Posted By: d_baker
Info: Hunchback Pass trail head info.
Getting to Beartown from the Rio Grande River crossing, about 2.6 from the river going to the Hunchback TH, there is a mud pit obstacle with a fairly deep drop going into the pit.
4x4 with decent clearance and good tires recommended.
A Jeep Patriot was stuck in the pit today, and had to be towed out and then winched up the drop off to get through.
Fortunately, there were a group of 4x4 outfitted rigs at this point when the guy got stuck, and helped get him out.

As you’re driving into Beartown, the obstacle, at this time, should be driven on the left side (E/SE) of pit.
Long wheel base will drag for sure, unless lifted.
Returning from Beartown, stick to the same side (your right).

Today’s driver tried to take it on at an angle, left to right, as he was driving back to the Rio Grande.
The pit is deeper on the one side, and the lip to get out is taller on that same side.

I towed him out from the rear, so he could be winched out by the others on the other side.

Posted By: Stratosfearsome
Info: There is no bridge 3 (~6mi North of TH.) Water was about three feet deep at the crossing, (hip deep,) not too swift, and there was a handy line. 8-3-17 and 8-5-17. Perhaps bring Crocs? Apparently it won’t be replaced. Thank you, MtnMan200 for info.

Posted By: WeminucheRanger
Info: Mt. Eolus, Windom Peak and Sunlight Peak are located within the Weminuche Wilderness. Most people chose to camp in the Chicago Basin area of the Needle Creek Drainage. Please be aware that several special rules apply to the Wilderness and Needle Creek area.

----Weminuche Wilderness----

1. Group Size is limited to 15 people.

2. Camping is not allowed within 100 feet of any water source (lakes, streams, etc).

3. Dogs must be on a leash or under voice control.

4. Disposal of human waste and gray water within 100 feet of any water source is prohibited. Dig a cathole 6-8" deep for human waste. Trash must be packed out (not burried).

----Needle Creek Drainage----

Due to high use and limited wood, camp fires are prohibited in the entire Needle Creek Drainage.


----Twin Lakes Basin----

As it is a sensitive, confined area above treeline with very high use, camping is prohibited in the Twin Lakes basin through which the trail leading to the most common approaches for the 3 14ers passes.

Call the Columbine District of the San Juan National Forest for additional info on rules and regulations. (970) 884-2512

Posted By: CO Native
Info: Trailhead is paved all the way to the parking lot. It‘s easy to find if you follow the signs. Turn off of US 160 onto CR-501. Stay on 501 until you reach CR-500. Follow 500 to it‘s end at the campground. There is a designated parking area for hikers that is free. This road is maintained year round.