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Columbine Ranger District

Weminuche Wilderness (Columbine District)- The Weminuche Wilderness is Colorado's largest roadless area. It encompasses nearly a half million acres in the San Juan Mountains in the southwestern part of the state.

Activity Locator: (167 recreation options)

All Columbine Ranger District Outdoor Recreation Activities

Columbine Ranger District Customized Topo Maps and Aerial Photos
Columbine Ranger District Outfitters and Guides
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General Information

Description - Visitors can access many parts of the Columbine Ranger District via US 550. Excellent fishing, mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing and backpacking are here to tempt outdoor enthusiasts. The beautiful scenery one sees while riding the Durango-Silverton Train helps make the unique experience even more memorable.

Recreation - The steep mountain peaks of the Needles Range offer rugged climbing and backpacking experiences. The Animas river offers rafting and kayaking opportunities for beginners and world-class boaters alike. Purgatory is nearby and offers downhill skiing.

Climate - Cool winds from the arid west make the southern part of the Columbine Ranger District temperatures stay tolerable. Though alpine conditions give most of the area cold winters, the summers are cool.

Location - In the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Columbine Ranger District can be reached via U.S. 550, or U.S. 160. It is the central ranger district of the San Juan National Forest. Visitors can experience the mining heritage of the town of Silverton or the western experience of nearby Durango.

Current Conditions & Trip Reports

Office in Bayfield at (970) 884-2512. Updated: 2004-05-03 15:05:00.0

Ranger Tip: Stop by the San Juan Public Lands Center in Durango for Forest and BLM information, books, maps and Smokey Bear memorabilia.

Trip Reports:
Add your own trip Report! Newly re-released feature. One of the most popular features on Wildernet, trip reports allow you to share your experiences with others. This is an invaluable resource for determining what to expect on your outdoor adventure, so please participate! To prevent spamming, you must be a registered user of Wildernet in order to submit a trip report

Filed By: Renata (Farmington.com, NM)
Number of People Encountered: 11-25 ppl
Recommend to a Friend: Highly
Report: Keep in mind I am just starting to get in shape. Colorado trail from Durango to Gudy's Rest. First half of going in was easy, the rest moderate. Great workout, great sites, etc. I was a bit sore after and frustrated at the joggers who were only carrying a water bottle, but I guess I am just out of shape.

More Information

Frequently Asked Questions
Email the Local Ranger

Contact Information:
Columbine Ranger District, 367 South Pearl Street, P.O. Box 439 , Bayfield, CO, 81122, Phone: 970-884-2512, Fax: 970-884-2428, TTY: 970-884-1433

Additional Information:
Durango Area - Durango is a popular year-round recreational area located in southwestern corner of the state. The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and Mesa Verde National Park bring many visitors to the area.
San Juan National Forest - The San Juan National Forest reaches from the semiarid deserts in southwestern Colorado deep into the San Juan Mountains of south central Colorado.
Silverton Area - The upper Animas River offers expert kayakers an outstanding run. The rugged Needles Range offer a nearly endless supply of hikes. Many nearby opportunities await those visiting this 100 year old Victorian Mining Town.

Links:
San Juan Mountains Association - Nonprofit organization that provides information and education about natural and cultural resources.
San Juan National Forest - Official Forest Service website.

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