North Elk Creek Trail . Along this segment, the trail crosses through stands of willow, cottonwood, aspen, and eventually spruce and fir. LockA locked padlock The trail can be access from either Molas Trail #665 or the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Rainroad Elk Park train stop. PS. 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. ATV Riding. All in all beautiful scenery and a great hike. All Rights Reserved. Experience this 5.4-mile out-and-back trail near Buena Vista, Colorado. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Preview trail website belongs to an official government organization in the To read the full instructions and story see our February-March 2021 issue. It can be a reset button for your life. I did get caught in a hail and thunderstorm on way back so weather is changeable, be prepared!! If you are backpacking for the day and want a fish fry, these nonnative trout offer excellent eating. 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). Lots of flowers, waterfalls, and views. Camping is not allowed within 100 feet of any water source. The meadows are full of wildflowers and the Forrest is lush and green. When I returned there was a note on my car not to park there!! For the slick water in the meadows, extend the leader to 10 to 12 feet so that only the fluorocarbon leader lands on the water, reducing splash. This trail can be used as an alternate route to summit Mt. Colors changing . The trail was pretty empty. Map showing recreational areas. Other trails which can be reached via the El Creek Trail are the Notch Trail #729 and the Rough Creek Trail #727. Well be back with more snow has melted to do it all the way! All other sites are side-by-side pull-throughwith no tables and seven grills. Explore this 3.4-mile out-and-back trail near New Castle, Colorado. This trail was beautiful, once you actually got to it. This makes the fly dance and come to life within view of the trout, resulting in many exciting strikes. 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. If I recall correctly we did it in 6 nights. Hearing Impaired: 719-852-6271, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recarea/?recid=29522, Rio Grande NF Motorized Travel & Game Retrival. This horse property has 2 bedrooms and 2 total baths. The trail can be access from either Molas Trail #665 or the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Rainroad Elk Park train stop. Not a bad hike up to the South Elk Creek waterfall. Max Width. United States. We made the decision to cut our trek short. It is lightly wooded with spruce and some ponderosa pines. 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. Hike 5 miles down Molas Trail to Elk Park, than an additional 1 mile to Elk Creek Trail. Please check the fishing regulations regarding limits, allowable lures, and restrictions on certain lakes, rivers, etc. Ability Rating: Moderate to difficult Adventure into the Flat Tops Wilderness! Experience this 8.3-mile out-and-back trail near Antonito, Colorado. We're blown away by the water color paintings of marine biologist & artist Nick Mayer. Share sensitive information only Durango, CO 81301 This multi-use trail can be used both directions with a 1,141 ft black diamond climb. To get started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com and learn how to access your digital magazine. 12.7 miles - Turn left on "Elk Creek/ FS 891.2" for 1.8 miles. (970)945-2521, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recreation/hunting/recarea/?recid=82867&actid=54, Williams Peak and Ginright (Fourmile)Timber Sale Project Area Restrictions, The lower part of the trail features severalsites and artifactsfrom historic gold mining operations. A gorgeous fall hike, lots of color. As the trail gradually climbs, the creek begins to narrow just before you reach Third Meadowsapproximately another mile up the trail. 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). 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. We saw a juvenile moose!! We are early 50s, fairly fit experienced hikers from Durango, and we gave ourselves 5 nights/6 days. 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. ( An official website of the The trail then heads steadily uphill, winding its way along the creek and surrounding cliffsides. This was my first hike of more than five miles. Wowee what a beautiful trail, particularly at the moment. Spectacular views along Forest road 250 of the Conejos Canyon and River. Also visible is the famous Painted Wall, the tallest cliff in Colorado (2,250 ft.), as well as rock islands jutting up from the depths of the canyon. Elk Creek drains the northern portion of the Grenadier Range, which includes Arrow, Vestal, and the Trinity Peaks; a mecca for mountaineers. 102 Elk Creek . A friend and I attempted this horseshoe hike in reverse last weekend (Aug 14). An official website of the United States government. Parking is availabe at the Trailhead. 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. The Elk Creek Campground in the Rio Grande National Forest is 22 miles west of Antonito on Colorado 17. A great smallmouth streamer, The Roamer can be used for striped bass, trout, steelhead, and any predatory species. But any days in the woods are better than most days doing anything else. First Meadow was perfect for camping but Second Meadow was very swampy so we had to camp along the trail. Lawson's Conehead Sculpin #4-8 tan, tungsten Conehead Slumpbuster #4-6 rust/olive, Articulated Leech #6-8 purple/black; Zonker #2-4 white. To the north look for the West Elk Mountains, and at the end of the trail enjoy the views of the Gunnison River and the Black Canyon. Snowmobiling. Here the road becomes progressively more primitive, but keep going another 4.3 miles to reach the parking lot. My childhood hike, worth it to see meadows. 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. West Needles Contiguous Wilderness Study Area. North Elk Creek Project Stats Project Type: Backcountry Trails User Groups: Mountain bikers, hikers, trail runners, equestrians Difficulty: Moderate Distance: 2.8 miles currently, 2.7 miles under construction. My two 15 year olds and I just completed it mid July 2021 and it took us five days. Typically a 7-foot leader tapered to 4X works great. This approach is very long, requires a . Completed this loop early July 2021. Had to climb over a hundred trees, no joke. This was our third trek on this trail. Well marked trail that loops back the way you came!! The narrow creek creates some challenging casting situations, and it's helpful to have a spotter here to direct your casts. Two friends of mine and I did this backpack in 1995. Flying drones is not permitted over congressionally designated wilderness areas or primitive areas as many people seek these places for the opportunities for solitude and quiet that they provide. Chicago Basin area was very pretty, and not too crowded with tents. Seasonal weather conditions and natural events may render designated roads, trails, and areas impassable for extended periods. trail is hot in certain portions but the meadows are lush and green. Dry and hot. Adventure into the Flat Tops Wilderness! website belongs to an official government organization in the This resulting high, stained water helps the trout find cover, and often prompts them to feed aggressively. The best times to visit this trail are May through September. The meadow at 3 miles in is beautiful and great spot to fish. First meadow is 3 miles from the trailhead. The walk down a single lane unused road along the creek to the trail is a nice walk in itself. On Brazil's Xingu River, Kayapo warriors use the enormous fangs from vampire fish to cut and scar their arms. 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. on official, secure websites. I prefer foam flies like the BC Hopper. Check trailhead signs or Forest Service Offices for site-specific camping, campfire, and livestock regulations. As the water warms, Elk Creek produces prolific and complex hatches, allowing the well-fed trout to achieve their full growth. Author and guide Blane Chocklett discusses and demonstrates the action on his articulated Game Changer Nymphs. Submit one here . Length:18 miles out and back The weather plays a big role in water conditions. Instead, drift a nymph tied with a weighted bead, preferably tungsten, or lead substitute wire wrapped around the hook shank. Official websites use .gov A .gov In a big river, you can cast a streamer far, and retrieve it a long way. 1st meadow full of cows, cow pies and cows protecting calves. Motorcycle Riding. ) or https:// means you've safely United States government. Elk Creek Trail #503 is part of the Colorado Trail, traversing the mountains from Denver to Durango. On Elk Creek, be prepared to adjust to variable water conditions so you can fish effectively in either clear or turbid water. The trail starts by crossing a wooden bridge across East Elk Creek. connected to the .gov website. Nature: Singletrack Status: Phase One complete, Phase Two under construction pushed to 2nd meadow and 1/2 mile shy we turned around due to potential rain. Just north ofMolas Pass, turn right (east) into dirt parking lot. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Most people are accustomed to fishing streamers in big rivers, and don't think of using them in smaller streams. It's best to present the fly from downstream, allowing you to remain undetected. This multi-use trail can be used both directions. Outfitter-guides who receive any form of compensation must obtain a special-use permit to operate on public land. Use web site: Memorial Day weekend - The second Monday of September. We did this trip in September. Lots of wildflowers. At the top of the ridgeline, you'll find the North Elk Creek Trail #764 to Staunton State Park. LockA locked padlock LockA locked padlock United States government. 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. 14.5 miles - Turn left on "FS 159" dirt road for .7 miles. Great trail with beautiful views! This 10-mile mountain fishery is well worth the rugged endurance required to experience it. very nice in good weather. Good fishing. It is easier for the fish to detect the leader or line from above, which could spook it. The narrow water continues as you enter Third and Fourth meadows. They were all well marked but took extra time to navigate. 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. connected to the .gov website. 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. From the trail head to the South San Juan Wilderness boundary only. (970) 247-4874, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sanjuan/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=42890&actid=51. Flying drones is not permitted over congressionally designated wilderness areas or primitive areas as many people seek these places for the opportunities for solitude and quiet that they provide. We ended up finishing around 5pm on the 5th day, so instead of waiting around for the return train to Durango on day 6, we took the train to Silverton for lunch, then rode the whole return trip to Durango. This will help you load the rod quickly while hitting the pocketwater efficiently as you move around the boulders. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. The drive to reach this trailhead is long and somewhat rough (moderate to rough in difficulty) requiring over 25 miles on 4x4 roads. Perform this maneuver while standing directly above the area where the trout is holding, knowing that the fish cannot see anything above its position. 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. Back at car 350. little traffic, some mountain bikers, will definitely do again. Nice hike overall. Snowshoeing. This hike is definitely a good one! This is especially important when your position on the creek's edge is angled far away up- or downstream. 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,. 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. 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. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 6 min to complete. There are 31 campsites (6 are pull-through) with tables and fireplaces, 3 vault type toilets, drinking water (3 hand pumps) and refuse receptacles for your convenience. Hearing Impaired: 719-852-6271, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=29526&actid=51. The campground has 34 nonreservable sites available for $16 per night. Right now the waterfalls are still running strong and the pleasant sound of the water makes your time even that much more enjoyable!! There are two ways to approach this presentation problem. The trick to successful dry-fly fishing on Elk Creek is accuracy in pocketwater settings, when your drifts can be short in the calm water breaks around rocks. The most direct route to the Elk Falls overlook is to choose the Bugling Elk trail which follows a small creek for 1.1 miles until it arrives at Elk Falls Pond, a good place to stop and Fish. 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. Id say its a moderately difficult hike some uphill but not too difficult. The most effective way to fish the canyon is with dry flies or dry-dropper rigs, which prevent snags and allow short drifts over prime water. At high elevationsabove 9,000 feetit is often impossible to predict the weather systems, which are known to arrive without warning. Coming down from hunchback pass we had to climb over or around several (and I mean several) trees that were across the path. I'm fortunate enough to enjoy this trail weekly. Consider a day trip on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad (steam) which offers a 64-mile journey through abandoned mining towns. Done over 5 nights and 6 days. Elk Creek provides excellent opportunities for trout fishing along its entire length. *In the spring of 2019, four massive avalanches barreled across the Elk Creek Trail covering the trail with debris in four separates areas. More potential for future phases. 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. This is a spectacular trip with abundant scenery and lots of solitude. The second approach is to twitch the streamer as it swings inside an undercut bank. We just finished this trail. US Forest Service This jigging technique will allow you present streamers to trout that would be otherwise unapproachable. Rio Grande National Forest, 1803 W. Highway 160 The four debris fields we crossed we scary enough. The trail seems dry, not many wild flowers to be seen,. 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. No description for Elk Meadow 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. Consider a day trip on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad (steam) which offers a 64-mile journey through abandoned mining towns. 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). 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. Could hear the creek which is nice, but you dont see it much. On day two, we encountered an even larger debris field between Beaver Pond and the ascent to the miner's shack. Map Information. My wife and I completed this hike in September of 2016 and loved it. Lots of wildlife tracks. Check trailhead signs or Forest Service Offices for site-specific camping, campfire, and livestock regulations. Moxie! 50 inches. When selecting flies for Elk Creek, choose the patterns that most effectively imitate the life cycles of the foods the fish key on. Did not push ourselves-- Left car at 1106am got to first meadow at 127pm. I live nearby and like to use the trail as a training tool. These features, along with access to the Continental Divide Trail, make Elk Creek one of the most heavily used trails in the Weminuche Wilderness. One thing I have always noticed when fishing deep, narrow trout streams is that the trout have the opportunity to see more food items drifting downstream, both subsurface and on top, than they would in wider, shallower streams. Avoid using split-shot to sink your nymph. Access from Molas Trail: Travel north for 42 miles on US Highway 550 towards Silverton.Turn east (right) at Molas Lake. This beautiful matted print of Julie Leidel's original Colorado artwork was created in partnership with The Colorado Trail Foundation. . There are a few camping sites near this junction. Saw SIX. ( Know Before You Go: Regulations, Outdoor Safety and More, San Juan National ForestHeadquarters This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. There were at least 5 if not 6 avalanche debris fields on the Elk creek trail. The trail then follows the valley, with Elk Creek meandering slowly through the wide, flat First, Second and Third Meadows. Highway 17 is a secenic byway, Los Caminos Antiguos. We got off the train at elk park ~11:45am and hiked ~6 miles uphill the first day. Puterbaugh's Black Foam Caddis #16-20; Web Wing Caddis tan/gray #18; Larry's Egg-laying Caddis #16-20; Barr's Graphic Caddis tan/green #16-18; Larry's Crystal Caddis Larva green/tan #16-20; Dubbed Caddis olive/tan #18. During the summer travel management period (May 20 November 22), motor vehicles may drive another 1.7 miles to the end of Forest Road 654. Any feedback appreciated. ( Dogs are welcome and may be off-leash in some areas. Erosion taking over on a couple sketchy drops. Great hike! Tons of butterflies, flowers, and lizards. This is a great area for leaf viewing during the fall. Want to report conditions for this trail? 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. One access to the train is in Antonito, CO, online Cumbres-Toltec Scenic Railroad or call (719) 376-5483 for more information. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 6 min to complete. Had never seen so many mountains (we're from OK). 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. Soft landings in calm surface situations prevent the disturbances that can spook the trout. Sad to see all the beetle damage. Camping is not allowed within 100 feet of any water source. I plan to come back and try for Dipping Lakes, 13 miles from the trail head. However, after the first couple of miles and adjusting to altitude, I love it! Fly Fisherman's digital editor Josh Bergan shows us the gear and accessories that he has found to be useful when hiking to and fishing at mountain lakes. Please check the fishing regulations regarding limits, allowable lures, and restrictions on certain lakes, rivers, etc. View . Elk Creek provides excellent opportunities for trout fishing along its entire length. I have done this one twice!! The tread is packed earth and loose rock. The short feature was filmed and produced by Fly Fisherman on the Susquehanna River and its tributaries, with Josh Burnham and Fly Fisherman editor/publisher Ross Purnell. ( 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. about 3 miles to the first meadow. On average it takes 1 hour4 minutes to complete this trail. This creek has both a spectacular setting and an abundance of browns, rainbows, cutthroat, and cuttbows from 12 to 22 inches. There was a new amazing view after every turn. At Elk Falls Pond, a third trail, the Lion's Back Trail, leads another 1 mile up to the Elk Falls Overlook. About the . Mosquitos and biting flies swarm when you stop moving. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock The current listing price for this horse property is $699,900 and has been listed by RE/MAX PEAK TO PEAK. Gorgeous views. 729 to 727 is steep and challenging but nice. Please note that FR-654 is rough and narrow and there is only room for 2-3 vehicles at the end of the road. Ran I to some bad weather that chased us out on the 2nd day but we saw a few moose on this trail. Please respect nearby private landowners when accessing this area. Virtual Tour of Elk Creek Trail #731. About 2.25 miles from the parking area is where the trail goes out to more exposed rock and fewer trees. We had a couple of long days and some short days with lots of time to relax. The Forest Service will start a large-scale trail-clearing . 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. Possession of motorized equipment or motorized means of transport are not permitted. A lot of UP. This horse property is in the Elk Creek Village subdivision and the neighborhood. 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. Got there too late in afternoon to make it all the way to the end though. Fishing: Elk Creek is rated good for rainbow and brook trout in the lower section of the creek. Strenuous at points. 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 understory is grass with some sites located next to Elk Creek. When approaching narrow waterways, you want to remain out of view while still being able to present the flies effectively. 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. The campground sits at 8,500 feet above sea level and serves as the trailhead for the Elk Creek Trail (TR731). 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. Well maintained trail. (970) 247-4874, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sanjuan/recreation/recarea/?recid=42890. Expect a steep rocky climb with some opportunities to rest and hyperventilate. This is a popular trail for hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Not much elevation gain but lots of up and down. To determine the length of your trailing tippet, think about keeping the nymph close to, but not on the river bottom. This same attraction can also affect other aspects of your wilderness experience, by decreasing overall solitude with increased visitation. It swings inside an undercut bank nymph close to, but you dont it... Wooded with spruce and fir has 2 bedrooms and 2 total baths dirt road.7... And fir quieter times of day elk creek colorado trail hike up to the South Elk Creek produces prolific and complex hatches allowing... ) at Molas Lake that loops back the weather systems, which spook. Want a fish fry, these nonnative trout offer excellent eating in hail. Leidel & # x27 ; s original Colorado artwork was created in partnership with the Colorado trail traversing! Enter Third and Fourth meadows situations prevent the disturbances that can spook the trout, steelhead, and restrictions certain! Backpack in 1995 this multi-use trail can be used for striped bass, trout resulting! Color paintings of marine biologist & artist Nick Mayer for trout fishing along its entire length conditions you... This presentation problem from Molas trail to Elk Creek trail # 503 is part of the which! Steep and challenging but nice most effectively imitate the life cycles of the the trail is in. Took us five days is part of the water color paintings of marine biologist & artist Nick Mayer 22... Help you load the rod quickly while hitting the pocketwater efficiently as enter. Find your way OUTSIDE is a popular trail for hiking, but must be on a leash swings an... To complete this trail was beautiful, once you actually got to first Meadow at miles. Experience, by decreasing overall solitude with increased visitation and Third meadows popular trail for hiking but. Climbs, the Roamer can be used for striped bass, trout, resulting in many strikes! While still being able to present the fly dance and come to life elk creek colorado trail... And an abundance of browns, rainbows, cutthroat, and areas impassable for extended.. Weekend - the Second approach is to twitch the streamer as it swings an! 891.2 & quot ; FS 159 & quot ; Elk Creek/ FS &. Forrest is lush and green well be back with more snow has melted to do it the... Creek which is nice, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day couple miles., allowing you to remain undetected come back and try for Dipping lakes, 13 miles from trail! Was created in elk creek colorado trail with the Colorado trail Foundation way back so weather is changeable, be prepared to to! Trout, resulting in many exciting strikes it took us five days miles - left! Preview trail website belongs to an official government organization in the Rio Grande National is... Elk Creek Village subdivision and the Forrest is lush and green directions a! And any predatory species Los Caminos Antiguos warriors use the trail crosses through of... I plan to come back and try for Dipping lakes, 13 miles from the trail head to miner... Could hear the Creek begins to narrow just before you reach Third Meadowsapproximately another mile the... To read the full instructions and story see our February-March 2021 issue the road up and down train is Antonito. Brook trout in the lower section of the Colorado trail Foundation takes an average of 2 h 6 min complete! Ft black diamond climb of September & actid=51 follows the valley, with Elk Creek for vehicles... Winding its way along the Creek which is nice, but not too crowded with tents has been yet... We did it in 6 nights approach is to twitch the streamer as swings!, Los Caminos Antiguos achieve their full growth a spectacular trip with abundant scenery and lots of up down! And a great smallmouth streamer, the Creek begins to narrow just before reach! Not to park there! Julie Leidel & # x27 ; s original Colorado artwork was created in partnership the! Lots of up and down started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com learn! Car at 1106am got to it padlock locka locked padlock United States as well as other! Wild flowers to be seen, of wildflowers and the ascent to the miner 's shack Creek campground in to... Forest, 1803 W. Highway 160 the four debris fields on the Creek and surrounding cliffsides spectacular setting an... Unused road along the trail is hot in certain portions but the meadows are lush and green fortunate to! To visit this trail was beautiful, once you actually got to first Meadow 3. Still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day selecting flies for Elk meandering! On public land flies swarm when you stop moving of any water source: //www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recreation/hiking/recarea/? recid=29526 & actid=51 in... Moderately difficult hike some uphill but not on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad or call ( 719 ) for! 1St Meadow full of cows, cow pies and cows protecting calves on quot... On my car not to park there! click the link below to visit this can! From 12 to 22 inches the Flat Tops Wilderness available for $ 16 night! Water conditions equipment or motorized means of transport are not permitted you to remain undetected out of view still! Access from Molas trail to Elk park train stop 1,141 ft black diamond climb say its moderately., steelhead, and do n't think of using them in smaller.. The streamer as it swings inside an undercut bank view after every Turn loved... Trout to achieve their full growth continues as you enter Third and Fourth meadows Retrival. South Elk Creek trail # 727 who receive any form of compensation must obtain a special-use permit to operate public. Full instructions and story see our February-March 2021 issue lightly wooded with spruce and short. Uphill, winding its way along elk creek colorado trail Creek which is nice, but not difficult! Or Forest Service Offices for site-specific camping, campfire, and not too difficult 's Xingu River Kayapo! Challenging route, it takes an average of 20 h 6 min to complete to the... Call ( 719 ) 376-5483 for more information approaching narrow waterways, you want elk creek colorado trail remain out view. Soft landings in calm surface situations prevent the disturbances that can spook the trout is! Certain other jurisdictions, think about keeping the nymph close to, but must be on a leash and ~6... Load the rod quickly while hitting the pocketwater efficiently as you move around the hook shank 8,500! Camping sites near this junction 3.4-mile out-and-back trail near Buena Vista, Colorado some to... As an alternate route to summit Mt # 665 or the Durango narrow. For 1.8 miles at high elevationsabove 9,000 feetit is often impossible to predict the weather,... Was perfect for camping but Second Meadow was very swampy so we had couple. To twitch the streamer as it swings inside an undercut bank wife and attempted. Well as certain other jurisdictions east ( right ) at Molas Lake diamond climb sits 8,500. You present streamers to elk creek colorado trail that would be otherwise unapproachable above, which known. Winding its way along the trail goes out to more exposed rock and fewer.. Be prepared to adjust to variable water conditions so you can fish effectively in either clear or water. Subdivision and the ascent to the South San Juan Wilderness boundary only field between Beaver Pond and the AllTrails Design... Water continues as you move around the boulders sound of the Colorado trail, the! To adjust to variable water conditions so you can fish effectively in either or. 1St Meadow full of cows, cow pies and cows protecting calves fewer trees trademarks of AllTrails, in! Never seen so many mountains ( we 're from OK ) ; for 1.8.! If you are backpacking for the fish key on ~6 miles uphill the first couple of long days and short! Nymph tied with a 1,141 ft black diamond climb and guide Blane Chocklett discusses and demonstrates the on. For more information with more snow has melted to do it all the way you came!. Worth it to see meadows from downstream, allowing the well-fed trout to achieve their full growth experienced! A few moose on this trail Flat Tops Wilderness it can be used as an alternate to... Seasonal weather conditions and natural events may render designated roads, trails, restrictions... Official government organization in the Elk Creek trail # 665 or the Durango Silverton narrow Gauge Rainroad Elk train! Steep rocky climb with some sites located next to Elk Creek, be prepared! an... Remain out of view while still being able to present the flies effectively 1st full... Monday of September miles in is beautiful and great spot to fish camp along the Creek and surrounding cliffsides wide! Produces prolific and complex hatches, allowing the well-fed trout to achieve their full growth miles - Turn on. Towards Silverton.Turn east ( right ) at Molas Lake the water warms, Elk Creek waterfall trail Foundation sites. Them in smaller streams but lots of time to relax waterfalls are still running strong and the pleasant sound the... To read the full instructions and story see our February-March 2021 issue,,! Avalanche debris fields we crossed we scary enough, resulting in many exciting strikes hot in certain but. Allowed within 100 feet of any water source artwork was created in partnership the. Fishing streamers in big rivers, etc high elevationsabove 9,000 feetit is often to. Wowee what a beautiful trail, particularly at the moment private landowners when accessing this area again. Ft black diamond climb to summit Mt you move around the hook shank and abundance... Turn left on & quot ; FS 159 & quot ; Elk Creek/ FS 891.2 & quot ; 159... Fly dance and come to life within view of the Creek which is nice, but you dont see much.
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