Weminuche: Any comments/advice on Endlich Mesa Tr?

Interesting question, cweston . I've been looking at a possible trip in the same vicinity at almost the same time (mid- to late-Sep). I hadn't taken much note of that Endlich Mesa option, partly because I was looking at train options when I investigated this winter, and partly because I'm out-n-back-phobic. (It seems they didn't lay out CO to accommodate loop-lovers.) Anyway, I'll be interested in what you find out.

I'm also looking at a loopish option to the east of there, probably using the Cimarrona and Williams Creek trailheads.

Oddly enough, I am looking at Ute creek to Weminuche trail as a near loop later this month.

Interesting.  As would be the transportation arrangements.  Nice, though, that one end drops right into Silverton.

Two years ago I hiked the Vallecito trail up to Johnson Creek and into the Chicago Basin. Since the train was not picking up I hiked the Animas River Trail back to Purgatory Flats which puts you across from the main entrance to the ski resort. Endlich Mesa is a good alternative to get you to Columbine Pass. However, once you cross the Vallecito Creek after five miles you should not encounter many or any folks if that is a concern. There has been a ton of beetle kill in the Chicago Basin and in the basin leading up to Columbine Pass (Upper Johnson Creek).

Not sure if you are familiar with the YouTube videos from My Own Frontier. He did a segment of the West Needles where he contoured over from Columbine Pass and dropped into one of the basins and then worked his way over to other basins in the area. Not sure I would do it by myself but he did two videos in the area that may give you some ideas.

There are some shuttle companies here in Durango that can drop you off. Also drop me a private message and I may also be able to help you out if we are in town.