Posted by Robert Cable on June 24, 2008 at 5:14 PM
Hello all,
Jack Riley and I (Robert Cable) from SENP will be making a trip out to Colorado July 10-26. What would be some good areas to photograph wildflowers and camp? I know of some general areas: Crested Butte, YB Basin, American Basin.
How difficult are the roads to Yankee Boy and American Basins. I have a 4wd Tundra Double Cab and will admit I don't have much rocky, mountain trail driving experience. I did drive Old Lime Creek Road this past fall and went part of the way up YB Basin but turned around a little ways after the narrow shelf just past the bathrooms because I was alone and there weren't any other vehicles around in case I got into a jam. (Wimp?)
I was thinking of starting out the trip at Maroon Bells as it will still be a little early in the month when we arrive, then move on from there.
Hi Robert,
I've seen regular passenger cars arrive at YBB. There's a bit of a bumpy spot past the shelf road and overhang, but the Tundra should make it OK. I believe they charge a $5 entry fee to help with road maintenance.
American Basin has three approaches - the jeep road just south of Ouray (on the east side), the road through Silverton or the road from Lake City (but avoiding Engineer Pass). I'd suggest either of the last two approaches.
Maybe I should have offered...I'm leading tours to YBB and AB this year during the weekend of 7/18-20, with custom/private tours or guide services in the days preceding that weekend. I'd be happy to show you all the hot spots.
Regards, Ken
Posted by David A Bliss on June 25, 2008 at 11:18 AM
I came in from the Lake City side via Lake San Cristobal last year when I visited American Basin. I recall it being bumpy but not difficult. In fact, there were a number of cars that made it up to the American Basin turnoff that surprised me.
Posted by Joshua Hardin on June 25, 2008 at 11:47 AM
Your plan sounds very do-able Robert. You shouldn't have much problem with a Tundra as far as clearance and capability in any of the locations you mention. Be aware there may be a few slightly tight squeezes if you have to pass anyone, but you should be OK. For American Basin I recommend the approach from Silverton over Cinnamon Pass. It is probably the easiest overall, but there may still be a couple places just after Animas Forks where there are some big rocks in the middle of the road. Slow, careful driving should get you there without much problem.
Discussion
4 repliesJack Riley and I (Robert Cable) from SENP will be making a trip out to Colorado July 10-26. What would be some good areas to photograph wildflowers and camp? I know of some general areas: Crested Butte, YB Basin, American Basin.
How difficult are the roads to Yankee Boy and American Basins. I have a 4wd Tundra Double Cab and will admit I don't have much rocky, mountain trail driving experience. I did drive Old Lime Creek Road this past fall and went part of the way up YB Basin but turned around a little ways after the narrow shelf just past the bathrooms because I was alone and there weren't any other vehicles around in case I got into a jam. (Wimp?)
I was thinking of starting out the trip at Maroon Bells as it will still be a little early in the month when we arrive, then move on from there.
Any help would greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
Robert Cable
I've seen regular passenger cars arrive at YBB. There's a bit of a bumpy spot past the shelf road and overhang, but the Tundra should make it OK. I believe they charge a $5 entry fee to help with road maintenance.
American Basin has three approaches - the jeep road just south of Ouray (on the east side), the road through Silverton or the road from Lake City (but avoiding Engineer Pass). I'd suggest either of the last two approaches.
Your plan to start at MB sounds good.
Ken
Maybe I should have offered...I'm leading tours to YBB and AB this year during the weekend of 7/18-20, with custom/private tours or guide services in the days preceding that weekend. I'd be happy to show you all the hot spots.
Regards, Ken