Its a great destination for all levels of climbers and if youve never ice climbed, there are great guiding services in town that can get you started. Durango to Silverton From Durango, take US 550 North to Silverton. While not technically the highest-elevation portion of the trail, nevertheless this section stays very high in the San Juan Mountain Range. centrally located to adventures near Durango as well as the cooler adventures by Purgatory. WebSilverton Historic Mine Tour. Alternative Northeastern terminus points include Indian Creek Trailhead or Roxborough State Park. Guests are encouraged to get plenty of rest and drink lots of water. 23.0 km
Help support our work so you can continue to connect to the outdoors by giving to Durango Trails! WebElk Creek Trail #503 is part of the Colorado Trail, traversing the mountains from Denver to Durango. Now if youre like us and are looking for the most epic hike possible, youre definitely going to want to tackle one of Colorados most famous 14ers, Mount Sneffels (super intimidating name, am I right?). WebTop 3 Places to Have Fun in Durango, Colorado: Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad: The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad is a must-see attraction in Durango. Pit toilets and water. 1.) Paul PIE Ingram (www.pieonthetrail.com). On one hand you have the issue of trails being covered in snow until mid June or early July but at the same time, spring brings the stunning spectacle of snow capped peaks and dozens upon dozens of waterfalls. , Plenty of hikers use the train to get up into the San Juans.One way scheduled trains take 3 hours , Elk Park is the last siding, wye, and flagstop before Silverton. I had planned on taking the 9:30am train. By off roading, people have the ability to go see incredible views that most travelers wouldnt get to see unless theyre experienced hikers. Once the trail enter the trees the technical, rocky nature--now mixed with roots--continues, demanding complete attention. ABOUT THE AUTHORS If you have more time, combine this trip with the San Juan Skyway and stay in Telluride for a few days. Click on green and red dots to pull up more information on that trail/trail system. However, only about 150 people of these completely thru hike it every year. Ouray really has so much too explore! 719.28 m Up Rio Grande Southern Galloping Goose #5 Excursions, K-28 100th Anniversary Fall Photo Special, Ghost Crawl: Haunted Durango Train Museum Experience, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
Individual trails & trail segments are clustered when you see a blue dot with a number on it, that means there are that many trail segments in that geographical space. Copyright 2023 Nomads With A Purpose | Trellis Framework by Mediavine, Why is it Called the Million Dollar Highway, Map of the Million Dollar Highway Road Trip, Best Time to Drive the Million Dollar Highway, Accommodation on the Million Dollar Highway. Mostly ride-able but still lots of hike-a bike. 
Tents okay. Welcome to my favorite section of the Million Dollar Highway. 2.) Summer is a spectacular time to visit the San Juan range as well. Many areas in Silverton are great ice climbing spots in the wintertime though if ice climbing is what you love, you ought to head to Ouray. Across the highway. Durango Silverton Molas Pass Lime Creek. No lockers at the transit station. No facilities. Snow fed lakes and streams provide ample water. Launch map view Distance: 39.1 miles Duration: 3h 30m What companies run services between Durango, CO, USA and Silverton, CO, USA? More here. The unexpected can happen, and listening to others can help you be prepared. 
The inaugural segment of the famous Silverton to Durango stretch of the Colorado Trail. In the 20min I had available before boarding? Big rig friendly. The campground is happy to have hikers stop by for a wash and dry. You should always have a guidebook and/ or map on you though. Here are afew places to get information to make your navigation easier: The Colorado Trail Foundation has aguidebook, a databook, and topo mapsfor you to chose from. Get epic tips, guides and how-to's in your inbox every two weeks. When descending Red Mountain Pass, its not hard to see where the pass gets its name. 2022 Durango Trails Inc | Privacy Policy. Wildflowers are in bloom, trails are clear of snow, and the sunny days are perfect for exploring. Here you will climb to the top of San Luis Peak (14,014 feet) in the La Garita wilderness and pass by the town of Creede, considered by many to be the best resupply town on the entire trail. On our winter trips late November through early May, the train travels 26 mileseach wayto the wye at Cascade Station. Search for other accommodation on AirBnb. The Million Dollar Highway is a scenic section of the US-550 highway which runs north to south. Water and electricity. WebFind many great new & used options and get the best deals for Postcard - The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Train - Durango, Colorado at the best online prices at eBay! I will add that it can be a bit unnerving to drive the Million Dollar Highway in an RV or when towing however it is still doable.
It also has 2 restaurants and overlooks the Animas River. Access to hiking and mountain biking. 
Ouray is an amazing town to spend time relaxing in and I recommend at least 2 nights here that way you get an entire day to experience this lively little town.
Reservable. Added to the CT in 2012, Collegiate West is a must-hike section that takes hikers through the higher peaks and exposed ridges of the Collegiate Peaks. However, whats coolest about Silverton isnt the vintage town feel, its the explorations that lie beyond. Pit toilets. Sorry. 35 foot max RV. We believe travel by bicycle has the power to encourage conservation, inclusivity, and respect for all people and cultures. In the high mountains or remote conditions, all individuals must be completely autonomous in every situation. 
This is one of the most renowned ice climbing destinations in the world due its accessibility and hundreds of routes. Colorado Trail: Molas Pass to Engineer Mountain, Mountain Bike the Breathtaking Colorado Trail, Bucket List Worthy: All 4 of Colorados IMBA Epic Rides, Durango: Most Underrated MTB Destination in Colorado. There are locations suitable for various experience levels, but those intending to bike must detour around certain protected wilderness areas as they cross-country. WebExplore CT Silverton to Durango - view hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Change). Fishing Are there good fishing spots? Many had recommended the very LAST section of the 500 mile Colorado Trail the San Juans as the best part. Molas Pass Trail Drop: $20 per person. This is a backcountry trail with many segments that have limited or no vehicle access. A bad wreck on segment 17 caused me to bail in Silverton with a busted up hip. Though my pack felt heavy. Highest Elevation: 13,271 feet; just below Coney Summit, about 10 miles West ofJarosa Mesa, Lowest Elevation: 5,520 feet; Waterton Canyon terminus in Denver. This entire stretch of singletrack has also been designated by the International Mountain Bike Association as one of their "Epic" rides. by Ronald de Jong 
Dates: June 1-October 14, 2023 (No tours on July 4, 2023) This tour can only be booked by phone. Blue Lake Ranch If you want your accommodation to feel like a destination in itself, look no further than Blue Lake Ranch. Area not as pretty as it once was due to wildfire damage. Travelers looking to make a longer trip that involves spending the night should follow trail protocols for camping. Tip: there are some small pullouts (only suitable for cars, not RVs) when you begin your descent that make for great photo ops (though there arent exactly good places for everyone to get out and stretch their legs). Moderately steep. 820.62 m Down, 14.3 mi You need to be logged in to use these features. But once on top, its time to rip down! This site uses cookies for measurement, ads and optimization. 102.66 m Up No lockers at the train station. The route along the Animas, which begins high in the San Juan Mountains and ends in a confluence with the San Juan River in New Mexico, boasts some of Colorados most striking canyon scenery. You can mountain bike up the Jones/Dutch Creek loop, hike the Purgatory Trail, backpack to Chicago Basin, camp, fish, or hike on Haviland Lake, climb easy single pitch at Fume Wall, hike up to Castle Rock or even tackle the multi pitch routes that ascend the face. They are passionate about adventuring in the outdoors through surfing, climbing, mountain biking, and hiking. Pit toilets. On the final stretch of highway in Ouray, youll come to the most unnerving section but dont worry, its only unnerving the way up when youre one the side with sheer drop-offs and no guardrails (remember: take it slow). Dont miss the beautiful bike path that runs along the Animas River, stroll through historic Main Street and grab a bite to eat, and if youre looking for a challenge, take on the Centennial Nature Trail, AKA the Sky Steps which is a stairmaster that brings you to an incredible view of Durango. Though there are Hike back. Sleeps 2 people. Nothing more. But does have a gear shop (fuel) and plenty of restaurants. If you purchase a product from one of our links below, we may earn a percentage from one of our affiliate partners. It has all the amenities including showers, laundry, swimming pool, free wifi, and a general store. For a more information on our year-round recreation log on to www.silvertoncolorado.com or call 1-800-752-4494. Camping is the best way to experience the Million Dollar Highway. I started hitchhiking in the wrong direction. Thankfully, with each up, hikers are treated with glorious views. 35 foot max RV. Its a must-stop for a zero day. These smaller mammals are likely to get into your food or chew through your pack. You can stop at Bear Creek Falls overlook or the Overlook of Ouray however, if youre a hiker, you can pass on this because theres a recommended Ouray hike that delivers even better views. 34 Miles Gain 3600 Feet Condition Poor Difficulty Advanced Region #3 High Country Trail Length 9.2 Miles Part of the High Country trails. Marmots and other rodents are often more troublesome than bears. People can easily get lost on the trail, so make sure someone knows where you should be and roughly when you should be there. A local gent drove me up to the correct highway and to the best place to hitch. Resupplying food and gear on the Colorado trail is more similar to thePCT than the AT. As you head north for Durango it get exponentially more beautiful. I stayed on the train at both Needleton and Elk Park. Running for 535 Finally, the Million Dollar Highway will descend from the ridge line into Silverton valley. For recorded phone information call: 303-639-1111 or instate toll free 877-315-7623. Be sure to check out this related blog on things to do in Ouray for all the details. (This tourist trap is expensive during high season.). Right off the top, the trail drops fast and furious, hugging the mountainside as it traverses a technical scree field. Durango, Colorado. Thru-hiking the Colorado Trail takes anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks from end to end. For the most part, the trail is very well marked, however, the. The trail also skirts around two of Colorados tallest peaks, Mount Massive and Mount Elbert which you can summit on side trails. It does indeed provide some of the best views imaginable but theres so much more to the San Juans than this scenic drive. Teller House Inn Teller House is a quaint, historic, boutique hotel but its also clean, comfortable, and most importantly, centrally located on Silvertons small Main Street. 14 of the best days of our lives. Its true that there are a few sections without guardrails and sheer drops and if you have a fear of heights or youre not used to driving in the mountains, it can be scary. Well detailed & photographed!! For more great Colorado Trail content, check out Aakozikwe by Alexandera Houchin, a personal reflection of her experience racing the trail earlier this year. 2,367' Down Some scam was in the works, I suspected. All rights reserved. If you are stuck on ridge, then get into the lightning position by crouching down on the balls of your feet, putting your head down towards your legs and covering your ears with your hands. 886.03 m Down. Not reservable. Slightly lower elevation and slightly shorter in length. Just past Purgatory, there is another big adventure hub, Engineer Mountain. Junction Creek NF Campground $25 per night.
Should I take my fishing gear? After stopping at Creede, hikers begin a roller coaster ride of ups and downs through the San Juan Mountains. Being a jerk / offensive? This first section of the trail extends from Denver to Kenosha Pass through the South Platte rivershed and Long Gulch, a six-mile meadow filled with wildflowers, abundant water and animal life. Wahoo! Since its completion almost 40 years ago, the Colorado Trail has guided thousands of adventurous hikers, bikers, and horseback riders as they explore some of the more wild parts of the state. Finished last 80 mi w/o rear brakes! Fits any mid size rig and may fit large rigs if sites are available. This accommodation feels like a retreat. See our related blog for 7 Things to do in Telluride. Many riders on longer trips and even those not riding will also bring pack animals such as llamas and donkeys to help carry extra supplies for their trips. 721.56 m Down, 19.9 mi The idea behind the trail was born in 1973, but the trail itself wasnt created and connected until 1987. Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Green dots represent individual trails; red dots represent main trail system trailheads and will link to information on that trail system. Along the way, stop to explore Idarado Mine and its quaint cottages and Crystal Lake which is probably the prettiest roadside lake Ive ever seen. Scenic and easy access suitable for almost any rig. As you end this section, you will encounter Marshall pass, a 668 foot climb in a half mile that is considered to be the steepest portion of the Colorado Trail. Indeed, between departing from Highway 550 at Molas Pass and entering the town of Durango, the only sign of human life is the occasional dirt road crossing. Please keep the conversation civil, constructive, and inclusive, or your comment will be removed. The COT forms one-third of the Triple Crown of Bikepacking, along with the Arizona Trail and the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. Another nice campground located at the trailhead to the Jones Creek/Dutch Creek MTB loop. (LogOut/ 
Thru hikers tents most night in flat spots that have already been established and used previously for camping. No tents. For real though, some say that the gravel they used to pave the road contained gold and was worth millions. Oddly, he got a 7 mile ride with this truck driver. Be sure to check up on road conditions before you head out on the scenic highway. Hikers are hitching back and forth the 7 miles to Molas Pass all the time. Individual trails & Something between dirt lot and a campground. Ideal for advanced-level riders. Old Lime Creek Road Free dispersed camping on national forest. These require a reservation and often have a wait list though. Note that this is an estimate and fall colors could leave early in the case of an early storm. South Mineral campground is a beautiful national forest campground to stay at and more importantly, its the trailhead to one of Colorado best day hikes, Ice Lakes. Locals even joke that they call it the Million Dollar Highway because you couldnt pay them a million dollars to drive that road in the wintertime. Hikers traveling the full length of the trail from Denver to Durango will climb a cumulative 89,354 feet. Enjoy a leisurely. The high elevation combined with colder months can lead to extremely dangerous hiking conditions. Tents okay. Equal parts backpacking food and ultralight gear. In the fall, whispering aspen groves turn a brilliant gold, providing some of the best leaf peeping in the state. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById('copyright').appendChild(document.createTextNode(new Date().getFullYear())) Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. 856.63 m Up Reservable.
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