Mount Garfield, Segment 24, Colorado Trail, San Juan County, CO
CO (San Juan County)
Day 1 (Segment 24)
Elk Park to random site via Molas Pass
After parking my car at the depot’s secure parking area, I walked over to the staging area and then stowed my backpack in the baggage car. Shortly thereafter, the ride began. I was in an enclosed cabin, so the fumes from the train were not a problem. It was exciting but the initial novelty of the trip wears off within about 15 minutes. As you leave town, however, the scenery kicks in and it becomes awe-inspiring. The train meanders through narrow canyons while following the Animas River. It was spectacular and very worthwhile!
I was the only one scheduled to get off at Elk Park, while maybe 20-30 got off at Needleton. One hiker was picked up there. There is a technique to ‘flag down’ the train if needed. But since the train stopped anyway, I reckon it wasn’t necessary.
After disembarking at Elk Park, I decided to follow the tracks to acquire the Colorado Trail. There is a side trail that leads up to the CT but since I had hiked this section previously it just seemed easier to follow the tracks. It didn’t take very long. Segment 24 crosses the river via a nice bridge and then makes its way up to Molas Pass. Looking back were some impressive sharp peaks including Mount Garfield.
Normally when I’ve started a short section hike like this, I try to limit the 1st day to 10 or so miles. Don't wish to overdue it on day 1. Since I was dropped off about 30 minutes earlier than anticipated, I decided to push myself an extra 3 miles. The uphill climb to Molas Pass wasn’t too bad as I counted 32 switchbacks and 7 wraparounds. I made good time and felt good. I encountered a few other hikers.
Mount Garfield, Segment 24, Colorado Trail, San Juan County, CO
CO (San Juan County)
Day 1 (Segment 24)
Elk Park to random site via Molas Pass
After parking my car at the depot’s secure parking area, I walked over to the staging area and then stowed my backpack in the baggage car. Shortly thereafter, the ride began. I was in an enclosed cabin, so the fumes from the train were not a problem. It was exciting but the initial novelty of the trip wears off within about 15 minutes. As you leave town, however, the scenery kicks in and it becomes awe-inspiring. The train meanders through narrow canyons while following the Animas River. It was spectacular and very worthwhile!
I was the only one scheduled to get off at Elk Park, while maybe 20-30 got off at Needleton. One hiker was picked up there. There is a technique to ‘flag down’ the train if needed. But since the train stopped anyway, I reckon it wasn’t necessary.
After disembarking at Elk Park, I decided to follow the tracks to acquire the Colorado Trail. There is a side trail that leads up to the CT but since I had hiked this section previously it just seemed easier to follow the tracks. It didn’t take very long. Segment 24 crosses the river via a nice bridge and then makes its way up to Molas Pass. Looking back were some impressive sharp peaks including Mount Garfield.
Normally when I’ve started a short section hike like this, I try to limit the 1st day to 10 or so miles. Don't wish to overdue it on day 1. Since I was dropped off about 30 minutes earlier than anticipated, I decided to push myself an extra 3 miles. The uphill climb to Molas Pass wasn’t too bad as I counted 32 switchbacks and 7 wraparounds. I made good time and felt good. I encountered a few other hikers.