Seniors Outdoors!

Summer 2010 Outing Schedule

 

 

 

Day, Date,

Departure Time

&

Departure Place

Outing Description

 

Printer-friendly version

 

Logistics, rules, meeting places, and difficulty ratings

 

E-mail schedule changes and updates to: mail2020@seniorsoutdoors.org.

 

Meeting place abbreviations: ACP: Animas City Park   TC: Trimble Crossing   Tam: Tamarron   DMR: Durango Mountain Resort    RC: Rec Center 

SRP: Santa Rita Park

 

Schedule changes and trip updates are in red.

 

 

Difficulty Rating,

Total Length

&

Elevation Gain

 

Tues Jun 8

5:30 pm Social

7:00 pm Dinner   Edgemont Ranch Picnic Area (6 miles out Florida Rd from 15th and Main, turn right across from the big pine cone)

SO! General Meeting and Picnic

5:30 pm Social

7:00 pm Dinner  

Edgemont Ranch Picnic Area

The picnic will be a combination potluck and BBQ. Volleyball and horseshoes equipment will be available.  Although there is ample parking we encourage carpooling. The club will provide brats, burgers, and condiments, and we're asking club members to bring potluck dishes with servings for eight according to last names as follows:

A – F  Desserts      G – R  Appetizers    S – Z  Side dishes & salads

As with our other potlucks, members should bring their own plates and utensils and serving utensils for your potluck dish. The club will provide coffee and iced tea. Please bring any other beverage that you may want.  Since the club is providing the entrée, we need an accurate headcount in order to have the proper amount of food. Therefore, please RSVP, no later than June 4th, to Burt Coleman at burtcole@fone.net or 385-0533, or Jack Tischhauser at jacktisch@gmail.com or 259-2681

 

Food Drive - In addition to your potluck dish, please bring non-perishable food donations for the Durango Food Bank.

.

 

Wed Jun 9

8:30 am

3rd & 8th Street Horse Gulch Trailhead

 

WW hike: Telegraph to Pautsky Point.  The trail begins by following the old Horse Gulch road, now closed to traffic, and links another trail that goes through a meadow before connecting with the Telegraph Hill where the trail then ascends to Pautsky Point.  The trail is well marked and most elevation gain is from the start of the trail up Telegraph Hill.

Leader Dennis Aronson  259-5045            RSVP non-members only

Moderate

6 miles

1,000’

 

Thurs Jun 10

8:00 am

SRP

 

Hike the Dry Fork – Hoffhein Connection Loop. A pretty loop hike with consistent and mostly gradual elevation gain up to the Colorado Trail and a slightly steeper return on Hoffhein Connection with views of Perins Peak, Barnroof Point and the La Plata Mountains . Carpool $1. Dogs OK.

RSVP Leader David Wright 259-5978 david.j.wright@att.net

Moderate

8.5 miles

1,290’

 

Fri Jun 11

8:30 am

ACP

Cave Basin Trail to Emerald Lake Overlook.  The trail starts north east of Vallecito off of Middle Mountain Road. We will climb through fairly open, exposed alpine Meadows to an unnamed ridge overlooking Dollar and Emerald Lakes to the east. Great views to the west over the Vallecito valley include Sheep, Emerson, Amherst and Organ Mountains.  We return on the same path after lunch at the overlook.  Carpool $5.

RSVP Leader Rich Butler 403-3185 or rbbutler54@gmail.com

Hard

9 miles

1,600’

 

Sat Jun 12

8:30 am

ACP

Hike Jacob’s Cliff. Hike off the backside of Animas City Mountain. Some

bushwhacking is required.

RSVP Leader John Martin 247-2581  jmartin@mydurango.net 

Moderate

5 miles

1,500’

 

Sun June 13

8:30am

ACP

Hike Vallecito Creek Trail Hike to first bridge (6 miles round trip) or for the hardy to the second bridge (11 miles round trip). Easily marked trail. Go at your own pace and early turn-arounds are OK. Elevation gain is around 700 feet to first bridge, 1,000 feet to second bridge. Follow Creek through beautiful canyon and into the wilderness. There is one stream crossing to first bridge, two more to second bridge. May need to wade through the streams if the water is high.  The falls should be beautiful.  Dogs welcome. Car pool $3

RSVP Leader Sherry Suenram  259-5259 mikes@gobrainstorm.net

Moderate – Hard

6 - 11 miles

700’ or 1,000

 

Mon Jun 14

ACP 9:00 am

TC 9:10 am

DMR 9:30 am

Hike “Larkspur Lane”  This is an annual favorite named by John Montle in 2001 for the larkspur and other flowers carpeting the meadows. We follow the well-established lower Engineer Mtn. Trail part way up and back through woods and meadows with great views. Lunch at a view spot.  Early turn-backs OK. Carpool $3. Dogs OK.

RSVP Leader Betsy Petersen 259-5417 betsyp@bresnan.net

Moderate

(or Easy if

turn back

early)

6 miles

1,850’

 

Wed Jun 16

8:15 am

RC

WW hike:  Missionary Ridge to Radio Towers.  This is an “in and out” hike that begins in the Durango Hills area, accessed from CR240.

Leader Warren Levingston  769-1437          RSVP  non members only  

Moderate

6 miles

1,100’

 

Wed Jun 16

ACP 8:00 am

TC 8:10 am

DMR 8:30 am

Cascade to Coal Bank Training Hike  Hike to Engineer Plateau via Engineer Mtn. Trail from FS work center near Cascade and then down to Coal Bank on Pass Trail. Good views from plateau. Carpool $5.

RSVP Leader Bill Cagle 385-4566 or cagle81301@yahoo.com

Hard

8 miles

2,700’

 

Fri June 18

ACP 8:00am

TC 8:10 am

DMR 8:30 am

Hike in the Upper Hermosa Drainage .  Destination TBD.  Most of this hike will be off regular trails. 4WD nice. Carpool $5. 

RSVP Leader Bill Cagle 385-4566 or  cagle81301@yahoo.com

Hard

8 miles

2,000’ to

3000’

 

Fri June 18

RC 8:00 am

TC 8:15 am

 

SO! Ladies Fridays A Field: Jones Creek  Trail climbs through switchbacks, levels out, ascends, descends, and then ascends steadily until reaching Jones Creek.  The views are limited, but the trees provide plenty of shade for a nice, comfortable hike. The trail is popular with mountain bikers.  Carpool $1. Dogs on leash or left at home, please.

RSVP Leader Julie Wilson 259-6775 or jwilson@sisna.com

Option 1: Hard

8.6 miles

1,560’

Option 2:

Moderate

5 - 6 miles

800’

 

Sun June 20

7:00 am

SRP

Climb Hesperus Peak from Owens Basin  We will start up the Owens Basin Trail, accessed via Echo Basin Road.  At some point we will climb north, gain the ridge, and hike east to the summit. Return the same way. Climb may need to be postponed in case of heavy snow. Call Bob or check on-line schedule for change.  High clearance helpful. Carpool $5.  Dogs ok.

RSVP Leader Bob Thompson 382-9271

Most Challenging

13 miles

4,000’

 

 

Wed Jun 23

8:15 am

RC

 

WW hike: Log Chutes Trail  This trail system is in the Junction Creek area.  We will follow the shorter of the two loops on an old road.  The trail ascends at the start and then generally levels out with some up and down along the way, eventually looping back to the trailhead. 

Leader Barb Hancock  764-4531            RSVP non-members only 

Moderate

4.6 miles

880’

 

Thurs Jun 24

ACP 8:00 am

TC 8:10 am

DMR 8:30 am

Annual Spud Mtn. Climb & Birthday Celebration  Enjoy a fun hike/climb up a local landmark. No trail. Some steepness, rock scrambling and exposure involved. Group must stay together. Option to wait at base of rocky peak to avoid rock scrambling but you’ll miss the dynamite views! Help John and Connie celebrate their birthdays (10 years apart … which is which?) Limit 10. Carpool $3. Dogs OK, but not for the final rock scramble.

RSVP Leader John Montle 769-6108 mntnlvr@frontier.net 

Co-Leader Connie Webbe

Hard

3 miles

1,840’

 

Sat June 26

ACP 6:30 am

TC 6:40 am

DMR 7:00 am

Hike from Molas to Coal Bank  We will start at Little Molas Lake Colorado trail trailhead parking, and hike down the Colorado trail to the Engineer Mountain trail then to the Pass Creek trail to Coal Bank Pass.  This will probably be the longest and last conditioning hike for those going on the Colorado trail hike. Carpool $5.  Dogs OK.

RSVP Leader John Martin 247-2581 john@martintelephone.com

Hard

14 miles

3,460’

 

Tues Jun 29

ACP: 7:30 am

TC: 7:40 am

DMR: 8:00 am

Climb Bear Mountain (12,987’)  Hike up the Colorado Trail from Little Molas Lake to the Bear Creek/Lime Creek saddle, then down Bear Creek a mile to the start of the ascent to Bear Mountain. There may be a little bushwhacking.   Carpool $5, No dogs.

RSVP Leader John Bregar  385-1814  jbregar@durango.net

Hard

8.5 miles

2,600’

 

Wed Jun 30

8:00 am

SW corner of Albertson’s parking lot

WW hike: Twin Buttes  Trail follows a road that ascends from the start eventually leveling out slightly before arriving at the base of Twin Buttes.  Those interested may bushwhack to the top of the east butte.  The return follows the same route.  Recommend long pants for those who wish to bushwhack to the top of the butte. Please carpool, as trailhead parking is limited.

Leader Ray Walker   382-7662        RSVP non members only

Moderate

6 miles

1,100’

 

Thurs Jul 1

ACP 7:00 am

TC 7:10 am

DMR 7:30 am

 

 

Hike McMillan Peak (12,804’)  This loop hike begins above Red Mountain Pass, continues into lovely U.S. Basin, climbs to the ridge and culminates atop McMillan Peak. Wildflowers should be abundant! Descent will be by a different, more direct route. Patches of snow are a possibility.

4WD necessary. Carpool $7. Dogs OK.

RSVP Leader Betsy Petersen  259-5417  betsyp@bresnan.net

Moderate

5.3 miles

1,300’

 

 

Sat July 3

7:00 am

SRP

Hike to Sharkstooth Pass with option to climb Centennial Peak (13,082’)  Trail starts in the forest and climbs above timberline to the Pass. The flowers should be great near the saddle. Hikers doing the shorter option may take their time while the peak climbers hike ahead. After the saddle, the peak baggers will have a short, steep talus climb and continue up the ridge another 0.7 miles to the peak. There are great views of all the La Plata peaks. There’s usually a strong wind on the pass and peak, so bring warm clothes and rain gear.  4WD helpful. Carpool $6. Dogs OK under control.

RSVP Leader Dorothy Bregar 385-1814  dorothy.bregar@yahoo.com

Co-Leaders Nancy Mead and David Wright 

Pass: Mod

3 miles

900’

 

Peak: Hard

5 miles

2,200’

 

Tues Jul 6 to

Sat Jul 10

Meeting time

and place TBD

Colorado Trail 5-day Supported Hike  This will be a four-day hike (plus 1 driving day) along the Colorado Trail from San Luis Pass to Molas Pass, breaking the hike into 4 segments, hiking one segment each day. The group size is limited to 15 people with three vehicles; each day three participants will drive the vehicles to the next campsite while the rest of the group hikes. Everyone will meet at the new campsite in the afternoon.

RSVP Bill Cagle 385-4566 or cagle81301@yahoo.com to reserve a space.  Co-Leaders John and Kate Martin

Hard

Moderate

Pace

64 miles

 

Wed Jul 7

8:00 am

RC

WW hike: Red Creek Trail  Trailhead is approximately 10 miles from Durango on Florida Road. In and out hike with several creek crossings. 

Leader Chris Wiehage  259-0882   RSVP non members only

Easy (slow)

3-5 miles

300’-700’

 

Wed Jul 7

ACP 7:00 AM

TC 7:10

DMR 7:30

Climb Rolling Mountain, 13,693’, from South Fork Mineral Creek Road  Hike south about 1.5 miles on FS Trail 507; veer to southwest and climb basin to gain east ridge. Scramble west to the top and continue west to second summit. Return to first peak, then south to saddle and east down drainage back to trail. Some exposure. Carpool $7. No dogs. Limit 8.

RSVP Leader Debra Van Winegarden 769-7269 or debra@vanwinegarden.com Co-Leader Bob Thompson 382-9271

Most Challenging

7 Miles

3,500’

 

Fri Jul 9

ACP 6:30 am

TC 6:40 am

DMR 7:00 am

Hike Engineer Mountain by NW Ridge  This route goes up the Pass Creek trail from Coal Bank Pass, crosses the rock glacier below Engineer's north face, and then goes up over "baby Engineer" to Engineer. It is all off-trail from the meadows below Engineer. This route avoids the exposure experienced when you "pop out" of the chimney on the normal route. Carpool $4. Dogs OK.

RSVP Leader Dan Honig 375-9105 dhonig@animas.net

Hard

10 -12 miles

3,500’

 

Fri Jul 9

RC: 7:30 am

TC: 7:40 am

DMR 8:00 am

SO! Ladies Fridays A Field: Upper Hermosa  This is a well-defined trail that meanders along the Upper Hermosa Creek. There may be few small creek crossings. Please pack a lunch, plenty of water, and gear for rain or cold.  Poles would be helpful. The longer leg is rated difficult due to the length, but the trail is not steep. Trail can be narrow in spots and may be shared with an occasional ATV or mountain bike. Carpool $5. Dogs on leash or left at home.

RSVP Leader Tricia Bayless  tbayless62@msn.com or 375.2618

Option 1:

Moderate

5 -6 miles

200’

Option 2:

Difficult

10 miles

200’

 

Sun Jul 11

ACP 7:30 am

TC 7:40 am

DMR 8:00 am

 

Hike Eureka over the mountain to Boulder Gulch near Silverton  Car shuttle to Eureka. Hike up the South Fork of the Animas River, and climb over mountain ridge into Boulder Gulch to see crystals and flowers. Exposure on ridge; finish at tailings ponds. 4WD necessary for shuttle, limit depends on number of 4WD vehicles. Carpool $6. No dogs.

Leader Howard Drake 

RSVP Co-Leader Connie Webbe 382-0009 bcwebbe@aol.com

Hard

6 miles

1,800’

 

Mon Jul 12

ACP 8:30 am

TC 8:40 am

DMR 9:00 m

 

Hike to Spud Lake  This hike passes through aspen and near several interesting beaver ponds, some of which are still active. From the lake are views of the Twilight Peaks and Engineer Mountain. We will hike to the lake, around it, and back.

RSVP Leader David Wright  david.j.wright@att.net  259-5978

Easy

3 miles

440’

 

 

Tues Jul 13

Social 6:30 pm Meeting 7:00

RC

SO! General Meeting

Recreation Center

Social 6:30 pm

Meeting 7:00 pm

Ken Hibbard, from High Mountain Anglers, will show us an alternative way to get into the backcountry - llamas!  What does it take to pack a llama and how do you handle one? Ken will bring a llama and educate us on how to use a llama for an outdoor experience. We will meet in the Sunlight Room at the Rec Center and progress out to the parking lot.

 

 

Wed Jul 14

ACP 7:00 am

TC 7:10 am

DMR 7:30 am

 

Climb Engineer Peak (12,968’) This hike starts at Coal Bank Pass, and climbs to Engineer plateau. From there we climb the peak, weather permitting. There is one section of the peak climb with medium to high exposure.  The views from the top are worth it! If you are not comfortable with exposure, you may want to consider Dan Honig’s July 9th hike. Carpool $4. No dogs. 

RSVP Leader Clark Lagow  259-9337 or clagow@rmi.net

Hard

8 miles

2,370’

 

Wed Jul 14

8:30 am

RC

WW hike: Lower Hermosa Creek  From the trailhead, the well defined trail remains at approximately the same elevation with some ups and downs and crosses several side streams that are typically dry or flowing slightly.  This is an in-and-out trail

Leader Tricia Bayless  375-2618     RSVP non-members only

Moderate

4 miles

500’

 

Fri Jul 16

ACP 7:00 am

TC 7:10 am

DMR 7:30 am

 

 

Hike to Columbine Lake  This year we will do this hike from Porphyry Basin, which is accessed from near the top of Red Mountain Pass.  The hike is up and down across alpine meadows to stunning Columbine Lake (12,685’) at a moderate pace.  We may cross some snowfields (fun!). 4WD necessary. Carpool $8.  Dogs OK.

Leader Betsy Petersen RSVP to 259-5417 or betsyp@bresnan.net

Co-Leader Travis Ward

Moderate

8 miles

1,500’

 

 

Sat Jul 17

ACP 9:00 am

TC 9:10 am

DMR 9:30 am

 

Hike to swim in Spud Lake  This hike will start on Hwy 550 and take the same route to Spud Lake that John takes on his snowshoe trips. This is a different approach to a popular spot and some bushwhacking is involved. Bring your bathing suits for an optional swim. Carpool $4.  Dogs OK

RSVP Leader John Martin 247-2581 john@martintelephone.com

Moderate

6 miles

1,000’

 

 

Tues Jul 20

ACP: 7:00am

TC: 7:10am

DMR: 7:30am

 

Hike Mineral Creek to Coal Bank Pass  This is a thru-hike starting at the end of the road above South Mineral campground and ending at the top of Coal Bank Pass via the Rico-Pinkerton, Colorado , Engineer Mt. and Pass Trails. If enough people sign up, we can avoid the car shuttle by having a group start at each end and exchange keys in the middle. The hike stays on rolling terrain so the elevation gain and loss will be the same from either direction. Two log stream crossings at the Mineral Creek end. 4WD necessary. Carpool $7, please bring exact change. Dogs OK.

RSVP Leader Lynn Coburn 247-0914  harrisoncoburn@gmail.com

Co-Leaders: Jan Collins and Dorothy Bregar

Hard

10 miles

2,200’

 

 

Wed Jul 21

9:00 am

RC

WW hike: Jacob’s Cliffs/Dalla Mtn. Park  Begin at the trailhead off Burkett Street and ascend a series of reasonable switchbacks for about 0.5 miles through the trees. The trail then splits in several directions and the hike begins to descend to Dalla Mtn. Park, eventually crossing the old road and hiking through oak brush and large boulders. The return follows the same route.

Leader Dell Manners dmanners@sisna.com 385-0533

RSVP non-members only

Easy

4 miles

400’

 

Thurs Jul 22

ACP 7:00am

TC 7:10am

DMR 7:30 am

 

Hike Lake Hope  Hike starts from the end of the road up South Mineral Creek (last 2 miles require high clearance vehicles). The trail goes over Hope Pass to Lake Hope. There is 1,800’ gain to the pass, then 500’ down to the lake.  Lake Hope is at the Center of its own basin, above timberline and surrounded by dramatic peaks above 13,000’. 4WD necessary. Limit 15. Carpool cost $8.

RSVP Leader Sherry Suenram  259-5259   mikes@gobrainstorm.net

Hard

8 miles

2,300’

 

Fri Jul 23

RC:  7:30 am

TC:  7:40 am

DMR: 8:00 am

 

 

SO! Ladies Fridays A Field: Engineer Meadows  This in and out hike offers abundant wildflowers and beautiful vistas.  The trail ascends a steep, grassy slope into spruce-fir and passes by two small lakes on the side of the trail.  At 2.5 miles, the trail exits the woods and into tundra where there are beautiful wildflowers.  Option 2:  For a great view of Electra Lake and environs we will turn south when we reach the tundra and hike until we reach the viewpoint. Back the same way. Pack a lunch. This trail is extremely popular with lots of traffic. Carpool $4. Dogs on leash or left at home, please. 

RSVP Leader Susan Beck-Brown  rdb835@frontier.net or 375-0948

Option 1:

Moderate

5 miles

1,400’

Option 2:

Moderate

6 miles

1,500’

 

Sun Jul 25

To

Fri Jul 30

7th annual 14er Marathon (this year featuring several 13ers)  Multi-day trip; either camp near the trailheads, or stay in a Ouray motel; enjoy all 5 days of hiking or as many as you prefer.  Return to Durango when you are ready!

Sunday, 7/25  Drive to Ouray or camping area.

Monday, 7/26  Climb Sneffels (14,150’) or Cirque Mountain (13,686’) just east of Sneffels (Other options available)

Tuesday, 7/27  Climb Redcliff (13,642) or hike alternative option in same area.

Wednesday, 7/28 Climb Precipice(13,144’)

Thursday, 7/29  Rest day (take an easy/moderate hike in the area, or enjoy hot springs in Ouray or Ridgway, get a massage, sleep, expire, or …?)

Friday, 7/30 Hike “Heisshorn Loop” (long exploratory hike) with Dan Honig.

The Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday hikes are in the same general area, the Cimarron Mountains, NW of Matterhorn and Wetterhorn and NE of Bridge of Heaven, about 1 hour east of Ridgway.

For further information:  Specific questions about the climbs/hikes –contact John Montle mntnlvr@frontier.net or Dan Honig dhonig@animas.net   

For the detailed outing description (including websites for Cimarron area) or info on motels, RSVP Betsy Petersen betsyp@bresnan.net

Hard

 

Tues Jul 27

ACP 8:00 am

TC 8:10 am

DMR 8:30 am

Hike to Crater Lake  We will stroll the 11-mile round trip and observe flowers along the way. Bring your flower books and a swimsuit if you are so inclined. We will not be back early so those wishing to hike out quickly should carpool together. Hard rating is due to length and elevation. Carpool $5. No dogs.

RSVP Leader Art Wahl  259-7721 after 7/1  roundwahl@hotmail.com

Hard

11 miles

900’

 

Wed Jul 28

8:30

RC

WW hike:  Colorado Trail to Gudy’s Rest  From the upper trailhead, the hike begins with a gradual but steady uphill and follows along the creek from above through the canyon.  The trail then descends slightly arriving at a bridge after 1.5 miles.  Once at the bridge, there are a series of reasonable switchbacks for approximately 1.4 miles to Gudy’s Rest. Return along the same route.

Leaders Dale Suran & Dee Rodman  382-9600    RSVP non-members only

Moderate

5.5 miles

1,000’

 

Thur  Jul 29

SO! Board Meeting

 

 

Fri Jul 30

ACP 7:00 am

TC 7:10 am

DMR 7:30 am

Hike to Ice Lakes and Island Lake  This is a perennial favorite for the spectacular mountain scenery, beautiful alpine lakes and abundant wildflowers. Carpool  $6. No dogs.

RSVP Leader Lyle Hancock 764-4531 lylehancock@bresnan.net

Hard

6.5 miles

2,850’

 

Sat Jul 31 –

Mon Aug 2

7:30 am

RC

Car Camp/Day Hike Near Silverton  Day hike each day from camp. Beautiful hikes mostly above timberline.  Will hike ridgelines and basins, maybe bagging a peak. Great views. Carpool $6

RSVP Leader Bill Cagle  385-4566 cagel81301@yahoo.com

Hard

6-8 miles

2,000’-3,000’

 

Sun Aug. 1

ACP 7:00 AM

TC 7:10

DMR 7:30

Climb Little Giant, King Solomon Mountain  Hike up 4WD road, then on established trail towards Silver Lake with hand cable.  Take obscure trail to Little Giant, 13,416’. Some scrambling down to the NE pass at 12,800’. Climb King Solomon Mtn, 13,185’. Follow ridge back to road. Bail out option is through Little Giant Basin past Big Giant Mine. Flowers will be glorious. Note: People on Bill Cagle’s three-day camping trip in Silverton have the option of joining us. Carpool $6. No dogs.

RSVP Leader Debra Van Winegarden 769-7269 debra@vanwinegarden.com

Co-Leader Bill Cagle 385-4566 cagle81301@yahoo.com

Most Challenging

7.5 Miles

3,900’

 

Wed Aug 4

RC: 8:30 am

DMR: 9:00 am

 

WW hike: Spud Lake  The hike passes through aspen and along several interesting beaver ponds, some of which are still active.  From the lake are views of the Twilight Peaks and Engineer Mountain.  We will hike up to the lake, around its circumference, and back.  Carpool $4.

Leader Susan Beck-Brown 375-0948 rdb835@frontier.net  Members and non-members please RSVP

Easy

3 miles

440’

 

Fri Aug 6

7:00 am

RC

 

SO! Ladies Fridays A Field: Sliderock Trail/Cumberland Mountain  This portion of the Colorado Trail starts at the upper end of Junction Creek, 17.5 from Durango and heads towards Kennebec Pass.  The trail ascends through the forest for 1.5 miles and then continues up the side of the valley across a broad open and rocky area.  Poles will be helpful here and we’ll go at an easy pace.  Just before we get to the pass, we’ll turn south and head up to the Muldoon Mine with views overlooking Junction Creek all the way down to Durango and we’ll also check out the “outhouse with a view.”  Option 1 will turn back at this point, and Option 2 will continue up the E ridge of Cumberland Mountain to the summit, then down the NW ridge and back around to Kennebec Pass and our trail. Poles helpful. Carpool $4. Dogs on leash or left at home. 

RSVP Leader Dorothy Bregar  385-1814 or jbregar@durango.net

Option 1:

Moderate

4.5 miles

1,490’

 

Option 2:

Hard

6 miles

2,240’

 

Sun Aug 8

ACP 7:30 am

TC 7:40 am

DMR 8:00 am

Jeep to Bear Town and Hike to Continental Divide Trail  Drive to Silverton, jeep over Stony Pass to Bear Town. Hike to Continental Divide Trail. Views in all directions. Jeep ride is 15 miles each way. 4WD necessary. Limit: jeep capacities. Carpool $10.  No dogs.

RSVP Connie Webb 382-0009 bcwebbe@aol.com Leader: Howard Drake

Moderate to Hard

4 miles

1,000’

 

Mon Aug 9

ACP: 7:00am

TC: 7:10am

DMR: 7:30 am.

 

Hike Highland Mary Lakes/Continental Divide Loop  A hard, but very rewarding hike past lovely alpine lakes, through a high tundra basin, along a trail with spectacular valley and mountain views. Return via the Continental Divide Trail. 4WD necessary. Limit 15. Carpool $6. Dogs OK but RSVP.

RSVP Leader Ken Fusco 259-9442  ken@fusco-finl.com  Co-leader Jo Fusco

Hard

9 miles

2,000’

 

Tues Aug 10

Social 6:30 pm Meeting 7:00

RC

SO! General Meeting

Recreation Center

Social 6:30 pm

Meeting 7:00 pm

Writer for the “Green Machine” in the Durango Herald, Nancy Etter, ND will grace us with her expertise on naturopathic medicine.  She will speak to us about general health and the natural way to deal with allergies.

 

 

Wed Aug 11

RC: 8:30 am

DMR: 9:00 am

WW hike: Lower Engineer Mtn.  This hike offers abundant wildflowers and beautiful vistas. The trail ascends a steep, grassy slope into spruce-fir and passes by two small lakes on the side of the trail. At 2.5 miles the trail exits the woods and into tundra where there are beautiful wildflowers. We will stop to rest, lunch, enjoy the views and descend along the same trail. We will not be climbing to the peak. Carpool $5.

Leaders Wayne and Gayle Bedor  764-4089 or 769-6548 

RSVP non-members only.

Moderate

5 miles

1,308’

 

Fri Aug 13

ACP 7:00 am

TC 7:10 am

DMR 7:30 am

Hike Twin Sisters  There is some bushwacking and scrambling required.  Steep climb. Great views.

RSVP Leader Bill Cagle 385-4566 cagel81301@yahoo.com

Hard

10 miles

2,700’

 

Fri Aug 13

RC:  7:00 am

TC:  7:10 am

DMR: 7:30 am

 

 

SO! Ladies Fridays a Field: Ice Lakes  This in and out hike offers abundant wildflowers and beautiful vistas. The trail climbs steeply through switchbacks and straight stretches to the lower basin. After a stream crossing, the trail begins to climb again. The first 200 yards or so is rocky and then goes about 1 mile to Ice Lake. Option 1 will hike to the lower basin. Option 2 will continue to Ice Lake.  Pack a lunch. Poles are helpful for stream crossing and for descending steep sections. Come prepared for the potential of getting wet feet. Carpool $6. Dogs on leashes or left at home. 

RSVP Leader Jenny Wrenn  jennifer.wrenn@gmail.com or 497-2803

Option 1:

Hard

5 miles

1,950

 

Option 2:

Hard

7 miles

2,407

 

Sun Aug. 15

ACP 7:00 AM

TC 7:10

DMR 7:30

Climb Velocity Peak, 13,325’, near Silverton  This peak is east of Storm Peak and looks down into Velocity Basin where we ski with Howard. We will hike up the Boulder Gulch Trail about 2 miles and then gain the ridge heading north to the summit, returning the same way. The meadows at the ridge base are known for abundant wildflowers. Carpool $6. Dogs OK.

RSVP Leader Bob Thompson 382-9271

Most Challenging

8 miles

3,500’

 

Wed Aug 18

ACP: 8:00am

TC: 8:10am

DMR: 8:30am

 

Jeep Tour of Red Mountain Ghost Towns  This year Rudy will take us on a tour in the Red Mountain Pass area. We’ll first drive on the Brooklyn Mine Road that climbs above timberline past the Brooklyn Mine to great views looking west at Chattanooga Loop, Columbine Basin, Porphyry Basin, and Black Bear Pass before descending down, with great views of the Red Mountains, to the top of Red Mountain Pass where the Longfellow Mine sits. We’ll continue down the north side of Red Mountain Pass to a road going up to Red Mountain Town and the National Belle Mine where we follow the old Silverton RR bed through Guston to the Vanderbilt and Yankee Girl mines before returning to Hwy 550. Continue down Hwy 550 to a turnoff to the Ironton ghost town and the beginning of the Corkscrew Gulch 4x4 trail. At that point, we go up Corkscrew Gulch with views of where the old Corkscrew Gulch turntable was and continue up to a spectacular summit view. From here, return down the other side to Gladstone and the road back to Silverton and Durango.

Bring a lunch, hat, rain gear, layered clothing, and sturdy shoes. If you have a handheld radio, bring it to listen to Rudy’s narration as you drive. He’ll repeat all information at each stop. There will be a few radios available from the trip bag.  High clearance 4WD with low range necessary. No all-wheel drives, full sized/overlong pickups or wide Hummers. Limit 15 vehicles with passengers to fit. Carpool $9. Dogs OK for drivers only, but be aware there will be limited “outside time” for dogs.

Leader Rudy Davison  259-9307 or 728-6678, leave a message and Rudy will return call when he’s in town.

RSVP Co-Leader David Wright  259-5978  david.j.wright@att.net

Moderate

4WD trip

 

 

Wed Aug 18

8:30 am

RC

WW hike: Jones Creek  From the trailhead, the hike climbs consistently through ponderosa pine, spruce, and fir. Return along the same route.

Leader Marnie Roti  946-0560              RSVP non-members only

Moderate

4 miles

600’

 

Fri Aug 20

ACP 7:00 am

TC 7:10 am

DMR 7:30am

Hike 4 Peaks In One Day: Peak 13,270, Hansen, Hurricane and California.  A steep climb to a ridgeline with views in both directions. Some exposure. Access to all peaks by following the ridgelines. Car pool $6.

RSVP Leader Bill Cagle 385-4566 cagle81301@yahoo.com

Hard

4 miles

2,300’

 

Sat Aug 21

ACP 7:30 am

TC 7:40 am

DMR 8:00 am

Jeep to Mineral Point and Hike to Mine Ruins  Drive to Silverton. Jeep to Mineral Point above Animas Forks.  Then hike to Old Lout Mine and San Juan Chief Mill.  Dessert at Howard’s after. 4WD necessary. Limit: Jeep capacities.  Carpool $10. No dogs.

RSVP Connie Webb 382-0009 bcwebbe@aol.com Leader: Howard Drake

Moderate to Hard

4 miles

1,000’

 

Sun Aug 22

ACP 7:00 am

TC 7:10 am

DMR 7:30 am

Climb Three Needles, 13,481’, in the back of Porphyry Basin north of Silverton  We will drive a couple of miles up the road in Porphyry Gulch, then hike and climb to the back of the basin. It is a scramble to the top of the needle.  From here you overlook Blue Lake on the east side of Bridal Veil Basin. On the return trip we can look for very nice cubic iron-pyrite crystals. 4WD necessary.  Carpool $7.  Dogs OK.

RSVP Leader Bob Thompson 382-9271

Most Challenging

About 6 miles

2,000’

 

Tues Aug 24

SRP 7:00am

TH 8:30 am

 

Hike to Fourmile Falls with possible option to Fourmile Lake  Hike through the Fourmile Creek valley through meadows and forest below Pagosa Peak to the 300-foot Falls Creek falls and the shorter, but higher volume Fourmile Falls. There may also be an option to continue three more miles to Fourmile Lake, with additional 1,200-foot gain (option not yet scouted for difficulty and time)

RSVP Leader David Wright david.j.wright@att.net  259-5978

Moderate to Falls

6 miles

1,000’

Hard to lake

 6 more miles 1,200’

 

Wed Aug 25

RC: 8:00 am

DMR: 8:30 am

WW hike: West Lime Creek  The trailhead is on HWY 550 between Coal Bank Pass and Molas Pass.  The trail follows West Lime Creek for about 3 miles. We will have lunch along the trail and go back the same trail. Carpool $5.

Leader Sharron Chambers  259-9271      RSVP non-members only

Moderate

5 miles

1,100’

 

Thurs Aug 26

ACP 9 am

TC 9:10 am

DMR 9:30am

Hike Engineer Mt Trail to Coal Bank Pass   We will hike up the trail all the way to Engineer Plateau where we will have lunch. There are some great views of the valley. Then we will hike down Pass Creek to Coal Bank Pass. The descent is only 1,500 feet. We will spot cars for the shuttle.

RSVP Leader Jim O’Brien 375-1693

Hard

7 miles

2,800’

 

Sat Aug 28

ACP 7:30 am

TC 7:40 am

DMR 8:00 am

 

Hike to Silver Lake with Ice Crystal Cave Option  Drive to Mayflower Mine east of Silverton.  Hike uphill to Silver Lake and mine/mill ruins.  Another climb over a ridge to Crystal Cave (1.4 mile, 500’).  Flashlights needed for ice cave. 4WD necessary.  Limit:  15 for ice cave option. Carpool: $10.  No dogs.

RSVP Connie Webb 382-0009 bcwebbe@aol.com Leader Howard Drake

Moderate to Hard

3 miles

1000-1500’

 

Mon Aug 30

SO! Outings Committee Meeting

 

 

Tues Aug 31

8:00am

RC

Perins Peak  We will start at DOW trailhead in the Rockridge subdivision and hike to the peak on a non-maintained trail through Perins Peak State Wildlife Area. Carpool $1. Dogs OK, but must be on a leash. 

RSVP Leader Ray Baranowski 259-9522 wraybar@yahoo.com

Moderate

7 miles

1,400’

 

Wed Sept 1

SRP 9:00 am

 

WW hike: River Trail from Santa Rita to Home Depot  We will hike the River Trail and explore the new bridge and extension.

Leaders Tom and Lydine Hannula 884-9052    RSVP non-members only

Easy

4 miles

Flat

 

Fri Sept 3

ACP 8:00 am

TC 8:10 am

DMR 8:30 am

 

 

Hike to the Old 100 Boarding House  This spectacular old miners’ boarding house perches on the side of Galena Mountain above the Old 100 Mine; it was recently restored as an historic landmark. The trail is loose in places but not long and affords great views. We will do this hike at a moderate pace. The final (optional) scramble from the trail down to the boarding house is narrow with some exposure but is well worth it. Poles helpful. 4WD necessary.

Carpool $8. No dogs.

RSVP Leader Bill Cagle 385-4566 or cagle81301@yahoo.com

Hard

4 miles

1,000’

 

 

Sat Sept. 4

ACP 7:30 am

TC 7:40 am

DMR 8:00 am

 

Hike Grizzly Meadows  Hike to the base of Grizzly Peak to enjoy meadows, lakes and great views.  A few stretches of the trail are on shale.  Early turn-back optioned hike.  There’s a challenging option to climb to the top of Grizzly Peak- a steep climb up every kind of rock surface (shale, small rocks, large rocks, loose rocks, talus) to fantastic and rewarding views. 4WD necessary (8 miles on Cascade Divide Rd). Carpool $8. Dogs Ok to meadow.

RSVP Leader Clark Lagow  259-9337 or clagow@rmi.net

Moderate to Most Challenging

7 miles

2,750’

 

 

Tues Sept 7 –

Thurs Sept 9

7:30 am

SRP

3-Day Camp and hike in the South San Juans  Day 1: Drive to Crater Lake trailhead, and in/out hike to Crater Lake (moderate 7 mi. 1,800 ft. on trail), short drive to car camping site. Day 2: Hike from camp to 13,150' Montezuma Peak (hard 5 mi. 2,400 ft mostly off trail). Day 3: Sleep in, short hike TBD, return home. Car camping will be primitive, but near a stream. Limit 12. 4WD convenient. Carpool $15.  Dogs OK, limit 2.

RSVP Leader Travis Ward  247-1310  Co-leader Bob Thompson

See hike description

 

Tues Sept. 7 ACP 7:00 am

TC 7:10 am

DMR 7:30 am

Climb North Twilight, 13,076’  From Andrews Lake, hike 5.5 miles to Crater Lake, then climb additional 1.5 miles up east ridge of peak.  Exposed scramble. Limit 8. Carpool $5. No dogs.

RSVP Leader Debra Van Winegarden 769-7269  debra@vanwinegarden.com

Co-Leader Lynn Coburn 247-0914 harrisoncoburn@gmail.com

Most Challenging

14 miles

2,500’

 

Wed Sept 8

RC 8:30 am

 

WW hike: Haviland Lake to Forebay Lake  Trail starts at the parking lot across from Haviland Lake and goes past a beaver pond through an open meadow and forest down to Forebay Lake and back. Carpool $3.

Leader Chris Wiehage 259-0882            RSVP non-members only

Easy

3 miles

minimal elev. gain

 

Fri Sept. 10

ACP 7:00 am

TC 7:10 am

DMR 7:30 am

Climb Handies Peak (14.048) via Grouse Gulch  Backpacker magazine calls Handies the most scenic of Colorado's 14'ers, and it’s in our own backyard. Avoid the long drive over Cinnamon Pass and get a better workout by doing the Grouse Gulch route. The hike starts at about 10,800' on the road north of Silverton, proceeds over a 13,000' pass on a good trail, descends 600 feet into American Basin and then joins the normal route up Handies. Return the same route for a total of 4,400 feet of climbing. Most of the route is above tree line, so we need an early start to minimize monsoon problems. The route is long with a lot of vertical, but the gradient is friendly, so it is not as hard as you might think. 4WD necessary. Carpool $8. No dogs

RSVP Leader Charlie Berglund 247-9747  chasberglund@msn.com

Most

Challenging

8 miles

4,400’

 

 

Fri Sept 10

RC: 8:30 am

TC: 8:40 am

DMR: 9:00 am

 

SO! Ladies Fridays A Field: Little Molas / Colorado Trail  Follow well defined and reasonable switch backs from the trailhead up the Colorado Trail. Trail then becomes relatively flat for the remainder of the hike. Beautiful vistas along the way. Pack a lunch and gear appropriate for rain or cold. Poles nice but not necessary. This can be a busy trail. Carpool $5. Dogs on leashes or left at home, please.

RSVP Leader Nancy Mead  259-5978  nancy.a.mead@att.net

Option 1:

Moderate

5-6 miles

700’

Option 2:

Moderate

8 miles

700’

 

 

Sat Sept 11

ACP 9:00 am

TC 9:10 am

DMR 9:30 am

Hike Grey Rock Ridge  A lovely hike following old logging roads north of DMR with views of Engineer Mountain, the Needles, the La Platas, Cascade & Hermosa Creek drainages. 4WD convenient. Carpool $5. Dogs OK.

RSVP Leader John Martin 247-2581  john@martintelephone.com 

Moderate

4-5 miles

1,000’

 

 

 

Sun Sept 12 to Tues Sept. 14

8:00 am

RC

Car Camp in the Hammond Canyon area to see the Hammond Canyon Ruin. We will drive over on the 12th, go into the canyon on the 13th and return home on the 14th. There may be some day hikes on the 1st and 3rd days. It is a 1,900’ drop into the canyon and 1,900’ gain coming out. This is in the NE section of Cedar Mesa in Utah.

RSVP Leader Jim Shadell 247-5597  shadkj@durango.net

Hard

9 miles

1,900’

 

 

Mon Sept. 13

ACP 8:00 am

TC 8:10 am

DMR 8:30 am

 

Hike Brown Mountain to Mount Abrams  Beautiful high altitude (12,000-13,000’) ridge hike north of Silverton with great views of all San Juan 14ers.  This is a hard hike, as all the vertical is above 12,500 ft. 4WD necessary. Carpool $8.  Dogs OK.

RSVP Leader Clark Lagow  259-9337  clagow@rmi.net

Hard

7 miles

3,000’

 

 

 

Tues Sept 14

5:30 pm

New Member Orientation

6:30 pm Social

7:00 pm Potluck   RC

SO! General Meeting and

Fall Potluck at Rec Center

New Member Orientation 5:30 pm

Social: 6:30 p.m.

Potluck: 7:00 p.m.

Bring your own table service and a dish for eight with a serving utensil:

A-F  Salad     G-M  Main Dish    N-R  Dessert     S-Z  Main Dish

In addition to your potluck dish, please bring non-perishable food donations for Manna Soup Kitchen

 

 

 

Wed Sept 15

8:30 am

SW corner of Albertson’s parking lot

WW hike: Hoffhein’s to Gudy’s Rest  This is an in and out hike with consistent and mostly gradual elevation gain as the trail heads north toward the Colorado Trail and Gudy's Rest with views of Perins Peak, Barnroof Point. and the La Plata Mountains.  Hike crosses DOW land.

Leaders Tom and Lydine Hannula  884-9052   RSVP non-members only

Moderate

4 miles

800’

 

 

Thurs Sept 16

ACP 7:00am

TC 7:10am

DMR 7:30am

Hike Spencer Basin and Highland Mary Lakes  Start at 10,800’ and hike via

Spencer Basin to an unnamed pass at 12,700’ southwest of Sugarloaf Mt. Return via a ridgeline to Highland Mary Lakes and return to vehicles. Views are spectacular. Carpool  $8. Dogs OK

RSVP Leader Ray Baranowski 259-9522 wraybar@yahoo.com

Moderate

5.8miles

1,900’

 

 

Sat Sept 18

ACP 7:00 am

TC 7:10 am

DMR 7:30 am

Climb 13,300’ Peak overlooking Columbine Lake on the southeast end  We will drive to the Chattanooga Curve northwest of Silverton and climb up the north side of Mill Creek. We then traverse to the lake and circle around to the south side.  From there we will scramble to the summit. 4WD necessary. Carpool $7. Dogs OK.

RSVP Leader Bob Thompson 382-9271

Most Challenging

8 Miles

3,000’

 

 

Wed Sept 22

RC: 8:30 am

 

WW hike: Dry Gulch from Rockridge subdivision (DOW)  This is an in-and-out hike that will start from the trailhead in Rockridge Subdivision.  The trail cuts through the Perins Wildlife area through open meadow at a slight elevation gain along the way.  The trail passes some old remains of ranch buildings and some clusters of aspen (this may possibly be later modified to a through hike to Lightner Creek Road).

Leader Barb Hancock   764-4531         RSVP non-members only

Easy

5 miles

300’

 

 

Wed Sept 29

8:30 am

SW corner of Albertson’s parking lot

WW hike: Perins City ruins  Follow railroad grade in Twin Buttes area to the ruins of old Perins City.  Explore the ruins (or just rest). We will return via the old wagon road.  Bring a light snack.  We should be back for lunch.

Dogs must be on lease.

Leader Ray Walker 382-7662              RSVP non-members only

Easy/Moderate

4 miles

500’

 

Last week of September or first week of October

Three-Day Backpack to Escalante area of Utah  We will backpack the Boulder Mail Trail, Death Hollow and go down to the Escalante River. Details will be on the Fall schedule.

RSVP Leader Jim Shaddell  247-5597  shadkj@durango.net

Hard

 

The Outings Committee members who developed this Outing Schedule are: Jan Collins, Olin Kane, Clark Lagow, Sherry Suenram, Debra Van Winegarden and Dorothy Bregar. They appreciate your suggestions, ideas, willingness to help with and lead outings, enthusiasm while on outings, and natural leadership skills that show up when needed.