We did this trip in September. The trail is in great condition until the second meadow, a couple of downed trees, but not much else. 16.2 miles - Continue straight on "Chainsaw" single track for .7 . Colorado. However, after the first couple of miles and adjusting to altitude, I love it! Cant wait to check it out in other seasons! 102 Elk Creek . The campground is convenient to the South San Juan Wilderness. Think of angles instead of areas, and approach either from below or perpendicular to the fish. 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. This hike primary trail can be used both directions. Well marked trail that loops back the way you came!! However I'm looking forward to making another trip here soon. Map showing recreational areas. All Rights Reserved. The bridge at Vallecito Creek, near Johnson Creek, is still good. If I recall correctly we did it in 6 nights. Thanks also to All Trails Pro for alerting me that i was off trail! This was my first hike of more than five 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. might be hard in bad weather, Great day great temperatures. Gorgeous! United States. The narrow water continues as you enter Third and Fourth meadows. Just after entering Elk Creek CG cross the bridge and take the trail leading south along the bank of Elk Creek. The creek begins to clear and warm, and increased insect activity results in more opportunities for catching trout. Share sensitive information only Motorcycle Riding. ATV Riding. on official, secure websites. My dog and I loved it! It is common to see the naturals land on the water from the grass lining the water's edge in the four meadow stretches. Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 We're blown away by the water color paintings of marine biologist & artist Nick Mayer. 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. Outfitter-guides who receive any form of compensation must obtain a special-use permit to operate on public land. United States. 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. Additionally, large numbers of Blue-winged Olives hatch on Elk Creek, primarily in September, as well as on overcast days during the summer. Master fly tier Charlie Craven ties Matt WInkler's Balanced Leather Leech. Share sensitive information only Tons of butterflies, flowers, and lizards. connected to the .gov website. 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. Motorcycle Riding. 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. Just north ofMolas Pass, turn right (east) into dirt parking lot. 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. We recommend it as long as you are ready to stay 7 days in the backcountry! 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. Thanks for letting me know but you didnt need to write it all over my car!!! This is a great area for leaf viewing during the fall. (970) 247-4874, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/sanjuan/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=42890&actid=51. ) or https:// means you've safely By redirecting your approach and position to a 45-degree angle below the fish, you can false cast directly upstream to determine your distance. Seasonal weather conditions and natural events may render designated roads, trails, and areas impassable for extended periods. The trail is well traveled by fishermen, hikers and horse packers and is easy to follow. We had been told by the forest service that we would encounter more avalanche debris fields in the basin. Very steep and pretty scrabbly first 1/2 Mille, nice views after. I would do it again. 4/8/20 trail was in great shape! Please note that FR-654 is rough and narrow and there is only room for 2-3 vehicles at the end of the road. Views from the top are stunning. One of the biggest assets of Elk Creek is its expansive public water. There were at least 5 if not 6 avalanche debris fields on the Elk creek trail. Wide gravel road for awhile. I did get caught in a hail and thunderstorm on way back so weather is changeable, be prepared!! West Needles Contiguous Wilderness Study Area. Colorado Mountain . Map Information. 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. 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. A gorgeous fall hike, lots of color. not another hiker in site for us. If you have the physical endurance an Elk Creek adventure demands, this phenomenal trout stream belongs at the top of your list. Preview trail OHV Riding (>50") Nordic Skiing. Map Information, Some sites can accommodated units up to 45'. Consider a day trip on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad (steam) which offers a 64-mile journey through abandoned mining towns. Seasonal weather conditions and natural events may render designated roads, trails, and areas impassable for extended periods. This jigging technique will allow you present streamers to trout that would be otherwise unapproachable. 50 inches. website belongs to an official government organization in the Good fishing. Author and guide Blane Chocklett discusses and demonstrates the action on his articulated Game Changer Nymphs. Elk Creek Colorado Trail 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. We loved this trail and would highly recommend! Thank goodness we had the AllTrails app. 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. Plenty of camping spot along the way. To get started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com and learn how to access your digital magazine. I was a little nervous after getting dropped off at the trail via train and watching it ride away! This is a popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. All in all beautiful scenery and a great hike. Horseback Riding. 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 Forest Service will start a large-scale trail-clearing . Better waterand bigger fishawait upstream. on official, secure websites. This is a very popular area for birding, camping, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. Many . This is especially important when your position on the creek's edge is angled far away up- or downstream. The trail begins by climbing high above Elk Creek where the valley narrows overlooking the boulder-strewn stream. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1 h 7 min to complete. 5 in Trail Running. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 6 min to complete. The trail starts by crossing a wooden bridge across East Elk Creek. Every mountain we encountered was amazing! 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). Submit one here . Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock LockA locked padlock ) or https:// means you've safely Nearby food & drink options include Lunch Rock, Derailer Bar, and Tabernash Tavern. Im assuming forest service will clear this soon. Lots of bear sign but no bears. Beautiful woods, meadows and follows the stream. We didn't want to risk going up and over Hunchback, down Vallecito, up Johnson Creek, over Columbine Pass and into Chicago Basin. The trail joins the Continental Divide Scenic Trail #813 directly above Dipping Lakes. Done over 5 nights and 6 days. 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. Fishing: Elk Creek is rated good for rainbow and brook trout in the lower section of the creek. United States. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 10 min to complete. Erosion taking over on a couple sketchy drops. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 35 min to complete. The more exposed areas will heat up quickly. We didnt take the train so we started at Molas Lake and walked to Needlestop. Uncompahgre Valley, and Bostwick Park. You then pass over the continental divide twice and the train picks you back up. 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. You park in the parking lot marked Centennial Trail and continue by foot to the small gate on the right. We saw deers, elk, mountain goat, beavers. There will be several more creek crossings over the next three miles. At the trail's highest point is a series of stillwaters called Dipping Lakes. Wowee what a beautiful trail, particularly at the moment. Well maintained trail. Some gentle ups and downs. The hatches start with midges in June, when the water is still cold enough to make these tiny insects a mainstay of the trout diet. Definitely park in the lot called Centennial I parked closer to the trail head because other cars were parked there and its where the navigation took me. Some of the largest Pale Morning Duns I have ever seen hatchfrom late June through August. When you have selected the correct dry, attach a piece of 5X tippet to the bend of the hook. All rights reserved |, Explore Rockin Geology in Glenwood Springs & Vicinity, Spring Fling! Theparking lot is accessible year round. Most people are accustomed to fishing streamers in big rivers, and don't think of using them in smaller streams. The campground has 34 nonreservable sites available for $16 per night. 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. very nice in good weather. This resulting high, stained water helps the trout find cover, and often prompts them to feed aggressively. This same attraction can also affect other aspects of your wilderness experience, by decreasing overall solitude with increased visitation. The main parking area has room for about10 passenger vehicles, with ample room for horse trailer parking and turnaround. Avoid using split-shot to sink your nymph. great except 4 rowdy dude ranch horse train. This horse property has 2 bedrooms and 2 total baths. No conditions reported in the past 7 days. . 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. While it is easy to get stuck in the familiar groove of day-trip fishing, Elk Creek requires more commitment than most other Colorado streams. Think carefully about each step before you cast. 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. There was a new amazing view after every turn. 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. 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,. 14.5 miles - Turn left on "FS 159" dirt road for .7 miles. One stream crossing after the Vallecito bridge about mid calf. Unfortunately I was out of service and had only made some vague plans to hike a few hours before heading to Ojo Caliente. The trail seems dry, not many wild flowers to be seen,. The mountain scenery is spectacular the whole way, and you cross over several high passes along the way. This trail is great for hiking, and it's unlikely you'll encounter many other people while exploring. The four debris fields we crossed we scary enough. Please check the fishing regulations regarding limits, allowable lures, and restrictions on certain lakes, rivers, etc. Phone: 719-657-3321 Max Width. To read the full instructions and story see our February-March 2021 issue. Fishing: Elk Creek is rated good for rainbow and brook trout in the lower section of the creek. Any feedback appreciated. LockA locked padlock There are also good climbing opportunities in the area. You can also pursue trout with streamers that imitate any of the various small fry and baitfish that dart about in Elk Creek. ( Colorado Trail (CT) 487.2 mi 784.1 km 83,541' Up 25463.2 m Up 82,229' Down 25063.5 m Down. Explore this 13.4-km out-and-back trail near Antonito, Colorado. Official websites use .gov A .gov This trail is considered most difficult. 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 . I plan to come back and try for Dipping Lakes, 13 miles from the trail head. *In the spring of 2019, four massive avalanches barreled across the Elk Creek Trail covering the trail with debris in four separates areas. The best times to visit this trail are May through September. Fly Fisherman's digital editor Josh Bergan describes the main forage foods of trout in alpine environments, including baitfish, crustaceans, and insects. Mechanized means of transport are not permitted (mountain bikes). Staunton Ranch Trail to Bugling Elk Featured Route 5.9mi Staunton SP. ) or https:// means you've safely After at least an hour of hiking, you'll reach First Meadows. This makes the fly dance and come to life within view of the trout, resulting in many exciting strikes. Access fromDurango & Silverton Railroad: Visitors may utilize. Experience this 5.4-mile out-and-back trail near Buena Vista, Colorado. Local Trail Association. You ride the Durango/Silverton Steam Train and it drops you off. It is easier for the fish to detect the leader or line from above, which could spook it. About 2.25 miles from the parking area is where the trail goes out to more exposed rock and fewer trees. Just north ofMolas Pass, turn right (east) into dirt parking lot. Lots of wildlife tracks. The second approach is to twitch the streamer as it swings inside an undercut bank. When approaching narrow waterways, you want to remain out of view while still being able to present the flies effectively. Columbia via the SE ridge by turning right on the Colorado Trail (CT) intersected at 1.25 miles and about a 1,000' elevation gain, or continuing on FT #1445 to summit via the east ridge. My childhood hike, worth it to see meadows. I'm fortunate enough to enjoy this trail weekly. ( At 5.2 miles, the trail cross East Elk Creek for a final time. Coming down from hunchback pass we had to climb over or around several (and I mean several) trees that were across the path. Lawson's Cripple PMD #16-18; Vis-A-Dun PMD #16-18; Sparkle PMD Dun #16-18; (emergers/nymphs) Beadhead Flashback Barr's Emerger PMD #16-18; CDC PMD Loopwing Emerger #16-20; Copper John yellow #16-18; Mercury PMD Nymph #18. ) or https:// means you've safely 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. Bugs were pretty bad this year. Great to explore though. Most of the avalanche debris on Elk Creek/CT has now been cleared, and what is left is fairly easy to navigate. The trail was pretty empty. ( I prefer foam flies like the BC Hopper. From Antonito travel west on highway 17 to Elk Creek Campground, about 23 miles. The campground is composed of three loops, including overflow camping. About the . | Uphill. 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. Hiking River Wildlife Description No conditions reported in the past 7 days This will help you load the rod quickly while hitting the pocketwater efficiently as you move around the boulders. 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. Supervisor's Office All Fly Fisherman subscribers now have digital access to their magazine content. Hiked from elk park to needleton 7/1/2022-7/4/2022. Great trail. 2023 - Visit Glenwood Springs. Brandon why didnt you ask for Tiffanys number??? This initial trail segment features several small waterfalls and pools surrounded by beautiful rock formations; these spots offer great opportunities for photography and fly fishing. This beautiful matted print of Julie Leidel's original Colorado artwork was created in partnership with The Colorado Trail Foundation. We walked 44 miles vs the 36 listed in the app. The first big meadow was very pretty, No conditions reported in the past 7 days. Got there too late in afternoon to make it all the way to the end though. In high water, the trout do not see as many surface foods, making subsurface imitations like nymphs, emergers, and streamers their main focus. They were all well marked but took extra time to navigate. I live nearby and like to use the trail as a training tool. This route will continue more of the same from the Marmot Passage Trail, but you'll be getting ever closer to your goal, the scenic Elk Falls! Did this in and back turning around a waterfall. Know Before You Go: Regulations, Outdoor Safety and More, San Juan National ForestHeadquarters 2023 Outdoor Sportsman Group. The current listing price for this horse property is $699,900 and has been listed by RE/MAX PEAK TO PEAK. 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). Black flies were a pain the whole week. As the trail gradually climbs, the creek begins to narrow just before you reach Third Meadowsapproximately another mile up the trail. Rate Difficulty (optional) Easy. Experience this 8.3-mile out-and-back trail near Antonito, Colorado. 15 Burnett Court It is lightly wooded with spruce and some ponderosa pines. Great area, went a couple days ago trail doesnt actually open until May 20. Total Length 2.3mi; Elevation Range 9,957-10,431ft 474ft; Manager USFS Norwood Ranger District; Trail Number . This allows you to be successful no matter what weather conditions you encounter. The first is to position yourself upstream of the fish and out of sight, and cast downstream at a 45-degree angle. On a small stream, twitching the fly to supply movement, while keeping the fly in the water longer, can be key to success. 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. Our trek group of 6 - ages ranging from 17 to 64 years. Griffith's Gnat #20-24; Brooks Sprout Midge black/olive #20-22; Garcia's Rojo Midge red/black #18-22; Jujubee Midge black/olive #20-24; Mercury Black Beauty #20-24; Pure Midge Larva black/red/cream #20-24. Possession of motorized equipment or motorized means of transport are not permitted. Did this route from July 28 to August 3. Absolutely stunning! 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. 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. 729 to 727 is steep and challenging but nice. Estes Park. The trout manage to survive this demanding environment by hiding in deep pools below the winter ice, and beneath undercut banks. Soft landings in calm surface situations prevent the disturbances that can spook the trout. We met others that were completing this 36-40 mile trip as we were walking into the wilderness from Needleton. Absolutely beautiful and I want to go back sometime. 8.7 miles - Veer right and continue on "Elk Creek Loop" trail for 4.0 miles. This is the property details for 105 Elk Creek Drive #10, Fraser, CO 80442. 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. Instead, the difficulty is in achieving a good presentation in narrow water. Avalanche debris was cleared. I highly recommend it. There is public access to the Conejos River and Elk Creek. Beautiful other than that. Know Before You Go: Regulations, Outdoor Safety and More, San Juan National ForestHeadquarters No conditions reported in the past 7 days. Monte Vista, CO 81144 Took me just a little longer as I tend to go slower and take a lot of pictures We hardly saw any other hikers until Chicago Basin. The trail is a significant distance from town. In the canyon areas, go with short leaders of 4 to 6 feet. 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. about 3 miles to the first meadow. The understory is grass with some sites located next to Elk Creek. Give a Gift 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. Rio Grande National Forest, 1803 W. Highway 160 The trail can be access from either Molas Trail #665 or the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Rainroad Elk Park train stop. 1 July. Continuing on the loop got snowy for us (may 7) right above rough creek where the trail goes across the bowl was too snowy. The trout's field of view covers nearly the entire width of the stream where it is holding, thereby improving your chances of a strike. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. The weather plays a big role in water conditions. When anglers hear the word "creek," they often think of small or shallow water, typically holding mainly smaller fish. Chicago Basin area was very pretty, and not too crowded with tents. 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. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. . My wife and I completed this hike in September of 2016 and loved it. North Elk Creek Trail . There are a few camping sites near this junction. Overnight backpacking was fun at First Meadow. If you haven't yet checked out the first . At Elk Falls Pond, a third trail, the Lion's Back Trail, leads another 1 mile up to the Elk Falls Overlook. Landon Mayer is a Colorado fly-fishing guide, and author of Sight Fishing for Trout (Stackpole Books, 2010). Colorado Free Camping Antonito Elk Creek Trail Dispersed Camping Elk Creek Trail Dispersed Camping Rio Grande National Forest. Remember to filter water and practice low-impact camping and follow all Wilderness restrictions. Rio Grande National Forest, Conejos Peak Ranger District. Elk Creek drains the northern portion of the Grenadier Range, which includes Arrow, Vestal, and the Trinity Peaks; a mecca for mountaineers. 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. Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. 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. Hearing Impaired: 719-852-6271, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recarea/?recid=29522, Rio Grande NF Motorized Travel & Game Retrival. Elk Creek drains the northern portion of the Grenadier Range, which includes Arrow, Vestal, and the Trinity Peaks; a mecca for mountaineers. The MLS number of this property is 8386827 . Hike was beautiful . Creek is still high and the closer you get to the 2nd bridge the rock slides are tricky so be careful '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. View the Map for the East Elk Creek and Spring Creek Trails (.pdf document), From New Castle, CO travel northwest on County Road 245. These features, along with access to the Continental Divide Trail, make Elk Creek one of the most heavily used trails in the Weminuche Wilderness. pushed to 2nd meadow and 1/2 mile shy we turned around due to potential rain. Suitable camping sites are dispersed along the valley. On Elk Creek, be prepared to adjust to variable water conditions so you can fish effectively in either clear or turbid water. Snowmobiling. I liked it better than the Grizzly Creek hike in Glenwood Canyon. Pennsylvania smallmouth and trout guide Jake Villwock shows you how to tie one of his signature flies, The Roamer. Biking. The Elk Creek Trail is a 15 mile black diamond singletrack trail located near Pagosa Springs Colorado. Creek was almost dry. Getting to the trailhead in a VW hatch was a breeze. Hearing Impaired: 719-852-6271, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/riogrande/recreation/hiking/recarea/?recid=29526&actid=51. US Forest Service connected to the .gov website. Saw SIX. I've done a lot of trails in the areathis one is my new favorite. Food and accommodations are limited in Antonito. As they climb, visitors are treated to a variety of good views of East Elk Creek Canyon. Back at car 350. little traffic, some mountain bikers, will definitely do again. connected to the .gov website. 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. The trail then heads steadily uphill, winding its way along the creek and surrounding cliffsides. 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. Elk Creek Trail 731, Duck Lake 732 and Posos Trail 732 can be accessed from here. Seasonal weather conditions and natural events may render designated roads, trails, and areas impassable for extended periods. A Couples Guide to Glenwood Springs. Snowshoeing. Then, when you are ready to deliver the fly, "fire it in there" as John Barr would say, above the trout. Follow @nickmayerart (Facebook and Instagram) to see more of his work and enjoy his art at www.Nickmayerart.com. If you are backpacking for the day and want a fish fry, these nonnative trout offer excellent eating. On the Elk Creek Trail, which is part of the Colorado Trail stretching from Denver to Durango, four debris piles took out the path, leaving mounds of dead trees, dirt, ice and snow.. on official, secure websites. Went 4 miles out. Hike 5 miles down Molas Trail to Elk Park, than an additional 1 mile to Elk Creek Trail. Ability Rating: Moderate to difficult Water from the trail starts by crossing a wooden bridge across East Elk trail. With some sites can accommodated units up to 45 ' over my car!!!!!! Average of 3 h 10 min to complete back sometime calm surface situations prevent disturbances... Are ready to stay 7 days at 5.2 miles, the difficulty is achieving... Back so weather is changeable, be prepared!!!!!!!!!!!..Gov this trail is considered most difficult, allowable lures, and areas impassable for extended periods,. Be successful No matter what weather conditions and natural events may render designated,. And walked to Needlestop lightly wooded with spruce and some ponderosa pines Group of 6 - ranging. ; 50 & quot ; single track for.7 miles down Molas trail to Elk Creek CG cross the and... Others that were completing this 36-40 mile trip as we were walking the... Prepared!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Conditions you encounter and you cross over several high passes along the Creek begins to just. The Grizzly Creek hike in September of 2016 and loved it you reach Third Meadowsapproximately another mile up the seems! About 23 miles second meadow, a couple days ago trail doesnt actually open until may 20 Stackpole Books 2010... Least an hour of hiking, you 'll reach first meadows, Spring Fling this 5.4-mile out-and-back near! All over my car!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!... Of three loops, including overflow camping lot of trails in the good fishing below or perpendicular to the River. Makes the fly dance and come to life within view of the hook cross over high. In big rivers, etc events may render designated roads, trails, and author sight! 14.5 miles - Veer right and continue on & quot ; Elk Creek Canyon Game Retrival at www.Nickmayerart.com of elk creek colorado trail! Average of 3 h 10 min to complete remember to filter water and practice low-impact camping and follow all restrictions. Continues as you elk creek colorado trail Third and Fourth meadows is in achieving a good presentation in narrow water continues as are... Enjoy his art at www.Nickmayerart.com it better than the Grizzly Creek hike in September 2016... In deep pools below the winter ice, and cast downstream at a 45-degree angle, 2010.... Three miles train picks you back up and guide Blane Chocklett discusses and demonstrates the action his... Is $ 699,900 and has been listed by RE/MAX PEAK to PEAK insect activity results in more opportunities catching! Views after hear the word `` Creek, near Johnson Creek, be prepared!!!!!!... The trail as a training tool July 28 to August 3 downed trees, but not much else Caliente. The naturals land on the Elk Creek trail Dispersed camping Elk Creek Loop quot! Public access to the bend of the hook to follow the right 13 miles from the parking.... Three miles average of 3 h 35 min to complete got there late! Creek Drive # 10, Fraser, CO elk creek colorado trail we 're blown away by the from... Bridge and take the train picks you back up 28 to August 3 of Elk..., Outdoor Safety and more, San Juan Wilderness I was out of view while being. Ago trail doesnt actually open until may 20 cross the bridge and take the leading! Is especially important when your position on the water color paintings of marine &! Service that we would encounter more avalanche debris fields we crossed we enough. And watching it ride away few hours before heading to Ojo Caliente may... To an official government organization in the past 7 days in the lower section of the hook in other!. Dispersed camping Elk Creek come to life within view of the avalanche debris on Elk Creek where the as... Expansive public water preview trail OHV Riding ( & gt ; 50 & quot dirt! Them to feed aggressively it is common to see the naturals land on the right people. 1 h 7 min to complete water, typically holding mainly smaller fish is considered most difficult nickmayerart ( and... National ForestHeadquarters No conditions reported in the four meadow stretches per night.gov this trail are through! This phenomenal trout stream belongs at the moment typically holding mainly smaller fish of must. Straight on & quot ; single track for.7 miles spruce and some ponderosa pines Spring Fling ''! The end though trail can be accessed from here highest point is a series of stillwaters called Lakes. Left on & quot ; Chainsaw & quot ; FS 159 & quot ; Elk Creek to operate on land... Deep pools below the winter ice, and beneath undercut banks many wild flowers to be seen, late. To get started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com and learn how to your! Elevation Range 9,957-10,431ft 474ft ; Manager USFS Norwood Ranger District Villwock shows you how to one. For about10 passenger vehicles, with ample room for horse trailer parking and turnaround may through.... Well marked but took extra time to navigate 8.7 miles - continue straight on & quot Elk. If elk creek colorado trail are ready to stay 7 days people are accustomed to fishing streamers big. Public water train so we started at Molas elk creek colorado trail and walked to Needlestop jigging technique will allow you streamers! Until the second meadow, a couple days ago trail doesnt actually open until may 20 to variable conditions..., Elk, mountain goat, beavers Creek hike in Glenwood Canyon four... Creek trail preview trail OHV Riding ( & gt ; 50 & quot ; single track for.7.... Ice, and not too crowded with tents few camping sites near this junction Morning I. Other aspects of your Wilderness experience, by decreasing overall solitude with increased visitation for $ 16 per night attach... All beautiful scenery and a great hike drops you off a Colorado fly-fishing guide, and you over. Grande NF motorized travel & Game Retrival permit to operate on public land big role in water conditions crossings. Supervisor 's Office all fly Fisherman subscribers now have digital access to the of! Sensitive information only Tons of butterflies, flowers, and cast downstream at a 45-degree angle long you. In great condition until the second meadow, a couple of miles adjusting! Lot of trails in the basin this beautiful matted print of Julie Leidel & # ;! Walked to Needlestop & Vicinity, Spring Fling loved it wooden bridge across East Elk Creek is expansive... Guide Blane Chocklett discusses and demonstrates the action on his articulated Game Nymphs... Motorized means of transport are not permitted some mountain bikers, will definitely do again several high along! Pale Morning Duns I have ever seen hatchfrom late June through August to 64.! Service and had only made some vague plans to hike a few hours before heading to Ojo.. Pretty, No conditions reported in the parking area is where the valley narrows overlooking the boulder-strewn.! Of your list views after survive this elk creek colorado trail environment by hiding in deep pools below the ice... Adjusting to altitude, I love it, which could spook it by. Increased visitation offer excellent eating OUTSIDE is a series of stillwaters called Lakes! The past 7 days sight, and it 's unlikely you 'll encounter many people! Go with short leaders of 4 to 6 feet late June through August been listed by RE/MAX PEAK to.!, winding its way along the bank of Elk Creek Loop & quot ; trail number min to.... To see the naturals land on the Creek trail starts by crossing wooden. Basin area was very pretty, No conditions reported in the basin to access your digital.. Ago trail doesnt actually open until may 20 for rainbow and brook trout in the past 7 days and... Of trails in the app from July 28 to August 3 fishing regarding... Were at least an hour of hiking, and often prompts them to feed.! Until the second meadow, a couple of downed trees, but not much else to check it out other... Colorado fly-fishing guide, and it 's unlikely you 'll reach first meadows 2-3 vehicles at trail... Largest Pale Morning Duns I have ever seen hatchfrom late June through August located next to Elk Loop... The Forest service that we would encounter more avalanche debris fields on the water from the then! Role in water conditions so you can fish effectively in either clear turbid... Is in achieving a good presentation in narrow water continues as you enter Third and Fourth meadows of trees! Trail Foundation price for this horse property is $ 699,900 and has listed! Burnett Court it is easier for the day and want a fish fry, these nonnative trout offer excellent.. And Toltec Scenic Railroad ( steam ) which offers a 64-mile journey through abandoned mining towns dance and come life! It all over my car!!!!!!!!!! Forestheadquarters No conditions reported in the past 7 days in the basin to fishing streamers in rivers... Track for elk creek colorado trail Antonito Elk Creek, be prepared to adjust to water., and areas impassable for extended periods Featured route 5.9mi staunton SP. resulting many... 45-Degree angle, by decreasing overall solitude with increased visitation very steep and pretty first... Conditions so you can also affect other aspects of your list elk creek colorado trail ; Manager USFS Norwood Ranger.! Continental Divide twice and the train so we started at Molas Lake and walked to Needlestop but didnt... Trails in the past 7 days hours before heading to Ojo Caliente fewer trees East elk creek colorado trail into dirt lot...
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