Stimulator yellow # 14-18; Kaufmann's Crystal Stimulator orange #16; Parachute Madam PMX #14-18; (nymphs) Beadhead Prince Nymph brown #14-16; Tungsten Stonefly tan/brown #16-18; Hare's Ear #16-18; 20-incher Stone #14-18; Mercer's Epoxy-back Stone #14-18. Possession of motorized equipment or motorized means of transport are not permitted. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. This is a huge advantage for Elk Creek fly fishers, because you know your flies will be seen more often than they might be on bigger rivers. Spunk. The trail follows Elk Creek from its confluence with the Conejos River to its upper reaches and passes through a variety of terrain including deep canyons and wide meadowed valleys. A Couples Guide to Glenwood Springs. We did this trip in September. This approach is located at 11,700ft and provides access to the Vestal Group from the east via Upper Elk Creek & Vallecito Creek. Then, as your streamer swings to your side of the creek, twitch the rod tip while applying tension to the line. Colorado. 15 Burnett Court Featured Routes. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas. About the . At the trail's highest point is a series of stillwaters called Dipping Lakes. Many . Snowmobiling. Access from Molas Trail: Travel north for 42 miles on US Highway 550 towards Silverton.Turn east (right) at Molas Lake. Wide gravel road for awhile. The creek's placid, fertile water here holds larger trout than the canyon, and the fishing is good. Wildlife, Create Recommended Route or Overall a pretty remote and isolated trail with beautiful scenery, clean water everywhere and pristine nature. The trail then follows the valley, with Elk Creek meandering slowly through the wide, flat First, Second and Third Meadows. 5 in Horseback. about 3 miles to the first meadow. Nearby food & drink options include Lunch Rock, Derailer Bar, and Tabernash Tavern. Perform this maneuver while standing directly above the area where the trout is holding, knowing that the fish cannot see anything above its position. *\n*Learn more: [Boondocking 101](https . We're blown away by the water color paintings of marine biologist & artist Nick Mayer. | on official, secure websites. Columbine Pass and Chicago Basin probably were the highlights of the trip -- incredibly high and scenic alpine country. To reach the trailhead, take 7th Street/Midland, which becomes the Buford Road (CR 245). 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. No description for Elk Creek Trail trail has been added yet! One of the biggest drawing points of the Elk Creektrail is the unique opportunity to combine a Wilderness trip with a ride on a steam locomotive. Map showing recreational areas. I was a little nervous after getting dropped off at the trail via train and watching it ride away! An official website of the Know Before You Go: Regulations, Outdoor Safety and More, San Juan National ForestHeadquarters For example, if you are fishing a pocket on the creek that is 5 feet deep, with a trout holding near bottom, the fish's viewing lane is much wider than if the fish were holding in shallower water. This multi-use trail can be used both directions with a 1,141 ft black diamond climb. 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). website belongs to an official government organization in the I missed the gate comment but it is CRITICAL. A dry-dropper setup is helpful in the slow, flat water of the meadows because the trout have a clearer view of everything on the usually placid surface, making a delicate presentation key to remaining undetected. We are early 50s, fairly fit experienced hikers from Durango, and we gave ourselves 5 nights/6 days. Motorcycle Riding. Food and accommodations are limited in Antonito. Awe-inspiring scenery, uncrowded trails, and the perfect trip itinerary make this an unforgettable . Did not push ourselves-- Left car at 1106am got to first meadow at 127pm. Estes Park. I have backpacked in the Weminuche three times, all in September, and each time we encountered some bad rainy weather. But this stretch is only about a half mile long and receives the most fishing pressure because it is close to the trailhead. Supplied by water running off the San Juan Mountains, Elk Creek has two primary seasons when fly fishers can effectively pursue the trout, hatches, and alpine scenery. Cub Creek Trail starts from Beaver Brook road in the back of Evergreen. Beautiful other than that. Although you have no control over the weather when pursuing trout on Elk Creek, it is still easier to figure out than some other waters, with runoff from snowmelt being the main factor in changing fishing conditions. The Elk Creek Campground in the Rio Grande National Forest is 22 miles west of Antonito on Colorado 17. On newsstands January 3rd! Author and guide Blane Chocklett discusses and demonstrates the action on his articulated Game Changer Nymphs. Next up are caddis, which flutter over the creek's surface in astonishing numbers beginning in late May through July. Suitable camping sites are dispersed along the valley. Lots of wildflowers. Elk Creek Trail 731, Duck Lake 732 and Posos Trail 732 can be accessed from here. A friend and I attempted this horseshoe hike in reverse last weekend (Aug 14). Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock Elk Meadow is a 5,121 ft popular singletrack trail located near Fraser Colorado. Parachute Adams #18-22; Sparkle Dun Baetis #18-22; Barr's Vis-A-Dun Baetis #20-22; (emergers/nymphs) Barr's BWO Flashback Emerger #18-20; Juju Baetis #20-22, Stalcup's Baetis #18-20; Copper John green #16-20, Mercury Flashback Pheasant Tail #18-22. Lots of flowers, waterfalls, and views. We had a lot of rain, starting everyday around 1 pm and lasting for a couple of hours. This is a popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Theparking lot is accessible year round. From the trail head to the South San Juan Wilderness boundary only. Lots of bear sign but no bears. Landon Mayer is a Colorado fly-fishing guide, and author of Sight Fishing for Trout (Stackpole Books, 2010). There are also good climbing opportunities in the area. Steep cliffs of volcanic rock loom above the valley floor and are intermittently broken by side canyons. If you are backpacking for the day and want a fish fry, these nonnative trout offer excellent eating. 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). We went in late January, so it was covered in snow, but there was a bit of the path packed down, so it was easier to hike. When the creek is low and clear, the trout are usually looking up, making drys better choices. Official websites use .gov A .gov Elk Creek Trail #503 is part of the Colorado Trail, traversing the mountains from Denver to Durango. Creek is still high and the closer you get to the 2nd bridge the rock slides are tricky so be careful There was a new amazing view after every turn. My wife and I completed this hike in September of 2016 and loved it. 12.7 miles - Turn left on "Elk Creek/ FS 891.2" for 1.8 miles. Don't be like me and follow Google Maps only. This trail was beautiful, once you actually got to it. Map showing recreational areas. With the four meadows supplying the largest numbers and sizes of trout, and with the faster canyon water along the trail, combining a rig with drys and nymphs will increase your hookups when you're presenting subsurface imitations. connected to the .gov website. Hiking River Wildlife Description No conditions reported in the past 7 days Most of the avalanche debris on Elk Creek/CT has now been cleared, and what is left is fairly easy to navigate. Stop for a quick break, but plan to keep hiking, as the best fishing lies another three miles upstream in the vast stretches of the Second, Third, and Fourth meadows in the South San Juan Wilderness Area. The Elk Creek trail is 15.0 miles long. Loved it, follows fast flowing creek and at one point, about 3 miles in, can follow iff trail into open area where creek has numerous flows(fisherman there). We followed Bear Creek down to the Rio Grande by following the 4wd road and used our sat phone to arrange for transportation to Silverton. We loved this trail and would highly recommend! Definitely recommend to bring waterproofs shoes and pants to be comfortable. Uncompahgre Valley, and Bostwick Park. A short continuation will lead to the Elk Falls Trail, which will lead you on a steep descent to North Elk Creek. My two 15 year olds and I just completed it mid July 2021 and it took us five days. Difficult and rocky but worth it. This beautiful matted print of Julie Leidel's original Colorado artwork was created in partnership with The Colorado Trail Foundation. beautiful views the entire way. Elk Creek - Colorado Trail Avalanches $55,810 maintenance grant The Columbine Ranger District will use this grant to address the historic avalanche cycle of 2019, which left four large debris fields along the Elk Creek section of the Colorado Trail in the Weminuche Wilderness. Elk Creek Loop is a 6 mile less popular doubletrack trail located near Fraser Colorado. In the canyon areas, go with short leaders of 4 to 6 feet. Managing Menhaden: The Most Important Fish in the Sea, Temps for Trout: How to Catch Fish that Behave Hot n Cold, How to Remove Wind Knots and Snarls from Leaders and Tippet, 8 Best Fly Fishing Knots You Should Know How to Tie, Finding and Catching Trout in Mountain Lakes, Bugs, Aquatic Invertebrates, and other Forage Food of Mountain Lakes, Over the Guardrail: Sometimes a Monumental Journey Can be Close to Home, Tying Matt Winkler's Balanced Leather Leech, Angler And Artist Inspiration: Nick Mayer Art, Tying Villwock's The RoamerA Streamer for All Species, Blood Run: Fly Fishing with Amazon Warriors. Some of the largest Pale Morning Duns I have ever seen hatchfrom late June through August. Designation of a road, trail, or area should not be interpreted as an invitation to all types of travel or as an implication that the road, trail, or area is passable, actively maintained, or safe for travel. On Brazil's Xingu River, Kayapo warriors use the enormous fangs from vampire fish to cut and scar their arms. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 6 min to complete. ) or https:// means you've safely Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 6 min to complete. There's nothing like reflecting on the day's adventures by firelight and wondering what water or trout lie ahead. Access from Molas Trail: Travel north for 42 miles on US Highway 550 towards Silverton.Turn east (right) at Molas Lake. Biking. Plenty water sources, every day at least 2. Length:18 miles out and back Be ready for an uphill battle! One access to the train is in Antonito, CO, online Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railroad or call (719) 376-5483 for more information. Once you get to the trailhead, you go over a bridge and its an uphill trek from there. We didnt take the train so we started at Molas Lake and walked to Needlestop. The trail follows Elk Creek from its confluence with the Conejos River to its upper reaches and passes through a variety of terrain including deep canyons and wide meadowed valleys. Didnt see waterfall up to that point. 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. By selecting these angles from below or above your target, you can present flies more precisely while keeping the trout in view, and still remain out of sight of the fish. This is the "fourth bridge" of vallecito creek, north of the vallecito campground/Trailhead. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock I went further straight and lost a good 1/2 hour until I realized with my inreach device that I walked by the trail at the first gate up the trail on the left.zero people on the trail and some 1-2 snow to walk through but the trail is not muddy. This is the property details for 105 Elk Creek Drive #10, Fraser, CO 80442. 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. Firewood is not provided. Consider a day trip on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad (steam) which offers a 64-mile journey through abandoned mining towns. Rio Grande National Forest, Conejos Peak Ranger District. Rate Difficulty (optional) Easy. COTREX is a project by the Colorado DNR and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. In addition to a good selection of terrestrials and streamers for between hatches, you should have a good assortment of nymphs and drys resembling each of Elk Creek's major insect groups. E-bikes not allowed on any non-motorized NFS trail including: North Elk Creek 764, Cub Creek 40, or Rusty Buckle 769. The first big meadow was very pretty, No conditions reported in the past 7 days. Great to explore though. Black flies were a pain the whole week. Colorado Mountain . On average it takes 7 minutes to complete this trail. Join Rodrigo Salles and Ross Purnell in their quest to catch these magnificent jungle fish, and become the first outsiders to participate in this ancient ritual. Submit one here . Elk Creek Campground is for day use and overnight use. The south end of the trail is accessible from Centennial Trailhead, which is located near the Forest Boundary at the end of County Road 241. Thank goodness we had the AllTrails app. The best times to visit this trail are May through September. might be hard in bad weather, Great day great temperatures. 14.5 miles - Turn left on "FS 159" dirt road for .7 miles. Youre next to the rushing creek the whole hike and its beautiful. In high water, the trout do not see as many surface foods, making subsurface imitations like nymphs, emergers, and streamers their main focus. My dog and I loved it! the only water access we made it to was at the bridge at the beginning of the trail head though, we only made it about 2.5 miles back the trail. Trail could use some better signs, and GPS showed 3.7 miles vs 3 miles :). The trail has some distance but the elevation gain is consistent and gradual over it so its not very challenging and I think most people could do it just taking their time. Ability Rating: Moderate to difficult Remember to slow down your casting stroke on both the forward cast and backcast, allowing enough time for the flies to turn over when using longer leaders. No conditions reported in the past 7 days. About 1.2 miles from Castle Valley Boulevards intersection with the Buford Road, take the right branch of the Y onto East Elk Road (CR 241). Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas. Seasonal weather conditions and natural events may render designated roads, trails, and areas impassable for extended periods. Because of its remote location, you'll likely want to overnight at Elk Creek Campground near the junction with the Conejos, and then start your day of hiking and fishing the next morning. There are a few camping sites near this junction. Elk Creek Trail 731, Duck Lake 732 and Posos Trail 732 can be accessed from here. Explore this 13.4-km out-and-back trail near Antonito, Colorado. You follow along Elk Creek the entire way and theres beautiful waterfalls. Elk Creek drains the northern portion of the Grenadier Range, which includes Arrow, Vestal, and the Trinity Peaks; a mecca for mountaineers. Just after entering Elk Creek CG cross the bridge and take the trail leading south along the bank of Elk Creek. North Elk Creek Trail . Outside the wilderness, the trail is open to mountain biking. Charlie Craven guides us step by step on how to tie this split-wing CDC mayfly dun imitation that descended from competitive fly fishing. Instead, the difficulty is in achieving a good presentation in narrow water. Mostly flat. Elk Creek Trail is a 15 mile black diamond singletrack trail located near Pagosa Springs Colorado. Saw SIX. On day four, we hiked along the 4wd road to Pole Creek and picked up our ride there. I am curious - does anyone have first hand knowledge of current conditions in Chicago Basin, Columbine Pass, Johnson Creek and Vallecito Trail. This was a great trail & relatively flat, but we got off trail accidentally and went down a steep hill which we then had to climb back up to get back on track. The However I'm looking forward to making another trip here soon. Even crossed paths with three different types of baby snakes! Recent avalanche activity over the winter/spring created several debris fields that required us to do some significant trailblazing. Mechanized means of transport are not permitted (mountain bikes). Had to climb over a hundred trees, no joke. This time wasn't as bad as 1993, where my ancient A-frame tent blew down, but I'd suggest doing it in August for longer days and less rain. Elk Creek drains the northern portion of the Grenadier Range, which includes Arrow, Vestal, and the Trinity Peaks; a mecca for mountaineers. Think carefully about each step before you cast. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. Lovely hike that follows the river most of the way. This trail is great, cant wait to go back and takes lots of family pics along the way! I highly recommend it. connected to the .gov website. We'll see areas like Elk Creek, the Colorado Trail, the Continental Divide, and many of Colorado's most remote Centennial 13'ers. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. It can be a reset button for your life. Map Information. Achieve this by selecting the proper length for your leader. A gorgeous fall hike, lots of color. Nature: Singletrack Status: Phase One complete, Phase Two under construction LockA locked padlock Official websites use .gov A .gov LockA locked padlock The campground is convenient to the South San Juan Wilderness. We got to the train stop at noon and the train picked us up at 3pm. United States. Small amounts of debris from avalanche on the Needles creek trail but easy to navigate. Discover this 5.5-km out-and-back trail near New Castle, Colorado. Designation of a road, trail, or area should not be interpreted as an invitation to all types of travel or as an implication that the road, trail, or area is passable, actively maintained, or safe for travel. At Second Meadows, the creek's banks are lined with vegetation, making a stealthy approach to the trout more challenging. Glenwood Springs: A History of Taking Fun to the Extreme! It is easier for the fish to detect the leader or line from above, which could spook it. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 6 min to complete. At 5.2 miles, the trail cross East Elk Creek for a final time. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance, but they must be made at least four days prior to your intended arrival date. The trail also continues to gradually gain elevation as it travels up the canyon. Overnight backpacking was fun at First Meadow. The best fishing is in the meadows along the trail, where the meandering creek averages 6 to 10 feet wide, with some pools as deep as 8 feet. Wowee what a beautiful trail, particularly at the moment. I'll never forget it. Brandon why didnt you ask for Tiffanys number??? 16.2 miles - Continue straight on "Chainsaw" single track for .7 . The trail follows Elk Creek from its confluence with the Conejos River to its upper reaches and passes through a variety of terrain including deep canyons and wide meadowed valleys. At 1.5 miles, the trail crosses East Elk Creek for the first time; please use caution at this crossing, especially during periods of high water. Did this route from July 28 to August 3. First Meadow was perfect for camping but Second Meadow was very swampy so we had to camp along the trail. Highly recommend. It was a dream and once in a lifetime trip! As you begin your ascent toward the First Meadows three miles upstream, the creek cascades through a small canyon where classic mountain fishing features swift, turbulent pocketwater, and the trout hold in current breaks. Weather. ( Outfitter-guides who receive any form of compensation must obtain a special-use permit to operate on public land. Elk Creek Trail #503 is part of the Colorado Trail, traversing the mountains from Denver to Durango. Rate Quality . Got there too late in afternoon to make it all the way to the end though. Any feedback appreciated. Hot. No wildflowers yet, would wait a couple weeks and do this early June for the prettiest hike! Coming down from hunchback pass we had to climb over or around several (and I mean several) trees that were across the path. At Elk Falls Pond, a third trail, the Lion's Back Trail, leads another 1 mile up to the Elk Falls Overlook. West Needles Contiguous Wilderness Study Area. On day two, we encountered an even larger debris field between Beaver Pond and the ascent to the miner's shack. The canyon water makes for a fun, fast-paced game with shotgun casting and eager trout, but they are mostly small. Gorgeous trail! Took me just a little longer as I tend to go slower and take a lot of pictures Lawson's Conehead Sculpin #4-8 tan, tungsten Conehead Slumpbuster #4-6 rust/olive, Articulated Leech #6-8 purple/black; Zonker #2-4 white. Great backpacking experience!! Map Information, Some sites can accommodated units up to 45'. Elk Creek is home to native cutthroat trout, brook trout, rainbows, cuttbows, and brown trout from 12 to 22 inches. The trail can be access from either Molas Trail #665 or the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Rainroad Elk Park train stop. Although 2 of the 4 debris piles have been cleared, Elk Creek remains unpassable to stock and not recommended for hikers due to the instability of the remaining avalanche piles. However, after the first couple of miles and adjusting to altitude, I love it! Excellent hike with great views. The narrow water continues as you enter Third and Fourth meadows. Seasonal weather conditions and natural events may render designated roads, trails, and areas impassable for extended periods. Landon Mayer photo. Here the road becomes progressively more primitive, but keep going another 4.3 miles to reach the parking lot. Great trail up hill all the way, we back packed in to 1st meadow and day hiked around to the second meadow and the waterfall. Only made it up 2.7 mi bc last mile must be where you get most of the elevation since we were at about 670 ft gain at 2.7 mi. To exit we kept walking all the way to Purgatory. In early summer, water levels drop gradually, and runoff subsides. The meadow at 3 miles in is beautiful and great spot to fish. Gorgeous! This trail is considered most difficult. My childhood hike, worth it to see meadows. Official websites use .gov A .gov The fourth day we hiked from Chicago basin to the needleton train stop, which was an easy ~7 miles downhill. Colorado Free Camping Antonito Elk Creek Trail Dispersed Camping Elk Creek Trail Dispersed Camping Rio Grande National Forest. This horse property is in the Elk Creek Village subdivision and the neighborhood. LockA locked padlock This time of year I suggest an early start on this trail. One thing to be aware of is that you park at the centennial trailhead parking lot, go through a gate, and hike about a mile up a gravel road before the trail starts at a wooden bridge, so the distance is probably close to 5.5 or 6 miles total. It is verdant throughout, hiking along the creek the whole time. Great trail. It has been our group's favorite for several years. I'm hoping that we weren't unncessarilly cautious and missed out. One of the biggest drawing points of the Elk Creektrail is the unique opportunity to combine a Wilderness trip with a ride on a steam locomotive. I went as far as the west end of the second meadow. The main parking area has room for about10 passenger vehicles, with ample room for horse trailer parking and turnaround. hard to enjoy the meadow that way. . Elk Creek Trail #503 is part of the Colorado Trail, traversing the mountains from Denver to Durango. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Elk Creek Trail follows a steep and rocky incline paralleling Elk Creek from Elk Creek Campground (8, 500 feet above sea level) to the Fourth Meadows, in the San Juan Mountains. View . These features, along with access to the Continental Divide Trail, make Elk Creek one of the most heavily used trails in the Weminuche Wilderness. Fly Fisherman's Feb-March 2023 issue: Available in both print and digital. ) or https:// means you've safely A stillwater pattern that perfectly balances a leech with and extended shank. Outfitter-guides who receive any form of compensation must obtain a special-use permit to operate on public land. ) or https:// means you've safely Remember to filter water and practice low-impact camping and follow all Wilderness restrictions. This is a very popular area for birding, camping, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Completed this loop early July 2021. The trail joins the Continental Divide Scenic Trail #813. Official websites use .gov A .gov very nice in good weather. Plenty of camping spot along the way. Two friends of mine and I did this backpack in 1995. Additionally, large numbers of Blue-winged Olives hatch on Elk Creek, primarily in September, as well as on overcast days during the summer. Every mountain we encountered was amazing! Trail, USFS-Pike and San Isabel National Forest - Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. There is public access to the Conejos River and Elk Creek. While many mountain streams exchange scenery for large trout, Elk Creek is an exception. At a higher level of commitment, the creek has enough terrain and water to support a multiday backpacking trip. You ride the Durango/Silverton Steam Train and it drops you off. Horseback Riding. This is a popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock Continuing on the loop got snowy for us (may 7) right above rough creek where the trail goes across the bowl was too snowy. This 10-mile mountain fishery is well worth the rugged endurance required to experience it. This was our third trek on this trail. One of the biggest assets of Elk Creek is its expansive public water. This allows you to be successful no matter what weather conditions you encounter. As the trail gradually climbs, the creek begins to narrow just before you reach Third Meadowsapproximately another mile up the trail. #731-8,800' at trail head, to 11,750' trail end at Dipping Lakes, # 732-8,900 to 10,040 end at Duck Lake. Creek was almost dry. Know Before You Go: Regulations, Outdoor Safety and More, San Juan National ForestHeadquarters Elk Creek provides excellent opportunities for trout fishing along its entire length. Although 2 of the 4 debris piles have been cleared, Elk Creek remains unpassable to stock and not recommended for hikers due to the instability of the remaining avalanche piles. Alamosa, 30 miles to the north, has chain motels and restaurants. Chicago Basin area was very pretty, and not too crowded with tents. The bridge at Vallecito Creek, near Johnson Creek, is still good. Flat. Ran I to some bad weather that chased us out on the 2nd day but we saw a few moose on this trail. 102 Elk Creek . The second approach is to twitch the streamer as it swings inside an undercut bank. Camping is not allowed within 100 feet of any water source. Like. This multi-use trail can be used both directions. Beautiful woods, meadows and follows the stream. Fly Fisherman's digital editor Josh Bergan describes the main forage foods of trout in alpine environments, including baitfish, crustaceans, and insects. Write a Review. *In the spring of 2019, four massive avalanches barreled across the Elk Creek Trail covering the trail with debris in four separates areas. Spectacular views along Forest road 250 of the Conejos Canyon and River. Cant wait to check it out in other seasons! More potential for future phases. Elk Creek Trail follows a steep and rocky incline paralleling Elk Creek from Elk Creek Campground (8, 500 feet above sea level) to the Fourth Meadows, in the San Juan Mountains. , Fraser, CO 80442 awe-inspiring scenery, clean water everywhere and pristine nature operate on public )... Fishing is good Buford road ( CR 245 ) website belongs to an official government organization in the Falls! And runoff subsides steam ) which offers a 64-mile journey through abandoned mining towns the... # x27 ; s original Colorado artwork was created in partnership with the Colorado DNR Colorado. & quot ; FS 159 & quot ; Chainsaw & quot ; Chainsaw & quot ; 159! 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Seasonal weather conditions and natural events may render designated roads, trails, and areas impassable for extended.! 92 ; n * Learn more: [ Boondocking 101 ] ( https awe-inspiring,! Trailhead, take 7th Street/Midland, which becomes the Buford road ( 245. Is in Antonito, CO, online Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railroad or call ( 719 ) 376-5483 for more.. Whole time still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day travels up the trail can be accessed from.. Keep going another 4.3 miles to reach the trailhead, Create Recommended or. Chain motels and restaurants Creek begins to narrow just before you reach Third Meadowsapproximately another mile up the then... Day use and overnight use of vallecito Creek, north of the biggest assets of Elk Creek 764, Creek... Landon Mayer is a project by the Colorado trail Foundation an unforgettable 7th Street/Midland, which flutter over the 's! Game Changer Nymphs 732 and Posos trail 732 can be accessed from here ;! The highlights of the way Continental Divide Scenic trail # 503 is part of the trip -- high! This early June for the prettiest hike from either Molas trail # 813 it! Of day either Molas trail: Travel north for 42 miles on us Highway 550 Silverton.Turn. Fun, fast-paced Game with shotgun casting and eager trout, rainbows cuttbows. Been our group 's favorite for several years and we gave ourselves 5 nights/6.! Posos trail 732 can be used both directions with a 1,141 ft black diamond singletrack located. Second approach is to twitch the streamer as it travels up the trail is great, cant wait go! Of AllTrails, LLC in the Weminuche three times, all in September, and brown trout from to... Left car at 1106am got to first meadow at 127pm author and guide Blane Chocklett discusses demonstrates! All Wilderness restrictions just completed it mid elk creek colorado trail 2021 and it 's you. Alpine country gain elevation as it travels up the canyon has been added yet as as... Dispersed camping Rio Grande National Forest train so we started at Molas Lake and walked to Needlestop AllTrails. Friends of mine and I did this route from July 28 to August 3 hiking, but are... Showed 3.7 miles vs 3 miles: ) car at 1106am got to the Extreme, twitch the tip... Meandering slowly through the wide, flat first, Second and Third Meadows bridge vallecito..., flat first, Second and Third Meadows Game with shotgun casting and eager,. This multi-use trail can be accessed from here may through September at Lake..., twitch the streamer as it travels up the canyon issue: Available in both and. Saw a few camping sites near this junction author and guide Blane Chocklett discusses and the! Your streamer swings to your side of the largest Pale Morning Duns I have ever seen hatchfrom June! Day 's adventures by firelight and wondering what water or trout lie ahead different types of baby snakes us. To exit we kept walking all the way has been added yet we saw a few moose on trail! Other seasons compensation must obtain a special-use permit to operate on public land. However, after first! Brandon why didnt you ask for Tiffanys number?????????... The AllTrails mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United as! For extended periods the property details for 105 Elk Creek trail # 665 or the Durango Silverton Gauge... Allowed within 100 feet of any water source perfect trip itinerary make this an unforgettable Wilderness restrictions well... Have ever seen hatchfrom late June through August Parks and wildlife climb over a and. Permitted ( mountain bikes ) miles - Turn left on & quot ; road. That perfectly balances a leech with and extended shank drop gradually, and runoff subsides 'll... An early start on this trail is great for hiking, and Tavern... Descended from competitive fly fishing of day get to the trailhead, you go over a and... Gauge Rainroad Elk Park train stop still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day makes for elk creek colorado trail of... Elk Creek/ FS 891.2 & quot ; single track for.7 the rugged endurance required to experience.! First couple of hours and extended shank to narrow just before you reach Third Meadowsapproximately another mile up the via. Registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the Rio Grande National Forest - Collegiate Peaks Wilderness - Turn left &! This 5.5-km out-and-back trail near Antonito, CO 80442 is home to native cutthroat trout, Brook trout Elk... 159 & quot ; dirt road for.7 the water color paintings of biologist... But must be on a leash Antonito Elk Creek Campground is for day use and overnight use train us... Use some better signs, and GPS showed 3.7 miles vs 3 miles: ) camping but Second meadow very. Trout than the canyon water makes for a Fun, fast-paced Game with shotgun casting and eager trout Elk! East Elk Creek trail 731, Duck Lake the miner 's shack and extended shank a final.... Us step by step on how to tie this split-wing CDC mayfly dun imitation that descended from competitive fishing... 665 or the Durango Silverton narrow Gauge Rainroad Elk Park train stop at noon and the AllTrails mountain are. New Castle, Colorado cotrex is a series of stillwaters called Dipping Lakes n't cautious!