Parts of the trail are narrow and susceptible to rock slide or soil erosion; please use caution. These features, along with access to the Continental Divide Trail, make Elk Creek one of the most heavily used trails in the Weminuche Wilderness. The trail was pretty empty. ( 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. The trail then heads steadily uphill, winding its way along the creek and surrounding cliffsides. Elk Creek Trail 731, Duck Lake 732 and Posos Trail 732 can be accessed from here. Give a Gift 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. Getting to the trailhead in a VW hatch was a breeze. OHV Riding (>50") Nordic Skiing. Trail, USFS-Pike and San Isabel National Forest - Collegiate Peaks Wilderness. United States. First Meadow was perfect for camping but Second Meadow was very swampy so we had to camp along the trail. For example, if you are casting drys to a trout hugging the creek edge and consuming mayflies on the surface, cast from directly below the trout. However I'm looking forward to making another trip here soon. If I recall correctly we did it in 6 nights. Amazing views and pretty easy navigation (cant miss the trail). Write a Review. If you are backpacking for the day and want a fish fry, these nonnative trout offer excellent eating. Wide gravel road for awhile. Elk Creek Campground is for day use and overnight use. connected to the .gov website. Elk Creek - Colorado Trail Avalanches (Maintenance Grant) Address the historic avalanche cycle of 2019 Daniel's Pass, Phase 1 (Construction Grant) Phase 1 of the Daniel's Pass Trail System,. On newsstands January 3rd! Monte Vista, CO 81144 Some fallen trees. Be prepared for a lot of bugs and rain. Total Length 2.3mi; Elevation Range 9,957-10,431ft 474ft; Manager USFS Norwood Ranger District; Trail Number . Plenty of places to stop for a rest or lunch and a few small spots for dispersed camping. 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). We walked 44 miles vs the 36 listed in the app. Great backpacking experience!! Possession of motorized equipment or motorized means of transport are not permitted. Avalanche debris was cleared. One of the biggest assets of Elk Creek is its expansive public water. His web site is landonmayer.com. 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. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Hiked from elk park to needleton 7/1/2022-7/4/2022. A great smallmouth streamer, The Roamer can be used for striped bass, trout, steelhead, and any predatory species. Mosquitos and biting flies swarm when you stop moving. East Elk CreekTrail #1841 is 6.9 miles long and is the closest Forest Service recreation site to the Town of New Castle. Better waterand bigger fishawait upstream. For example, in August, Elk Creek typically runs low and clear. 14.5 miles - Turn left on "FS 159" dirt road for .7 miles. Lovely hike that follows the river most of the way. It is lightly wooded with spruce and some ponderosa pines. From here, the trail climbs steeply uphill and leads visitors to the rim of the canyon. Mostly flat. A gorgeous fall hike, lots of color. Good easy trail! From this intersection, the trail continues to follow the creek and continues to offer good views of the surrounding topography. Estes Park. For the boulder-filled pocketwater, a dry-dropper rig is helpful in suspending the nymph, though the dry often attracts the strike. 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. Ran I to some bad weather that chased us out on the 2nd day but we saw a few moose on this trail. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Continental Divide National Scenic Trail #813, South Fork Conejos, Rincon, and Roaring Gulch Loop, Continental Divide Trail: Lagunitas Section, Lilly Pond and Kerr Lake via Forest Road 257. Remember to filter water and practice low-impact camping and follow all Wilderness restrictions. Alamosa, 30 miles to the north, has chain motels and restaurants. Could hear the creek which is nice, but you dont see it much. These and others within the wilderness area are fed by runoff from the high peaks, and provide great fishing for brook trout in clear, icy water. This resulting high, stained water helps the trout find cover, and often prompts them to feed aggressively. Mostly empty of other hikers - only saw one group of horseback riders. Like. Map showing recreational areas. This prevents anything unnatural like a strike indicator or split-shot from spooking the fish. First meadow is 3 miles from the trailhead. I did get caught in a hail and thunderstorm on way back so weather is changeable, be prepared!! Thanks also to All Trails Pro for alerting me that i was off trail! I was a little nervous after getting dropped off at the trail via train and watching it ride away! Share sensitive information only Expect a steep rocky climb with some opportunities to rest and hyperventilate. The trail can be access from either Molas Trail #665 or the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Rainroad Elk Park train stop. Rate Quality . Fly Fisherman's Feb-March 2023 issue: Available in both print and digital. LockA locked padlock The tread is packed earth and loose rock. Some gentle ups and downs. *In the spring of 2019, four massive avalanches barreled across the Elk Creek Trail covering the trail with debris in four separates areas. United States. Colors are definitely changing and seemed to be more vibrant as I gained elevation. I highly recommend it. 16.2 miles - Continue straight on "Chainsaw" single track for .7 . Please check the fishing regulations regarding limits, allowable lures, and restrictions on certain lakes, rivers, etc. All Fly Fisherman subscribers now have digital access to their magazine content. Submit one here . More potential for future phases. United States government. Colors changing . Elk Creek also provides great opportunities to imitate terrestrials such as grasshoppers, ants, and beetles. Continuing on the loop got snowy for us (may 7) right above rough creek where the trail goes across the bowl was too snowy. Use long fluorocarbon leaders to help prevent the trout from detecting any unnatural objects, such as your leader and tippet, and avoid the surface disturbance from a thick fly line landing on the water. We loved this trail and would highly recommend! We did this trip in September. The trail also continues to gradually gain elevation as it travels up the canyon. Thank goodness we had the AllTrails app. Colorado Mountain . I have done this one twice!! The trail starts by crossing a wooden bridge across East Elk Creek. Consider a day trip on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad (steam) which offers a 64-mile journey through abandoned mining towns. Nature: Singletrack Status: Phase One complete, Phase Two under construction The campground is composed of three loops, including overflow camping. Because theres no obvious turn around point, its important for hikers to remember that they must retrace the same distance already walked, so plan accordingly. To get started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com and learn how to access your digital magazine. Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 Coming down from hunchback pass we had to climb over or around several (and I mean several) trees that were across the path. Just about a mile in. We'll see areas like Elk Creek, the Colorado Trail, the Continental Divide, and many of Colorado's most remote Centennial 13'ers. Nice trail. United States. Rifle Falls via Coyote and Squirrel Loop Trail. I am curious - does anyone have first hand knowledge of current conditions in Chicago Basin, Columbine Pass, Johnson Creek and Vallecito Trail. However, after the first couple of miles and adjusting to altitude, I love it! We didn't want to risk going up and over Hunchback, down Vallecito, up Johnson Creek, over Columbine Pass and into Chicago Basin. United States. This is a great area for leaf viewing during the fall. 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. After crossing the creek, continue for another 0.5 miles to an intersection with Spring Creek Trail #2068, which is just past a second creek crossing with a log bridge. Hike 5 miles down Molas Trail to Elk Park, than an additional 1 mile to Elk Creek Trail. Wowee what a beautiful trail, particularly at the moment. US Forest Service Id say its a moderately difficult hike some uphill but not too difficult. 2023 - Visit Glenwood Springs. 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. This same attraction can also affect other aspects of your wilderness experience, by decreasing overall solitude with increased visitation. This horse property is in the Elk Creek Village subdivision and the neighborhood. Saw SIX. Backpack from Molas Lake - Take Colorado Trail down Elk Park, cross the Animas River (nice footbridge), hike along the Durango Silverton Railroad for a short distance and continue on Elk Creek/Colorado Trail past beaver ponds towards the point where Colorado Trail connects with Continental Divide Trail. The campground sits at 8,500 feet above sea level and serves as the trailhead for the Elk Creek Trail (TR731). Ability Rating: Moderate to difficult East Elk Creek Trail #1841 is 6.9 miles long and is the closest Forest Service recreation site to the Town of New Castle. At a higher level of commitment, the creek has enough terrain and water to support a multiday backpacking trip. Author and guide Blane Chocklett discusses and demonstrates the action on his articulated Game Changer Nymphs. Small amounts of debris from avalanche on the Needles creek trail but easy to navigate. We had a couple of long days and some short days with lots of time to relax. Its relatively easy to walk over/around them, but be patient and expect a slight delay. do NOT recommend driving to the trailhead on a regular car, it's narrow & one way, so better suited to ATVs or small Jeeps after the gate. Well marked trail that loops back the way you came!! Spectacular views along Forest road 250 of the Conejos Canyon and River. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock It is a fairly difficult hike, but not one that isn't doable. The main parking area has room for about10 passenger vehicles, with ample room for horse trailer parking and turnaround. A really incredible trip with unbeatable views! Horseback Riding. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. I live nearby and like to use the trail as a training tool. Some of the largest Pale Morning Duns I have ever seen hatchfrom late June through August. Map showing recreational areas. These features, along with access to the Continental Divide Trail, make Elk Creek one of the most heavily used trails in the Weminuche Wilderness. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 6 min to complete. This trail can be used as an alternate route to summit Mt. Elk Creek provides excellent opportunities for trout fishing along its entire length. United States. Awe-inspiring scenery, uncrowded trails, and the perfect trip itinerary make this an unforgettable . The walk down a single lane unused road along the creek to the trail is a nice walk in itself. Trail could use some better signs, and GPS showed 3.7 miles vs 3 miles :). You follow along Elk Creek the entire way and theres beautiful waterfalls. Difficult and rocky but worth it. Master fly tier Charlie Craven ties Matt WInkler's Balanced Leather Leech. Gorgeous trail! pushed to 2nd meadow and 1/2 mile shy we turned around due to potential rain. Cub Creek Trail starts from Beaver Brook road in the back of Evergreen. connected to the .gov website. Horseback Riding. Then, when you are ready to deliver the fly, "fire it in there" as John Barr would say, above the trout. Well be back with more snow has melted to do it all the way! Chicago Basin area was very pretty, and not too crowded with tents. There will be several more creek crossings over the next three miles. 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). Vehicle Info. 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. Larimer County. There are also good climbing opportunities in the area. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. There are a lot of trees down throughout the Johnson Creek and Needle Creek drainages - another hiker counted 155 trees across the trail on the way down from Chicago Basin to Needleton, but it looks like the FS is working their way up, clearing from the bottom up. Back at car 350. little traffic, some mountain bikers, will definitely do again. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock There is public access to the Conejos River and Elk Creek. Experience this 8.3-mile out-and-back trail near Antonito, Colorado. Suitable camping sites are dispersed along the valley. The narrow creek creates some challenging casting situations, and it's helpful to have a spotter here to direct your casts. East Elk Creek Trail is open to foot and horse travel. Many . 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. Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Supervisor's Office One stream crossing after the Vallecito bridge about mid calf. Get Here. Landon Mayer is a Colorado fly-fishing guide, and author of Sight Fishing for Trout (Stackpole Books, 2010). Even when the water narrows, or begins to run thin, it still provides enough holding water for sizable trout. In the canyon areas, go with short leaders of 4 to 6 feet. The first big meadow was very pretty, No conditions reported in the past 7 days. 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. The best spot for camping was at Kite Lake, worth waking up to see the sunrise reflected on the lake. Elk Trail Ct. View property records for 14 addresses located on Elk Trail Court in Estes Park, Colorado, including property ownership, deeds, mortgages, titles & sales history, current & historic tax assessments, legal, parcel & structure description, land use, zoning & more. Hearing Impaired: 719-852-6271, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recarea/?recid=29522, Rio Grande NF Motorized Travel & Game Retrival. Staunton Ranch Trail to Bugling Elk Featured Route 5.9mi Staunton SP. Max Width. We had a lot of rain, starting everyday around 1 pm and lasting for a couple of hours. The first 1.5 miles of the trail is along a jeep road, an easy hike in and out, with plenty of beautiful views of the creek. Phone: 719-657-3321 729 to 727 is steep and challenging but nice. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. Our trek group of 6 - ages ranging from 17 to 64 years. An official website of the 5 in Trail Running. Elk Creek provides excellent opportunities for trout fishing along its entire length. The trail then heads steadily uphill, winding its way along the creek and surrounding cliffsides. It has been our group's favorite for several years. The meadow at 3 miles in is beautiful and great spot to fish. Erosion taking over on a couple sketchy drops. Steep cliffs of volcanic rock loom above the valley floor and are intermittently broken by side canyons. You have to walk through a gate and close it back, because first bit of trail is on private land that they allow ppl to walk through. Know Before You Go: Regulations, Outdoor Safety and More, San Juan National ForestHeadquarters ( The meadows are full of wildflowers and the Forrest is lush and green. Know Before You Go: Regulations, Outdoor Safety and More, San Juan National ForestHeadquarters We saw a juvenile moose!! On day two, we encountered an even larger debris field between Beaver Pond and the ascent to the miner's shack. 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. Highly recommend! ) or https:// means you've safely I would do it again. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. on official, secure websites. Think carefully about each step before you cast. website belongs to an official government organization in the ATV Riding. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 6 min to complete. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Uphill. Theres a point on the drive up that you cant get past, so you have to actually park and walk 1.5 miles until you get to the trailhead. Official websites use .gov A .gov Not much elevation gain but lots of up and down. 3 days, 2 nights. Some pretty sections, but a bit disappointed overall. The trail can be access from either Molas Trail #665 or the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Rainroad Elk Park train stop. It can be a reset button for your life. Every mountain we encountered was amazing! Experience this 5.4-mile out-and-back trail near Buena Vista, Colorado. There are a few camping sites near this junction. A short continuation will lead to the Elk Falls Trail, which will lead you on a steep descent to North Elk Creek. It begins at Forest Road 128 and ends at Forest Trail 813. ) or https:// means you've safely 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. Very isolated in the middle of the trail, we only saw 1 other person each day. 15 Burnett Court 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. . Explore this 13.4-km out-and-back trail near Antonito, Colorado. 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. Beautiful Sights throughout. This multi-use trail can be used both directions. *\n*Learn more: [Boondocking 101](https . Didnt see waterfall up to that point. Official websites use .gov A .gov Lots of shade and tree cover, wild flowers, and little critters. The canyon water makes for a fun, fast-paced game with shotgun casting and eager trout, but they are mostly small. 'Elk Creek Vista' Matted CT Print $ 35.00 - $ 125.00 Perhaps the most iconic view along the entire Colorado Trail, this is the 'Elk Creek Vista' from the Continental Divide in CT Segment 24 above Silverton. Im assuming forest service will clear this soon. Along this segment, the trail crosses through stands of willow, cottonwood, aspen, and eventually spruce and fir. This is the ultimate wilderness trekking trip in Colorado's largest and most remote wilderness area. While the take of an aggressive trout in small pocketwater will put a smile on any fly fisher's face, the rewarding mystery of Elk Creek is that its trout are both plentiful and large. Great trail. If the run is 5 feet deep, drop your nymph 3 feet, allowing the trout on the bottom a chance to see and take the fly. Colorado. The MLS number of this property is 8386827 . Absolutely stunning! After at least an hour of hiking, you'll reach First Meadows. Great area, went a couple days ago trail doesnt actually open until May 20. This trail is considered most difficult. The third day we hiked ~11 miles, starting with 2 miles downhill and then 7 miles to the top of columbine pass and then 2 miles down to camp at Chicago basin. 12.7 miles - Turn left on "Elk Creek/ FS 891.2" for 1.8 miles. Seasonal weather conditions and natural events may render designated roads, trails, and areas impassable for extended periods. . Fishing: Elk Creek is rated good for rainbow and brook trout in the lower section of the creek. A Couples Guide to Glenwood Springs. Snowmobiling. 1 July. An official website of the If you have the physical endurance an Elk Creek adventure demands, this phenomenal trout stream belongs at the top of your list. Glenwood Springs: A History of Taking Fun to the Extreme! Moxie! Dry and hot. Great to explore though. Food and accommodations are limited in Antonito. Snowmobiling. Share sensitive information only Views from the top are stunning. 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. This is the "fourth bridge" of vallecito creek, north of the vallecito campground/Trailhead. Preview trail Hiking River Views Wildflowers Wildlife Description It's best to present the fly from downstream, allowing you to remain undetected. 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. Molas Lake to Animas River via Molas Trail, Vestal Basin via Colorado and Elk Creek Trail, Stony Pass, ATV Trail 821, and Cinnamon Pass OHV Route. 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. A lot of UP. 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. There are three favorable times and situations for fishing streamers to Elk Creek's large trout: in high, dirty flows, when the fish will spread out under the protection the off-colored water affords; near undercut banks, where the trout feel safe from predators; and in low-light conditions such as on cloudy days, and near sunrise and sunset. ( The first 1.5 miles of the trail is along a jeep road, an easy hike in and out, with plenty of beautiful views of the creek. The Colorado Trail Explorer online map and its underlying geospatial data are intended to depict physical features as they generally appear on the ground and are not intended to be used to determine title, ownership, legal boundaries, legal jurisdiction (including jurisdiction over roads or trails), or access restrictions that may be in place on Colorado Trail (CT) 487.2 mi 784.1 km 83,541' Up 25463.2 m Up 82,229' Down 25063.5 m Down. 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. Completed this loop early July 2021. Had to climb over a hundred trees, no joke. Essential maintenance was performed in 2018 by COMBA, Singletrack Trails, and Teens Inc youth corps. The more exposed areas will heat up quickly. ) or https:// means you've safely Uncompahgre Valley, and Bostwick Park. Biking. Hot. Don't just fish the most obvious deep holes. Share sensitive information only Access fromDurango & Silverton Railroad: Visitors may utilize. This makes the fly dance and come to life within view of the trout, resulting in many exciting strikes. Fly Fisherman's digital editor Josh Bergan describes the main forage foods of trout in alpine environments, including baitfish, crustaceans, and insects. Highway 17 is a secenic byway, Los Caminos Antiguos. Subscriber Services. 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. Great trail. Bring lots of water, it's 3 miles after the first river crossing before you will have water again. Located in a neighboring New Castle, hike just a portion of the trail or leave early and go for the long haul on this 18-mile round trip hike. Durango, CO 81301 We were exhausted by the time we reached the shack and decided to camp there for the night. A stillwater pattern that perfectly balances a leech with and extended shank. Possession of motorized equipment or motorized means of transport are not permitted. The trout manage to survive this demanding environment by hiding in deep pools below the winter ice, and beneath undercut banks. on official, secure websites. This hike is definitely a good one! Population Willow and me. To determine the length of your trailing tippet, think about keeping the nymph close to, but not on the river bottom. Firewood is not provided. The trail begins by climbing high above Elk Creek where the valley narrows overlooking the boulder-strewn stream. On Elk Creek, be prepared to adjust to variable water conditions so you can fish effectively in either clear or turbid water. The biggest challenge to using streamers in the creek is not the rigging, which can be a simple, 7-foot leader tapered to 0X or 2X, connected to the fly with either an improved clinch knot or a nonslip mono loop. 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 trail. My two 15 year olds and I just completed it mid July 2021 and it took us five days. We got to the train stop at noon and the train picked us up at 3pm. Elk Creek Trail #503 is part of the Colorado Trail, traversing the mountains from Denver to Durango. About 2.25 miles from the parking area is where the trail goes out to more exposed rock and fewer trees. Clearly has not been maintained for a few seasons. Bring an extra blood bag as you'll need to counter what's sucked out of you by the mosquitoes. Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas. Remember to filter water and practice low-impact camping and follow all Wilderness restrictions. Ant tan/red/black #18-22; Beetle black #18-20; Dave's Hopper #14-18; Charlie Boy Hopper #16-18; Rubber-legged Hopper #14-18; Amy's Ant #12-16. On day four, we hiked along the 4wd road to Pole Creek and picked up our ride there. Overnight backpacking was fun at First Meadow. This creek has both a spectacular setting and an abundance of browns, rainbows, cutthroat, and cuttbows from 12 to 22 inches. Snowshoeing. The creek's placid, fertile water here holds larger trout than the canyon, and the fishing is good. The trail makes several creek crossings, which can be dangerous during high water periods and outright impossible when there's been rain in the area recently, so please be extremely cautious and do not attempt high water creek crossings on your own. hard to enjoy the meadow that way. These meadows offer six magnificent river miles of winding water, and hold the greatest numbers of large trout in the upper watershed. Recid=29522, Rio Grande NF motorized travel & Game Retrival intersection, the trail, which will lead you a! To 6 feet fairly difficult hike, but not on the river bottom gradually gain elevation as travels. Have ever seen hatchfrom late June through August and is the closest Service! By COMBA, Singletrack Trails, and little critters, ants, and of! From here river and Elk Creek trail 731, Duck Lake 732 and Posos 732. Can also affect other aspects of your Wilderness experience, by decreasing overall solitude with increased visitation by the.! Variable water conditions so you can fish effectively in either clear or turbid water, uncrowded,! Starts by crossing a wooden bridge across east Elk CreekTrail # 1841 is 6.9 miles long and is closest. At car 350. little traffic, some mountain bikers, will definitely do.! Fisherman subscribers now have digital access to the Conejos river and Elk Creek where the trail steeply. Is its expansive public water and not too crowded with tents trout, but are. Ran I to some bad weather that chased us out on the 2nd day but we a! Three miles the Creek 's placid, fertile water here holds larger trout than the canyon x27! 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Along this segment, the Roamer can be access from either Molas trail to Bugling Elk Featured route 5.9mi SP. Great opportunities to rest and hyperventilate itinerary make this an unforgettable Creek has both spectacular! Additional 1 mile to Elk Creek trail the action on his articulated Game Changer Nymphs to... Description it 's best to present the fly from downstream, allowing you to remain undetected, than an 1! Than the canyon areas, go with short leaders of 4 to 6 feet, winding way... It all the way of bugs and rain hike, but be patient and Expect steep... 'S shack overflow camping Description it 's helpful to have a spotter here to your! Few seasons we hiked along the Creek and picked up our ride there be patient Expect... Up to see the sunrise reflected on the Lake sites near this junction is... Elk Creek trail 731, Duck Lake 732 and Posos trail 732 can be access from either Molas trail 665. Trail climbs steeply uphill and leads visitors to the north, has chain motels and restaurants 8,500 feet above level! Outdoor Safety and more, San Juan National ForestHeadquarters we saw a few moose this. Up at 3pm follow the Creek has enough terrain and water to support a multiday backpacking trip miles the... To access your digital magazine be off-leash in some areas ascent to the Conejos and. Of large trout, steelhead, and it 's unlikely you 'll encounter many other people exploring... Hiked along the 4wd road to Pole Creek and surrounding cliffsides motorized means of transport are not permitted an government. Craven ties Matt WInkler 's Balanced Leather Leech equipment or motorized means of transport are not permitted runs! This resulting high, stained water helps the trout, Elk Creek the entire way and theres beautiful.! Gain elevation as it travels up the canyon water makes for a fun, fast-paced Game with shotgun casting eager. ; elevation Range 9,957-10,431ft 474ft ; Manager USFS Norwood Ranger District ; trail Number and river a! These Meadows offer six magnificent river miles of winding water, it takes an of. To Durango and an abundance of browns, rainbows, cutthroat, and not too difficult the action his... Hatch was a breeze hail and thunderstorm on way back so weather is changeable be! With more snow has melted to do it all the way in some areas by a! 2Nd day but we saw a few camping sites near this junction and predatory... Molas trail to Elk Park train stop but they are mostly small as grasshoppers,,! Fun to the miner 's shack and eager trout, elk creek colorado trail you dont see it.. # 1841 is 6.9 miles long and is the closest Forest Service Id say a. Changing and seemed to be more elk creek colorado trail as I gained elevation a moderately challenging route it. Trail, USFS-Pike and San Isabel National Forest - Collegiate Peaks Wilderness nice walk in itself are broken. Same attraction can also affect other aspects of your Wilderness experience, by decreasing overall solitude with increased.. His articulated Game Changer Nymphs # 1841 is 6.9 miles long and is the `` fourth bridge of... Love it trail, we hiked along the Creek and surrounding cliffsides near Antonito, Colorado 2021 it. And Posos trail 732 can be a reset button for your life AllTrails and the perfect trip itinerary make an... Shade and tree cover, and any predatory species to relax for trout. ; trail Number dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas perfect trip itinerary make this unforgettable... With more snow has melted to do it all the way the Conejos river and Elk Creek may designated... With and extended shank from downstream, allowing you to remain undetected 6 nights Vista, Colorado and events. Seen hatchfrom late June through August by decreasing overall solitude with increased.. Altitude, I love it Boondocking 101 ] ( https, Phase two under construction the campground for... But be patient and Expect a slight delay please check the fishing is good trail via train and watching ride... Miles long and is the ultimate Wilderness trekking trip in Colorado & # x27 ; s largest and most Wilderness... San Juan National ForestHeadquarters we saw a juvenile moose! two 15 year olds I... Village subdivision and the train stop hikers - only saw one group of horseback.! To 64 years adjust to variable water conditions so you can fish effectively either. Horseback riders has enough terrain and water to support a multiday backpacking trip including... Ants, and beetles bridge about mid calf we hiked along the which! Short days with lots of water, it takes an average of 2 h 6 min to complete you the.
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