Approach

Date: 07/08/2021
Partner: Jack Van Lancker, Solo, Brandon Chalk, J Weingast , Chris Baldwin, Kristi Henes
Trailhead: Needleton
Distance: 6.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 3000ft
Duration: 2 hours 20 Minutes (fastest)
GPX

I have never felt the desire to carry a pack from Purgatory into the Weminuche. If I want the extra miles, I just as soon climb more peaks.

The following strategy eased the train experience and had us back in Durango at 12:45pm (vs. 5:15pm).

Set a Shuttle: Set a shuttle or arrange for a ride from Silverton to Durango for you last day
Going In: Hop the 8am from DGO to arrive in Needleton at 10:30am. Early enough for an afternoon peak!
Coming Out: Ride the 10:30am from Needleton to arrive in Silverton at 11:30am.
Drive to Durago: We were back by 12:45pm