Sunlight Peak via Needle Creek Trail
The hike to Sunlight Peak via Needle Creek Trail is a challenging adventure in Colorado that will take you up to the summit of a fourteener and should only be attempted by experienced climbers. While out hiking the trail, you will follow along the banks of Needle Creek as it cuts through the Chicago Basin, climbing uphill through the rugged terrain of the mountains before making the final ascent of Sunlight Peak. Hikers should take note that in order to reach the trailhead, you will need to take the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and get off at the Needleton Flagstop.
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Route Description for Sunlight Peak via Needle Creek Trail
If you have a fair amount of hiking/climbing experience and are looking for a fun challenge in Colorado, then you should definitely check out the Sunlight Peak via Needle Creek Trail. This fantastic route will lead you up to the summit of the 39th tallest fourteener in Colorado by means of a non-technical scramble, although to reach the upper summit block you will need to complete a fairly exposed rock climb.
Setting out from the trailhead at the Needleton Flagstop, you will make your way to the southwest alongside the Animas River, before turning to the southeast along Needle Creek. Here, you will make the lengthy journey through the Chicago Basin, climbing uphill alongside the forested creek bank to eventually arrive at the shores of the Twin Lakes.
After taking in the views of the stunning alpine lakes, you will head to the northeast across the rocky terrain and climb up the rugged slopes of Sunlight Peak. After a tough ascent, you will enjoy stunning views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains from an elevation of 4,287 m. Take some time here to revel in the magnificent alpine views, before carefully heading back down the trail on the return into the trailhead where you began your adventure.
Getting to the Sunlight Peak via Needle Creek Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for Sunlight Peak via Needle Creek Trail can be found at the Needleton Flagstop along the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
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Sunlight Peak via Needle Creek Trail Elevation Graph
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