Day, Date, Departure Time & Departure Place	Outing Description Summer 2011 Outing Schedule Printer-friendly version Logistics, rules, meeting places, and difficulty ratings E-mail schedule changes and updates to: mail2020@seniorsoutdoors.org. Schedule changes and trip updates are in red. Participation in Seniors Outdoors! activities by non-members is limited to two outings per year. Visitors who wish to actively participate are expected to join Seniors Outdoors! Please review the Guidelines for Outing Participants found on the SO! Website. These guidelines contain important information about Seniors Outdoors! requirements and general backcountry safety. Meeting Place Abbreviations: ACP: Animas City Park; TC: Trimble Crossing; Tam: Tamarron; DMR: Durango Mountain Resort; SRP: Santa Rita Park; RC: Rec Center		Difficulty Rating, Total Length & Elevation Gain
	MOUNTAIN EXPLORATIONS Hikes under the Mountain Exploration label will generally be hard hikes, but at a moderate pace, and with a limited number of participants. There will be stops for breathing, photography, looking at flowers and scenery, eating, etc., but the group stays with the leader. Expect an exploratory hike with some or all off trail, and sometimes with exposure and scrambling. Hikes will usually be in the range of 1,000 to 3,000 feet vertical, and 6 to 10 miles distance. Due to the exploratory nature of the hikes, when the outing is listed on the schedule only a general location will be given and without the customary details. The route for the day will be up to the trip leader. Return to vehicle times will be unpredictable.
Wed Jun 8 RC 8:30 am	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, comfortable switchbacks for approximately 1.4 miles to Gudy’s Rest. The return is along the same route. Dogs on leash only. Leader: Martha Wackley 247-0967 RSVP non-members only		Moderate 5 miles 1,000’
Fri Jun 10 RC 8:00 am	SO! Ladies hike:  Vallecito Creek Trail: This is a picturesque, well-defined trail that rises and falls along the creek through the canyon and into the wilderness. There is one water crossing to the first bridge and two more to the second bridge. The destination is the second bridge, but the group may turn around earlier, depending upon water levels or desire. Plan to have lunch somewhere along the trail. Early turn back with a partner is okay. Bring water shoes for those interested in doing the creek crossings. Carpool $4, No dogs. RSVP: Susan Beck-Brown 375-0948 sbeckbrown@yahoo.com		Moderate to Hard, depending on distance. 11 miles 1,000’
Fri Jun 10 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:25 am	Explore/Bushwhack in the Upper Hermosa Drainage. Destination TBD. Most of this hike will be off regular trails. Carpool $7, 4WD nice RSVP: Bill Cagle 385-4566 cagle81301@yahoo.com		Hard 12 miles 2,000’ to 3,000’
Sun Jun 12 SRP 7:00 am	Climb Parrot & Madden Peaks in the La Platas. We will start on an old horse trail that climbs out of La Plata Canyon. Then we bushwhack to the ridge above and head north to Parrot Peak (11,857’). We continue north off Parrot to Madden Peak (11,972) then turn south back to the Parrot/Madden saddle. From here we shoe-ski/slide down (~2,000’) to an old logging road which returns to the cars. Car Pool $2. Limit 14. Dogs OK. RSVP: Bob Thompson 382-9271.		Most Challenging ~7 miles 3,500’
Mon Jun 13 ACP 9:00 am TC 9:10 am DMR 9:30 am	Hike “Larkspur Lane”. 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. Dogs OK. Carpool $4 RSVP: Clark Lagow 259-9337 clagow@rmi.net		Moderate (or Easy if turn back early) 6 miles 1,850’
Tue Jun 14 5:30 p.m. Social 7:00 pm Dinner Edgemont Ranch Picnic Area (6 miles out Florida Rd from 15^th and Main, turn right across from the big pine cone)	SO! General Meeting and Picnic Social 5:30 p.m. Dinner 7:00 p.m. This will be a combination potluck and BBQ. The club will provide burgers, brats, buns and condiments. If you would like something to drink other than coffee, iced tea or lemonade, you may bring it for yourself. Bring your own table service and a dish for eight with a serving utensil. A - F Salads and side dishes G - M Appetizers and chips N - R Salads and side dishes S - Z Desserts In addition to your potluck dish, please bring non-perishable food donations for the Durango Food Bank. Please RSVP to Jack Tischhauser by June 7^th at 903-7002 jacktisch@gmail.com		RSVP by June 7th
Wed Jun 15 RC 8:15 am	WW hike: Missionary Ridge to Radio Towers. This is an “in and out” hike that begins in the Durango Hills area, accessed from CR240. Hike is up an old logging road to trail up to the towers. Dogs OK. Leader: Warren Levingston 769-1437 RSVP non-members only		Moderate 6 miles 1,100’
Thurs June 16 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:30 am	Cascade Creek Waterfall Hike:  Depending on what counts as a waterfall, we should find at least 7 noteworthy falls (and some lesser ones).  It will be a long day, but we will take time to enjoy each waterfall as well as early flowers. On occasion expect to jump over (or wade) side creeks, scramble over downed trees, and sink your boots into some marshy areas. Hike is mostly on trail. Limit 15, Dog limit 2. Carpool $4. RSVP: Leader Travis Ward 247-1310 Co-leader Bob Thompson		Hard 11 miles 1,500’
Fri June 17 ACP 7:30 am TC 7:40 am DMR 8:00 am	Upper Hermosa (to the second bridge) This is a well-defined trail that meanders along the Upper Hermosa Creek. Poles are helpful for water crossings. The trail is rated hard due to length, but it is not steep. Early turn backs okay with a partner. Carpool $7. 4WD. Dogs OK RSVP: Susan Beck-Brown 375-0948 sbeckbrown@yahoo.com		Easy to Hard Depending On Distance 10 miles 200’
Sat. June 18 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:15 am	Hike Spud Lake Trail.  Carpool from Animas Park to limited parking space near trailhead to Spud Lake.  This hike passes through aspen and near several interesting beaver ponds, some of which are still active. Twilight Peaks and Engineer Mountain are visible from the trail.  We will hike to the lake and take a short break there.  After a break, a walk around the lake is optional.  The same trail will be taken back to the trailhead.  Also optional is a short hike south to Scout Lake from the trailhead to have lunch.  Bring snacks, lunch (optional) and water. Carpool $5, Limit 12, Dogs OK. RSVP: Bob Powell   RobertLPowell@durango.net or 385-8949		Easy 3 miles 440´
Sun Jun19 ACP 7:00 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30 am	Hike to Lower Twilight Basin Lake. This is an exploratory hike with route finding involved across steep, very difficult terrain. We will start on Lower Old Lime Creek Rd where the road turns sharply north. We first head south down near to where Twilight and Lime Creeks join. We will cross the creek climb to 11,500’ on the ridge heading northeast and finally contour over to the lake (fishing is good). The upper lake is an additional mile and +600’ elevation gain. Car Pool $6. Dogs OK. Limit 10. RSVP: Leader Bob Thompson 382-9271		Most Challenging ~8 miles 3,500’
Tues Jun 21 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:30 am	Annual Spud Mtn. Climb & Birthday Celebration. Enjoy a really 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. Dogs OK but not for the final rock scramble. Carpool $4 RSVP: John Montle 769-6108 mntnlvr@frontier.net Co-Leader: Connie Webbe		Hard 3 miles 1,840’
Wed Jun 22 RC 8:15 am	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 and then generally levels out with some up and down along the way, eventually looping back to the trailhead. Dogs on leash OK. RSVP non-members only Leader: Chris Wiehage/Barb Hancock 259-0882		Moderate 4.6 miles 880’
Thur June 23 ACP 8:00 am	Mountain Exploration Hike in the Fall Creek/Vallecito Creek area. Limit 12, dog limit 2. Carpool $5. See the description at the beginning of the schedule for Mountain Exploration hikes RSVP: Leader Travis Ward 247-1310.  Co-leader Bob Thompson .		Hard
Fri Jun 24 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:25 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 $6 RSVP: Leader Bill Cagle 385-4566 or cagle81301@yahoo.com		Hard 8 miles 2,700’
Sat. June 25 ACP 8:30	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 OK. Carpool $5 RSVP: Jan Collins jcvmona@yahoo.com or 382-0211		Moderate or hard 6 or 11 miles 700´or 1,000´
Sun June 26 ACP 7:30 am TC 7:40 am DMR 8:00 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 $7. Dogs OK RSVP: John Martin 247-2581 john@martintelephone.com		Hard 14 miles 3460 ‘
Tues June 28 ACP 7:00 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30	Mountain Exploration (see description at start of schedule): Hike to Blue Mine in Boulder Gulch. The mine is the first side drainage coming in from the northwest. Off trail, scrambling and an additional optional trip to the lower lake over the ridge to the north. Carpool $9. Dogs OK, 4WD not required, Limit 15. RSVP: Bob Thompson 382-9271 Co-leader: Howard Drake. This poem is offered in the spirit of Mountain Explorations: Gaea mourns her wounded mountain, Dare we visit this hard rock fountain? Beware, she demands a cliffy climb, But oh, her reward is most sublime. A mother lode of dazzling azurite, now isn’t that outta sight! With delicate stalactites, twinkling blue lights, And heaps of golden pyrite to the left and right. Traverse to the gulch, invisible trail, Please explorers let’s not wail. At last the road appears below, Kudos for each I shall bestow If you sign up, and return trip make, Then it’s to Howard’s for a cup and cake.		Hard 6 Miles 2,500’ Mountain Exploration Moderate Pace
Wed Jun 29 RC 8:30 am Please carpool! TH parking at a premium	WW hike: Pioneer Trail Loop around Edgemont Highlands. Hike from parking lot on CR 240 up the west side of Edgemont Highlands, across the top, down the Canyon Trail and back through EH to the trailhead. Lots of good views and art installations. Turnarounds on the Pioneer Trail OK. Dogs on leash only please. RSVP non-members only Leaders: Kristine Johnson and Jay Culver 946-9560	Moderate 5-6 miles 700’ gain
Thurs June 30 ACP 7 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30 am	Climb Engineer Mountain, (12,968’): Starting from Coal Bank Pass, the first two miles are on a good trail (Pass Creek). The last mile crosses loose talus and then involves a steep scramble with one tricky part and some exposure. Not for the acrophobic, but there will be moral support and hand-holding for the hard parts! The view from the top is priceless.  With three leaders we can split into groups of varying paces. Carpool $6. No Dogs. RSVP: Lynn Coburn 247-0914 harrisoncoburn@gmail.com Co-leader Jeff Bailey 764-8120 jewlbailey@yahoo.com Co-leader Sue Agronoff 946-9946 sagranoff@alum.mit.edu	Most Challenging 6+ miles 2,310’
Sat July 2 Sat July 16 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:30 am	Hike McMillan Peak (12,804’). Rescheduled to Saturday, July 16^th. This loop hike begins above the Red Mountain Pass, continues into lovely US Basin, climbs to the ridge & culminates atop McMillan Peak.  Wildflowers should be abundant!  Descent will be by a different, more direct route.  Patches of snow a possibility. Moderate pace. 4WD necessary.  Carpool $9. Dogs Ok. Limit 20. RSVP: Betsy Petersen  259-5417  betsyp@bresnan.net	Moderate 3.8 miles 1400’
Tues July 5 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 $9. Limit 15. Dogs ok. RSVP: Leader Jeff Bailey 764-8120 jewlbailey@yahoo.com Co-Leader: Betsy Butler	Hard, Moderate Pace 6.5 miles 2,850’
Wed July 6 Rec Center 8:00	WW hike: Red Creek Trail Approximately 10 miles from Durango on Florida Road. Out and back hike with several creek crossings. Dogs OK. Leader: Chris Wiehage 259-0882 RSVP non-members only	Easy (slow) 3-5 miles 300’-700’
Fri July 8 ACP 7:30 am TC 7:40 am DMR 8:00 am	Cascade Creek Trail. Hike the Cascade Creek Trail to a lovely open area just beyond the second waterfall. Early turn backs with a buddy are okay. Carpool $4, 4WD, Dogs OK This is NOT a ladies-only hike. RSVP: Susan Beck-Brown 375-0948 sbeckbrown@yahoo.com	Moderate 8 miles 700’
Sat July 9 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:30 am	Climb Hermosa Peak 12,579’ Drive about 19 miles from DMR, crossing Hermosa creek to get to the trailhead just beyond Bolam Pass. We start the hike on an old forest road, which we follow for about a mile. Then we leave the road and head up a grassy slope (without trail), which becomes steeper and filled with talus as we approach the saddle. Beyond the saddle, the trail returns. There is a short scramble to get over a cliff and then some steep terrain before approaching the ridge. From there, it is a short ridge walk to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with nice views of Engineer Mtn and other nearby peaks. Carpool $9, 4WD, No Dogs, Limit 15 RSVP: Sandy Hoagland 247-3678 or 759-7578 swhoagy@live.com	Hard due to off trail hiking 3.6 miles 1,059’
July 9-13 and July 16-19	2011 Best of Hardrock 100 in 9 days from John Martin. Sometimes there’s a challenge that cannot be ignored. Ever since I heard of the Hardrock 100 Ultra-Marathon race in Silverton, I wondered how many day hikes it would take to hike the whole course. The racers cover 100 miles and 33,000 feet of elevation gain in less than 48 hours. The fastest time is 24 hours!! The route is some of the most beautiful mountain trails between Silverton, Ouray, Telluride, and Lake City and back to Silverton. My first estimate was that it would take a year of club hikes. Maybe that explains why they call it the toughest ultra-marathon in the country!! So here’s the question: What could the hikers in Seniors Outdoors actually do most of it in? Will Rietveld, Travis Ward and I came up with a logistically possible scenario of breaking it up into 9 day hikes. Only 4 hikes would have over 3000’ of elevation gain. The route would cover about 85 miles of trails and would have 27,000’ of elevation gain, eliminating unnecessary jeep road sections. Two segments of 5 and 4 days with a 2 day break in between would be about right to do it in style. There will be a limit of 15 campers per day from a practical standpoint. We would start on Saturday at 8 AM going east, as the leader of the race is expected to arrive from the west. The route is counter-clockwise. The actual Hardrock 100 race is 100m/33,000’ from Friday, July 8, 2011 at 6am to Sunday, July 11 at 6am RSVP: John Martin 247-2581 john@martintelephone.com	Don’t ask, but if you do, hard to most challenging 27,000 ft. 85 miles
Day 1 (Sat July 9)	Day 1 of Hard Knocks 100/9: Hike Silverton to Cunningham Gulch. From Silverton we will hike to Arastra Gulch, then up Little Giant Basin to the flank of Little Giant Peak, then down Dives Basin to Cunningham Gulch.	Hard 8.7 miles 3,800’
Day 2 (Sun July 10)	Day 2 of Hard Knocks 100/9: Hike Cunningham Gulch to Maggie Gulch. This hike takes in sections of Stony Gulch, Buffalo Boy Mine Road, Gary Owen Mine Road, and Rocky Gulch, near Crystal Lake and down to Maggie Gulch.	Hard 5.7 miles 3,100’
Day 3 (Mon July 11)	Day 3 Hard Knocks 100/9: Hike Maggie Gulch to Sherman. From Maggie Gulch we take a long, high mountain hike ending up at Sherman on the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River.	Hard 13.8 miles 2,600’
Day 4 (Tues July 12)	Day 4 Hard Knocks 100/9: Hike Sherman to Grouse Gulch. Hike up Grizzly Gulch, over Handies Peak or Cottonwood (easier) and then down Grouse Gulch	Most Challenging 10 miles 3,500-4,000’
Day 5 (Wed July 13)	Day 5 Hard Knocks 100/9: Hike Engineer Pass to Ouray. We will skip the 5 miles of jeep road and drive instead to Engineer Pass and hike mostly downhill, along Bear Creek to Ouray.	Moderate 6.6 miles 450’
	Thursday July 14 and Friday July 15^th are days off.
	Hard Knocks 100/9 Part II: Hike, or crawl from Ouray to Silverton over a four day period with car camping for the over-nights.
Day 6 (Sat July 16)	Day 6 Hard Knocks 100/9: Governor Basin to Telluride. We will shuttle to Governor Basin, hike up the Basin, over the ridge and down to Telluride. We’ll meet the shuttle at the first bar we come to.	Hard 8 miles 2,400’
Day 7 (Sun July 17)	Day 7 Hard Knocks 100/9: Telluride to Ophir Pass Road. We will leave the upscale town of Telluride behind as we hike south up the Wasatch Trail. We continue up and up one of the many Bear Creeks of Colorado, over a pass into Upper Bridal Veil Basin, then up and over Oscar’s Pass, 13,200’. From there, it is all downhill to R&R at our campsite, about 1 ½ miles east of Ophir. Note the large elevation gain.	Most Challenging 8.9 miles 4,500’
Day 8 (Mon July 18)	Day 8 Hard Knocks 100/9: Ophir Pass Road to Mineral Creek. Freshly invigorated by a good night’s sleep and some strong coffee, we will hike south, up Swamp Canyon (hopefully on a trail), then up and up to the magical 13,000 ft. level below U.S. Grant Peak. Some steep rock scrambling at the pass. From the scenic pass it’s down to Island Lake, cross lower Ice Lakes Basin, then a long, high traverse to upper South Mineral Basin where we will luxury car camp near the Bandora Mine.	Hard 6.7 miles 2,900’
Day 9 (Tues July 19)	Day 9 Hard Knocks 100/9. Mineral Creek to Silverton Some of us may be tiring by now, but we will push up the Porcupine Creek Trail to the high meadows above Cataract Creek, then over a ridge (12,600’) into Putnam Basin. From the Basin, it’s down and down another of the many Bear Creeks to US 550 and the cheers of thousands of Silvertonians – and a celebration at Howard’s house.	Hard 11 miles 2,800'
Mon. July 11 ACP 7:30 am TC 7:40 am DMR 8:00 am	Hike Pass Creek Trail from Coal Bank Pass to Lower Engineer Mt. This hike offers abundant wildflowers and beautiful vistas. Trail ascends a steep, grassy 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 goes onto tundra where there are more beautiful wildflowers. We will stop to rest, eat lunch, and enjoy the views and descend along the same trail. We will not by climbing the peak. Dogs on leash only please. Carpool $6. RSVP: David Wright david.j.wright@att.net or 259-5978	Moderate 5 miles 1,300´
Tues July 12 Social 6:30 pm Mtg 7:00 pm Rec Center	SO! General Meeting Social: 6:30 pm Meeting: 7:00 pm Program:  Looking Down at the San Juan Mountains....not up. Bob Thompson has been hiking 45 years and flying 16 yrs. in the San Juan Mountains. He will show us aerial photos of many of our hiking trails. It will be a very different point of view.
Wed July 13 RC 8:30 am	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. Dogs on leash only. Leader: Tricia Bayless 375-2618 RSVP non-members only	Moderate 4 miles 500’ gain
Fri July 15 ACP 7:30 am TC 7:40 am DMR 8:00 am Silverton Visitors Center 9:00 am	Jeep Tour of Carson Ghost Town: This year Rudy will take us on a tour of this very well preserved ghost town on the Lake City side of Cinnamon Pass.  We will drive to Silverton and go over Cinnamon Pass towards Lake City. About 8 miles before getting to Lake City, we’ll turn south on a 4x4 road that will take us to Carson. Historically, this was one of two roads into Carson. The other one came up from the Creede side.  It was started later, but due to less difficult terrain, reached Carson way before the steep road we will drive on was completed. The main town of Carson lies in the spruce forest at 11,500’ and boasted a population of 400 people in the early 1900's. The Carson Mining District started in 1881 producing gold and silver until 1902 when the mines went bust and Carson became a ghost town.  Since most of the mines are located south of the ghost town across the next ridge (that happens to be the Continental Divide), we will make an exploratory trip to inspect some of the ruins, and, weather permitting, travel on up to a high point that has a very nice view. Carson is pretty far from Durango, so in order to have enough time to explore the area, we will return by repeating our route back over Cinnamon Pass to Silverton and Durango. Those people wishing to extend the trip may leave the group when we get back to the Cinnamon Pass road from Carson, and can make a loop trip by going back to Silverton via Lake City and Engineer Pass, or could use this as an opportunity to spend the night in Lake City or go on to Creede for an evening of Repertory Theater. This will be a long day and those of us coming straight back should expect to be back in Durango between 5 – 6 pm Bring a picnic lunch and snacks and dress for mountain weather. If you have a hand held 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. Carpool $18, High clearance 4WD with low range necessary, no long bed full sized pick ups or wide vehicles like the H1 Hummer, please. Limit 15 vehicles with passengers to fit. Dogs OK for drivers only. Leader Rudy Davison 259-9307 or 728-6678 r_a_davison@frontier.net Note: Since Rudy is not always available to contact, please contact him only after speaking with David. Rudy will reply to calls and emails when he can. RSVP: Co-Leader David Wright 259-5978 david.j.wright@att.net	Moderate 4WD Trip
Sat July 16 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:30 am	Hike McMillan Peak (12,804’). Rescheduled from Saturday, July 2^nd. This loop hike begins above the Red Mountain Pass, continues into lovely US Basin, climbs to the ridge & culminates atop McMillan Peak.  Wildflowers should be abundant!  Descent will be by a different, more direct route.  Patches of snow a possibility. Moderate pace. 4WD necessary.  Carpool $9. Dogs Ok. Limit 20. RSVP: Betsy Petersen  259-5417  betsyp@bresnan.net	Moderate 3.8 miles 1400’
Sun July 17 ACP 7:00 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30 am	Niagara Peak (13,807’) via the NW Ridge. The hike starts in Burn’s Gulch, NE of Silverton. We will gain the ridge near the bottom of the gulch, climb to 13,500, and then head east to the summit. Return via the Niagara/Jones saddle. Depending on conditions, we might add a south detour to climb Crown Mt. (13,569) and return to Niagara. Carpool $9, Dogs OK, Limit 12, 4WD Required. RSVP: Bob Thompson 382-9271	Most Challenging 6 Miles + 2,400’ +
Tues July 19 ACP 7:00 am Fire station at Florida/CR234 7:10 am	Crevasse Point The only unpleasant part of this hike is the drive to Endlich Mesa Trailhead, about ten miles on a not-so-good road. Crevasse Point (12,311’) is northeast of Lemon reservoir and is interesting geologically. The hike is mostly on good trail above tree line with expansive views and usually lots of flowers. The last half-mile is off trail but not steep. 4wd necessary. Carpool $6. No dogs. Limit 12 RSVP: Charlie Berglund 247-9747 (chasberglund@msn.com)	Moderate 6 miles 1,200 feet Moderate Pace
Wed July 20 RC 9:00 am	WW hike: Jacob’s Cliffs / Dalla 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 ascend gradually into Dalla Park, eventually crossing the old road and hiking through oak brush and large boulders. The return follows the same route. Dogs ok but must be on leash. Leader: Dell Manners dmanners@sisna.com 385-0533 RSVP non-members only	Easy 4 miles 400’ gain
Thur July 21 ACP 7:00 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30 am	Hike to Columbine Lake.  From Porphyry Basin, which is accessed from near the top of Red Mountain Pass.  The hike is up and down across alpine meadows and rocky outcrops to stunning turquoise Columbine Lake (12,685’) at a moderate pace.  4WD necessary (preferably high clearance, narrow vehicles). Carpool $9.  Dogs OK.  Limit 20 RSVP: Betsy Petersen  259-5417  betsyp@bresnan.net	Moderate 8 miles 1,500’
Fri July 22 ACP 7:00 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30 am	Highland Mary Lakes. This is a rewarding and scenic hike along Cunningham Creek past many waterfalls to lovely alpine lakes. Poles helpful for water crossings. Carpool $10, 4WD required, Limit 15. Dogs OK. This is NOT a ladies-only hike.  RSVP: Susan Beck-Brown 375-0948 sbeckbrown@yahoo.com	Moderate 6 miles 1,650’
Mon July 25 ACP 7:30 am TC 7:40 am DMR 8:00 am	Melanie Highline Trail. This trail is north of Silverton. We’ll be at and above tree line (around 12,000’) hiking in uneven terrain; hiking poles will help. There will be lots of wildflowers and views to take your breath away. Lunch overlooking Silverton. Carpool $10, 4WD, No Dogs. RSVP: Sharron Chambers 259-9271 lightenerload@earthlink.net	Moderate 5 miles 600’
Tues July 26 ACP 4:30am TC 4:40am DMR 5:00am TH 6:00am	Climb Half Peak (13,841’): We will climb Half Peak from Minnie Gulch and the Continental Divide Trail. Expect a long day above timberline with lots of ups and downs, so we need an early start and a steady pace to beat the monsoon. People may car-camp at the trailhead the night before, but need to be ready to start climbing at 6:00am sharp. There is an exposed section of Class 3 scrambling near the summit with moderate exposure. We’ll also search for and photograph a very rare plant on Half Peak. This will be a joint SO! / CMC hike. Carpool $10, 4WD/HC, Limit 10, No Dogs RSVP: John Bregar 385-1814 jbregar@durango.net	Most Challenging 10 miles 4,600’
Tues Jul 26 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. Several creek crossings and some off-trail hiking. Carpool $6. No dogs. Limit 12. RSVP: Lyle Hancock 764-4531 lylehancock@bresnan.net	Hard 7.5 miles 2,850’
Wed July 27 RC 8:30	WW hike: 1^st Parking Lot Colorado Trail to Bridge From the trailhead we hike a mile along Junction Creek to the second parking area and then about 1 ½ miles further to the bridge then return on the same trail. Dogs on leash only. Leader: Joan Huntly 385-7723 RSVP non-members only	Easy 5 miles 500’ gain
Wed July 27	SO! Board meeting
Th. July 28 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:30 am	Climb Hermosa Pk. (12,579) from Bolam Pass. Drive on FR 578 past DMR, ford upper Hermosa Creek, and continue past the mine to Bolam Pass. Depending on the condition of FR 149, drive 0.8 miles south and park. Hike farther south on the road, then turn east and climb a grassy slope and talus to a saddle, then turn NE to the summit. Steep in places, some exposure and a small cliff to climb. There are excellent views in all directions. HC 4WD necessary. Limit 12. No dogs. Carpool $10. RSVP: Nancy Federico fortfed@gmai.com or 259-1949	Moderate 3.6 miles 1,060´
Fri July 29 Fri Aug 12 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:30 am	Hike to Crater Lake. Rescheduled to Friday, August 12^th. We'll stroll the 11+ mile round trip and observe flowers along the way. Bring your flower books as well as bathing suit[s] if you are so inclined. We will not be back early so those wishing to hike out quickly should carpool together. Rating is hard due to length. Carpool $7. No dogs. RSVP: Art Wahl  259-7721  roundwahl@hotmail.com	Hard 11 miles 900’
Sat July 30 ACP 7:00 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30 am	Deer Creek/Abandon Trail Bushwhack. Hike re-instated with new leader. We will start at the Deer Creek Trailhead and hike up to an intersection with an abandoned trail headed for the upper West Lime Creek Basin. We’ll follow this trail to timberline and somewhere beyond. From there, we’ll bushwhack back south possibly climbing to a high point (12,569’) on the ridge extending east from Jura Knob. We’ll continue bushwhacking south and down to intersect the Deer Creek Trail to trailhead. Carpool $7. Dogs OK. RSVP: Bob Thompson 382-9271 Co-Leader: Sherry Suenram 259-5259 mikes@gobrainstorm.net	Hard 10 miles 2,500’
Sun. July 31 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, then hike uphill to Silver Lake and mine ruins. Climb over ridge to Crystal Cave (1/4 mile & 500’ elevation). Flashlights needed for ice cave. 4WD necessary, Limit 15 for ice cave option. Dogs OK, but RSVP. Carpool $9. Leader: Howard Drake but RSVP to Connie Webbe 382-0009	Hard 3 miles 1,000– 1,500´
Mon Aug 1 ACP: 7:00 am TC: 7:10 am DMR: 7:30 am	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 Creek Trails. If enough people sign up, we can avoid the car shuttle by having separate groups start at each end and exchange keys in the middle. The hike stays on rolling terrain so elevation gain and loss will be the same from either direction. Two log stream crossings at the Mineral Creek end. 4WD necessary for vehicles going to South Mineral end. Carpool $10. Limit 15. Dogs OK. RSVP: Leader Jeff Bailey 764-8120 jewlbailey@yahoo.com Co-Leader: TBA	Hard 10 miles 2,200’
Wed August 3 RC 8:30 am DMR 9:00 am	WW hike: Lower Engineer Mt. 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. Dogs on leash only. Leader: Diane Skinner 247-0849 RSVP non-members only.	Moderate 5 miles 1,308’ gain
Wed Aug 3 ACP 6:30 am TC 6:40 am DMR 7:00 am	Bonita Peak (13,286). This is an exploratory hike at a moderate pace. We will drive to Gladstone, north of Silverton, and climb above Minnehaha Basin to the northwest, reach the saddle and climb the ridge to the peak. Option to include Peak 13,228 to the north, depending on weather and time. Although pace is to be moderate, expect scrambling and some exposure at elevation. Carpool $10, No dogs, 4WD required, Limit 12. RSVP: Rich Butler 403-3185 rbbutler54@gmail.com	Hard 6 Miles ~3,000’ Moderate Pace
Sat Aug 6 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 $10. Dogs OK but RSVP. RSVP: Leader Ken Fusco 259-9442 ken@fusco-finl.com Co-leader Jo Fusco	Hard 9 miles 2,000’
Sun Aug 7 ACP 6:00 am TC 6:10 am DMR 6:30 am	Climb Twin Sisters (13,432’, 13,374’): Off trail, exploratory loop route, fast pace, some scrambling through cliff bands of Telluride Conglomerate. Park at bottom of Molas on 550 and walk up trail two miles to 2nd N branch of West Lime. Up creek, through cliff to saddle W of 13,042’. W to 2nd saddle and up E ridge of NE Sister. Traverse to SW Sister then back to saddle between them. Painstaking, steep descent through talus and Cutler Formation back to Lime Creek. Carpool $7, 4WD not necessary, Limit 10, No Dogs. RSVP: Debra Van Winegarden 769-7269 debra@vanwinegarden.com	Most Challenging 13 miles 4,300’ Fast Pace
Mon Aug 8 ACP 7:00 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30 am	Little Molas/Colorado Trail. Follow well defined and reasonable switch backs from the trailhead up the Colorado Trail. Trail becomes relatively flat for the remainder of the hike. Beautiful vistas along the way. Early turn backs with a buddy okay. Carpool $7, Dogs OK RSVP: Susan Beck-Brown sbeckbrown@yahoo.com 375-0948	Moderate 8 miles 700’
Tues Aug 9 Social 6:30 pm Mtg 7:00 pm Rec Center	SO! General Meeting Social: 6:30 pm Meeting: 7:00 pm Program:  Mushrooms Come and learn about the fascinating world of mushrooms with Sandra Newman. Pictures of common edible varieties will be displayed and discussed.
Wed Aug 10 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. “Well-behaved dogs off-leash or scalawags on-leash are okay.” Leader: Sharron Chambers Please RSVP 259-9271	Easy 3 miles 440’ gain
Wed Aug 10 ACP 7:00 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30 am	Hike to Grizzly via ridge route. Hike to the base of Grizzly Peak and then climb the peak via the north ridge and exit the peak via the south ridge. While not a technical climbing route, the hike does involve the use of low level climbing skills and participants should be comfortable with exposure to heights. Fantastic and rewarding views along the way. 4WD necessary (8 miles on Cascade Divide Rd). Carpool $13. Limit 10. No dogs. RSVP: Leader Jeff Bailey 764-8120 jewlbailey@yahoo.com Co-Leader: Rich Butler	Most Challenging 7 miles 2,750’
Fri Aug 12 ACP 7:00 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30 am	Whitehead-Verde Loop. Starting at the Highland Mary trailhead we will pass through Spencer Basin on good trail, then go off trail to summit of Whitehead Peak (13,259’), continue to Verde Lake off-trail, then hook up with the Continental Divide trail to form a big loop back to trailhead. Most of the route is rolling tundra, with possible loose rock to summit of Whitehead. This should be a spectacular high-altitude hike. 4wd necessary. Carpool $10. No dogs. Limit 12 RSVP: Charlie Berglund 247-9747 chasberglund@msn.com	Most Challenging 12 miles 2,500’ Fast pace
Fri Aug 12 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:30 am	Hike to Crater Lake. Rescheduled from Friday, July 29^th. We'll stroll the 11+ mile round trip and observe flowers along the way. Bring your flower books as well as bathing suit[s] if you are so inclined. We will not be back early so those wishing to hike out quickly should carpool together. Rating is hard due to length. Carpool $7. No dogs. RSVP: Art Wahl  259-7721  roundwahl@hotmail.com	Hard 11 miles 900’
Sun Aug 14 to Aug 15 or 16 Carpool TBD	Climb Red Cloud and Sunshine Peaks. You can climb both of these 14’ers in one day, but it is a challenging hike. We will camp close to the Silver Creek trailhead to get an early start. This is a class 2 climb, but it does involve considerable vertical and distance. Once you have climbed one peak, the other is only another 500 feet of vertical. So if you have never climbed these two peaks, or would like to do them again, this is your chance. We may spend the night of August 15^th there too, depending on the weather. Disclaimer: neither the leader nor the co-leader has actually climbed these peaks. 4WD required. Carpool $16. No dogs. RSVP: Clark Lagow  259-9337 or clagow@rmi.net Co–Leader: Nancy Federico	Most Challenging 9.5 miles 4,500’
Sun Aug 14 ACP 8:30 am TC 8:40 am DMR 9:00 am	Hike Molas Trail to Elk Park. The hike starts at 10,600’ (near Molas Lake) and goes down to the Animas river at 8930’. There are some fine views of the valley as you hike down. Elk Park is our goal, where there is a nice view of Mt. Garfield and we can enjoy a picnic lunch near the river or take a swim. We will climb back out on the same trail. Carpool $7, Limit 15, Dogs OK RSVP: Sandy Hoagland 247-3678 or 759-7578 swhoagy@live.com	Moderate 8 miles 1674’
Mon Aug 15 ACP 7:00 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30 am	Hike to Columbine Lake. We will follow a well-established trail from just west of Hwy 550 near the Ophir Pass road (off road 820), to stunning aqua blue Columbine Lake (12,685’). High clearance vehicles necessary. Carpool $10.  Limit 15 people. Dogs OK. RSVP: Leader Jeff Bailey 764-8120 jewlbailey@yahoo.com Co-Leader: Darrell Maddox	Hard 7 miles 2,500’
Tue Aug 16 SRP 7:30 am	Hike Windy Pass: This is a through hike east of Pagosa Springs. We will shuttle one car north about 5 miles on Highway 160 to the trailhead for Trail#566 while the remaining cars turn east at the East Fork Road (#667) and travel about 7 miles to the trailhead for Trail #565 on the left. We’ll hike about four miles until we intersect the Treasure Mountain Trail in a large scenic park. From this junction we will turn west and hike about 1½ miles to Windy Pass. At this point we will continue west, down about 2½ miles to Highway 160 just south of the Treasure Falls Interpretive Trail. Hikers may enjoy this ¼ mile trail while drivers are shuttled back to cars at trailhead. On the way home, an optional stop will be made at the Pagosa Hot Springs for those who are interested. Admission for locals (within 60 miles) is $7 on Tuesdays; drivers license ID required. Carpool $15, Dogs on leash or voice control only. RSVP: Nancy Mead 359-5978 nancy.a.mead@att.net	Moderate 8 miles 2,000’
Wed Aug 17 8:00 Rec Center 8:30 DMR	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. Dogs on leash only. Leader: Tricia Bayless 799-4535 RSVP non-members only	Moderate 5 miles 1,100’
Fri Aug 19 ACP 7:00 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30 am	Hike 4 Peaks In One Day. Peak 13,270, Hansen, Hurricane and California. A steep climb to a great ridgeline with views in both directions. Some exposure. All peaks are by following the ridgelines. Carpool $13 RSVP: Bill Cagle 385-4566 cagle81301@yahoo.com	Hard 4 miles 2,300’
Mon Aug 22 RC 8:00 am	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 on leash only. RSVP: Ray Baranowski 259-9522 wraybar@yahoo.com	Moderate 7 miles 1,400’
Tue Aug 23 SRP 6:30 am for breakfast Or meet at ABC in Mancos at 7:45 for no breakfast	Climb Centennial Peak (13,062´) with new leader and breakfast option. Hike to Sharkstooth Pass, about 900' gain, then (optionally) scramble up a rock field, stroll through some meadows, then up the trail to Centennial Peak (13,062'). Great views of Hesperus Pk. (13,232´) and other La Plata peaks. Carpool $9. We will meet at 6:30 at Santa Rita Park and carpool to Absolute Bakery and Café (ABC) in Mancos for breakfast. Those not wanting breakfast can meet us at the Café at 7:45 AM RSVP: David Wright david.j.wright@att.net or 259-5978	Hard 5 miles 2,200´
Wed Aug 24 RC 8:30 am	WW hike: Jones Creek From the trailhead, the hike climbs consistently uphill through ponderosa pine, spruce, and fir. Returning along the same route. Dogs on leash only. Leader: Warren Livingston 769-1437 RSVP non-members only	Moderate 4 miles 600’ gain
Thur Aug 25 CANCELLED ACP 9:00 am TC 9:10 am DMR 9:30 am	Relay Creek Hike. HIKE CANCELLED We’ll start where the gravel ends on the Relay Creek Road, (FS 580) hiking up an old logging road that climbs through the upper Relay Creek drainage. When the road tops out on a ridge coming down from Graysill Mountain, we will bushwhack up the ridge a short distance and stop with views of the upper Hermosa drainage, Hermosa Peak and Blackhawk Mtn. Carpool $7, 4WD, Dogs OK on leash or under control. RSVP: Bob Kuhnert 799-0692 rkuhnert@bresnan.net	Moderate 5 miles 1,000’
Sat. Aug. 27 POSTPONED TO SEPT 10 ACP 8:30 am TC 8:40 am DMR 9:00	Spud Lake Trail Hike POSTPONED TO SEPT 10.  Carpool from Animas Park to limited parking space near trailhead to Spud Lake.  This hike passes through aspen and near several interesting beaver ponds, some of which are still active. Twilight Peaks and Engineer Mountain are visible from the trail.  We will hike to the lake and take a short break there and then walk around the lake.  The same trail will be taken back to the trailhead.  Carpool $5. Dogs on lease only. RSVP: David Wright david.j.wright@att.net 259-5978	Easy 3 miles 440´
Sun Aug 28 ACP 7:00 am TC: 7:10 DMR: 7:30 am	Tower Mt. (13,552’). We will start in Hematite Gulch, NE of Silverton. The hike proceeds up the gulch underneath Macomber Peak. We will climb to the north and east above Hematite Lake, reaching the ridge and heading for the Tower summit. Great views into Silverton and across to Storm Peak. Carpool $8, No dogs, Limit 14, 4 WD not required. RSVP: Rich Butler 403-3185 rbbutler54@gmail.com	Most Challenging 7.5 miles 3,575’
Mon Aug 29 ACP 7:30 am TC 7:40 am DMR 8:00 am	Castle Rock Overlook. We’ll drive behind DMR to access the trailhead to the Castle Rock Overlook, hiking over easy rolling terrain to see the beautiful views. Carpool $5, 4WD RSVP: Susan Beck-Brown 375-0948 sbeckbrown@yahoo.com	Easy 5 miles 100’
Mon Aug 29	SO! Outings Committee meeting
Tues Aug 30 ACP: 6:30 am TC: 6:40 am DMR: 7:00 am	3 Peaks: Trico to 13,510 to Telluride Peaks. Drive up Black Bear Rd to pass, hike NE up the ridge to Trico (13,321), traverse the ridge north to Peak 13,510, then onto Telluride Peak (13,509). We will determine if time and weather permit a return via dropping down to Ptarmigan Lake (12,930) and following benches back to Trico and then Black Bear Pass. Carpool $10, No dogs, Limit 12, 4WD & High clearance required. RSVP: Rich Butler 403-3185 rbbutler54@gmail.com	Most Challenging 8 Miles + 3,000’
Wed Aug 31 SRP 8:45 am	WW hike: Durango West I Dell and Burt have invited us to a hike up a little mountain behind their house in Durango West 1. We will meet at Santa Rita Park and carpool to a dirt parking area on Wildcat Canyon just south of 160 to compress even further due to lack of parking at the house. Bring a sack lunch. Burt and Dell will provide drinks. Dogs Ok under voice control but bring leash; there are cattle. Leader: Dell Manners 385-0533 RSVP non-members only	Easy About 4 miles Slight elevation gain
Thur Sept 1 Rescheduled to Sept 12	Hike to the Old 100 Boarding House RESCHEDULED.  This spectacular old miners’ boarding house is perched on the side of Galena Mountain above the Old 100 Mine and was recently restored as an historic landmark.  The trail is loose and/or steep in places but not long and affords great views.  We will do it at a moderate pace.  The final (optional) scramble from the trail down to the boarding house is narrow and steep with loose rock with some exposure, but is well worth it. Poles helpful.  4WD necessary.  Carpool $10.  No dogs. RSVP: Betsy Petersen  259-5417  betsyp@bresnan.net	Moderate Hard for scramble to boarding house 4 miles 1,000’
Fri Sept 2 ACP 6:30 am TC 6:40 am DMR 7:00 am	Climb Handies Peak (14.048) via Grouse Gulch    This 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 4500 feet of climbing.  Almost the entire 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.  I’m going to slow down the pace a bit this year, aiming to finish in closer to eight hours instead of six as in the past. 4WD necessary.  Carpool $12. No Dogs. Limit 12 RSVP: Charlie Berglund 247-9747 chasberglund@msn.com	Most Challenging 10 miles 4,500’ Moderate pace
Sat Sept 3 ACP 7:30 am TC 7:40 am DMR 8:00 am	Climb Grizzly Peak. Hike to the base of Grizzly Peak to enjoy meadows, lakes and great views. A few stretches of the trail are on shale. We will then begin the climb of Grizzly Peak, which takes us up a steep rocky couloir, and then a “short stroll to the top” as Pixler says. The view from the top is spectacular. We may split into two groups with a moderate option to explore the area around the lake, or perhaps hunt for mushrooms (they found a lot last year). 4WD necessary (12 miles on Cascade Divide Rd). Carpool $13. Dogs Ok to meadow, or to the peak if they are really good climbers. RSVP: Clark Lagow 259-9337 clagow@rmi.net	Hard 7 miles 2,750’ Meadow option is moderate
Sun Sept 4 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:30 am	Hike to Grayrock Peak and Graysill Mtn. This hike has some fantastic views of the La Plata’s, Needles and beyond to the Wilson peak group. Also, the trail is not well defined so there is some bushwhacking and rock scrambling, but none on steep slopes. Also, bring some bags for the edible and delectable King Bolete mushrooms that are abundant in the fir forest to the peaks. Moderate Pace. Carpool $7. Limit 15. Dogs ok. RSVP: Leader Darrell Maddox 303-775-3208 maddox0204@msn.com Co-Leader:TBA	Hard 6.6 miles (about 7.5 miles if both mountains climbed) 2,100’
Tues Sept 6 to Fri Sept 9 (options for fewer days exist if carpools can be arranged). Rec Center Parking Lot 8:45 am	14-er MARATHON! The Wilsons: Wilson Peak, Mt Wilson, El Diente and optional Gladstone (13,913). This year the Marathon will be focused on the Wilson complex. Due to the nature of the peaks we will attack them from Navajo Basin. This means backpacking approximately 6 miles into the upper basin for primitive (no fires allowed) camping. Next year we plan to return to car camping and motel supported Marathons. Day 1: The plan is to drive up Dunton Rd to the Navajo Lake Trailhead and backpack ~6 miles into Navajo Basin (past the lake) and establish camp. Day 2: Mt Wilson (14,246), Day 3: Wilson Peak (14,017) or Gladstone. Day 4: El Diente and hike out to cars. Options can include any combination of days or peaks, depending on group size. Carpool $10, No dogs, Limit 12, 4WD required. Routes and climbing co-leaders will be determined prior to the climbs. Please refer to Roach’s Colorado 14-ers and the 14-ers website for detailed information. RSVP: Rich Butler 403-3185 rbbutler54@gmail.com. Co–leader: Betsey Butler	Most Challenging Many miles 3,250’+ per day
Wed Sept 7 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. Dogs on leash only. Leader: Warren Levingston 769-1437 RSVP non-members only	Easy 3 miles minimal elevation gain
Thurs Sept 8 ACP 7:00 am TC 7:10 am DMR 7:30 am	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 $10, 4WD, Dogs OK RSVP: Ray Baranowski 259-9522 wraybar@yahoo.com Co-leader: Jeff Bailey	Moderate 5.8 miles 1,900’
Sat. Sept 10 ACP 8:30 am TC 8:40 am DMR 9:00	Spud Lake Trail Hike Rescheduled from Aug 27.  Carpool from Animas Park to limited parking space near trailhead to Spud Lake.  This hike passes through aspen and near several interesting beaver ponds, some of which are still active. Twilight Peaks and Engineer Mountain are visible from the trail.  We will hike to the lake and take a short break there and then walk around the lake.  The same trail will be taken back to the trailhead.  Carpool $5. Dogs on lease only. RSVP: David Wright david.j.wright@att.net 259-5978	Easy 3 miles 440´
Mon Sept 12 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. Yes, we will get lost again this year. 4WD necessary. Carpool $10. Dogs OK. RSVP: Clark Lagow 259-9337 clagow@rmi.net	Hard 7 miles 3,000’
Mon Sept 12 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:30 am	Hike to the Old 100 Boarding House rescheduled from Sept 1 .  This spectacular old miners’ boarding house is perched on the side of Galena Mountain above the Old 100 Mine and was recently restored as an historic landmark.  The trail is loose and/or steep in places but not long and affords great views.  We will do it at a moderate pace.  The final (optional) scramble from the trail down to the boarding house is narrow and steep with loose rock with some exposure, but is well worth it. Poles helpful.  4WD necessary.  Carpool $10.  No dogs. RSVP: Betsy Petersen  259-5417  betsyp@bresnan.net	Moderate Hard for scramble to boarding house 4 miles 1,000’
Tues Sept 13 5:30 pm New Members 6:30 pm Social 7:00 pm Potluck Rec. Center	SO! General Meeting Fall Potluck New Member Orientation 5:30 pm Social: 6:30 pm Potluck: 7:00 pm Bring your own table service and a dish for eight with a serving utensil. A-F  Dessert         G-M   Main Dish       N-R   Salads    S-Z   Main Dish In addition to your potluck dish, please bring non-perishable food donations for Manna Soup Kitchen
Wed Sept 14 SRP 8:30 am	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, Barn roof Pt. and the La Plata Mountains. Dogs on leash only. Leader: Charlotte Klein 769-1668 RSVP non-members only	Moderate 4 miles 800’
Thurs Sept 15 SRP 7am	La Plata Canyon Ridge Hike: Four La Plata Canyon peaks in one day. Starting from the Odd Fellows campground in the canyon, we will climb Parrott, and then follow the ridge over Madden and Star (and an unnamed bump) to Gibbs. Then Down Gibbs to the Bedrock Creek road. Mostly off-trail hiking with some scrambling, but no scary exposure. Carpool $5, 4WD, Limit 10, Dogs OK RSVP: Lynn Coburn 247-0914 harrisoncoburn@gmail.com	Most Challenging 10 miles 4,000’
Sat Sept 17 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 and Hermosa Creek drainages. 4WD convenient. Carpool $7. Dogs OK RSVP: John Martin 247-2581  john@martintelephone.com	Moderate 4-5 miles 1,000’
Sun Sept 18 ACP 8:00 am TC 8:10 am DMR 8:30 am	Coal Bank Pass – Jura Knob – Coal Creek Hike from Coal Bank Pass via several trails to the ridge below Jura Knob. Cross country travel up the ridge to 12,614’ Jura Knob. Option to climb the knob, some rock scrambling required. Descend via Coal Creek Trail. Car shuttle required. Carpool $7. Dogs OK. RSVP: Leader Jeff Bailey 764-8120 jewlbailey@yahoo.com Co-leader: Ray Baranowski	Hard 9 miles 2,000’ (including Knob)
Mon Sept 19 ACP 7:30 am TC 7:40 am DMR 8:00 am	1st Annual Hunger Hike to McMillan Ridge: We are coordinating this hike with our Fall quarterly food donation to give people not going to the Potluck an opportunity to donate --this quarter to the Volunteers of America’s Durango Community Shelter. Hikers should bring a donation on this hike (we won’t make you carry it on the trail!). Cash/check, grocery store gift cards or non-perishable foods (suggestions will be on the website) will be accepted. Note this is not the usual route; we’ll approach McMillan from CR 62 north of Silverton. Our hike is a version of the Kansas Mine hike described in the Kelvin Kent Silverton hiking guide. Ascent begins on an old road with some steep sections and stops at 12,050’ on a ridge below McMillan Peak with stunning views. There will be an option to bag McMillan Peak (12,804’) which would add an additional half mile and an extra 754’ gain. Carpool $10, Dogs OK Leader Jane Marie Johnson RSVP: Betsey Butler 403-3185 ejbutler12@gmail.com	Moderate 3.5 miles 1,806’ Hard Option +.5 mile +754’
Wed Sept 21 Big Canyon TH 8:30 am	WW hike: Twin Buttes Changed to Big Canyon. Big Canyon trailhead parking is next to New Country Toyota (across highway from Wal-Mart). Hike up/back Big Canyon, plus several loop trails including Skull Rock, Sidewinder, Carbon Junction, and South Rim. Dogs on leash only. Leader: Dale Suran 382-9600 RSVP non-members only	Moderate 5 miles 800’
Wed Sept 28 RC 8:30 am TC 8:45am DMR 9:00 am	WW hike: Purgatory Flats (Changed from Perin’s City Ruins) We will hike from the trailhead down to Cascade Creek. Get to the trailhead by turning right into the development directly across from the DMR entrance. Go about one-fourth of a mile to the parking lot. We will cross a stream that should be boot-passable at this time of year. We may hike about ¼ mile in the flats to the confluence of Cascade Creek with Lime Creek. Then we will slowly hike the 1,200 feet back up to the parking lot. Dogs on leash only please. Leader: Dennis Aronson 259-5045 RSVP Non-members only	Moderate at a slow pace 4 miles 1,200’

The outings Committee members who put together this Outing Schedule are:  Dorothy Bregar, Rich Butler, Olin Kane, Clark Lagow, Sherry Suenram, Bob Powell and Mike Adams.  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.