Geology Tours
Space is limited for these programs, to reserve your spot please call the Lake Fork Valley Conservancy
970-944-5382, email info@lfvc.org, or stop by the LFVC office at 118 N. Silver St.
970-944-5382, email info@lfvc.org, or stop by the LFVC office at 118 N. Silver St.
VOLCANO DRIVING TOUR
May28 July2 Aug13 Sept3 Join local geologist , Harvey DuChene, as he unveils the volcanic origins of the rugged San Juan Mountains. This tour begins at the Windy Point Overlook on HWY 149 South of Lake City and makes its way to several overlooks as it heads back into town and culminates at San Juan Ranches. This event is jointly sponsored by the Hinsdale County Museum. Meeting Place: Lake City Museum - 8:45 am Cost: $25.00 |

MESA SECO INTERPRETIVE HIKE
July 14
August 11
September 8
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult; steep, alpine hiking; Trail is in good condition with solid footing.
Minimum Participants: 3, Maximum: 8
Overview: This short and steep hike up to 12,000’ provides a view of the Slumgullion Earthflow that will take your breath away! The trailhead starts at a stream and winds its way through alpine meadows and forest to treeline, where it continues to climb gradually as you walk through the high alpine tundra of Cannibal Plateau. Topics of discussion include geology, botany, and history behind the namesake of Slumgullion Earthflow and Cannibal Plateau. Bring weather-appropriate clothing, terrain-appropriate footwear, snacks, and plenty of water.
Meeting Place: Meet at the LFVC office at 118 N. Silver St.
Cost: $40.00
July 14
August 11
September 8
- Length: 3-5 hours
Distance: About 2 miles out-and-back (roughly 1 mile each-way)
Elevation: 11,100’ - 12,000’ (roughly 900’ vertical gain)
Difficulty: Moderate to difficult; steep, alpine hiking; Trail is in good condition with solid footing.
Minimum Participants: 3, Maximum: 8
Overview: This short and steep hike up to 12,000’ provides a view of the Slumgullion Earthflow that will take your breath away! The trailhead starts at a stream and winds its way through alpine meadows and forest to treeline, where it continues to climb gradually as you walk through the high alpine tundra of Cannibal Plateau. Topics of discussion include geology, botany, and history behind the namesake of Slumgullion Earthflow and Cannibal Plateau. Bring weather-appropriate clothing, terrain-appropriate footwear, snacks, and plenty of water.
Meeting Place: Meet at the LFVC office at 118 N. Silver St.
Cost: $40.00

SLUMGULLION EARTHFLOW GEOLOGY HIKE
Length: 3-4 hours
Distance: 1-2 miles (depends how much exploring is done at the Earthflow)
Elevation: 9,658’ - 10,400’
Location(s): Slumgullion Earthflow (See map for directions)
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate - short distance but terrain is uneven with loose footing.
Overview: Join us for the unique opportunity to stand on a landslide that is still moving! This
short hike leads up and onto the actual Slumgullion Earthflow to the USGS monitoring site
where scientists are monitoring rates of movement.
Itinerary:
● 8 am - Meet at the LFVC Office
● 8:30 am - Drive to Peniston Park on Highway 149, about 4.4 miles SE of Lake City. There is a
road that ends at a picnic/parking area next to the highway (see map).
● 11:00ish am - Return to vehicles at Peniston Park and return to Lake City
Driving Directions: This trip has a 3 vehicle maximum due to limited parking. There are no public bathrooms
here.
Length: 3-4 hours
Distance: 1-2 miles (depends how much exploring is done at the Earthflow)
Elevation: 9,658’ - 10,400’
Location(s): Slumgullion Earthflow (See map for directions)
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate - short distance but terrain is uneven with loose footing.
Overview: Join us for the unique opportunity to stand on a landslide that is still moving! This
short hike leads up and onto the actual Slumgullion Earthflow to the USGS monitoring site
where scientists are monitoring rates of movement.
Itinerary:
● 8 am - Meet at the LFVC Office
● 8:30 am - Drive to Peniston Park on Highway 149, about 4.4 miles SE of Lake City. There is a
road that ends at a picnic/parking area next to the highway (see map).
● 11:00ish am - Return to vehicles at Peniston Park and return to Lake City
Driving Directions: This trip has a 3 vehicle maximum due to limited parking. There are no public bathrooms
here.