Animas Forks Ghost Town OHV Route

The route can be accessed from various points. A common starting point for the area is Silverton, Colorado. You can also find trailheads like the Maggie Gulch OHV Trailhead, Alpine Loop Trailhead, or Grouse Gulch Trailhead along the route. Parking availability can vary, especially during peak season, so arriving early is advisable.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Animas Forks Ghost Town OHV Route. However, given that it's a shared route with off-highway vehicles and passes through sensitive alpine environments, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash at all times and practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all waste.

The Animas Forks Ghost Town OHV Route is best hiked during the summer months, typically from July through September. This is when the route is free of heavy snow and the alpine wildflowers are in full bloom, offering spectacular scenery. The area is only accessible during these warmer months due to heavy snow at high elevations.

Generally, there are no specific hiking permits or entrance fees required for the Animas Forks Ghost Town OHV Route itself, as it traverses public lands managed by the BLM. However, if you plan to drive an OHV, specific regulations and permits may apply. Always check the latest information from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or local ranger stations before your visit for any updated requirements, especially concerning the broader Alpine Loop Backcountry Byway.

The terrain on this route is quite varied and challenging. It starts with paved sections that quickly transition to gravel, becoming progressively rougher with steep and rocky portions. You can expect rugged alpine tundra, and some parts narrow with steep drop-offs. The road from Silverton to Animas Forks - Ghost Town & Camp, for instance, is known to be rough and rocky, making for a strenuous walk.

Hiking this route is considered difficult. While the OHV portion might be rated moderate for vehicles, the high elevation (starting around 11,200 feet and reaching nearly 13,000 feet at passes like California Pass) and rugged, rocky terrain make it very strenuous for hikers. Be prepared for significant climbs and the potential for altitude sickness. It's not suitable for beginners.

The primary highlight is the well-preserved Animas Forks - Ghost Town & Camp, offering a unique glimpse into Colorado's mining history with buildings like the jail and Gustavson House. Other notable historical sites include the Mayflower Mill, Howardsville & Old Hundred Mine, and the Remains of the Sunnyside Mill. You'll also pass through the settlement of Eureka and see the San Juan County Courthouse. Beyond the historical sites, the route offers spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains, alpine meadows, and the Animas River.

Yes, the Animas Forks Ghost Town OHV Route is part of the larger 65-mile Alpine Loop. Along its course, it also passes through sections of the Hardrock 100 Route, County Road 22, and County Road 21, which are popular for both hiking and off-roading.

Given the high altitude, rugged terrain, and shared path with OHVs, you should bring plenty of water, high-energy snacks, sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing (weather can change rapidly), sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a map and compass or GPS device, and a first-aid kit. Trekking poles can also be very helpful on the steep and rocky sections.

To enhance your experience, consider starting your hike early in the morning to avoid the peak OHV traffic and to enjoy cooler temperatures. While the route is primarily for vehicles, focusing on the sections that lead directly to the ghost town or offer access to side trails (if available and suitable for hiking) can provide a more traditional hiking feel. Always be aware of your surroundings and yield to vehicles.