Here's a few from my trip...I got back late last night.
Me on the crux of Hotel Rock. I think coming back up the other side is tougher as the bottom ledge is getting dug out.
My 60 on Fins-N-Things. It was my first year and I had a great time, but I left wondering where all the 60...
I wouldn't plan on those trails opening before July. We've had a ton of snow this year. But even in the worst of years they wouldn't be open in late April.
Why don't you do the same route and just skip the Elephant Hill section. When you get to Beef Basin you hang a right instead of a left. The road itself isn't very interesting, but there's some good ruins and the scenery is awesome. Approximately 22 miles later you're on the hard road leading...
No, I'm a dentist, but I do want you come to town, spend money, and enjoy yourself so you'll want to come back and spend more money.;) After all, tourism is the 2nd largest contributor to our economy here. Have a great trip.
Ya, in all seriousness you don't want your parents or kid along on Black Bear. It's really a trail you do after you've done the others. Your parents will love the Alpine Loop. Get some breakfast in Durango (the Durango Diner or Oscar's for the old style greasy spoon or Carver's for a great...
If your 100 is open diffs then that's another strike against Black Bear. On at least one switchback you will be doing a 3-5 point turn with one wheel off the ground.
Going by this statement I would say you DO NOT want to run Black Bear. It is rated difficult by any standards, and is scary with big consequences. It would not be the trail I would recommend for your first trail ride in the San Juans. Stick with the Alpine Loop, both Engineer Pass and...
There are some good trails in La Plata Canyon which is the closest thing to Durango. The most popular trails in our area are the ones in the San Juans up around Silverton (50 miles north of Durango). The Alpine Loop is probably just what you're looking for. The drive over Cinnamon Pass (part...