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Area Overview | 14'ers 3 Day | 14'ers 4 day | Custom Programs
(On the summit of Sunlight Peak in early summer conditions.)
June 27 - 29; July 11 - 13; July 25 - 27; August 8 - 10; August 22 - 24
Cost: $795 per person
Client to Guide Ratio: 3:1
Beginning to Intermediate Level Climbing and Backpacking
The Chicago Basin 14'ers are some of Colorado's most aesthetic and scenic 14'ers. Sunlight Peak (14,059 ft.), Mt. Eolus (14,083 ft.), and Windom Peak (14,082 ft.) dominate the skyline scenery, though the basin is host to a number of other worthy climbs. The area is unmatched for it's wilderness setting, well maintained trails, and relatively easy access. We utilize the historic D&SNGRR; train to limit the approach into the basin to only 6 miles. For those who would like to experience the essence of the San Juans and climb a few 14'ers along the way, then this is the trip for you. If you're visiting the area for the first time, then it's practically a law that you have to stand on top of a 14'er! Many of our trip participants are also on the Colorado 14'er quest, attempting to become one of the few people who have had the chance to stand on top of all of Colorado's 54 highest peaks. There's no question that for both first timers and seasoned Colorado climbers, Chicago Basin will be a highlight you'll remember for a long time to come.
Trip Cost Includes: Backpacking and climbing guides for the duration of the trip. All group technical equipment required for the climbs. Airport and hotel transfers, and local transportation during the course free of charge for those who fly to Durango. Tents, all mountain food, cooking gear, and D&SNGRR; train tickets.
Not Included: Hotel costs before, during, or after the courses. 3% land use surcharge, $3 Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue card (required), trip cancellation insurance, personal climbing/camping equipment and gear, or guide gratuities.
Prerequisites: Participants should have previous backpacking or camping experience and be in good physical condition. We suggest that you arrive to Durango at least a day before your trip to ease your adjustment to the altitude.
Registration and Cancellation: You will need to fill out our Domestic Registration Form, cancellation policy agreement, and liability waiver, and send it to us with a 50% deposit. Balance is due on the first day of the course. Please click on our Registration/Travel link to access the required forms.
(On top of Mt. Eolus with N. Eolus, Sunlight, and Windom in the background.)
Day 0: Arrive to Durango and stay in a hotel. We will meet in the evening to do a gear check and ensure that you're packed and ready for the trip.
Day 1: In the morning we'll board the D&SNGRR; train in Durango for the ride to Needleton and the start of the hike/approach into Chicago Basin. After approximately 6 miles we reach our camp at treeline in upper Chicago Basin.
Day 2: Rising early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, we'll approach the West Ridge of Sunligh Peak, an exposed ridge with a good mixture of 3rd and 4th class climbing all the way to the summit! Descending the south slopes, we'll cross the Twin Lakes basin and head up to the summit of Windom Peak via a series of 3rd class ledges.
Day 3:Waking early again, we'll approach the East Ridge of Mt. Eolus which is characterized by mixed 3rd and 4th class climbing. After our successful summit, we'll head back to camp, pack things up, and head back down to the trail head where the train will meet us for a 3:45 pm pick up. The train will have us back to Durango with plenty of time to catch a shower and enjoy a celebratory dinner!
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Alaska
