The San Juan Mountains of southwest Colorado are one of the most majestic and rugged ranges in North America. With thirteen peaks rising to over 14,000 feet just north of Durango, Colorado, where this trip begins and ends, which is more than the rest of North America combined outside of Colorado, they are also the highest range in the country. And winding and climbing through all the beauty is the San Juan Skyway, one of the nation’s fifty-four "National Scenic Byways", and the first choice, based on natural beauty and  historical significance, of eleven drives selected as "All American Roads."

     

By late July the higher passes are open, allowing access to Yankee Boy, Governor's, and Minnehaha Basins,, Stony Pass and other locations where the wildflowers should be hitting their peak and the waterfalls and streams running full with melting snow. We’ll wander along the Skyway, taking side trips into these and other areas of incredible natural beauty in peaceful valleys of wildflowers and aspens below the Needle Mountains, the Grenadiers, Twilight Peak, Grand Turk, and Bear Mountain. And we’ll enjoy the western charm of Durango, nestled in a peaceful valley on the banks of the Animas River and the gateway into the mountains, Silverton, where Bat Masterson and Wyatt Earp once roamed the streets, and Ouray, "Switzerland of the Rockies."  We’ll explore the ghost towns of Animas Forks, Red Mountain, and Ironton, and we’ll take advantage of the unique photographic opportunity provided by the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge train as it chugs its way into the mountains north of Durango and emerges again through a spectacular gorge as it enters Silverton. It’s five days of exciting photography, Americana, western nostalgia and history amidst some of North America’s most spectacular mountain scenery.

   

        CONTACT/QUESTIONS/COMMENTS 

 

Cost: $1,385/Single Supplement: $75                                                         

To register, please  fill out the  tour application and  payment options forms. You may reserve a space (50% deposit or full payment) with your credit card or Pay Pal account or send a check to: Branson Reynolds, POB 3471, Durango,Co 81301

Arrival/Departure Point: Durango, Colorado

Nearest Large Airport: Durango, Colorado, Albuquerque, New Mexico

Some  4XD driving is required on this trip---see FAQ's below

Frequently asked Questions: Details on lodging, transportation, and other questions relating to this trip.