3-Day: Wheeler Geologic Area + Halfmoon Pass from South Fork Saguache TH

Suggested Backpacking Section (BPX) itinerary for 3-day trip to be used for CMC trips led by BPX leaders for BPX members. 

The Wheeler Geologic Area is part of the La Garita Wilderness in the Rio Grande National Forest in the San Juan Mountains. At one time, it was considered for being a National Park, but was determined to be too remote to get to, so it was 'preserved' as just a National Monument from 1908 to 1950 and since then has returned to the NFS. Within this area you’ll find many trails, some nearby 13er’s, scenic and expansive views, and of course, the Wheeler Geologic Area.

Embark on a transformative three-day journey through the rugged beauty of the La Garita Wilderness, where each step unveils a tapestry of natural wonders. Day 1 commences with a thrilling hike through dense pine forests and meandering streams, eventually pitching camp beneath a canopy of stars. The heart of the adventure unfolds on Day 2, where we’ll ascend the challenging yet rewarding trail to Halfmoon Pass, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks. En route to Wheeler Geologic Area, the landscape morphs into an otherworldly realm of towering hoodoos and intricate rock formations, captivating the senses and igniting a profound connection with the wild. We’ll return over the pass and return to camp, spending another night under the vast expanse of the Milky Way. Day 3 bids farewell to this untamed paradise, leaving memories etched in the soul and a yearning to return to its untamed embrace.

Day 1. Drive to South Fork Saguache TH - approximately five hours from Denver. Hike on the South Fork Saguache Trail (#781). Pass the Whale Creek Trail and continue on the South Fork Saguache Trail to the Unknown Creek Trail (#886). Hike on the Unknown Creek Trail to the Halfmoon Pass Trail (#912). Hike on the Half Moon Pass Trail past the intersection with the South Fork Saguache Trail (#718). Camp along this trail next to creek. This will be our campsite for both nights. (~6 miles/1500 ft).

Route Day 1

Day 2. An early morning start for this out and back hike to summit Halfmoon Pass and explore the Wheeler Geologic Area. Follow the Halfmoon Pass Trail (#912), summiting the pass and descend on Wheeler Trail (#790) to the Wheeler Geologic Area. Explore the Wheeler Geologic Area and return along the Wheeler Trail (#790) across the pass and return to our Day 1 campsite along the Halfmoon Pass Trail (#912) near the creek. (~7.5 miles/ 2400 ft).

Route Day 2

Day 3. Head East along the Halfmoon Pass Trail (#912) to the intersection with the South Fork Saguache Trail (#718). Follow the South Fork Saguache Trail (#718) past the Unknown Creek Trail (#866) and the Whale Creek Trail (#780) to the South Fork Saguache TH. (~7 miles/800 ft)

Route Day 3

Overall Route 

General requirements and notes: Road to trailhead is gravel and in good condition with just a few rocky sections which are not bad, and a passenger car could access. Trailhead has plenty of parking. The hiking route may be difficult to follow at times so GPS is critical.  It is also critical to time our Day 2 return over the pass to avoid storms.

• Suitable Activities: Backpacking
• Seasons: July, August, September
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: Challenging
• Length: 19.5 mi
• Elevation Gain: 4,700 ft
• High Point: 12,510 ft

• Land Manager: U.S. Forest Service
  La Garita Wilderness Area, Saguache Ranger District (RGNF)
• Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
• Recommended Party Size: 6
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12