Porphyry Basin - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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About Porphyry Basin

The Porphyry Basin is a large area of mineralized rocks in San Juan County. The basin contains a variety of copper, molybdenum, and silver deposits, as well as some uranium and coal. The basin is approximately 3,000 square miles in size and is located at an elevation of 8,000-10,000 feet. The basin is home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, deer, and mountain lions. human activity in the basin includes mining, ranching, and recreation.

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Things to Do at Porphyry Basin

If you're looking for things to do in San Juan County, Colorado, consider a visit to Porphyry Basin. This scenic area is located just outside of Silverton and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. One popular activity is hiking. There are numerous trails in the area, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. In addition to hiking, Porphyry Basin is also a great place for birdwatching. Some of the birds that can be seen in the area include eagles, hawks, and ospreys. There are also several opportunities for fishing in Porphyry Basin. The area is home to a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and pike. So whether you're looking for a peaceful place to take a hike or you're hoping to catch a big fish, Porphyry Basin is definitely worth a visit.

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History of Porphyry Basin

The Porphyry Basin is a large area of exposed bedrock in San Juan County, Colorado. The basin is named for the porphyritic rock that makes up much of its surface. This rock is a type of igneous rock that is characterized by large crystals embedded in a smaller matrix. The basin formed millions of years ago when magma rose to the surface and cooled, forming the rock that we see today.

The Porphyry Basin has been a source of minerals and other natural resources for centuries. Early Native Americans used the area for hunting and gathering. In the 1800s, prospectors began exploring the basin for gold and silver. Today, the basin is home to a variety of mines and quarries. It is also a popular recreation destination, with numerous hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities. With its rich history and abundance of natural beauty, the Porphyry Basin is truly a unique place.

Best Time to Visit Porphyry Basin

The best time to visit the Porphyry Basin is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and dry. 

Tips for Visiting Porphyry Basin

  1. Get an early start. The Porphyry Basin is a popular destination, so you'll want to get an early start if you want to avoid the crowds.
  2. . Bring your sunscreen. The sun can be intense at high altitudes, so make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen.
  3.  Be prepared for the weather. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so it's important to be prepared for all conditions.
  4. Wear appropriate footwear. There is a lot of loose rock in the basin, so make sure you wear sturdy shoes with good traction.
  5. Watch for wildlife. The Basin is home to many different types of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for animals as you hike.
  6. Don't forget your camera! Porphyry Basin is an incredibly photogenic place and you're sure to want to capture some memories of your visit.
  7. Take advantage of the night sky. Away from the light pollution of cities, Porphyry Basin offers amazing views of the stars at night. Be sure to pack a telescope or binoculars if you're hoping to do some stargazing during your stay.
  8. Don't forget your fishing gear! The lakes and streams in this area are teeming with trout, making Porphyry Basin a perfect destination for anglers of all levels of experience.
     

Interesting Facts and Trivias About Porphyry Basin

  1. The basin covers an area of approximately 2,200 square kilometers. The average depth of the basin is 1,500 meters.
  2. The basin contains more than 400 billion tons of porphyry copper. The total value of the minerals in the basin is estimated to be $1 trillion.
  3. The basin is also a major source of molybdenum, accounting for 20% of global production.
  4. Several large mines are currently in operation in the basin, including the Henderson Mine and Climax Mine.
  5. Porphyry Basin is also home to several geothermal power plants, which generate electricity by tapping into the region's natural heat sources.
  6. The basin contains more than 500 individual volcanoes, making it the largest concentration of volcanoes in Colorado.
  7.  Porphyry Basin is home to the largest concentration of hot springs in Colorado, with more than 200 springs located within its boundaries.

How Much Time Did Visitors Spend at Porphyry Basin

The maximum time that should be spent exploring the Porphyry Basin is six hours. This will allow plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and amenities the area has to offer without tiring yourself out.

How to Reach Porphyry Basin

To reach the Porphyry Basin in San Juan County, Colorado, take Highway 550 north from Durango for about 30 miles. The turnoff for the Porphyry Basin road is well marked and is located just past the city of Silverton. From the turnoff, it is a short drive of about four miles to reach the Porphyry Basin trailhead.

Entrance Fee of Porphyry Basin

There is no entrance fee to explore Porphyry Basin, San Juan county, Colorado. However, there are parking fees for vehicles entering the area. 

Opening Hours of Porphyry Basin

Porphyry Basin is open to the public from dawn to dusk. Be sure to check the weather conditions before exploring the area. 

Attractions Near Porphyry Basin

Red Mountain Pass

Red Mountain Pass

3.56km from Porphyry Basin

Red Mountain Pass is one of the most scenic mountain passes in Colorado. The pass lies between two mountain ranges, the San Juans to the west and the Cimarron range to the east. It is popular with tourists for its spectacular views and for its some 11,000 acres of alpine meadows, which are home to a variety of wildlife including bighorn sheep, elk, and deer. The pass is also popular with hikers and campers due to its close proximity to several fourteeners, or peaks that rise over 14,000 feet.

Lookout Peak

Lookout Peak

3.86km from Porphyry Basin

Lookout Peak is a mountain and the highest point in the Lizard Head Wilderness and is located in the San Juan Mountains. The peak is named for its views of the surrounding area, which include the towns of Telluride and Rico. Lookout Peak is accessible via a hiking trail that begins at the top of Dunton Road. The trail is approximately 3.5 miles long and gains over 2,000 feet in elevation. It is considered to be a moderate to difficult hike, depending on fitness level and experience.

Bridal Veil Falls

Bridal Veil Falls

3.97km from Porphyry Basin

Bridal Veil Falls is a waterfall located in San Miguel County. The falls are located on a tributary of the San Miguel River, and they cascade down a steep cliff face for nearly 300 feet. The falls are particularly popular with hikers and photographers, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. In addition to its natural beauty, Bridal Veil Falls is also noteworthy for its historical significance. The falls were once used by Native Americans as a site for religious ceremonies.

Ingram Falls

Ingram Falls

4.09km from Porphyry Basin

Ingram Falls is located in the San Miguel county of Colorado. The falls are situated on a tributary of the San Miguel river, and they flow over a bed of limestone. The falls are approximately 30 feet high, and they have a wide variety of plant life growing on their banks. The area around the falls is popular for hiking and bird watching, and the views from the top of the falls are stunning. Ingram Falls is a beautiful natural feature that is definitely worth a visit.

Red Mountain

Red Mountain

4.45km from Porphyry Basin

Red Mountain is a summit in the San Juan Mountains of Ouray County. The mountain is notable for its ruby-red color, which is caused by the presence of high levels of iron oxide in the rock. The area around Red Mountain is popular for hiking, camping, and rock climbing. It is also home to a number of mines, including the Idarado Mine, which was once one of the largest producers of silver and gold in Colorado. Today, the mountain is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Ajax Peak

Ajax Peak

4.63km from Porphyry Basin

Ajax Peak is a summit in the San Miguel Mountains, which is notable for its views of the surrounding area, as well as its proximity to the town of Telluride. Ajax Peak is one of the more popular hiking destinations in the area, and the trailhead is easily accessible from Telluride. The hike to the summit is relatively short and easy, making it a great option for families. Once at the top, hikers are treated to 360 views of the San Juans, including 14ers such as Mount Sneffels and Wilson Peak.

Discover More Attractions in San Juan County, Home of Porphyry Basin

San Juan County

San Juan County

29 attractions

San Juan County, located in the southwest corner of Colorado, is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. The county is home to several popular National Parks and Monuments, including Mesa Verde National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and Hovenweep National Monument. In addition, the San Juan Mountains offer ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing. Thanks to its abundant natural beauty, San Juan County is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Colorado. In fact, the county w

Location of Porphyry Basin

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