Even summertime sees the occasional snow! As you descend into the valley, stop at the scenic overlook just before the hairpin turns. Wintertime brings this area the MOST snow in Colorado, so roads are often snow-packed and icy in the winter months. Return to the highway and prepare yourself for a dramatic experience, despite the major US Highway you are traveling on. Notice the windswept conditions of the trees living at “timberline,” and hunt for a few alpine wildflowers! To the northwest lies the Weminuche Wilderness, the largest wilderness area in Colorado. To the far southeast is the Summitville mining district (another great day trip, though 4x4 is required). If you are feeling extra ambitious, a hike around the area might result in a huge payout! One legend suggests a chest of gold was buried on the mountain by soon-to-be-captured Frenchmen running from either Spaniards or Native Utes. To the south you see Treasure Mountain, an area rich in folklore and stories of buried treasure. A steep 5.1 miles gets you high atop Thunder Mountain and provides stunning vistas of the surrounding San Juans. Note this road is occasionally closed to all but hikers and bikers). For a view from the top-of-the-top, take a side tour to the Lobo Overlook (Exit the highway to the right, just before you reach the large pull off/parking area onto County Rd 402. When you reach the summit, just past the Wolf Creek Ski area, you will be on top of the Continental Divide. Head out of South Fork on Highway 160, tuning your iPod to CW McCall’s humorous song “ Wolf Creek Pass,” in which an out of control truck driver attempts to navigate the steep and winding road. This day trip will take you on a dramatic adventure to the top of the world, on a hunt for lost treasure, and at last to an epic natural hot springs that will let you soak it all in…
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