Flint Creek (527)
Flint Creek Trail #527 is located in the Weminuche Wilderness and connects the Pine River trail #523 and Rock Creek trail #655. The trail travels along steep switchbacks, high tundra, and level terrain along Flint Creek. The alpine meadows are full of blooming wildflowers in late July and in August. There are excellent views and photographic possibilities. Water can be found off the trail in most of the tributaries, but due to Giardia it should be filtered. As with all high-altitude areas, storms can move in rapidly, bringing severe wind, lightning, rain, snow, or hail—at any time of year. Plan accordingly.
Fishing: No fishing is allowed along the first 2.7 miles of the Pine River trail, but from the Wilderness boundary to the Continental Divide, the river offers some of the finest fly-fishing found anywhere. They include rainbows, brookies, browns, and cutthroats. Please check the fishing regulations regarding limits, allowable lures, and restrictions on certain lakes, rivers, etc.
- Distance (one-way): 8.4 miles
- Maximum elevation: 12,000 feet (junction with Rock Creek trail)
- Minimum elevation: 9,240 feet (junction with Pine River trail)
At a Glance
Restrictions: | This trail is located in the Weminuche Wilderness. Please review the Weminuche Wilderness Regulations for full list of regulations and restrictions. Regulations include:
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Closest Towns: | Bayfield, CO Durango, CO |
Water: | Available. Purification recommended. |
Restroom: | None. Practice Leave No Trace. |
Information Center: | Columbine Ranger District |
General Information
Directions:From Bayfield, CO: Head north on County Road (CR) #501, Vallecito Road, for 22 miles around Vallecito Reservoir. Turn left on the Pine River turnoff , FS #602. Take the road 3.8 miles to the Pine River Campground. Hike Pine River trail approximately 12 miles to the junction with Flint Creek trail.
From Durango, CO: Head N. on Florida Rd (CR #240) for 14 miles. Continue on CR #240 for 2 miles past the turnoff for Lemon Reservoir. Turn north onto CR #501. Turn left on the Pine River turnoff , FS #602. Take the road 3.8 miles to the Pine River Campground. Hike Pine River trail approximately 12 miles to the junction with Flint Creek trail.
USGS maps: Vallecito Reservoir, Granite Peak, Emerald Lake, Granite Lake