My son and I are planning to day hike from Spring Creek Pass to Durango starting July 4. I’m hearing that starting at that time might be “iffy” this year due to the extraordinary amount of snow received. Does anyone have any current information about the accessibility of these sections and the snow pack on them. I have the option of postponing my start for a month if necessary, but would prefer not to. Any recommendations?
Okie58
I certainly defer to anyone living closer to Durango, but in the absence of other responses yet, I’ll say that I suspect by 7/4, you’ll be ok. The Weminuche north of Pagosa Springs (65 miles east of Durango) is still frozen up to about 10,500’. But the temps are warm each day, the creeks are flowing full bore, and I fully expect the trails to be passable in another 3 weeks. I’ve also noticed that many of the Snotel sites near Durango are reporting less snow than in most other places in the state. Another good sign. If I had your preference for July, I’d keep my plans as is.
Matt
Thanks for the feedback, Matt! It sounds like you’re more comfortable speaking about the Spring Creek Pass to say Molas Pass sections than those further south to Durangeo. Would you also think that the trailheads would be accessible - Carson Saddle, Stony Pass, Bolam Pass, etc. - by this time?
Okie58
Yes, I think trailheads will be accessible even sooner than the trail itself. In my area, it’s the shaded mountain sides that are clinging on to their snow with a death grip. Roads and even exposed ridges are all drying out very quickly. I’m heading back to the Weminuche this weekend and can provide an updated picture come Monday.
Matt