Seniors Outdoors! Schedule

Date & Location Outing description Difficulty info

Fri, Jun 9
9:00 am


SRP 9:00 am

Hike Box Canyon (from Coyote Park)

This hike is a through-hike on Box Canyon trail (and spur trail) on the SE side of the W. Mancos River. We will spot cars at the end of FR 331, before returning to the FR 329/331 intersection where we will start the hike. Hike about 2 miles on FR 329, then follow a trail down into the canyon. Cross Box Creek on a log, staying on the SE side of the W. Mancos River briefly before climbing out of the canyon. Hike through meadows and aspen forest enjoying wildflowers and views of the La Plata Mountains on the way.
Dogs ok. Carpool fee: $5. 4WD/HC preferable Limit 15
RSVP Sandy Hoagland 970-759-7578 swhoagy@live.com
SO! outings are limited to members and guests who are fully Covid vaccinated and boosted.

Hard
9.4 miles
1300 ft
Moderate pace

Mon, Jun 12
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com
SO! outings are limited to members and guests who are fully Covid vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

16 miles moderate pace

Tue, Jun 13
8:00 am


SRP 8:00am

Hike Jackson Ridge to Rush Basin

This is a hike from Echo Basin (10,600ft.) along the westside of the La Plata Mountains. The Jackson Ridge (12,200ft.) runs to the south of Mt. Hesperus, with excellent views of all the western La Plata peaks. Our route comes from just north of Helmet Peak, and eventually drops to a high shelf of Rush Basin, with a glacial lake for those interested in a quick dip. (sandals recommended). An easy traverse takes us back below the Jackson and a final ridge walk home.
Limit 12. Two well-behaved dogs on approval. Carpool $6 High Clearance vehicles required for 3 miles of rocky road.
RSVP Steve Schnarch 970 749-4478 or ssalivedgo@gmail.com
SO! Outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Moderate
5.7 miles
1600 ft.
Moderate Pace

Wed, Jun 14
8:15 am


RC 8:15 am

WW hike Lower Hermosa

From the trailhead, the well-defined trail remains at approximately the same elevation with some ups and downs and crosses several side streams that are typically dry but are probably flowing this year. This is an in-and-out trail. Well-mannered dogs ok, include in RSVP.
COVID vaccinated members only, please. Carpool $3. Limit 12. RSVP Lynn Johnson lynnjsn@icloud.com

Click here for additional details

Moderate
5 mi.
400 ft. gain
Moderate pace

Thu, Jun 15
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
Rec Center Parking lot between ballfields and Main Ave.

Thursday Easy Outings

Friendly dogs and hikers welcome. Destination will be announced at the parking lot. Whenever possible, the group may return by the original route or a slightly more challenging route for those who choose to go the Extra Mile.
Carpool varies by destination, approx. $3-4. Do not RSVP. Contact Ted Keller if you need more specific info or you wish to meet at the trailhead. Text preferred to 970 759-7207. These outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
+/- 3 miles at lower altitudes near Durango
Easy Pace

Thu, Jun 15
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org
SO! outings are limited to members and guests who are fully Covid vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

28 miles moderate pace

Fri, Jun 16
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am

Hike Goulding Creek Trail to Jones Creek

This was a favorite club hike for many years, and now is an opportunity to see how the area is recovering from the 416 fire each year. We will hike the switchbacks up Goulding Creek (most of the elevation gain), follow the ridge south on the Pinkerton Flagstaff Trail and descend on the Jones Creek Trail to Hermosa Creek. Note that this hike requires a car shuttle, and thus no dogs allowed.
Carpool $4. Limit 12 (3 cars). No Dogs.
RSVP Steve Krest 970-588-3806 stevekrest@gmail.com
SO! Outings are limited to fully Covid vaccinated members and their approved guests

Hard
10.5 miles
2400 ft gain
Moderate Pace

Sat, Jun 17
8:30 am


RC 8:30am

Hike Cascade Creek

New Date!

We will split into groups for moderate and brisk paced hikers. We will hike Cascade Creek at least as far as the third waterfall, but possibly to the seventh. It is 5 miles to the third waterfall, where the moderate group will get lunch and turn around. The trail peters out there, but continuing up further, and walking through a mucky marsh, will, after another 1.5 miles and 1000 feet vertical, bring one to a total of four more falls, including the tallest in the canyon. Extra credit if we go to the waterfall downstream of the road, which is arguably the prettiest of them all.
Carpool $4. Dogs welcome.
RSVP Chris Blackshear, chris.blackshear@gmail.com, co-leader Steve Schnarch.
SO! outings are limited to members and guests who are fully Covid vaccinated and boosted.

Hard 10 miles and 1000 feet
Moderate pace
OR
13 miles and 2000 feet
Brisk pace

Mon, Jun 19
8:00 am


SRP 8:00 am

Hike to Four Mile Falls

This is a hike that goes along Four Mile Creek to a lovely waterfall at about mile 3.5. Two side stream crossings are required along the way. The waterfall is quite spectacular, almost 200 feet high. With all the snow we have had this year, it should be flowing quite well. The downside is that it is a long trip to get there, as the trailhead is 13 miles north of Pagosa Springs.
Limit 15 due to wilderness regulations. Limit two well behaved dogs. Carpool $13. RSVP: Clark Lagow clagow@rmi.net

Moderate
7 miles
1080 ft
moderate pace

Mon, Jun 19
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am Fire Station at Florida Rd. CR 234
8:15 am Burnt Timber TH 9:00 am

Hike Burnt Timber Tail

Hike Burnt Timber Trail and Meadows This trail climbs steadily up through ponderosa, aspen and spruce forests for about 2.2 miles, at which point we will then climb up through meadows and drainages for about 1 mile to the top the ridge, where we will meet the Lime Mesa Trail. We will travel northeast on the Lime Mesa Trail until it meets up with the Burnt Timber Trail. We will then circle back to the Burnt Timber Creek crossing and retrace our route back down to the trailhead.
Carpool $5. Limit 12. Two well-behaved dogs OK (include in RSVP).
RSVP Chuck Rancatti 425-231-0930 chuck.rancatti@gmail.com.
SO! outings are limited to members and guests who are fully Covid vaccinated and boosted.

Hard 10.5 miles 2,500 ft.
Moderate Pace

Mon, Jun 19
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com
SO! outings are limited to members and guests who are fully Covid vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

16 miles moderate pace

Tue, Jun 20
8:00 am


SRP 8:00 am

Hike Starvation Creek

Rescheduled due to snow and trail conditions

Nice loop hike on Starvation Creek with a side hike up and back on Old Gold Run trail. This trail is located off US160, west of Hesperus, east of Mancos Hill.
Carpool $4. 4WD/HC a must. Limit 12. No Dogs.
RSVP Steve Krest 970-588-3806 stevekrest@gmail.com
SO! Outings are limited to fully Covid vaccinated members and their approved guests

Moderate
9 miles
1500 ft gain
Moderate Pace

Wed, Jun 21
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am

WW hike Vallecito Creek Trail

The trail is rocky and narrow in spots with ups and downs and great views into the gorge. We will hike to the first bridge for a break then return by the same route. We may have nice flower displays.
Carpool $6. Two well behaved and leashed dogs ok, include in RSVP. Limit 12. RSVP Delores Ladd (214) 422-7206 ladddelores@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

Moderate
6 miles
600 ft. gain
Moderately Easy Pace

Wed, Jun 21
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
Needles Store. 9:00am
TH (mm 55, Hwy 550) 9:15am

Climb Spud Peak

Off-trail hike with low exposure class three scramble on summit ridge. Beautiful view of Animas valley from the summit. Expect loose rock and talus, lots of down trees on this hike. About four hours to complete.
Limit: 10, No dogs. Carpool $5.
RSVP: Tim Tischler 512 971 4229, tbtischler46@gmail.com
SO! Outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Moderate 4 miles
1700 ft
Moderate pace

Thu, Jun 22
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
Rec Center Parking lot between ballfields and Main Ave.

Thursday Easy Outings

Friendly dogs and hikers welcome. Destination will be announced at the parking lot. Whenever possible, the group may return by the original route or a slightly more challenging route for those who choose to go the Extra Mile.
Carpool varies by destination, approx. $3-4. Do not RSVP. Contact Ted Keller if you need more specific info or you wish to meet at the trailhead. Text preferred to 970 759-7207. These outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
+/- 3 miles at lower altitudes near Durango
Easy Pace

Thu, Jun 22
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org
SO! outings are limited to members and guests who are fully Covid vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

28 miles moderate pace

Fri, Jun 23
7:30 am


RC 7:30am PURG 7:45 am TH 8:00 am

Hike Crater Creek Falls

A challenging on & off-trail hike. Starting at Andrews Lake, we take the Crater Lake trail for 3.5 miles. Then we go off-trail for about a mile, dropping 750 ft to the top of three 100 ft. waterfalls on Crater Creek. Our return route will depend on conditions, possibly hiking back up to return via the Crater Lake Trail, or preferably, an off-trail basically horizontal traverse across 4.5 miles of untouched pristine country, crossing three creeks and numerous small ridges. The bushwhack route is a little different each time. For experienced hikers. Plan on being out for a long day, lots of up and down, a few scratches, and a great time. Timing of the hike may be adjusted to catch the height of run-off.
Limit 10. Two well-behaved dogs on approval. Carpool $7.
RSVP Steve Schnarch 970 749-4478 ssalivedgo@gmail.com
SO! Outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Hard
9.25 miles
1750 ft.
Moderate pace.

Sun, Jun 25
7:30 am


RC 7:30 am
TC 7:45 am
PURG 8:00 am

Hike to Purgatory Flats and Animas River

This is a classic SO! hike which is unusual for the San Juans. The excellent trail is all downhill to Purgatory Flats and the Animas River, but all uphill coming out. Those less energetic, or who may want to try their flyfishing skills on Cascade or Lime Creek, are welcome to wait a couple of hours at Purgatory Flats, which is about halfway. The trail is partly at creek level, partly high above. We will plan for lunch at the footbridge across the Animas, complete with picnic tables.
Well-behaved dogs welcome. Carpool $5.
RSVP to Leader Harding Cure at hardingcure@gmail.com or 602-369-4273

Hard
8.2 miles
1100 ft. gain on return
Moderate Pace

Mon, Jun 26
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
TC 8:10 am

Climb North Snowdon, 12,628 ft.

An SO! Summertime favorite, the crest has spectacular views of Snowdon Peak to the south and Silverton down low in the north. Primarily trail with 0.6 mile off-trail, easy Class 2. Steep pitch from Snowdon Meadows.
Limit 10. No dogs. Carpool $7. RSVP Debra Van Winegarden 769-7269 debra@vanwinegarden.com. Co-leader Tomas Ward tom@thward.net

Hard
6 miles
2,000 ft.
Moderately Brisk Pace

Mon, Jun 26
8:00 am


RC 8:00am
Needles Store 8:30am

Climb Blackhawk Peak

Begin at Hotel Draw Road and CT intersection. Hike 4 miles north on CT to Blackhawk Pass. Climb off trail steeper terrain 700ft elevation to Summit with spectacular views. Retrace route back to vehicles.
4WD/HC, Limit: 12, well-behaved dogs OK, Carpool $6.
RSVP: Tim Tischler 512 971 4229, tbtischler46@gmail.com
SO! Outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Hard:
8+ miles
2300ft
Moderate pace

Mon, Jun 26
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com
SO! outings are limited to members and guests who are fully Covid vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

16 miles moderate pace

Tue, Jun 27
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
TH 8:45am

Hike Haflin Creek

This is a great training hike to do before we can get into the high country. Great views of the La Platas and Animas Valley. The rating is hard because of the elevation gain.
Limit 15. No dogs. Carpool $2. RSVP Nancy Mead 259-5978 nancy.a.mead@gmail.com.

Hard
7.6 miles
2880 ft.
Moderate Pace

Wed, Jun 28
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am

WW hike Log Chutes

This hike will be the leaders choice of the various trails in the Log Chutes system, depending on current trail conditions.
No dogs. Limit 15. Carpool $2. RSVP Lorraine McCleary: lorrainemccleary@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

Moderate
5 miles
700 ft.
Moderate pace

Thu, Jun 29
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
Rec Center Parking lot between ballfields and Main Ave.

Thursday Easy Outings

Friendly dogs and hikers welcome. Destination will be announced at the parking lot. Whenever possible, the group may return by the original route or a slightly more challenging route for those who choose to go the Extra Mile.
Carpool varies by destination, approx. $3-4. Do not RSVP. Contact Ted Keller if you need more specific info or you wish to meet at the trailhead. Text preferred to 970 759-7207. These outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
+/- 3 miles at lower altitudes near Durango
Easy Pace

Thu, Jun 29
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org
SO! outings are limited to members and guests who are fully Covid vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

28 miles moderate pace

Fri, Jun 30
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
PURG 8:30 am

Hike upper Hermosa Creek

This out and back hike begins behind Purg at the upper TH of the Hermosa Trail. We will hike downhill along the lovely Hermosa Creek to just beyond the edge of the burn area from the 416 fire. A small SUV or higher clearance is needed to ford a creek near the TH.
Moderate pace. Limit two well behaved dogs. Carpool $7. RSVP Clark Lagow clagow@rmi.net

Moderate 9.7 miles
500 ft
moderate pace

Fri, Jun 30
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am

Hike Sawmill Canyon to Animas River

We will hike Forebay Lake Trail to Sawmill Canyon Trail. Descend sawmill Canyon to the Animas River, then hike to the power plant. Possible side trip up Canyon Creek. (Additional .8 miles.) We will return back the same way.
Carpool $4. Limit 10. 2 dogs OK.
RSVP Troy Albright 580-747-6294 talbright318@gmail.com.
SO! outings are limited to members and guests who are fully Covid vaccinated and boosted.

Moderate
5.4 miles
1100 ft.
Moderate pace

Sun, Jul 2
7:30 am


RC 7:30 am
TC 7:40 am
PURG 8:00 am

Hike Engineer Trail

We will hike up the Pass Creek Trail from Coal Bank to the Engineer Mountain Trail, skirting the east side of Engineer then descend the south flank to the waiting shuttle cars near Cascade.
Carpool $7. Limit 15. Dogs OK.
RSVP Kevin Conroy 630-200-5222 57ales@gmail.com

Moderate
7.7 miles
1100 ft up, 2700 ft down
Moderate Pace

Mon, Jul 3
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Hike West Lime Creek

We will hike along West Lime Creek for about 3 miles seeing many waterfalls. The last quarter mile is a boggy bushwhack to the last waterfall. Return is by the same route.
Carpool $7. Well behaved dogs ok. RSVP: Clark Lagow clagow@rmi.net

Moderate
6 miles
800 ft
moderate pace

Mon, Jul 3
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

16 miles
moderate pace

Wed, Jul 5
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
Fire Station at CR 234 and Florida Rd. 8:45 am

WW hike Red Creek Trail

The trail climbs gradually through forest, following and crossing the creek several times and passing arborglyphs to our turn around point. Poles helpful for creek crossings.
Carpool $2. Two well-mannered dogs ok, include in RSVP. Limit 15. RSVP Cindy Werland cewerland@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

Moderate
5 miles
500 ft gain
Moderately easy pace

Thu, Jul 6
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
Rec Center Parking lot between ballfields and Main Ave.

Thursday Easy Outings

Friendly dogs and hikers welcome. Destination will be announced at the parking lot. Whenever possible, the group may return by the original route or a slightly more challenging route for those who choose to go the Extra Mile.
Carpool varies by destination, approx. $3-4. Do not RSVP. Contact Ted Keller if you need more specific info or you wish to meet at the trailhead. Text preferred to 970 759-7207. These outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
+/- 3 miles at lower altitudes near Durango
Easy Pace

Thu, Jul 6
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org

Click here for additional details

28 miles
moderate pace

Sat, Jul 8 -
Sun, Jul 9


Four Corners Riversports

Inflatable Kayak (Duckie) Class

This 2-day class is for beginning to intermediate boaters. We will be paddling with ACA-certified instructors from 4CRS on the Animas River, learning stroke technique, boat handling and river reading. We will also cover gear fitting, maintenance, and self-supported camping.
$200 discounted price includes lunch, plus $40 for kayak rental if needed. Class runs from 9:00 am until approximately 4:00 pm both days. Sign up at www.riversports.com under Adult Kayak Instruction, select SO INFLATABLE KAYAK. Also give phone and email for pre-class instructions to Mary Gillam 970 259-0966 gillam@rmi.net

Moderate

Mon, Jul 10
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

16 miles
moderate pace

Tue, Jul 11
7:00 am


RC 7:00
TC 7:10

Climb Jura Knob, 12,614 ft.; Point 12,766 (E2); Peak 12,703 (E1)

From Coal Creek Trail, climb Jura Knob, descend northwest to
east ridge of E2. Fascinating ridge traverse between E2 and E1.
Trail 10 miles, off-trail 3.5 miles.
Carpool $7. Limit 10. No dogs (sheep dogs present).
RSVP Thomas Ward 970-426-8918 tom@thward.net Co-leader Debra Van Winegarden 769-7269 debra@vanwinegarden.com

Most Challenging
13.5 miles
3,900 ft.
Moderately Brisk Pace

Tue, Jul 11
5:50 pm


RC 5:50 pm

SO! General Meeting

General Meeting and Presentation
Agenda: 5:50-6:20 PM: Social half hour with refreshments.
6:20-7:40 PM: Meeting and presentation
Presentation title: Trekking in the Alps – Hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc
Speakers: Gail Harriss, Charlie Higby, Emily Irwin
Presentation summary: We will talk about our hike – planning and logistics, show slides of our trek, talk about food on the hike, our accommodations, and the wonderful people we met on the trail. The Tour de Mont Blanc is probably one of the most popular hikes in Europe. It is also challenging. We will also discuss options for shorter hiking days if needed. Charlie had a hip replacement a little over a year before we did the hike. He was able to modify the hike to fit his limitations/needs.
Speaker bios: Gail Harriss, Charlie Higby and Emily Irwin have lived in Durango for many years. We enjoy hiking in the mountains. We love our mountains!! We are experienced backpackers and are old!! Gail is 65, Charlie is 73 and Emily is 76. Gail is a retired lawyer and Charlie is retired from the BLM. Emily works as an office/manager, bookkeeper for a local law firm.

Fun and Educational

Wed, Jul 12
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
PURG 8:30 am

WW hike Cascade Creek Trail

This trail begins at the Forest Service Center by the TH for Larkspur Lane (Engineer MountainTrail) and meanders through aspen groves and meadows until it meets up with Cascade Creek Rd. near the gate. We will then proceed past the gate to a break spot along the creek. Return is by the same route.
Well behaved dogs ok, include in RSVP. Limit 15. Carpool $5. RSVP Robbin Clark clark.robbin@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

Moderate
5 miles
300 ft.
Moderate pace

Thu, Jul 13
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
Rec Center Parking lot between ballfields and Main Ave.

Thursday Easy Outings

Friendly dogs and hikers welcome. Destination will be announced at the parking lot. Whenever possible, the group may return by the original route or a slightly more challenging route for those who choose to go the Extra Mile.
Carpool varies by destination, approx. $3-4. Do not RSVP. Contact Ted Keller if you need more specific info or you wish to meet at the trailhead. Text preferred to 970 759-7207. These outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
+/- 3 miles at lower altitudes near Durango
Easy Pace

Thu, Jul 13
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org

Click here for additional details

28 miles
moderate pace

Thu, Jul 13
5:00 pm


5:00 pm Home of Mary Moorehead

SO! Board Meeting

The quarterly SO! Board meeting will be held at 5:00 pm, and include a potluck dinner.
RSVP: marymoorehead15@gmail.com

Easy

Fri, Jul 14
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am

Hike Hotel Draw South to 4 County Monument

We will hike a four-mile section of the Colorado Trail, south from Hotel Draw. On the return, we will detour (a short bushwack) to the Four County Monument. Excellent trail (except the detour) and great views.
Carpool $10. Limit 12, one dog (with RSVP). Carpool $10. HC, please advise on RSVP if available. RSVP Travis Ward
tlgward@gmail.com

Moderate
8 miles
500 ft.
Moderate Pace

Mon, Jul 17
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
TC 8:20 am
PURG 8:45 am

Peak 13,042 and Putnam Basin

From the TH at Little Molas Lake we take the Colorado Trail approx. 3.75 miles, then ascend north through the cliff band, and on through open tundra to gain the peak at 13,042 ft. Heading down we pass thru Putnam Basin and a high traverse back to the saddle at Bear Creek and the trail back to Molas Lake. Great views in all directions, and lots of wildflowers.
Limit 12. Two dogs on approval. Carpool $7. RSVP Steve Schnarch 970 749-4478, ssalivedgo@gmail.com
This hike is limited to members and approved guests, who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Moderate,
10.1 miles
2,350 ft.
Moderate pace

Mon, Jul 17
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

16 miles
moderate pace

Wed, Jul 19
7:30 am


RC 7:30 am
TC 7:40 am

Hike Cascade Ck to Colorado Trail to Engine Ck loop

We will hike up Cascade Ck trail until it fades away then bushwhack about a ¼ mile to where we will intersect the CT. We will follow the CT, then White Ck, then Engine Ck trails back to the start. A long hike but because of the bushwhack we can connect to some beautiful scenery not normally accessible without an overnight stay. Carpool $5. Limit 12. RSVP Chuck Rancatti chuck.rancatti@gmail.com

Most Challenging
20 miles
2600 ft.
Brisk Pace

Wed, Jul 19
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
PURG 8:30 am

WW hike West Lime Creek

We will hike along West Lime Creek for about 3 miles, seeing many waterfalls. The last quarter mile is an easy bushwhack to the last waterfall. Return is by the same route.
Carpool $7. Well behaved dogs ok. RSVP nonmembers and those meeting at PURG only. RSVP Tricia Bayless (970) 799- 4535 tbayless@bresnan.net.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
6 miles
1,000 ft. gain
Moderately easy pace

Thu, Jul 20
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
Rec Center Parking lot between ballfields and Main Ave.

Thursday Easy Outings

Friendly dogs and hikers welcome. Destination will be announced at the parking lot. Whenever possible, the group may return by the original route or a slightly more challenging route for those who choose to go the Extra Mile.
Carpool varies by destination, approx. $3-4. Do not RSVP. Contact Ted Keller if you need more specific info or you wish to meet at the trailhead. Text preferred to 970 759-7207. These outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
+/- 3 miles at lower altitudes near Durango
Easy Pace

Thu, Jul 20
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org

Click here for additional details

28 miles
moderate pace

Fri, Jul 21
7:00 am


RC 7:00 am

Hike Cave Basin Trail

From the trailhead on Middle Mountain Road, we will hike the Cave Basin trail through forest and meadows to a ridge promontory offering mountain views across the Vallecito valley on the West and a beautiful overlook of Dollar Lake and Emerald Lake in the Pine River Valley to the East.
Carpool $6. Limit 12. Dogs OK
RSVP Kevin Conroy 630 200 5222 57ales@gmail.com

Hard (due to distance)
10.6 miles
1800 ft gain
Moderate pace

Fri, Jul 21
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
PURG 8:30 am

Hike Molas Trail to Elk Park

The hike down offers dramatic views of the canyon below and possibly a glimpse of the D&SNG as it passes through the canyon. Beautiful scenes are plentiful on this hike. The trail leads down into Animas Canyon and eventually to Elk Park with 35 switchbacks for the descent which means we finish with an ascent! Hardy hikers only. We will cross the Animas River via a bridge at 3.7, cross the tracks and on to Elk Park, the railroad stop for our historical narrow gauge at 4.4 miles, our destination and lunch. This could be a 6-to-8-hour hiking day, pace will be moderate but rating hard.
Carpool $7. Dogs OK. RSVP: Clark Lagow clagow@rmi.net

Hard
8.7 miles
2240 ft
Moderate pace

Sat, Jul 22
7:00 am


RC 7:00 am

Climb Jura Knob (12,614 ft)

Climb Jura Knob from the Coal Creek Trailhead. Some exposure, some rock scrambling involved.
Carpool $7. Limit 12. No Dogs.
RSVP Sherry Suenram sherryjsuenram@gmail.com

Hard
8 miles
2500 ft gain
Moderately Brisk Pace

Mon, Jul 24
7:00 am


RC 7:00 am

Climb Hesperus Mountain
(13,232 ft.)

Starting from the Sharkstooth Trailhead (10,900 ft.), we hike down to and cross the West Mancos River, leaving the trail and climbing a cairned route up a moderately steep gully to the west ridge. The final ridge scramble to the summit includes a few areas with mild exposure. Summit views from the highest point in the La Platas are spectacular. Return via same route or plunge step down the black couloir if conditions permit. Carpool $10. HC vehicles required for final approach. Limit 12. Two dogs on approval only. RSVP Tom Fiorillo 720 235-2245 tomfiorillo1@gmail.com

Hard
5.2 miles
2700 ft.
Moderately brisk pace

Mon, Jul 24
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

16 miles
moderate pace

Tue, Jul 25
6:30 am


RC 6:30 am
TC 6:40 am

Climb Bridal Peak (aka T11, 13,510) and Peak 13,159

Begin off Ophir Pass Road to access Columbine Lake Trail to Pass 12,520 ft. Leave the trail and ascend south to the ridge east of the lake. Climb Point 13,051 and Peak 13,159. Scrambling, mild exposure. Pass by the lake and ascend to Columbine Pass. North to Bridal Peak then free range back to trail. See Earthline for description.
4WD. Limit 10. No dogs. Carpool $9. RSVP Thomas Ward 970-426-8918 tom@thward.net Co-leader Debra Van Winegarden debra@vanwinegarden.com

Most Challenging
11.2 miles
3,500 ft.
Moderately Brisk Pace

Wed, Jul 26
7:30 am


RC 7:30 am
PURG 8:00 am

WW hike Engineer Meadows

This hike offers abundant wildflowers and beautiful vistas. The trail ascends a steep flowery slope into spruce/fir and passes by 2 small lakes. At 2.5 miles the trail exits the woods and enters the tundra where there are beautiful wildflowers.
Carpool $7. Two well behaved dogs ok, include in RSVP. Limit 15. RSVP Janice Prendergast (480) 390-6659 janice@prenkin.com. Co-leader Jim Prendergast.

Click here for additional details

Moderate 5 miles
1100 ft. gain
Moderately easy pace

Thu, Jul 27
7:00 am


RC 7:00 am
TC 7:10 am
PURG 7:30 am

Hike Porphyry Basin to Columbine Pass and Columbine Lake

From a parking area part way up Porphyry Basin Road we will hike to Porphyry Basin then on to Columbine Pass and finally the easy descent to Columbine Lake. Entire hike is above tree line, much of it on game trails. We hope to see waterfalls, wildflowers and beautiful mountain lakes.
Carpool $15. 4WD or HC. Limit 12. Dogs OK.
RSVP Kevin Conroy 630-200-5222
57ales@gmail.com

Hard
9.4 miles
2500 ft gain
Moderate Pace

Thu, Jul 27
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
PURG 8:30 am

Nature Hike Castle Rock from Purgatory

Margaret Mayer has been a hike leader and naturalist for AMC, Wilderness Ventures, School of Field Studies, NPS and others. Bring field guides and enjoy nature hikes with gentle ups and downs.
Hike from the back of Purgatory to Castle Rock walking along on the top of the cliffs, coming out to beautiful views.
Carpool $5. Limit 12. 2 well behaved dogs ok. (Please include in RSVP)
RSVP Margaret Mayer 505 728 2057 mmayer4823@gmail.com

Easy
4.5 miles
Minimal gain
Easy Pace

Thu, Jul 27
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
Rec Center Parking lot between ballfields and Main Ave.

Thursday Easy Outings

Friendly dogs and hikers welcome. Destination will be announced at the parking lot. Whenever possible, the group may return by the original route or a slightly more challenging route for those who choose to go the Extra Mile.
Carpool varies by destination, approx. $3-4. Do not RSVP. Contact Ted Keller if you need more specific info or you wish to meet at the trailhead. Text preferred to 970 759-7207. These outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
+/- 3 miles at lower altitudes near Durango
Easy Pace

Thu, Jul 27
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org

Click here for additional details

28 miles
moderate pace

Fri, Jul 28
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am

Hike to Hope Lk via Mineral Ck

Starting at the Bandora mine (located 2.3 miles past Mineral Creek CG) we will climb 1700 ft. to the top of the pass. After taking in the views of Sharp Peaks and Hope and Trout Lakes in the valley below we will descend 590 ft. and 0.7 miles to Hope Lake for lunch, then return the same way back to the Bandora mine. Carpool $11. 4WD required for last 2 miles. Limit 12
RSVP Troy Albright Talbright318@gmail.com.

Moderate
7 miles
1700 ft.
Moderate Pace

Sat, Jul 29
7:30 am


RC 7:30 am
TC 7:45 am
PURG 8:00 am

Hike Melanie Highline with Ohio Peak Option (12,674)

A classic SO! hike which starts at 12,000 feet, all above tree line, so the spectacular views begin immediately and never let up. We will follow use trails across the gentle meadows of wildflowers affectionately known as the Melanie Highline, then over open rocky slopes to the short but steep climb up North Anvil Peak. Returning by the same route, with the option to add an additional mile and a steep 600 ft. by climbing with some scrambling over Ohio Peak. Limit 15. Dogs 0K. 4WD/HC required. Carpool $11.
RSVP Leader Harding Cure at hardingcure@gmail.com or 602-369-4273

Moderate to North Anvil
4.5 miles 600 ft.
Hard to Ohio Peak
5.5 miles
Additional 600 ft.
Moderate Pace

Mon, Jul 31
7:00 am


RC 7:00 am
TC 7:15 am
PURG 7:30 am

Thru-hike Spencer Basin to Blair Basin

A full day above tree line passing through four high basins above Silverton including one peak and possibly more. Ascending thru Spencer Basin at the end of Cunningham Gulch, we head north to Kendall Peak (13,451), Arrastra Basin, Round Mountain, Woodchuck Basin and Hazelton Mntn. Our descent is thru Blair Basin then a lengthy road walk down to shuttle cars at the mouth of Arrastra Creek. Kudos to Dan Honig for the route.
Carpool $11. Limit 10. Two Dogs on approval only. RSVP Steve Schnarch 970 749-4478, ssalivedgo@gmail.com
This hike is limited to members and approved guests, who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Hard
9.5 miles
3000 ft.
Moderate pace

Mon, Jul 31
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

16 miles
moderate pace

Tue, Aug 1
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am

Climb Centennial Peak
(13,062 ft.

Climb Centennial Peak. Trail and tundra with steep scramble and some exposure near the peak.
Carpool $10. Last two miles of drive requires high clearance vehicles. Limit 12. No dogs. RSVP to Betsey Butler ejbutler12@gmail.com.

Hard
5 miles
2160 ft.
Moderately brisk pace

Wed, Aug 2 -
Sun, Aug 6


TH 8:00am

Lake City – hikes from Henson & North Henson Creeks area

8/2 Drive to Lake City
8/3 Horseshoe Basin. Options- Gravel Mtn (13,577) & 13,688B
8/4 Middle Canyon & its W ridge. Option to return via Wetterhorn Basin
8/5 hike to Blackwall (13,073), Wildhorse Peak (13,268) and Dragons Back (12,968) option to summit peaks.
8/6 Back to Durango
Primarily off-trail, some exploratory. Henson Creek crossing on 8/3. Possible easy scrambling and mild exposure.
Carpool TBD. 4WD/HC. Dogs OK if approved.
RSVP Dan Honig dhonig@vcn.com

Hard
8 - 12 miles each day
2000 - 3000 ft gain each day
Options will add more gain
Relaxed moderate Pace

Wed, Aug 2
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
Needles Store 8:30 am

Jura Knob Deer Creek Basin

Begin at Coal Bank Pass TH on Pass Creek Trail, leave trail to Jura Knob and continue north following Deer Creek Basin ridge to E4 Peak. Drop south of ridge to intersect Deer Creek trail and to HWY 550 and shuttle vehicle. Low exposure, short class 4 scramble on Jura Knob.
Limit 10, No dogs. Carpool $7. RSVP Tim Tischler tbtischler46@gmail.com 512-971-4229

Hard
12 miles
2900 ft.
Moderate pace

Wed, Aug 2
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
PURG 8:30 am

WW hike Molas Trail to Overlook

This hike begins near Molas Lake and drops down to a nice viewpoint with great views of the Animas River and surrounding peaks.
Carpool $7. Three well behaved dogs ok. SO! Members and guests only. Limit 15. RSVP Doug Hawkins (602) 770-6278 dougwhawkins@hotmail.com. Co-leader Lisa Ferdinand.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
4 miles
400 ft.
Moderately easy pace

Thu, Aug 3
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
PURG 8:30 am

Nature Hike Andrews Lake Meadows

Margaret Mayer has been a hike leader and naturalist for AMC, Wilderness Ventures, School of Field Studies, NPS and others. Bring field guides and enjoy nature hikes with gentle ups and downs.
Wander the meadows in back of Andrews lake.
Carpool $7. Limit 12. 2 well behaved dogs ok. (Please include in RSVP)
RSVP Margaret Mayer 505 728 2057 mmayer4823@gmail.com

Easy
4 miles
Minimal gain
Easy pace

Thu, Aug 3
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
Rec Center Parking lot between ballfields and Main Ave.

Thursday Easy Outings

Friendly dogs and hikers welcome. Destination will be announced at the parking lot. Whenever possible, the group may return by the original route or a slightly more challenging route for those who choose to go the Extra Mile.
Carpool varies by destination, approx. $3-4. Do not RSVP. Contact Ted Keller if you need more specific info or you wish to meet at the trailhead. Text preferred to 970 759-7207. These outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
+/- 3 miles at lower altitudes near Durango
Easy Pace

Thu, Aug 3
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org

Click here for additional details

28 miles
moderate pace

Fri, Aug 4
7:00 am


RC 7:00 am
7:20 am intersection of CR250 and Missionary Ridge Road.

Hike Mountain View Overlook (12,465)

We will drive up Missionary Ridge Road about 22 miles past Henderson Lake to the trailhead where the road starts to get really rough. From there, we follow a fairly well-defined trail that eventually joins the Lime Mesa trail to the overlook. This is a slightly shorter hike than going all the way to the top of the crest but offers similar views. The return is more or less by the same route. This hike will be at a moderate pace.
Car Pool $10. 4WD/HC required. Limit 15 due to wilderness area. Dogs OK. RSVP: Clark Lagow clagow@rmi.net

Moderate
7 miles
1570 ft
moderate pace

Sun, Aug 6
7:00 am


RC 7:00am
Needles Store 7:30am

Hike Golden Horn (13,780)

Hike into Ice Lake Basin and head south on poorly defined trail. Expect loose rock with some class 3 scramble and low exposure. Incredible view of Ice Lake from summit. Return by same route.
Limit 10, Mountain dogs acceptable, Carpool $10. RSVP Tim Tischler tbtischler46@gmail.com 512-971-4229

Hard
12 miles
4200 ft
moderate pace

Mon, Aug 7
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

16 miles
moderate pace

Tue, Aug 8
7:00 am


RC 7:00 am

Climb Engineer Mountain (12,927 ft.)

Starting from Coal Bank Pass, we will follow the Pass Trail for roughly two miles to a junction in Engineer Meadows. The final mile is steep and loose and includes one tricky spot with moderate exposure. Return via same route.
Carpool $7. Limit 10. No dogs. RSVP Tom Fiorillo 720 235-2245 tomfiorillo1@gmail.com

Most Challenging
6 miles
2400 ft.
Moderate pace

Tue, Aug 8
5:50 pm


RC 5:50 pm

SO! General Meeting

General Meeting and Presentation
Agenda:
5:50-6:20 PM: Social half hour with refreshments.
6:20-7:40 PM: Meeting and presentation.
Presentation title: Sunsets, suburbs, or the sublime: which west is yours? Reconsidering different visions of our iconic landscape
Speaker: Judith Reynolds
Presentation summary: Explore different photographic perspectives of the American West with journalist Judith Reynolds. A life-long photographer, Reynolds met Ansel Adams while a student at the University of Michigan. His photographs of the West have inspired her since, and she will discuss them along with other masters such as W. H. Jackson, Jerry Uelsmann, and Richard Misrach. Her goal is to examine different visions and ask members of SO: Which West is Yours?
Speaker bio: Judith Reynolds is an educator and journalist who currently writes for the Durango Herald and has taught art history at Fort Lewis College. Reynolds and her late husband, David, moved to Durango and spent 10 years on a biography of the first scientist to write a monograph of the ruins at Mesa Verde. Nordenskiold of Mesa Verde was published in time for the National Parks Centennial in 2006. She regularly speaks in the FLC Life-long Lecture Series, a program she founded and continues to serve.

Fun and Educational

Wed, Aug 9
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
PURG 8:30 am

WW hike Snowdon Meadows

This hike begins at Andrews Lake on the trail to Crater Lake. After a mile of climbing, we will veer off the main trail for the use trail to the meadows. The route alternates between lovely meadows with grand views and forest until we come to a short but steeper ascent to a talus field. The group will decide whether to stop before this ascent or continue higher. Return is by the same route.
Carpool $7. Well behaved dogs ok, include in RSVP. Limit 15. RSVP Tricia Bayless (970) 799-4535 tbayless@bresnan.net

Click here for additional details

Moderate
4-5 miles
700 ft.
Moderately easy pace

Thu, Aug 10
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
Rec Center Parking lot between ballfields and Main Ave.

Thursday Easy Outings

Friendly dogs and hikers welcome. Destination will be announced at the parking lot. Whenever possible, the group may return by the original route or a slightly more challenging route for those who choose to go the Extra Mile.
Carpool varies by destination, approx. $3-4. Do not RSVP. Contact Ted Keller if you need more specific info or you wish to meet at the trailhead. Text preferred to 970 759-7207. These outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
+/- 3 miles at lower altitudes near Durango
Easy Pace

Thu, Aug 10
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org

Click here for additional details

28 miles
moderate pace

Fri, Aug 11
7:00 am


RC 7:00 am
PURG 7:30 am

Hike to Columbine Lake

Columbine Lake has to be the bluest lake in Colorado. We will drive up a challenging 4WD road up to the Porphyry basin to start the hike at about 12,300 feet at the Bullion King mine. Then we cross various meadows (all above tree line) in a path that goes up and down until we reach the lake at 12,685 feet. The wildflowers should be nice this time of year. Lunch on a hill overlooking the lake, then return by the same route. This hike will be at a moderate pace to enjoy the flowers and scenery.
No limit. Requires 4WD/HC/Lo to get to the trailhead. Limit two well behaved dogs. Carpool $10. RSVP Clark Lagow clagow@rmi.net

Moderate
6.5 miles
1020 ft
moderate pace

Mon, Aug 14
7:30 am


RC 7:30am
TC 7:45am
PURG 8:00am

Hike Minnie Gulch to Pk 13,069

From the end of the road in Minnie Gulch, we will hike up to the Divide at 12,800 ft. We then turn south and follow the ridge that flanks the south side of Minnie Gulch, to a point at 13, 069 ft. Great views in all directions, and abundant wildflowers if the season persists.
Limit 12. Two dogs on approval. HC vehicles required. Carpool $12. RSVP Steve Schnarch 970 749-4478 ssalivedgo@gmail.com This hike is limited to members and approved guests, who are fully vaccinated and boosted

Moderate
5.5 mile
1600 ft
Moderate pace.

Mon, Aug 14
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

16 miles
moderate pace

Tue, Aug 15
7:00 am


RC 7:00 am
TC 7:10 am
PURG 7:30 am

Hike Hematite Lake

Starting just east of Silverton at 9640 ft, hike up a steep trail to beautiful Hematite Lake. Weather and legs permitting, option to climb Macomber Peak (13,222) which adds just under a mile and approx 1200 ft gain and just under a mile and another 500 ft gets you to Tower Mtn (13,552). Beautiful views all around. Return as we came.
Carpool $9. Limit 12. Dogs OK
RSVP Judy Mack tupelo16@gmail.com

Hard
4 miles RT
2300 ft gain to lake
7.4 miles RT 4200 ft gain to Tower
Moderate Pace

Wed, Aug 16
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
PURG 8:30 am

WW hike Engineer Mountain Trail (AKA
Larkspur Lane)

This is an out and back hike up Engineer Mountain Trail (aka Larkspur Lane). The trail climbs steadily through aspens and meadows with spectacular views to a small pond. Depending on the group we may continue up the trail another mile or so.
Carpool $6. Well behaved dogs ok, include in RSVP. Limit 15. RSVP Tricia Bayless (970) 799-4535 tbayless@bresnan.net

Click here for additional details

Moderate 4-5 miles
700 ft. gain
Moderately easy pace

Thu, Aug 17
7:30 am


RC 7:30 am

Climb Grayrock Peak (12,504 ft.) & Graysill Mntns Southern Points

Humble in height, Graysill Mountain makes up for it by going on forever. Approach from the southwest using Relay Creek Road routing. Cross the divide between Hermosa Creek and Cascade Creek drainages to reach Grayrock Peak. Then explore four distinct southern points of Graysill. The bulk of this hike is off-trail on talus. Abandoned road, off-trail, navigation, considerable mild exposure.
Dogs with hike leader approval. Carpool $7. RSVP Tom Revesz tomrevesz1@gmail.com or Text to 202-256-1576.

Hard
8.5 miles
2900 ft.
Moderately Brisk Pace

Thu, Aug 17
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
Rec Center Parking lot between ballfields and Main Ave.

Thursday Easy Outings

Friendly dogs and hikers welcome. Destination will be announced at the parking lot. Whenever possible, the group may return by the original route or a slightly more challenging route for those who choose to go the Extra Mile.
Carpool varies by destination, approx. $3-4. Do not RSVP. Contact Ted Keller if you need more specific info or you wish to meet at the trailhead. Text preferred to 970 759-7207. These outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
+/- 3 miles at lower altitudes near Durango
Easy Pace

Thu, Aug 17
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org

Click here for additional details

28 miles
moderate pace

Sat, Aug 19
7:30 am


7:30 am from Cattleguard parking LP Canyon.

Climb Lewis Mountain and circumnavigate Columbus Basin

This is an advanced hike/climb along the ridges that circumnavigate Columbus Basin. Lewis Peak summit. Exposure, all above tree line, some route finding. Excellent views. Only a good weather window will allow this outing to happen so dates will be flexible. No dogs. Experienced hikers that do not mind some exposure only.
Carpool $5, starting from the cattleguard parking. RSVP Carolyn Wilber car123lyn@gmail.com (970)799-1426

Most challenging
6 miles or so.
2000 ft
Moderately brisk pace

Mon, Aug 21
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

16 miles
moderate pace

Tue, Aug 22
7:30 am


SRP 7:30 am

Climb Deadwood (12,285) and Silver Mountains (12,496)

As Silver Mountain dominates the Durango skyline, it is a very satisfying mountain to climb and perch on. We will ford the La Plata River at the La Plata City campground and endure several miles of arduous, interminable switchbacks on an unmaintained jeep road, before breaking out onto a very open and scenic trail up and across Deadwood Mt. to Silver. This is a long, steep hike with significant elevation gain, wonderful views in every direction, and no scary exposure. Limit 15. Dogs OK. Carpool $5. RSVP to Leader Harding Cure at hardingcure@gmail.com or 602-369-4273.

Most Challenging
10.1 miles
4,500 ft. Gain
Moderate Pace

Wed, Aug 23
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
PURG 8:30 am

WW hike Crater Lake Trail

We will hike from Andrews Lake up the steep, well-defined Crater Lake Trail past the wilderness border. Views and wildflowers are wonderful along the trail.
Carpool $7. Three well behaved dogs ok. Limit 15. SO! members and guests only. RSVP Doug Hawkins (602) 770-6278 dougwhawkins@hotmail.com. Co-leader Lisa Ferdinand.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
5-6 miles
700 ft. gain
Moderately easy pace

Thu, Aug 24
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
Rec Center Parking lot between ballfields and Main Ave.

Thursday Easy Outings

Friendly dogs and hikers welcome. Destination will be announced at the parking lot. Whenever possible, the group may return by the original route or a slightly more challenging route for those who choose to go the Extra Mile.
Carpool varies by destination, approx. $3-4. Do not RSVP. Contact Ted Keller if you need more specific info or you wish to meet at the trailhead. Text preferred to 970 759-7207. These outings are limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
+/- 3 miles at lower altitudes near Durango
Easy Pace

Thu, Aug 24
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org

Click here for additional details

28 miles
moderate pace

Mon, Aug 28
8:00 am


RC 8:00am
TC 8:15am
PURG :8:30am

Hike Snowdon Ponds (Three Lakes Basin) to Crater Lake Trail

From Andrews Lake we take the usual trail to the back of Snowdon meadows, then we are mostly off-trail. Our route climbs a talus field to a tarn at 12,000 ft, then over a mild pass at 12,300 ft. to Three Lakes Basin. Then its a downhill bushwhack until we hit the Crater Lake Trail and return to our starting point. If conditions allow, we may stop to explore the mysterious *black hole* in one of the ponds.
Limit 12, Two dogs on approval. Carpool $6. RSVP Steve Schnarch, 970 749-4478 ssalivedgo@gmail.com This hike is limited to members and approved guests who are fully vaccinated and boosted.

Hard
7.8 miles
1500 ft. elevation gain.
Moderate pace

Mon, Aug 28
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

16 miles
moderate pace

Wed, Aug 30
7:00 am


RC 7:00 am
Needles Store 7:30 am

Climb Grizzly Peak (13,738)

From the TH at end of Cascade Creek Road, hike north on Colorado Trail short distance to spur trail to base of mountain. Hike the steep gully with loose rock to saddle and continue north to summit with great view. Weather permitting, down climb the south ridge with moderate exposure back to trail and return. Moderate exposure on south ridge scramble.
No dogs. 4WD & HC vehicles required. RSVP Tim Tischler tbtischler46@gmail.com 512-971-4229

Hard
7.3 miles
3200 ft
moderate pace

Wed, Aug 30
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
PURG 9:00 am

WW hike Pasture Creek

Hike up old logging roads to the base of Grayrock Peak with great views to the north. Return via different logging roads through mixed conifers and grassy meadows. (This hike Susan Beck-Brown called Relay Creek).
Carpool $7. No dogs. Limit 12. RSVP Bob Kuhnert (970) 799-0692 rkuhnert55@gmail.com.

Click here for additional details

Moderate
6 mi.
1000 ft. gain
Moderate pace

Thu, Aug 31
8:00 am


Florida Rd. Fire Station 8:00 am

Hike First Fork to Missionary Ridge to old Baldy Tower trailhead

This is a shuttle hike. Leaving from First Fork TH and ending at Baldy Tower parking lot. The route is mostly moderate. Carpool $3. Limit 12, no dogs due to shuttle. RSVP Lorie Hansen lmhansen39@gmail.com

Moderate
7.5 miles
1900 ft. gain
Moderate pace.

Thu, Aug 31
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org

Click here for additional details

28 miles
moderate pace

Fri, Sep 1
7:00 am


TH 7:00 am

Two-hour hike Animas City Mtn

Join for a short walk in town. We will be done by 9:00 am. Meet at the 32nd Street trailhead.
Dogs ok. RSVP Stephanie Weber, steph4100@gmail.com

Moderate
4 miles
800 ft
Moderate pace

Mon, Sep 4
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

16 miles
moderate pace

Tue, Sep 5
7:00 am


ACP 7:00 am

Hike Ajax Ridge

Starting at Red Mountain Pass, we will hike the Black Bear Pass road over the pass and much of the way to Telluride. Before the really scary part for jeepers, we turn uphill and climb Ajax Mountain. Then hike east along the ridge dividing Imogene Pass from Black Bear Pass until nearing Trico Peak. The route then descends to Black Bear Pass Road, over the pass, and back to the cars.
Carpool $10, dogs ok. RSVP Chris Blackshear, chris.blackshear@gmail.com

Most challenging
14 miles
4000 ft
brisk pace

Wed, Sep 6
8:00 am


Fire Station off Co Rd 243 8:00am

WW hike Shearer Creek Trail

In and out moderate hike along Shearer Ck. Many stream crossings, varied terrain. Crossing private property for 2 miles. Carpool $2. Two dogs ok but must be leashed on PP, include in RSVP. Limit 15. RSVP Lorie Hansen Lmhansen39@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

Moderate
3-3.5 miles
~600 ft
Moderate pace

Thu, Sep 7
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org

Click here for additional details

28 miles
moderate pace

Fri, Sep 8
7:00 am


TH 7:00 am

Two-hour hike Horse Gulch

Join for a short walk in town. We will be done by 9:00 am. Meet at the 8th Avenue trailhead.
Dogs ok. RSVP Stephanie Weber, steph4100@gmail.com

Moderate
4 miles
800 ft
Moderate pace

Sat, Sep 9
7:00 am


ACP 7:00 am

Hike Spencer Basin Verde Lakes loop

Starting from the Highland Mary Lakes TH, the route climbs to Spencer Basin. We exit the basin and cross the tundra with great views. Nearing the overlook of Elk Creek, we will descend to Verde Lakes and then decide whether to go back via Highland Mary Lakes or the Continental Divide Trail.
Carpool $10, dogs ok. RSVP Chris Blackshear, chris.blackshear@gmail.com

Hard, 10 miles
3000 ft
Moderately brisk pace

Mon, Sep 11
7:00 am


RC 7:00 am
TC 7:10 am
PURG 7:30 am

Hike Ice Lake and Island Lake

We will hike up the Ice Lakes Trail to the stunning Ice Lake Basin. From there we will make a loop to Island Lake and return.
Carpool $10. Limit 12. Dogs OK
RSVP Kevin Conroy 630 200 5222 57ales@gmail.com

Hard
7.5 miles
2700 ft gain
Moderate Pace

Mon, Sep 11
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Monday Road Bike Ride

This is a 16-mile bike ride from the Rec Center stopping at PJs and back.
Contact Ride Leader: John Martin at mudpatch22@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

16 miles
moderate pace

Tue, Sep 12
5:00 pm


5:00 pm Chris Park

Picnic

SO! Fall Social
Come and join your fellow members at the fall SO! Social from 5:00 pm to 7:30 PM at Chris Park. Bring a heavy appetizer to share and your own table service (plates, utensils and glassware). SO! will have water available but you may bring your own favorite beverages. The gathering begins at 5:00 and appetizer service at 5:30. No RSVP needed. Sorry, no dogs allowed

Wed, Sep 13
8:30 am


RC 8:30 am
PURG 9:00 am

WW hike Upper Hermosa

This out and back hike begins behind Purg at the upper TH of the Hermosa Trail. We will hike downhill along the lovely Hermosa Creek to just beyond the edge of the burn area from the 416 fire. A small SUV or higher clearance is needed to ford a creek near the TH.
Well behaved dogs ok, include in RSVP. Carpool $7. Limit 18. RSVP Chris Wiehage cwiehege22@gmail.com

Click here for additional details

Moderate
7 miles
500 ft.
Moderately Easy pace

Thu, Sep 14
9:00 am


RC 9:00 am

Thursday Road Bike Ride

This is a 28-mile bike ride from the Rec Center to Bakers Bridge and back, stopping at Bread.
Contact Ride Leaders: Rick Boebel, Pat Lyon, Daniel Saum, and Rodger Steeper at ThursdayBikers@seniorsoutdoors.org

Click here for additional details

28 miles
moderate pace

Fri, Sep 15
7:00 am


TH 7:00 am

Two-hour hike Smelter Mtn

Join for a short walk in town. We will be done by 9:00 am. Meet at the trailhead off of Highway 210. A Colorado Parks and Wildlife permit is required.
Dogs ok. RSVP Stephanie Weber, steph4100@gmail.com

Moderate
4 miles
800 ft
Moderate pace

Thu, Sep 21
8:00 am


RC 8:00 am
PURG 8:30 am

Nature Hike North Cascade Creek

Margaret Mayer has been a hike leader and naturalist for AMC, Wilderness Ventures, School of Field Studies, NPS and others. Bring field guides and enjoy nature hikes with gentle ups and downs.
We will start at a high meadow accessed by a little road off of 550 just north of Cascade Creek. It parallels the Cascade Creek road on a higher terrace, contouring through aspen groves and meadow to join the Cascade Creek road which shortly comes to the Cascade Creek trail. Round trip approx 4 miles but can be longer if the group wishes to continue along the trail to the falls (8 mile RT)
Carpool $5. Limit 12. 2 well behaved dogs ok (Please include in RSVP).
RSVP Margaret Mayer 505 728 2057 mmayer4823@gmail.com

Easy
4.5 miles
Minimal gain
Easy pace

Outings will meet and depart from the following locations:

  • ACP: Animas City Park for some outings to the north or out Florida Rd. The park (a narrow grassy area) is located on E. 2nd Ave. immediately north of 32nd (just north and east of North City Market). Note that it is on the WEST side of the river, so coming from Main Ave., you do NOT cross the bridge! Meeting area is on 2nd Ave just after turning north off 32nd St.
  • PURG: Purgatory Resort – at entrance, unless otherwise specified
  • RC: Durango Community Recreation Center for overnight trips and most outings to the north. The Rec. Center is located at 2700 Main Ave. Please park in the south lot between Main and the ball fields.
  • SRP: Santa Rita Park for outings to the south or either way on Hwy. 160. The park is located at the intersection of Hwy 160-550 & Santa Rita Drive, 1 mile South of the Doubletree Hotel. We gather behind the Santa Rita Park Sign.
  • TAM: Tamarron – parking lot at Tamarron Resort
  • TC: Trimble Crossing – west side of parking lot at Trimble Crossing in front of the hardware store
  • TH: At the trailhead or other location for some outings

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