ELWOOD CABIN (CO)

Description
During winter months access to the cabin is by snowmobiles, cross country skiing or snow shoeing. Mileage depends on what route you take to the cabin. Usually ranges from 15 to 23 miles from access points.
During summer months cabin can be accessed by motorized travel to the cabin by all routes. At 11,000 feet in elevation the world takes on a whole new perspective. The air is fresher and crisper, and the stars are brighter. Elwood cabin is located near the old ghost town of Summitville, which lies to the east. To the west are the pristine South San Juan Wilderness and Continental Divide. You know you're in a special place once you've visited this historical Monument?.. Elwood Cabin was originally built by the Mountain States Telephone Company in 1911 as a "line shack" to support crews maintaining the transcontinental telephone line. Remnants of this old telephone line are still found along Iron Creek to the southeast. The cabin was also used as a Forest Service Platoro Station from 1950 until 1962. It was living quarters for Forest Service employees, who worked on numerous projects in the area. The area around Elwood cabin offers a variety of recreational opportunities Access to the cabin in the summertime can be accomplished with just about any vehicle, however when the dirt roads are wet they tend to get slick. Summertime brings some great scenic tour opportunities in and around the Summitville area as well as the historical gold mining settlement of located on Forest Service Rd. 250. You can try your luck at some great wild trout streams such as Iron Creek or Treasure Creek. For a little more relaxation or bank fishing take a drive to distant, Platoro Reservoir or Mix Lake. For the more enthusiastic fisherman, a short, but rugged hike will offer some of the best cutthroat fishing at Crater Lake. Great hiking can be found around the area, in the breathtaking South San Juan Wilderness and adjacent San Juan National Forest. Fall brings spectacular co to the area, "a sight to see". Winter provides a variety of activities. Access to Elwood cabin in the winter requires snowmobile, snowshoes, or skis for the last three miles. Be prepared for heavy snows. Think safety from the time you leave your vehicle till you return to vehicle and come prepared. The Elwood cabin area can be blank with as much as 10 feet of snow, which could require some good outdoor ski and equipment. Some of the best snow mobiling around can be enjoyed in this Remember to inquire about snowmobile rules and regulations. All snowmobiles and ATV's must be registered with the state of Colorado. Most snowmobile riding is in open country and on roads and trails that are groomed or packed. There is also great cross country skiing, and snow shoeing. Be aware of avalanches in the area. When traveling alone make sure and let somebody know where you are going and when you plan to be back. Dress appropriately and pack enough food to get by for at least 48 hours.