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BPX Trip – BPX 4-Day: Chicago Basin from Needleton Flagstop

Trip

BPX Trip – BPX 4-Day: Chicago Basin from Needleton Flagstop

This four-day expedition into the remote Chicago Basin provides an opportunity to experience one of Colorado’s most iconic alpine environments while minimizing the logistical challenges of access through a ride on the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Establishing a backcountry base camp allows participants to tailor the experience to their abilities and goals, with options ranging from demanding ascents of multiple 14,000-foot peaks to exploratory hikes among alpine lakes, tarns, and high mountain passes. The combination of wilderness travel, flexible daily objectives, and the rugged beauty of the San Juan Mountains makes this trip an exceptional blend of mountaineering challenge and alpine exploration.

Contacts

Wayne Howell
Wayne Howell
Primary Leader
Theo Lubke
Theo Lubke
Co-Leader
  • Tue, Aug 11, 2026 — Sat, Aug 15, 2026
  • Backpacking Section
  • Backpacking
  • Adults
  • Difficult
  • Mileage: 12.0 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 3,013 ft
  • High Point Elevation: 11,000 ft
  • Pace: 1.5 - 2.0 MPH

This four-day expedition into the remote Chicago Basin offers a rare opportunity to explore one of Colorado’s most celebrated alpine landscapes while accessing the area via the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, an experience that is as memorable as the destination itself. After establishing a backcountry base camp deep within the San Juan Mountains, participants will have the flexibility to pursue objectives that match their interests and abilities, from strenuous ascents of several iconic 14,000-foot peaks to exploratory hikes through high alpine terrain featuring secluded lakes, tarns, waterfalls, and scenic mountain passes. The basin’s dramatic setting, surrounded by towering granite peaks and abundant wildlife, provides a spectacular backdrop for both mountaineering and wilderness exploration. Daily activities will emphasize self-sufficiency, route finding, mountain travel skills, and sound decision-making in a remote backcountry environment. Whether standing atop a high summit or exploring the hidden corners of the basin, participants will experience the unique combination of challenge, adventure, and natural beauty that has made Chicago Basin one of Colorado’s premier alpine destinations.

We will be camping at approximately 11,000 to 11,500 feet.

Wayne Howell will lead the BPX Trip and Optional Dayhikes

Theo Lubke will co-lead the BPX Trip and lead the 14r’s hikes

Trip Leaders have already purchased roundtrip train tickets for the group. The ticket cost will be $154 for each participant.

Please note that given the departure time for the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad on August 12, 2026, group members should plan on staying overnight in Durango on the evening of August 11, 2026. All group members are required to carpool together from Wooly Mammoth PnR on August 11, 2026. Group leaders will coordinate accommodations as we get closer to the trip date.

Route details are included in the Route/Place.

Detailed Itinerary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1z4Wd4SIFrYodsBiiw_ya7XZNPtDrSdFjeOxwViZhZ7g/edit?usp=sharing

Additional information will be provided in a pre-trip call with the group participants.

Carpool Place and Time: Meet Wooly Mammoth Park-N-Ride (Wooly Mammoth Park-N-Ride - Google Maps), Section BB, 10am, depart 10:15am

Drive Wooly Mammoth Park-N-Ride to Durango, Colorado - Google Maps ; ~325 miles, ~6 hours

Roster
Route/Place

BPX 4-Day: Chicago Basin from Needleton Flagstop


  • Trails Illustrated 140
    Outdoor Trail Maps Weminuche Wilderness Map Pack: East Map and West Map
  • See full route/place details.
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

Additional information will be provided in a pre-trip call with the group participants.

$20 annual BPX Membership Dues are required to participate. Please contact the office at 303-279-3080 ext. 3 or office@cmc.org to join the pack!

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