Segment 25, Colorado Trail, San Juan County, CO
CO (San Juan County)
Day 1 (Segment 25)
Elk Park to random site via Molas Pass
The trail crosses US550 at Molas Pass. At 10,886’ the views are spectacular. A parking area is a short distance away where there are interpretive signs and some toilets. Overnight parking or long term parking is available at Molas Trail Trailhead, a little further down the road toward Silverton. I parked there previously and had just a short hike to connect to the CT. From the Pass, Silverton is about 7 miles away. A fascinating little mining town with most services available. Alternatively, Molas Lake Campground is also nearby for an overnight stay with hot showers and minimal resupply options.
Continuing on into Segment 25, the scenery did not disappoint. The trail skirted the edge of Little Molas Lake where there is a Forest Service campground (first come, first served, that includes a toilet). Although the trail never really went above treeline, there was plenty of exposure with 360 degree views. The hiking included some more steep sidehill but it wasn’t too difficult. There was lots of vegetation, including flowers. Although colorful, no huge field of flowers.
After 13 miles of hiking it was getting late and it was time to start looking for a decent flat spot. I finally found one on the edge of a cliff. I set up camp and then enjoyed the surroundings. Today was a great weather day with a few raindrops and probably in the 60s. It looked like it would be a clear night.
Segment 25, Colorado Trail, San Juan County, CO
CO (San Juan County)
Day 1 (Segment 25)
Elk Park to random site via Molas Pass
The trail crosses US550 at Molas Pass. At 10,886’ the views are spectacular. A parking area is a short distance away where there are interpretive signs and some toilets. Overnight parking or long term parking is available at Molas Trail Trailhead, a little further down the road toward Silverton. I parked there previously and had just a short hike to connect to the CT. From the Pass, Silverton is about 7 miles away. A fascinating little mining town with most services available. Alternatively, Molas Lake Campground is also nearby for an overnight stay with hot showers and minimal resupply options.
Continuing on into Segment 25, the scenery did not disappoint. The trail skirted the edge of Little Molas Lake where there is a Forest Service campground (first come, first served, that includes a toilet). Although the trail never really went above treeline, there was plenty of exposure with 360 degree views. The hiking included some more steep sidehill but it wasn’t too difficult. There was lots of vegetation, including flowers. Although colorful, no huge field of flowers.
After 13 miles of hiking it was getting late and it was time to start looking for a decent flat spot. I finally found one on the edge of a cliff. I set up camp and then enjoyed the surroundings. Today was a great weather day with a few raindrops and probably in the 60s. It looked like it would be a clear night.