San Juans Day Trip (9-6-08)

[IntrepidXJ]

We headed out on a day trip to the San Juan Mountains today. We drove there, ran a few trails, and drove home on one tank of gas....so that wasn't too bad

We started off by heading up Poughkeepsie Gulch

Lake Como

After spending a little time at Lake Como, we took the short trip up to the top of California Pass

Then he headed back down and took the road up to Hurricane Pass

Great views down on Lake Como

Red Mountain #1 and Corkscrew Pass trail in the distance

 

[IntrepidXJ]

It just so happens that Corkscrew Pass was our next destination

Near the top of the pass with Red Mountain #2

Old cabin and Red Mountain #2

When we made it down to the bottom of Corkscrew Gulch, we took a right turn and headed up Brown Mountain

First we came across the Silver Mountain Mine

Then as we climbed higher onto the mountain and out of the trees, we were offered good views of the surrounding area

Looking across at Red Mountain #1

Looking down on Ironton Park and the highway

 

[IntrepidXJ]

After heading back down to US 550, it was time to go finish a trail I started with Alex on the 4th of July weekend, when were were stopped by a snow drift.....US Basin & Browns Gulch

View into US Basin

Looking across the valley at Black Bear Pass trail and the trail that goes up to Porphyry Basin (US 550 down below)

The trail high above the highway

Brooklyn Mine

Finally, before heading home for the day we headed up into Porphyry Basin. I wasn't sure what to expect with this trail, but it turned out being my favorite of the day The only issue I had was a flat tire (I'm pretty sure I was due for a flat with all the trails I run).

 

[scottmcneal]

Looks like you had a great time.. Very nice pics..

 

[Hammered]

Just wondering how much gas you take along other than a full tank. Seems like a trip like that, you might need some extra fuel.

 

[IntrepidXJ]

Just wondering how much gas you take along other than a full tank. Seems like a trip like that, you might need some extra fuel.

No extra. There are a few towns nearby that you can get gas (Ouray, Silverton, Lake City, Telluride). However, I actually drove down from Junction wheeled all day and drove home on only 1 tank of gas.....still had an 1/8th of a tank when I got home.

 

[DaJudge]

Nice pics Randy! I need to take a trip before the snow flies!

Where is Porphyry Basin?

 

[IntrepidXJ]

Where is Porphyry Basin?

It's right next to Black Bear Pass.....if you continue south on 550 past Black Bear, it is the next unmarked road that takes off from the highway. There also is a connecting trail from Black Bear to Porphyry

 

[IntrepidXJ]

Nice pics Randy! I need to take a trip before the snow flies!

I'm planning on a Fall Colors run down there the last weekend of this month. Wanna go?

 

[DaJudge]

I'm planning on a Fall Colors run down there the last weekend of this month. Wanna go?

I wish! I already have plans that weekend.

 

[IntrepidXJ]

Pink: Poughkeepsie Gulch
Blue: Hurricane Pass
Yellow: Corkscrew Pass
Orange: Brown Mountain
Dark Red: US Basin & Browns Gulch
Green: Porphyry Basin

 

[blue95xj]

That's so bad ass. My brother lives out near Calhan in Rush? I think. But we go out to visit him every couple of years and one year (before I was old enough to drive) we rented a TJ in Lake City and drove the Alpine loop. Now ever since I got my XJ I've wanted to go back and tackle some of the trails we passed on the way up. Maybe one day I'll move out there......maybe. I love snow and hate humidity! Sounds like a winner to me.