail to Cunningham Gulch Trail. Cairns were well-marked going up and thought I was at the chimney twice, but once you see it, you know. If symptoms persist, seek medical aid. We got off the train at elk park ~11:45am and hiked ~6 miles uphill the first day. Insulating water bottle parkas are recommended in the winter months, for ice climbing or cold weather alpine trips. We camped at ~9300 ft. 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. Trail conditions often change rapidly; please be well prepared! Backpacking from the Train - Official Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge 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. Im assuming forest service will clear this soon. 1 - 2 Large, durable bags for oragnizing and transporting your gear during airline travel etc. #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 Route. You're mostly in the sun and always with a panoramic view of the area mountains. Durango Silverton Train. Chicago Basin - Chicago Basin - abcdef.wiki The day after that we hiked out. We rode the train from Silverton to the trailhead. Coal Bank Pass to Engineer Mountain Summit, Sunlight Peak, Windom Peak, Mount Eolus via Animas River Trail, Sunlight Peak via Animas River Trail and Needle Creek Trail, Jura Knob via Pass and Engineer Mountain Trail. document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById('copyright').appendChild(document.createTextNode(new Date().getFullYear())) Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. 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. It is a fairly difficult hike, but not one that isn't doable. Mount Eolus looked pretty hairy with steep drop-offs. Updated for touchscreen compatibility, the StormTracker Sensor Gloves are equally at home alpine climbing, ski touring or ice climbing. However, after the first couple of miles and adjusting to altitude, I love it! Filter your water again at Twin Lakes and then continue to your mountain of choice. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. There are no camping spots until you reach Chicago Basin. At the higher elevations, winter snow can last until early or even mid-July. Click here for more information on parking. Don't forget the 14ers.com mobile app. There were 12 students and 2 teachers, with student experience ranging from basically nothing to climbing at the local indoor climbing gym, to small excursions to places like Devil's Lake (in WI). It is obvious where people have camped so be sure to follow suit. #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. All participants must read and sign an Assumption of Risks/Liability Waiver and agree to our Reservations and Cancellations Policies. Beginning August 14, the 8:15am Steam Departure will service Wilderness short stops. We just finished this trail. Chicago Basin 1: Sunlight & Windom Peaks - Greg Willis Done over 5 nights and 6 days. Took the train from Durango and got off at Needleton. Backpacking in Chicago Basin by way of the Durango & Silverton Narrow : The Pine River alternates between meadows and canyon, frequently flowing peacefully on the flat valley floor. This pack is well suited for weekend excursions or quick overnight forays when you are toting less than 40 pounds. The basin is a popular spot for climbers and backpackers and is home to three Colorado Fourteeners (mountains over 14,000 feet). Ice fest is next week we hope to see you there! Soft Shell fabric deflects biting gusts, and a tricot lining retains valuable heat. This is a popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The third bridge is gone due to an avalanche in the winter of 2004-2005 and there are no plans at this time to replace the bridge. 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. The trail is easy to follow but quite steep, ascending 3,000 feet before reaching the basin. The trail from Chicago basin was beautiful and full of goats every turn. A slim cut helps the CoEfficient Hoody fit comfortably under your shell, and with a redsigned, trim fit, this layer takes up little space in your pack. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. 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. Online booking is not available at this time. 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. Similar to the base layer top. Know Before You Go: Regulations, Outdoor Safety and More, San Juan National ForestHeadquarters Below are some approximate driving times if youd like to drive to Durango. This was our third trek on this trail. There are many added benefits to trekking poles. From here, it's a 6 mile hike to reach Chicago Basin. Buy a ticket for the train that stops at Needleton and ride the train 2.5 hours (~30 miles) to the Needleton stop. This took us 2 hours (7:45am - 9:40am), stopping for pictures and water. Each year this area receives about 10,000 visitor use days. Needleton, Colorado - Wikipedia Completed this loop early July 2021. Mt. This is a popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Because of this we consider it to be a hard trail but the views were worth every single second. On day four, we hiked along the 4wd road to Pole Creek and picked up our ride there. The trail begins at the southern end of the Weminuche and travels north until it reaches Hunchback Pass (12,400 feet). See also Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 6 min to complete. At that point, one of our trek members sustained a significant ankle injury. Heading to a 14er soon? (we were going from Needleton to Elk Park). Don't be afraid of Mr. T. A good pair of wrap around sunglasses are an essential item for all of our trips. The soft yarn blend will provide a cozy sanctuary throughout winters chill. NOTE that on an average summer day, 50 people will disembark from the train to head to Chicago Basina beautiful, but crowded, backpacking destination. Needle Creek seen near campsite. Every mountain we encountered was amazing! It was quite a workout, but well worth it. 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. After adjusting our packs and preparing to hike we begin by hiking up Needle creek into the heart of the Chicago Basin. You have the option to either call our office and register via phone or utilize our secure Online Reservation System. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Sunlight Peak and Windom Peak from Chicago Basin | Into Travel 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. Be prepared for a lot of bugs and rain. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 6 min to complete. 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. Had never seen so many mountains (we're from OK). The Chicago Basin Hike | A Stunning Hike Into the Mountains - 10Adventures PS. Either way, we offer plenty of fixed date trip options to get you out into Colorado's finest wilderness area! 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. Consider supporting Colorado Search and Rescue by purchasing a 1-year or 5-year CORSAR Card. Posted on August 4, 2022 by jim. Animas River seen from Needleton Suspension Bridge. At 6.5 miles you begin the steep climb to Columbine Pass. Hop aboard to be the first to hear about upcoming events, specials, and train news. Er zijn geiten in 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. What a trip! I was a little nervous after getting dropped off at the trail via train and watching it ride away! My two 15 year olds and I just completed it mid July 2021 and it took us five days. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We strongly suggest purchasing aColorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue (CORSAR) Card. An excellent investment for all of our programs. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. 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. Most LED type headlamps will do but we recommend the Black Diamond Storm for its versatility. 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. Buy a ticket for the train that stops at Needleton and ride the train 2.5 hours (~30 miles) to the Needleton stop. for areas you plan to visit (Chicago Basin, Emerald Lake, Vestal Basin, etc). Amazing views and pretty easy navigation (cant miss the trail). Bring 2-3 pairs depending on the type of trip. 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. It's mainly visited for hikers departing on overnight backpacking trips into Chicago Basin. This will lead to the trail to Chicago Basin and the beginning of the climb. San Juan National Forest - Needle Creek Trail (504) - US Forest Service It spattered at us but wasn't too bad. From the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad stop travel less than a mile to the junction with Animas River Trail. Water can be found off the trail in most of the tributaries, but due to Giardia it should be filtered. Pets must be under voice control or physical restraint. It took us about 5 hours to get to Chicago Basin, arriving around 3:30pm or so. A headlamp is recommended for all of our programs and is an essential piece of equipment you will use in a variety of circumstances. Other articles such as groceries and extra equipment will be also be handled as freight and additional charges will apply based on weight. Unless you have a current Season Pass OR originate in Silverton, there will be a freight charge per backpack. Overall this was a wonderful challenge. [emailprotected]. Overall a pretty remote and isolated trail with beautiful scenery, clean water everywhere and pristine nature. We recommend the BUFF for all of our programs as a multi-purpose insulation piece and trendy headgear! The Colorado Trail passes through the Weminuche from Stony Pass to Molas Pass as it links 486 miles of trails from Denver to Durango. Big snow storm coming in tomorrow, winter conditions expected for rest of year. You'll be glad you brought it and your guide will make sure to help capture the moment of you being awesome. wow! 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. All told, it took us 5 hours (one-way). Backpackers with plenty of time on their hands might hike the Divide Trail north to either Stony Pass or the Highland Mary Lakes area. There are 3 bridges at around 3 miles, 5.5 miles and 7 miles. Lots of people in the Chicago Basin, no one in the Johnson creek or Vallecito creek area. Increasing numbers of visitors are disturbing wildlife, impacting trails, polluting creeks and streams, and leaving all kinds of waste behind. The delightful mountain towns of Durango, Silverton, Pagosa Springs, South Fork and Creede surround and provide access into the wilderness. Overall was an exciting trip and really pushed myself to catch all the peaks with my 10lb backpack for weight training. 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. Come learn with the best Highly recommend. This hike is definitely a good one! The downed trees that had once covered the trail in early June have since been cleared for the most part. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock Nearly everyone who comes by Needleton does so via the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. The Silverton Steam excursion departing at 9:00am will not service any wilderness stops. ) or https:// means you've safely Mulaz outsole with a technical edging platform and aggressive rear lugs for superior traction. (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). Our guides always carry a comprehensive medical kit but it's nice to have your own as well. So minor experience is okay, but only if you have experienced guides and are in good physical condition. Regardless of which mountain you're hiking (Sunlight, Windom, Eolus, or North Eolus), you'll first have to hike to Twin Lakes by taking the trail to the end of Chicago Basin and then up one of its sides. Super fun peaks! 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. Great trail, unreal views! DURANGO DEPARTURES: Gear must be loaded in the boxcar 45 minutes prior to departure to allow you to be in your seatsbefore the final boarding call. Chicago Basin Trip Planning GuideSan Juan National Forest information. 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. United States. Some of these areas can be accessed via a narrow gauge train that runs between Durango and Silverton. Reservations can only be made for Durango or Silverton origination. The trails were easy to follow and well marked all the way up to Twin Lakes and on to the top of N. Eolus. Packs will be loaded and stored in a boxcar under the supervision of the train crew. No conditions reported in the past 7 days. We did this trip in September. Call our reservation office for dates and times of other flagstops. Exposure on both sides but beautiful weather. NOTICE: Starting 2019, only trains starting from Durango will drop hikers off at the Needleton stop. Continue another 2.5 miles to reach the junction with the Animas River and the Animas River Trail. Additionally, the trailhead is only accessible via the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, so make sure to arrive early and leave yourself plenty of time for the return journey. 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 unincorporated community of Needleton is very secluded east from the Highway 550. San Juan National Forest - Needle Creek (504) - US Forest Service 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. The fund also supports SJMAs volunteer ranger program, which equips and trains local volunteers, empowering them to give back to the Weminuche. As more and more Americans head to the backcountry, the fragile high-alpine environments of the Weminuche face numerous threats. Essential for all of our programs. Knowing there are many more trails within the Weminuche, weve chosen to highlight the most popular trails, all of which are located on the San Juan National Forest. 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. Chicago Basin - Wikipedia Waterfall seen on hike to Chicago Basin. A friend and I attempted this horseshoe hike in reverse last weekend (Aug 14). Elk Park/Needleton Loop: Thanks to the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, this is the most popular backpacking loop in the Weminuche. The scenery on this tough hike is definitely worth the effort. The leap of faith is surely the hardest move - but to some its optional since the geo marker is lower. 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. Altitude Elevations in the Weminuche range from 7,000 to 14,000 feet. Mechanized means of transport are not permitted (mountain bikes). I started at 630am and made my first summit to Mt Eolus at 8am, which was all to myself! Check out this 37.5-mile point-to-point trail near Silverton, Colorado. Failure to have gear loaded by the appointed time could cause you to lose your seats. Heading south, the route leads to Hunchback Pass and from here to the upper end of the Vallecito Creek Trail. 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. Het maakt een stop (op verzoek) bij Needleton, een locatie in de buurt van de samenvloeiing van Needle Creek en de Animas. Windom Peak - West Ridge | Route | 14ers.com Do not be drawn up the climbers trail to the twin lakes between Eolus, Sunlight and Windom. On day two, we encountered an even larger debris field between Beaver Pond and the ascent to the miner's shack. Elk Park Train Stop to Needleton - AllTrails.com Visitors to Chicago Basin typically ride the train from Durango or Silverton, get off at Needleton, and hike about 6 miles . Advance Registration is required for this program. A great day in one of Colorados most beautiful areas. Bugs were pretty bad this year. Legendary San Juan local @sbrunso said it best: The traverse showed me things I had never seen before. 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. For a detailed backpacking itinerary, dig into the associated guidebook. Expect to see wild animals in the backcountry! Camping Day 1 Chicago Basin, Day 2 Vallecito Creek bridge, Day 3 Rock Creek trail junction, Day 4 Eldorado Lake where I'm meeting some Colorado Trail thru hiking friends to hike with, Day 5 Elk Park and hiking out to Molas Pass on day 6. Keeping left at the junction, you will continue along the winding bank of the creek as it heads to the southeast, climbing uphill through the forested expanse of the Chicago Basin for 6.7 km. Summited at 10:30am. Mt. Eolus - Chicago Basin Approach | Route | 14ers.com DURANGO: Long term parking in Durango is available in our large lot adjacent to the train yards. Additional information websites:Weminuche Wilderness Trip Planning Information:http://www.fs.usda.gov/goto/sanjuan/wilderness. The SJMG Durango office is located at 1111 Camino Del Rio, Durango, CO 81301. An insulated vest is an optional item on our programs but we do think vests offer excellent flexible layering options in a variety of circumstances, weather conditions, and trip types. The trail is easy to follow but quite steep, ascending 3,000 feet before reaching the basin.Johnson Creek Trail:Beyond the basin, the main trail climbs another 1,400 feet over two miles to Columbine Pass where it meets up with the Johnson Creek Trail, which drops into the Vallecito Creek drainage. #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 Stuff sacks are a great way to organize your gear in your pack and help to keep things tidy in a variety of ways. 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. Its relatively easy to walk over/around them, but be patient and expect a slight delay. 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 && ! 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. Needleton is a popular trailhead for hiking into the Needle Mountains. P.O. The Therm-a-Rest NeoAir All Season mattress is lightweight, durable, extremely warm, and the ultimate solution to year-round backcountry comfort. Durango, CO 81301 Serious Tallis and scree if youre between groups - missed the morning rush window and caught 6 people on their way down. Hikers must ford the creek so prepare to get your feet wet. Buy tickets in advance! The most popular hike is to the Chicago Basin. From Columbine Pass it is nine miles down to the Needleton trailhead and civilization. Except for service animals accompanying their master/trainer, we will not carry any live animals in any cars on our train. Book This Chicago Basin to Silverton : Trip Reports : SummitPost We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. They were all well marked but took extra time to navigate. Elevations in the Weminuche range from 7,000 to 14,000 feet. is_redirect && ! 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. Some route finding on the way to the top to Eolus. I carried 2 liters but could've gotten away with 1 bottle. ( A secondary route climbs steeply to Twin Lakes. 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. This is a very popular area for camping, fishing, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring.