Vestal Basin via Elk Creek Trail

The trail typically begins near Molas Pass, where you can find parking. A unique access option is to take the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, which can drop hikers at Elk Park, providing direct access to the Elk Creek Trail. This offers a truly immersive wilderness experience.

No, this trail is generally rated as difficult or an expert route. It demands good physical conditioning and experience with varied mountain terrain, including steep descents, ascents, and sections of loose rock and scree. It's not recommended for beginners.

The terrain is highly varied. You'll navigate well-maintained sections of the Colorado Trail, descend steep switchbacks, and cross the Animas River via a footbridge. Along Elk Creek, the path winds through forests and avalanche paths. Higher up into Vestal Basin, the trail can become faint, unmaintained, and feature obstacles like downed logs, creek crossings, and rugged alpine environments with loose rock and talus slopes.

The trail offers breathtaking vistas of the Grenadier Range, including prominent views of Vestal Peak, Arrow Peak, and the Trinity Peaks. You'll pass by the Animas River, follow the Elk Creek to Vestal Basin trail, and reach the scenic Vestal Lake. Keep an eye out for patches of Columbines along Elk Creek.

The best time to visit is typically from late summer through early fall. Even in late summer, you might encounter snowfields at higher elevations. Always check current conditions before you go, as the high alpine environment can be unpredictable.

Yes, the route also passes through significant sections of the Colorado Trail, the Elk Creek / Colorado Trail, and the Molas - Colorado Trail.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed in the Weminuche Wilderness. However, they must be kept under control, preferably on a leash, and all waste must be packed out. Always follow Leave No Trace principles.

The Vestal Basin via Elk Creek Trail is located within the Weminuche Wilderness. While there isn't typically an entrance fee for the wilderness area itself, you may need a self-issued wilderness permit, which is usually free and available at trailheads. Always check the latest regulations with the USDA Forest Service (usda.gov) before your trip, especially for group size limits and fire restrictions.

Given the trail's difficulty and remote nature, you should pack for a multi-day wilderness trip. Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing for varying weather, a map and compass/GPS, sufficient water and purification methods, food, a first-aid kit, sun protection, and bear-resistant food storage. If planning to summit peaks, bring appropriate climbing gear and route-finding tools.

Beyond the general difficulty, a key challenge is the significant descent to the Animas River at the start, which means a substantial climb on your return. The route into Vestal Basin beyond the beaver ponds is considerably steeper and less maintained, requiring good route-finding skills. Mountaineering ascents of peaks like Vestal often involve Class 3 and 4 scrambling.

This is a remote wilderness trail, so there are no facilities or amenities directly on the route. You'll need to be self-sufficient. The Colorado Trail ReSupply might be a point of interest for long-distance hikers, but for day-to-day needs, plan to carry everything you require.