Needle Creek Trail to Chicago Basin

The primary access is via the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Hikers board the train in Durango, enjoy a scenic two-and-a-half-hour ride, and are dropped off at the remote Needleton Train Station flag stop, where the hike into the wilderness begins. You will cross a suspension bridge over the Animas River near the train stop.

This is considered a difficult hike due to its sustained elevation gain and overall length. The Needle Creek Trail generally follows Needle Creek, climbing steadily with an elevation gain of approximately 3,000 feet over 5.5 to 6.5 miles to reach the basin. Portions are an old stagecoach road, offering a relatively consistent grade. Once in Chicago Basin, the terrain becomes more varied, with open meadows, rocky areas, and approaches to the 14ers involving steeper, more rugged conditions, including scree and potential snowfields.

Most hikers arriving by train around 11 AM will hike 5.5-6.5 miles, gaining around 3,000 feet, to reach Chicago Basin the same day, often arriving in late afternoon. The total tour distance is approximately 27 km (16.8 miles) with an estimated duration of 11 hours, which typically involves an overnight stay in the basin.

As of current regulations, there are no specific permits or fees required for hiking or camping in the Weminuche Wilderness, which includes Chicago Basin. However, you will need to purchase a ticket for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for access to the Needleton flag stop.

The best time to hike is generally from July 4th through Labor Day. During this period, snowmelt is typically complete, and the weather is most favorable. However, this is also a heavy-use period, so expect more crowds. Early fall can also be beautiful, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential early snow.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed in the Weminuche Wilderness. However, they must be kept under control, preferably on a leash, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all pet waste.

The scenery is spectacular, with the trail often shaded by trees alongside Needle Creek. As you approach Chicago Basin, the landscape opens up to reveal rugged San Juan Mountains. The basin itself, at 11,200 feet, is an alpine oasis with pristine alpine lakes like Twin Lakes (Chicago Basin), wildflower meadows, and granite ridges. Wildlife sightings are common, particularly mountain goats, which are frequently encountered in the basin.

Beyond the stunning alpine scenery of Chicago Basin itself, the trail leads to a base camp for climbing three prominent Colorado 14ers: Mount Eolus, Windom Peak, and Sunlight Peak. The Upper Chicago Basin Trail provides access to these peaks. The unique train ride to the Needleton Train Station is also a memorable part of the experience.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Needle/Johnson Creek Trail, Chicago Basin Trail, and the Animas River Trail. For those continuing to the peaks, it intersects with the Sunlight Peak Climber's Route and Windom Peak Climber's Route.

Chicago Basin is a heavily used area, so practicing Leave No Trace is crucial. This includes packing out all trash, using wag bags for human waste, and adhering to campfire restrictions, which are often in place due to fire danger. Stay on established trails and camp in designated areas to minimize impact.

Given the remote and challenging nature of the hike, essential gear includes sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing for varying alpine weather, rain gear, a water filter or purification tablets, a first-aid kit, navigation tools (map, compass, GPS), and bear-resistant food storage. If planning to climb 14ers, additional climbing-specific gear may be necessary. Don't forget a wag bag for human waste.