Chasing the Chicago Basin Dream: A Guide for the Not-So-Adventurous
So, you want to go to the Chicago Basin, huh? Good for you! You've got excellent taste in wilderness areas. Just don't expect me to join you. I prefer my wilderness to come with Wi-Fi and room service. But I digress. Let's talk about how to get your butt to this magical place.
Option 1: The Allure of the Iron Horse
Now, this is the glamorous way to do it. Hop on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. It's like stepping back in time, minus the cholera and questionable hygiene practices. You'll chug along through stunning scenery, feeling like a rugged outdoorsman, even if you're secretly terrified of heights and bugs. Just remember, the train doesn’t actually land in Chicago Basin. You'll still have to hike a bit. But hey, at least you got the cool train ride out of it.
Option 2: The Backpacker's Baptism
If you're feeling particularly masochistic, you can hike in. There are a few different routes, each promising its own unique blend of pain and suffering. You'll be carrying everything on your back, which is a great way to bond with your gear and develop a deep-seated hatred for the concept of comfort.
Pro Tip: Don't forget to pack a sense of humor. It's going to come in handy when you're halfway up a mountain, your shoes are filling with blisters, and you're questioning all your life choices.
What to Expect: Bears, Bugs, and Bliss
Once you finally make it to Chicago Basin, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views, crystal-clear lakes, and the sweet, sweet sound of silence. But don't get too comfortable. Bears are a real thing here, and they're not afraid to steal your food. And let's not forget the bugs. They're like tiny, winged vampires, determined to make your life miserable.
But amidst all the challenges, there's a sense of peace and solitude that's hard to find anywhere else. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the world and reconnect with yourself. Or at least with your hiking boots.
How to... Chicago Basin Edition
- How to prepare for the altitude: Start acclimatizing a few days before your trip. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
- How to pack light: Every ounce counts. Leave the luxury items at home. You don't need a hairdryer in the wilderness.
- How to deal with bears: Store your food properly and make noise while hiking. You don't want to surprise a grumpy bear.
- How to find the best campsites: Look for flat ground near a water source, but avoid areas with lots of bear scat.
- How to enjoy the experience: Remember, it's about the journey, not the destination. So take your time, soak it all in, and don't forget to bring a good book (or a Kindle, if you're really committed to the digital age).