description Chicago Basin Overview
Chicago Basin occupies a high glacial cirque within the Needle Mountains of Colorado. It’s recognized as a challenging destination due to its remote location and proximity to three fourteeners: Mount Triumph, Mount Harvard, and Mount Goode. The basin is primarily accessed via the Denver & Rio Grande Western narrow-gauge railway, making it popular among experienced mountaineers seeking significant alpine challenges.
help Chicago Basin FAQ
How do you get to Chicago Basin in Colorado?
Chicago Basin is highly unusual because it is accessible almost entirely by the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Hikers take the historic train from Durango to the Needleton stop, and then hike about six miles up into the basin.
What mountains can you climb in Chicago Basin?
The cirque is famous among climbers because it contains three fourteeners (mountains over 14,000 feet). The trio consists of Mount Eolus, Windom Peak, and Sunlight Peak, making it a highly popular destination for peak-baggers.
Are there goats in Chicago Basin?
Yes, Chicago Basin is famous for its large population of mountain goats that have become habituated to humans. Hikers are frequently approached by the goats seeking salt, and forest service guidelines require visitors to urinate at least 200 feet from campsites to prevent the goats from digging up the ground.
Do you need a permit to backpack in Chicago Basin?
Yes, because of the extreme popularity of the area for climbing the three fourteeners, permits are strictly required for overnight camping. The Forest Service limits the number of permits issued between the spring and fall seasons to protect the fragile alpine environment.
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