Colorado - Summer 2005

[JackSilb]

Colorado is famous for the trails and beautiful scenery.
How come we don't have a trip planned there yet? http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/headscratch.gif
Yes,we can do some driving to get there http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/blush.gif
How about a week long trip using some holidays to minimize vacation time?
-JACK





So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net


Post Edited (JackSilb) : 8/17/2004 5:58:35 PM (GMT-8)

[GoodTimes]

Jack, there are some absolutely beautiful areas in Colorado. Of particular interest to me is the South San Juan Wilderness area. Of course, there is no mechanized access (go in on foot, or don't go in), but some stunning scenery! Much of the south west part of the state is absolutely beautiful. There are quite a few well travelled paths out there that you would love....Engineer Pass, Imogene, Black Bear, are just a few that come to mind. Then there are trails like Holy Cross that take things to a whole new level for the 'desert dwellers' (deep, fast moving rivers to cross, summer snow storms, extreme off-camber spots.....). If you go, plan for at least a week. If you don't, you'll leave feeling you have not seen enough to satisfy you. You can make it from San Diego to Denver in a day (long day, but I usually drive strait through).

I get back to Colorado every couple of years. Unfortunately, most of the time is spent with family, and not with the wilderness.


olllllllo <---- If you can read that, roll me over.

KG6OWO

Price is soon forgotton, quality is not.

[JackSilb]

A day, lets do it people.http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/gottogo.gif
I am missing some river and real green.

After a while desert is a kind of gray.
OK, starthttp://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/hitting.gif me.
-JACK
</div>


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[GoodTimes]

[quote]

JackSilb said...
A day, lets do it people.http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/gottogo.gif
I am missing some river and real green.

After a while desert is a kind of gray.
OK, starthttp://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/hitting.gif me.
-JACK

</div>Jack, you are in the wrong desert if things aren't green and there is no blue sky! I sit on my back porch and marvel at all the "green" in the Sonoran desert, and the sky is as blue as they come when the sun starts going down.http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/beertoast.gif

It will be a few years before I get back to colorado. I was there for christmas 2002. Now I have 2 Moab trips, a Rubicon trail trip (all in 2004), and I still want to do Alaska before my buddy moves back down to Colorado......too many trips to do, not enough vacation time!http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/cry.gif


olllllllo <---- If you can read that, roll me over.

KG6OWO

Price is soon forgotton, quality is not.

[JackSilb]

Two Rubicon trips?
Oh.

Hey Alaska is in 2006.

Anybody up for a Colorado trip?
-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[GoodTimes]

One rubicon trail trip, two moab trips.


olllllllo <---- If you can read that, roll me over.

KG6OWO

Price is soon forgotton, quality is not.

[WhiteThaiGer]

It's a little far and a week is a lot of time.</div>
We need more short 2-3 day trips. The calendar is empty, nothing coming up, just maybe the Mojave road. We need something in January and February! http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/hop.gif </div>
Then in summer something like Mammoth might be nice. Scott's pics/talk of lakes and streams makes me restless...</div>


***************************************
http://www.confluence.org
http://www.usgo.org

[JackSilb]

Somewhat agree.
Lets get some weekend busy. Winter is a good time for desert trips.

There is a trip form Yotatech close by coming. I got PM from them.
I need to check on that.

-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[expeditionswest]

The high Sierras are classic, and offer much of the same beauty and challenge as Colorado, but your options are fewer and more spread out. The main benefit of the Colorado trip is the high passes. There are several roads near Ouray that are around 12,000 ft, with vistas to match. We could run part of the Dusy/Ershim trail (3.5+) and several others in the Tahoe area. Mammoth has several trails, but not many over 3 rating. I go to Mammoth every year for a week of Fly Fishing, and have found some incredible camping areas and fishing spots. Lots of great hikes too!

Scott Brady
2001 Land Rover Discovery II
1998 Isuzu Trooper
1994 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
mailto:guide@expeditionswest.com (guide@expeditionswest.com)
http://www.expeditionswest.com

[MrS]

JackSilb said...How come we don't have a trip planned there yet? What happen? Did your Map BREAK?http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/baja_rofl.gif

You can plan a trip. http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/beertoast.gif I can always help you plan a route, I just can't aways go.

I try to do a trip at least once a month, but I keep them a small group. I'd like to invite everyone, but its so much easier when exploring unknown areas with 3 maybe 4 (max) vehicles.

This site is a great resource and gives us a great place to share past trips.You can find a bunch of good places to go righthere. Plus if you plan a trip, there is someone here that can go with you.





KF6YSB

[MrS]

JackSilb said...

Colorado is famous for the trails and beautiful scenery.

How about a week long trip using some holidays to minimize vacation time?
Colorado is great, but there are about 1 bazillion neatplaces between here and there.


If I was paid MEGA-BUCKS like you guys, I would go on holidays too, but I like to go when the crowds don't and the extra pay around here is hard to pass-up. Maybe you guys could get me one of those MEGA-BUCK jobs and I can goon Holiday too,

OR Better get me a jobat Al's or Bob's work, not only do they get MegaMoney, they get unlimited days off,to go willie-nillie here and there, at the drop of a hat. http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/ok-kewl.gif http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/beertoast.gif

KF6YSB

[Ursidae69]

Colorado is pretty close for me. I went to the CO4RJ in August with the folks from Yotatech. I was only there a couple days and ran Taylor Pass, it was pretty easy, but very scenic. I want to run Holy Cross and Chinaman's Gulch one of these days. I need to get rid of the GM gov-lock and get a real hard locker first though for those trails.


A few Pictures of my 2001 GMC Sonoma ZR2.
125k and still running strong...
http://www.imagestation.com/album/?id=4290567759
Please Tread Lightly: http://www.treadlightly.org/

[JackSilb]

I can see that not many people are excited. Scare of little drive on pavement?

Ursidae69 is probably ready to go.

-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[Ursidae69]

I can relate to folks weary of a long drive.Luckily, I'm only about 3-4 hours from Bueno Vista CO or Moab depending on which directionI go.http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/beertoast.gif BUT, I don't know many people here wanting to go. If I were closer to you guys, I would have madeit out for part III of your Baja trip. I was telling Chris offline that I am planning (hoping) to go to Baja again in March, probably late March.

Anyway, I'll be up for any Colorado trips if and when they happen. http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/ok-kewl.gif


A few Pictures of my 2001 GMC Sonoma ZR2.
125k and still running strong...
http://www.imagestation.com/album/?id=4290567759
Please Tread Lightly: http://www.treadlightly.org/

[BajaTaco]

Jack, until I can get more vacation/leave time from work, my long distance trips like Colorado are going to be pretty limited. My big vacation time for this year is already spoken for. Driving to Colorado for only 1 or 2 days of fun while I am there is not worth adding the mileage to my truck. Like the Baja trip, I would need at least 5 days or more.


http://www.bajataco.com

[JackSilb]

I see your point Baja,

This trip would need to be something of a week.
Maybe join with the weekend and a holiday, then we would only need to use 1 to 3 days vacation.
Since is still an idea, we can plan for when we all can have the time off. It is cold now anyway.

-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[4RunnerDave]

Jack,</div>
I will begoing this year tothe All 4 Fun event in Colorado.It is roughly the first week of August.I can get you exact dates and even fax to you a registration formif you like.This year it will be based in Georgetown. That is right off I-70. I think that I have mentioned this event to you before. It is put on by the Mile Hi Jeep club whick is based in Denver. They will have trips going out on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. There will be several trips to choose from each day. They rate them from easy to difficult so you can choose your preference. They have raffle prizes one night (guaranteed to win something) they have a barbeque dinner one night (included in the entry fee) an Ice Cream Social another night, just lots of events. It is very family oriented. It is a fun event and a chance to go on trails with leaders that know where they are going. This last year it was held near Leadville and it was lots of fun. Let me know if you have an interest. </div>


Dave L.
KC6MPQ

[GoodTimes]

There are lots of cool trails around Georgetown. If you go now though, you can join the ice races on Georgetown lake.http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/biggrin.gif


olllllllo <---- If you can read that, roll me over.

KG6OWO

Price is soon forgotton, quality is not.

[4RunnerDave]

Ice Races? That sounds real cold. Is that what I have seen on T.V. where they actually have an oval racetrack and race on ice with cars. I think they use some sort of spiked tires?</div>
Have you ever been to the Mile Hi Jeep club event?</div>





Dave L.
KC6MPQ

[GoodTimes]

Last time I was up there, they had a "dog bone" track set up. Different classes (including everything from street tires to unlimited spikes). Cold yes, fun yes, as easy as it looks, no.http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/headscratch.gif </div>



Never did anything with MHJC. I was still busy being a punk kid when I was living there (yea, not much has changed http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/lol.gif ).</div>


olllllllo <---- If you can read that, roll me over.

KG6OWO

Price is soon forgotton, quality is not.

[4RunnerDave]

Yea, you punk kid!</div>
Well I actually would like to see those some time, so I will have to put that on my to do list. I assume that they run througout the winter season. </div>


Dave L.
KC6MPQ

[BajaTaco]

http://www.iceracing.homestead.com/ http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/wink.gif


http://www.bajataco.com

[JackSilb]

Dave,

We will have to talk later. Too soon to plan for this trip.
Thanks for the reply and ideas.

-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[4RunnerDave]

Actually it is only about 6 months away. You have to sign up now since they limit the enrollment to 250 participants.

I only brought it up because you wanted to do some Colorado Trails. I can't think of a better way to do it. I am already signed up. It is a very cool area.

If you want to check out more ==

http://www.truckworld.com/Travel-Adventure/98-all4fun/all-4-fun.html

AND thanks Baja for the link to the Georgetown Ice Races - looks like fun doesn't it?
</div>

Post Edited By Moderator (WhiteThaiGer) : 1/22/2004 9:30:26 PM GMT

[JackSilb]

Oh man, I can think much now besides work.
But you are correct Dave. Let me check on that.
Like people said, it is probably too much driving.
How long take you to drive until the meeting point?

-JACK
</div>


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[4RunnerDave]

Jack, I usually figure that it is going to take me a day to drive from here to about Green River, UT or Grand Junction, CO. From there it would be about a half days drive to the location (Georgetown, CO). Total driving time is about 16 hours approx., as I recollect.
If you didn't want to take all that time off (Ten days total with the driving time and the event time) you could go for just a few days of the event. The trail rides are done on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. You could go for just the Sun, Mon, Tue as an example. Just a word of warning - you would probably regret having to leave early since it is pretty there and there are so many trails. But I also realize that a person can't find enough time to do all we want to do. Too bad, eh.

Dave L.
KC6MPQ

[JackSilb]

16 hours, not bad if I can take a week off. Since I am saving vacation time for the South America trip, this is unlikely to happen.
That would be an option for a week during the kids Spring Break.

Thank you.
-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[4RunnerDave]

OK, Jack, we will be seeing you on some other trips - soon!


Dave L.
KC6MPQ

[JackSilb]

Hey, I have the Colorado bug again.

Anybody willing to make a trip to Colorado during the summer of next year? (2005).

I would say at least a 1.5 weeks trip. 1/2 week driving to/and back, 1 week exploring.
I can provide more specific dates once I know the kids' school calendar for next year.

This may be a good chance to meet people that Colorado is ~ 1/2 way.
-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[blupaddler]

Does summer still consist of June, July, and August?

WHERE 2 NEXT</font>




robb

[GoodTimes]

Jack, I might be up for a trip next summer....at least part of a trip. If I go, I will probably only have 2 or 3 days to explore, the rest would be spent with my family.


olllllllo <---- If you can read that, roll me over.

KG6OWO

Price is soon forgotton, quality is not.

[Rockcrawler]

I might be interested in that.... it is going to depend on where I am at that point. I would love to make another Moab trip as well.


"Paved Roads: Another example of wasteful government spending." KD7UEH

[JackSilb]

OK,

We will need to talk about this again when we get around April 05. I need to check on the school schedule for the kids, how they are doing, ** + work projects.

~ 10 days enough? Lets say Friday to Sunday (the next week).

What month would work better for you?



-JACK





So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[JackSilb]

blupaddler said...

Does summer still consist of June, July, and August?


Yes sir. Something around this time. Starting end of June.
I guess does not work for you huh?
-JACK



So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[blupaddler]

Probably not...We will see.


I took a break from paddling this summer, and I have BIG plans for next summer.


WHERE 2 NEXT</font>




robb

[TimB]

If you want to do the high passes, don't go before mid-July. All of August is usually good, and mid-September you start getting new snow. So you really only have 6 - 8 weeks to do the high passes most years. Of course there's plenty other stuff to do besides the high passes. I started exploring an area northwest of the Great Sand Dunes several years ago (near Bonanza), and ran out of time. I've always wanted to go back and might do that some next summer. I'm a little restricted this year because we have a 'ash spreading' trip to do for an old friend in July. I will definately do a high country trip once or twice though.

I can fix that!

[HongerVenture]

I'm actually in the pre-planning (by pre-planning I mean that I'm starting to browse dates, read info, etc. though I haven't set anything in stone or set aside vacation time) stages for just such a trip right now. I'm thinking last week of July, first week of August. I will probably leave Indy on a Friday evening and try to be back in Indy the following second Sunday night. My current plan is to spend some time in the San Juans (exploring the high passes and camping as we go). I'd love to camp on one or more of the passes if that is possible (haven't researched that aspect yet). After spending a few days there I want to head up to Dinosaur National Monument/Flaming Gorge area. I may visit the native land of Creeper (Wyoming that is) as time allows. The other option is to add another week of travel to the schedule and thoroughly explore WY in terms of visiting Yellowstone and any other places Creeper suggests.

In any case, I'd LOVE to meet you fine folks if you are indeed organizing something for Colorado. I may keep my ears open for when you all decide to make the trip and adjust my schedule accordingly... if you'll have me.

Currently I'm thinking of making it July 29th through August 7th.

-Toyota T100 SR5 4x4 XtraCab-
-WHITE-

[Colorado Ron]

Ill be here and ready. Let me know where you want to go and I can get it all arranged on this end. Let me know what you need and we can go from there. I have plenty of parking here at my house and your more than welcome to use it as a base camp. I know some beautiful spots.

[Darren]

I'd love to camp on one or more of the passes if that is possible (haven't researched that aspect yet).
Do you mean on the pass summits themselves, or just anywhere along the roads that lead up to them? Most of our passes lie within national forest, so that would mean you could camp on them if you so choose. Even the ones that come to mind that are on BLM land, youwould be fine. Iactually can't think of a summit where you shouldn't, unless it is a small area where traffic might bother you in the night should anyone be out and about.Personally, Ilike to be below the passesand in the trees (warmer, less wind).

If you have a list of passes in question that you think you'd like to camp atop of, run it by us and we'll let you know if you can, or what your alternatives may be.




MyColorado.org (http://mycolorado.org)

2002 4Runner (modified) (http://mycolorado.org/4runner.html)

Post Edited (Darren) : 12/6/2004 3:21:28 PM (GMT-8)

[JackSilb]

The Colorado folks could propose a get together for the Summer. I am sure that people like me, are looking just for the right opportunity to explore Colorado. Going with the locals will make it a real pleasure and improve the exploration.

-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[crawler#976]

Lake City, CO.offers a great base camp for those wanting to get a cabin. Thereare also camping sites and RVparking areasclose by.Cost is substantially less than the Ouray/Silverton side. Lake City has restaurants, a gas station w/ mechanic, and groceries available.</o:p>
</o:p>
Easy trails in the area include the Alpine Loop (Engineer and Cinnamon Pass loop), Stony Pass, and Wheeler Geologic Area. Fishing is excellent on the Rio Grande River and it's numerous feed creeks. For thosewho hike, the trails range from mild to scaling 14,000' peaks...
</o:p>
From my research last year, the best map available was from The National Geographic Society. </o:p>

The Trails Illustrated Colorado Series

#141 - Telluride / Silverton / Ouray / Lake City
Coverage area includes parts of San Juan and Uncompahgre national forests; south San Juan Mountains; Lizard Head, Mt Sneffels and Uncompahgre wilderness areas; Calico National Recreation Trail; portions of the Colorado Trail; the trail networks at Coal Bank Pass and Silver Jack Reservoir; and the cities and surrounds of Telluride and Ouray. 14ers: Mt Wilson, El Diente Peak, Wilson Peak, Mt Sneffels, Uncompahgre Peak, Wetterhorn Peak, Redcloud Peak, Sunshine Peak. Scale 1:40,680

We did the Alpine Loop in Sept 2004. The top of Engineer had just been re-opened after the first heavy snow, and the day we went over it, it was still snowing above 12,000', so the veiws were non-existant. Even at that, it was a great trip.



Post Edited (Crawler#976) : 1/12/2005 8:03:24 AM (GMT-8)

[HongerVenture]

Darren,


Can you give some locations in the San Jaun's that you've camped before? Ones that you recommend and don't recommend. I'd like to do the Alpine Loop as well as Imogene Pass and California Pass. You've got an eye for scenery, so are there any you'd recommend I do for the scenery over others? I'm toying with Black Bear, but I think I am only willing to do that in a group. I want to take it easy my first time out there. I also plan on heading up to Dinosaur Nat. Monument and Flaming Gorge after a few days down in the San Juans… though it'll be quite warm that time of year.


Crawler,


Thanks for the invaluable information. This will really help in my research and planning. I'll most likely pick that map up somewhere since I'll be navigating this trip by paper… just can't rationalize a GPS yet. Lake City sounds great and I'll definitely look in to it some more. My wife and I may enjoy a cabin for one night there.


Regards,
Joel

-Toyota T100 SR5 4x4 XtraCab-
-WHITE-

[crawler#976]

Joel,

The maps are available directly from NGS's website:

http://maps.nationalgeographic.com/trails/maps.cfm

[BajaXplorer]

Crawler, sounds like we were in the San Juan's at the same time. The weekend we got there Engineer was closed due to snow from storm on Friday. We were there during Labor day week, camped at South Mineral campground near Silverton, running trails andgeocaching. We try to go each year in the fallto maintain our caches. Attaching a pretty good html map of the trails around Silverton and Ouray for general planning. Also one of the better websites on trail descriptions


BX


http://www.sheriffsjc.com/atvmap.html


http://www.narrowgauge.org/4x4/html/4X4.html


I'm lost, but I'm making good time. (Yogi Berra)

[outdoorfever]

i might be in colorado starting early june for a few months...i might be up for something...not sure how much time i will have though

~Kyle

1990 Toyota 4runner, White, 143k miles, Arb Bumper, Downey Torsion Bars, All Pro Offroad 1.5 inch rear coils, Wet Okole seat covers, 31x10.5 Yokohama Geolanders, Half a Yakima rack, Panasonic Head set, Alpine speakers, tinted 20%

Recent mods:new shocks and rear lock rite

Cool stuff: Un even wear on my front tires, Bad gas mileage, weak brakes, BoDy DaMaGe!! Big black scrrrape from torn off bike rack *hint: half a yakima rack ;) Not enough mods!

Want list/on order: front locker, body lift/32 or33's, rear bumper, TLC 85-early 90's

[Darren]

Sorry for the delayed response, Joel. This forum doesn't email me all the timefor subscribed threadslike it should.

Here's another link (http://www.ngmapstore.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=229&amp;itemType=PRODUCT&amp;iMainCa t=54&amp;iSubCat=122&amp;iProductID=229) for the map Crawler mentioned.

And, here's my other favorite map (http://secure.between-the-covers.com/acb/showdetl.cfm?&amp;DID=24&amp;Product_ID=186&amp;CATID=1)of the area. Here's (http://secure.between-the-covers.com/acb/showdetl.cfm?&amp;DID=24&amp;Product_ID=187&amp;CATID=1) part 2. This one is easier to "read" since the shaded relief is even more detailed than the TI ones. There isn't as much detailed information on these, though.

The best guide book would be this one (http://www.4x4books.com/co4wdsw.htm).

My top scenic trails in that region would be the following:

Engineer Pass
Black Bear Pass
Imogene Pass
Corkscrew Pass/Gulch
California and Hurricane Passes

Honorable mentions would go to Kendall Mountain and Arrastra Gulch, both directly out of Silverton, though really, everything else deserves an honorable mention! You really can run most in a couple of days.

As for camping spots, my favorite is near the Blue Lakes trailhead, which is a few miles west of Ridgway, then back in 8 miles along the Eest Dallas Creek road, or County Road 7. Here's a poor scan (http://mycolorado.org/images/b/pages/gggg.htm)that I need to redo, but that is what the area looks like.

I've camped in a myriad of other places, and it would help to know the general area you'd be for a specific recommendation, but if you free lance your trips like I do, that can be difficult. Some other options would be at the entrance to Poughkeepsie Gulch off of the Engineer Pass road, where there are some neat spots; Clear Lake, above South Mineral CG mentioned earlier. Actually, beyond the South Mineral CG, there are a number of spots, but they've all been taken every time I've been by.; And, if you're needing something on the Telluride side, behind Trout Lake where it turns into National Forest would be another option. None of this may make sense until you get a map in your hands.

Kyle, nothing is open in early June, so you'll want to rework your schedule!

MyColorado.org (http://mycolorado.org)

2002 4Runner (modified) (http://mycolorado.org/4runner.html)

[JackSilb]

> Sorry for the delayed response, Joel. This forum doesn't email me all the time for subscribed threads like it should.

Sorry guys. It just happen that some ISP don't like the Forum's server IP address. It sees it as junk e-mail....

-JACK





So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[JackSilb]

I am glad this Thread is alive. Still want to do Colorado soon. Maybe if I find company, do it this summer.

-JACK





So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[JackSilb]

> Here's a poor scan that I need to redo, but that is what the area looks like.

Man, are you kidding? The picture is beautiful.
-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[HongerVenture]

Darren,
I'm trying to narrow down my trip dates. When are the Aspens such a lovely color? From what I understand it is a short window of time. I'd love to see them looking like that. As I said above, I'm currently looking at July 29th thru August 7th. Should I push it off a bit further?

Regards,
Joel

-Toyota T100 SR5 4x4 XtraCab-
-WHITE-

[Darren]

JackSilb said...
Sorry guys. It just happen that some ISP don't like the Forum's server IP address. It sees it as junk e-mail

I don't think that's the case, Jack, though I could be wrong. I can see all my emails that get filtered out, but none of them have ever been from this site. Also, I have gotten them in the past, but it is VERY inconsistent for me, and I haven't received any lately.

Joel, peak aspen color ranges anywhere from September 15 to October 15, though September 27 is usually a good target date. The San Juan Mountains (SW region) always peak later than the rest of the state and basically start the first week in October. If you want to know where to find the best forests in the state, you may read my write-up here (http://mycolorado.org/fall_drives.html). If you need more specifics as the time nears, don't hesitate to ask.

If you end up coming down in late July and into August, that is the tail end of peak wildflower season which is very cool, too.

MyColorado.org (http://mycolorado.org)

2002 4Runner (modified) (http://mycolorado.org/4runner.html)

[HongerVenture]

I really want to include the high passes in my trip. From what I understand waiting until Sept./Oct. may exclude that possibility due to snow. Is that correct?

Peak wildflower season sounds great... sounds like I'll stick to my originally planned dates. My wife will probably appreciate the wildflowers just a bit more anyway.

BTW, thanks for the link to your webpage on Fall Color drives. I've cruised your webpage quite a bit, but apparently missed that one! I love your runner, your photos, and your write-ups. Keep up the good work so us flatlanders can live vicariously! http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/biggrin.gif

-Toyota T100 SR5 4x4 XtraCab-
-WHITE-

[Darren]

I appreciate all the compliments, Joel! I only wish I knew anything at all about web design.

Most of the time, all but literally a couple of passes will be open throughout September and into October. Last year wasan exception, though. Personally, I enjoy the high roads better a little earlier than that when the tundra is still green and full of life. In September, it turns brown.

MyColorado.org (http://mycolorado.org)

2002 4Runner (modified) (http://mycolorado.org/4runner.html)

[HongerVenture]

Well, my plans are solidifying.
July 29th - August 7th
Included are visits to Lake City, Ouray/Telluride, Black Canyon @GNP, and Dinosaur. Riding the high trails and day hikes are the plan. Lots of pictures and probably split half/half on camping and bed/breakfast lodging. We will be spending at least one night at Box Canyon Lodge Hot Springs in Ouray. Unfortunately, we just can't do WY this time (sorry K.C.). I want to make a devoted trip to WY in the future rather than rush through.

A few questions for you guys with Colorado experience...

1. Driving from the San Juans to Dinosaur will allow me a chance to stop by and see Black Canyons at Gunnison NP. Worth it? From Darren's pictures I'd say so. What is going to be the best time of day to stop/drive by this area? How much time should I allow. I was thinking around 4 hours. Enlighten me!

2. Has anyone here done Black Bear. I've been reading internet narrative that makes it out to be a bit perilous and/or daunting. Any truth to those rumors? Darren, have you taken the 4Runner on that trail? The views and scenery look spectacular from the pictures I've seen. I'd hate to miss it because I'm over cautious.

3. Driving times for Imogene, Engineer, and Black Bear. Anyone have a clue?

-Toyota T100 SR5 4x4 XtraCab-
-WHITE-

[Darren]

1. Worth it? You bet! It's hardly out of the way. As you exit the San Juans, you'll be traveling up through Montrose. The Black Canyon exit is ~8 miles to the east, then another 8 back to it. Best time of day? Sunset would give you late light on the opposite rim, but that can make picture taking tricky. Otherwise, high noon, or better yet, hope for overcast skies and visit any time during the day. 4 hours would be a real safe bet, and would give you plenty of time to really enjoy it.

2. I have done it in my 4Runner. I just haven't made the time to update my report. In fact, on one single weekend last summer, I did it 3 times. It is one of the best trails down there scenery-wise. Is it tough? Not if you've done other mountain shelf roads. I would suggest driving Imogene first just to get a better feel if you haven't driven that one yet. The two signature spots are the steps and the first switchback, but I don't find them to be a big deal at all. You're a little longer than me, but I bet you could still make the switchbacks with 3-point turns. Certainly nothing wrong with being more conservative, though.

3. Estimated driving times:
Imogene: 2.5 hours
Black Bear: 1.5 hours
Engineer (assuming you're doing the whole loop and go over to Lake City): 5 hours

Those times will be close to the minimum, which might not take into account a lot of stops, etc.

MyColorado.org (http://mycolorado.org)

2002 4Runner (modified) (http://mycolorado.org/4runner.html)

Post Edited (Darren) : 2/23/2005 10:05:31 PM (GMT-8)

[HongerVenture]

Excellent, thanks for the quick response.
Current plans have us devoting 4 hours to Black Canyon, so I'll keep that as is.

I'll certainly be running Imogene and some others first to get a feel for the general layout of the shelf roads. If I feel pretty comfortable with the T100 on the other trails I'll give it a try. The views look pretty amazing!

Those driving times help a lot. I'm sure we'll be stopping for lunch/snack times as well as photo ops. So I'll pad those times accordingly.

I'll be ordering some maps and that book soon. I'll try to hold back on too many questions til I get the literature. My wife has put a stay on spending for a little bit here, so I just need to be patient. =)

-Toyota T100 SR5 4x4 XtraCab-
-WHITE-

[rgsiii]

Is there still interest in a late July/early August Colorado trip?

[cruiser guy]

HongerVenture said...
Excellent, thanks for the quick response.
Current plans have us devoting 4 hours to Black Canyon, so I'll keep that as is.

I'll certainly be running Imogene and some others first to get a feel for the general layout of the shelf roads. If I feel pretty comfortable with the T100 on the other trails I'll give it a try. The views look pretty amazing!

Those driving times help a lot. I'm sure we'll be stopping for lunch/snack times as well as photo ops. So I'll pad those times accordingly.

I'll be ordering some maps and that book soon. I'll try to hold back on too many questions til I get the literature. My wife has put a stay on spending for a little bit here, so I just need to be patient. =)


I personally would give more time to the Black Canyon. I'd arrive in the late afternoon then sign up to hike to the bottom early the next day (if you're in decent shape you can be down and back up in 4 hours or less, I was and I've got a buggered leg). It's a totally different perspective not to mention MUCH less people!

driving an '82 Toyota LandCruiser BJ60 registered in British Columbia, Canada with only 400,000km on the clock!!
Yes, I drove here to Guatemala City!

[TimB]

I'll be in Lake City 7-17 through the 23rd. Probably be in my jeep and a rental - getting too big a family any more it seems. PM me if you want to meet up. I'm meeting a couple of other families and we would be happy to have company. I don't seem to have time to surf the boards much these days so if you don't PM me chances are I won't see it.

I can fix that!

[JackSilb]

All this talk about Colorado and the cool trails. Just if time away from work was not an issue for all of us, right?

For the guys that live away, it takes a couple days to get to meet you guys. Then a couple days back.
That is we will need two weeks to be able to enjoy it. I can't do it this year any longer.

I will try to convince some of the Az and Southern CA, e.g., BajaTaco, Scott, GoodTimes, Doron, Uwe, MrS, Al, and the other regulars for a longer trip next year.

I will follow your trip to learn and plan for next year.
Please keep that camera going and consider sharing a trip report with us.

Thanks,
-JACK








So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net


Post Edited (JackSilb) : 7/9/2005 10:25:56 PM (GMT-8)

[JackSilb]

Darren said...



JackSilb said...
Sorry guys. It just happen that some ISP don't like the Forum's server IP address. It sees it as junk e-mail

I don't think that's the case, Jack, though I could be wrong. I can see all my emails that get filtered out, but none of them have ever been from this site. Also, I have gotten them in the past, but it is VERY inconsistent for me, and I haven't received any lately.Darren,
How is the e-mail notification doing for you these days?

Thanks,
-JACK



So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[Darren]

It has beenworking just dandy, Jack. Thanks!

MyColorado.org (http://mycolorado.org) (CO landscapes, destinations & trail reports)

2002 4Runner (modified) (http://mycolorado.org/4runner.html)

[JackSilb]

Great,

People just let me know when things don't look good.

Take care.
-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[TimB]

I had a great trip - I'll post some pic's in a few days when I get caught up a little. FYI if you stay in Lake City most of the wheeling involves Cinnamon Pass or Engineer - I got a little tired of them by week end but did see a lot of wildlife on them. Flowers were blooming a lot - saw more Columbine's this trip than the last 5 trips to Colorado combined. There were also more people than I've ever seen. ATV's were thick and many of them do not understand trail etiquite - not stopping for the uphill vehicle etc. There are a lot of rental companies there now and I think many were very inexperienced at backcountry trails. Even though the flowers were great, I think my next trip will be after school starts just to thin the crowd out some. ;)

I can fix that!

[JackSilb]

Jeeper Tim, yes please. Share some pictures and some comments when you have a chance.

Thanks,
-JACK


So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[TimB]

It's like work is punishing me for taking time off - no rest! I have not forgot you guys though, here are a few pictures.


I can fix that!

[TimB]

And more - note the switchback photo. Super narrow and so many switchbacks I lost count. I don't think this road has a name - but it's narrow enough that ATV's were getting spooked and turning back. It's one of those I'm glad I took, but not sure I'll ever do it again. No other jeeps were seen, and only 3 ATV's.


I can fix that!

[crawler#976]

Great Pic's!

Lots to see in that area, lots of other trails too!We did the Alpine Loop and several easy trails near Creede, CO. If you get back up there, check out the trail to Wheeler Geologic Area andthe Rat Creek Loop above Creede, CO., a short but fun historic and scenic trail. Neither one is difficult, but they are both well worth the time it takes to do'm. Our next trip in that area will include Stony Pass and some of the more difficult trails we didn't run due totrailing soloin snowy weather, namely Poughkeepsie Gulch (http://www.yotatech.com/showthread.php?t=39031&amp;highlight=colorado).

Too many places to go, not enough time...

Rock Crawling makes Heroin addiction seem like a vague craving for something salty...

[TimB]

I did Stony and Poughkeepsie this trip. Stony is not that difficult - very narrow though. PK is rock crawler territory, as is the Engineer from the Ouray side up past the PK turnoff. I met a large group on the hardest part of Engineer - all stock full sizes. They were in my way a long time because they were busy checking body damage and stacking rocks. It did not bother me much since I was well into the 'mountain' state of mind.... but I do think it was inconsiderate to bring a large group of underequipped vehicles on that route. There were at least 15 of them.

I've been guilty of leading large (13 was the most) groups in Colorado too, but won't do it any more. I think it's a good idea to limit group size to 5 to 8 vehicles. The trails there are just too narrow, sometimes for very long distances. I backed up about 1/4 mile for two 1-tons on Stony pass - was not fun. They were coming uphill so had the right of way, but there was just plain no wide spots to be found.

I've not done the Creed area in recent years, but I think I followed some guys there 15 or so years ago. I have a hard time remembering a trail when I follow.

I can fix that!

[Creeper]

So Tim, I recognize American Basin and the cabin under the waterfall outside of Silverton, but that's not Lake San Cristobal.Were you camped out at Blue Mesa? And the pic of your Jeep looks like it was taken at the top of Engineer with a new info sign...?

Bump for Wheeler andMark you should head out to Rio Grande Reservoir (http://activities.wildernet.com/pages/activity.cfm?actid=020905IO*432sdr&amp;CU_ID=1)next time you're in Creede, a really nice scenic drive off the beaten path!

Great San Juan pics Tim - thanks for sharing! http://www.4wdtrips.net/forum/emoticons/guitar.gif

"Like most middle-aged men with a young guy at his mercy, he lectured me on how tough Arizona trails are and how important certain pieces of equipment are absolutely necessary.



How do you go about telling someone, I'm just out here trying to regain my feet and pounding heart. Try interrupting with that one..."
Corps of Discovery 4x4 (http://cod4x4.com/club.cfm?clubID=10024)

[TimB]

That's Taylor. I stayed there one night - got tired on the way so found a spot and camped. Nice thing with the motorhome, I get tired I just stop.

I think that info sign was Engineer - can't remember for sure. I crossed it about 4 times that week so very well could be. I saw a bear there but all the pics I took turned out fuzzy. My son's girlfriend got some better shots I'm trying to get copies of. He was very close in my book - 100 yards or so.

It was a good trip, I love the San Juans. I always look at real estate when I go there, but hesitate to buy. After all, that would commit me to one area a lot more. I like to see new places.

I can fix that!

[JackSilb]

And the man is back.

What a setup! It looks like a 5 start accommodation. That would make my wife come with me easier.
It is so much work to pack all in our trucks. I like the setup you have. One can do daily exploration then come back to camp for a nice night. Well, maybe have a balance since sleeping under the starts is very good.

The pictures make me want to leave for this trips right now.
The dog is cute!

Way to go Tim.
-JACK





So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net

[lucazec]

Great pics... Looks like a GREAT TIME!!!!

Kev
www.AlpineTribe.com (http://www.AlpineTribe.com)

[TimB]

Was a great trip. My wife was not able to go due to health so my 14 year old stayed home with her - they did go to the lake with her folks for a few days so not a total bummer. The two son's with me are 18 and 20, the oldest is gone to school already, and the 18 YO will be leaving next fall. I treasure the trips with them - won't be too many more I'm sure.

It rained cats and dogs on us while at Taylor, was sure nice to have the awning so we were not confined to the camper. We had several deer walk right through camp the next morning, and the lake had a big fog bank over it at sunrise - very beautiful camping spot.

I'd like to replace the RV, it has well over 100,000 miles on it. Still doing fine but I'm starting to worry. My next one will have a living area slide-out. We get pretty cramped with 5 or 6 adult sized people in it.

I can fix that!

[TimB]

Planning a trip to Colorado? Check these links to trail info. Note the dates that some of the higher passes open. June is probably not a good time to go.
http://bushducks.com/tripreps/passopen.htm
http://4x4colorado.com/trails.php











I can fix that!



Post Edited (Jeeper Tim) : 9/22/2005 5:39:40 AM (GMT-8)

[JackSilb]

Nice information.
Need to save the links for future plans.

Thank you!

-JACK






So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net


Post Edited (JackSilb) : 9/21/2005 1:37:15 PM (GMT-8)

[TimB]

Thanks for fixing the links Jack ;)

I can fix that!

[JackSilb]

You are welcome.
Can't quite get the first link to work.

People, you will need to cut and past.

Thank you for the information. I need to get to Colorado soon. These links along with people in the Forum will help.

-JACK





So much to see, so little time. Try using your 4WD tosee and do more.
Tread Lightly! empowers generations to enjoy the outdoors responsibly...
http://www.4wdtrips.net


Post Edited (JackSilb) : 9/22/2005 1:04:22 PM (GMT-8)

[TimB]

That's odd, it keeps inserting code into the string, even when I manually type the link in. Oh well, just delete the </b> from pass and [b]open and it will take you there.

I can fix that!