Wason Park - Inspiration Point Trail # 789

The Wason Trail (#789) begins in the town of Creede at the end of East 7^th Street. The first mile climbs across a long, open hillside and with almost no shade. At the first mile marker the trail forks, the locally-known “Up and Over Trail” continues to the left, while the Wason Trail continues to climb to the right.  As the trail switchbacks, it briefly follows and crosses old logging roads, the trail is marked with cairns throughout this section.

At 1.1 miles, large groves of aspen and spruce provide welcome shade. From 1.5 miles to the top, hikers will traverse several sections of rocky terrain. Even though the trail is well established in these areas, care should be taken.

At 3.5 miles, travelers will arrive at Inspiration Point, and be provided with stunning views of Creede, the area’s geological formations, surrounding mountain ranges and a look down to the Rio Grande River.

Camping in the first section of the trail is not recommended due to a lack of water. Camping opportunities exist in Wason Park, where water sources are available, though creeks and streams are seasonal and may not be available throughout the year. All water should be treated or filtered before drinking.

From Inspiration Point, the trail to Wason Park is grassy and sometimes over-grown. The trail follows the ridge between the Dry Gulch and East Willow Drainages.  Approximately 7 miles from the trailhead, the trail enters the La Garita Wilderness.  Here, the trail begins to level out as it enters Wason Park and continues through open, rolling hills, some forested areas.  As you travel through Wason Park, you will see views of La Garita Peak and have opportunities to spot wildlife as elk and deer are common in this area.

From the junction with the Farmer’s Creek Trail, the Wason/Wheeler Trail traverses several small tributaries of West Bellows Creek.  Just over 2 miles from the Farmer’s Creek Trail junction, you will enter the Wheeler Geological area, a dramatic formation, and fascinating look into the geological history of the area.

The trail ends at the Wheeler Area Trailhead and Forest Road 600 (this road is rough going, high clearance and 4x4 capability is required).  You can also link this trail to Wheeler Trail (#790).

This is a non-motorized trail before entering the La Garita Wilderness, permitted uses: Foot Travel, Horse Travel, and Mountain Biking.  Upon entering the La Garita Wilderness permitted use is limited to: Foot and Horse Travel.

Please use caution while traveling and camping in forested areas as much of this area has been affected by beetle-kill and dead or damaged trees present serious hazards.

At a Glance