Colorado Rails To Trails
Friday, August 21, 2026 -
Friday, August 28, 2026 --
$2300
★★★★
SUMMIT MOUNT EOLUS!
We’ll kick off and conclude our expedition with a ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad a historic steam train that winds through deep mountain canyons and along the wild Animas River. This scenic journey not only adds a magical start and finish to the trip, but also delivers us into some of the most remote and beautiful backcountry terrain in Colorado.
From there, we’ll venture deep into the heart of the San Juan National Forest, hiking one of the most scenic and remote trails in the Rocky Mountains. This unforgettable backpacking expedition is designed for experienced hikers seeking high alpine passes, dramatic mountain vistas, and a truly off-the-grid experience.
With elevations often soaring above 12,000 feet, this route demands endurance, preparation, and a strong sense of adventure. In return, you'll be rewarded with expansive views, quiet solitude, wildflower-filled meadows, and the unmatched feeling of accomplishment that only comes from traveling deep into the wilderness under your own power.
If you're looking for your next big challenge, the San Juan National Forest paired with the timeless charm of the Durango & Silverton train offers a journey that will leave you inspired, tested, and transformed.
Topographical Map of Proposed Route
See Gaia topographical map
Weather
Weather is always an important factor when planning a hiking adventure, especially in a remote environment like the August is one of the best times to backpack the Colorado Trail, with generally stable weather, dry trails, and thinning crowds. Afternoon thunderstorms are still possible, so start early to avoid exposure on high ridges. Daytime temperatures typically range from the 60s to low 70s°F, while nights, especially above 11,000 feet, can dip into the 30s°F, with frost possible. Bring a warm sleeping bag and layered clothing to stay comfortable. Water sources like Elk Creek are usually reliable, but smaller streams may begin to dry up—carry a filter and plan water stops carefully. Pack rain gear, sun protection, navigation tools, and consider a satellite communicator, as cell service is limited. Camp below tree line when possible, and avoid low areas prone to flash flooding.
Probable Trip Leaders
Julie Quibodeaux
Beau Devlin
Any Other Guide(s) TBD
Cost
$2300
per person double occupancy. Here, double occupancy means that you will share a hotel room with another trip participant. Single room accommodations are available for purchase. You will also be responsible for transportation to and from Durango as well as personal equipment, restaurant meals and any gratuities for guides. You may also be charged for any parking charges for leaving your car at the hotel all week if you drive.
Covered expenses include 2 hotel nights, storage fees, 6 days of trail meals, airport transfers, ground transportation to/from/within the National Park, park permits, park entrance fees and awesome guides.
Tipping: In order to keep our prices competitive with (and hopefully favorable to)
other outfitters, we shamefully can’t pay our guides as much as we think they deserve.
Like most other guiding services, we rely on the generosity of our participants to make
up this shortfall by tipping the guides. Gratuity can comprise a significant and important
part of a guide’s compensation. The industry recommended gratuity amount is 10-20% of the
trip cost. Gratuities are always optional and based on level of satisfaction but generally
account for 30-60% of their income through gratuities. Fitpacking supports tipping to the
greatest extent possible while remaining tactful and professional. Guides are not permitted
to solicit tips in any way other than doing an exceptional job supporting and providing
exceptional customer service to our participants. If your guides have served you well,
please support them with gratuities so they can continue living their extravagant lifestyles
of eating powdered meals, sleeping in the dirt and pooping in smelly outhouses and small
holes they've dug.
Important notes about this trip
This trip will be physically demanding and, at times, grueling, which is typical for backpacking on the trails which run through the Rocky Mountains. Elevation changes are dramatic and sustained, and the combination of rugged terrain, heavy packs and camping above alpine line (10,500ft.) can push even experienced backpackers to their limits.
Simply put, this is not a casual hiking trip. It is a serious backcountry expedition that requires a high level of fitness, preparation, and mental resilience. However, for those who are ready to meet the challenge, the experience can be incredibly rewarding. The solitude, beauty, and raw immensity of the Colorado Trail offers an unforgettable and deeply meaningful adventure.
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