Rico-Silverton Trail

The alpine meadow above timberline typically abounds with wildflowers during late July and August. Water and campsites are easily found in this area. Water in this area should be filtered to prevent problems with Giardia.

Directions from Silverton, Colorado: Take U.S. Highway 550 north for approximately 2 miles and turn onto the South Mineral Road (Forest Road 585). Follow the dirt road past the campground for approximately 2 miles to the Bandora Mine. Turn left slightly before the mine and follow the road across the creek. 2WD vehicles with good clearance should be adequate. Limited parking is available.

Directions from Durango, Colorado: Take U.S. Highway 550 30 miles north to Forest Road 578; follow this road 16 miles to the trailhead where limited parking is available. 4WD or strong 2WD with good clearance may be required to reach the top of Bolam Pass where the trailhead is located.

Cayton Picnic Ground - Because of Cayton's easy access to Colorado Hwy. 145 and Dolores River, this area is very popular. There is plenty of fishing along the river, but it may be crowded on summer weekends.

Chris Park Group Site - There are three sites each of which accommodates up to 75 people that are available by reservation only. The park is mostly flat and open with partial shaded provided by a few large Ponderosa pines.

Haviland Lake - Haviland Lake Fishing site is a scenic area located about one mile off U.S. Highway 550. Fishing can be good and row boating is permissible.

Haviland Lake Campground - Haviland Lake Campground has scenic and convenient campsites a mile off of U.S. 550. With the Hermosa Cliffs in the background, morning views across the reservoir are memorable.

Sig Creek Campground - Sig Creek Campground is six miles west of the Purgatory resort, on the Hermosa Park Road (Forest Road 578). Nine sites on four acres sit on a south-facing hillside about 0.25 mile from the East Fork of Hermosa Creek.

South Mineral Campground - South Mineral Campground is the last developed camping area along U.S. Highway 550 on the San Juan National Forest. The campground has 26 sites which are mostly level, at 9,800 feet.