Planning for Chicago Basin

[sieggy80305]

I'm planning to do a 14er backpacking trip to Chicago Basin this August. Trouble finding any requirements for permits so I thought I'd throw this question out there just to make sure I don't need to register. Anybody also know requirements for bear canisters?

Thanks!

[Buckie06]

You do not need a permit for hiking/camping in the Basin. You will need to book your train ticket well in advance if that is your intended approach route.

[Danger_D]

I second what Buckie06 said. For the bear cannister question its not required, but is generally encouraged. However you're more likely to have issues from all the mountain goats smelling your food than bears lol

[andlours]

If you take the train, stash some beers in the river for when you get back and are waiting for the train. Read that tip on here and it was amazing advice.

[Bill G]

If you take the train, stash some beers in the river for when you get back and are waiting for the train. Read that tip on here and it was amazing advice.

Just don't count on it being there when you return.

https://14ers.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=60446

[nyker]

I'd recommend walking in from Purgatory. The train is cool and nice touristy thing to do to take in scenery but hiking in will give you more flexibility in timing your trip and it's a nice hike in.

[oldschool]

I'd recommend walking in from Purgatory. The train is cool and nice touristy thing to do to take in scenery but hiking in will give you more flexibility in timing your trip and it's a nice hike in.

Fully agree! Walk in from Purgatory. It's a great hike in and such a more complete experience. I did the Basin that way and so glad I did. It was a 4 day trip....hike in Day 1, 2 peaks Day 2, 2 peaks Day 3, hike out day 4.

Having done all the 14ers, the trip into Chicago Basin was my most favorite 14er trip. Well...Cap to Snowmass traverse wasn't bad either.

Mike

[nyker]

It's also a good warm up and provides for some time for you to acclimatize and better get your 'mountain legs' and workout any last minute bugs in your pack/setup.

[seannunn]

I will take the contrarian side just for fun. This is not to say that there is anything wrong with the approach from Purgatory.

The train is a little bit of money but it is a fun experience.
If you have a friend who can drop you off and pick you up at the train station, you don't have to park there.
The train ride shortens your trip and gets you into the basin with less fatigue.
The train ride means probably 1-2 days less. This means carrying a lot less food and perhaps some other things that might weigh you down.
If none of those things appeal to you then by all means hike in from Purgatory.

Downsides of the train:
Cost
Less flexibility. You have to be back at the bridge when the train gets there; they won't wait the train for you. You can still catch the train the next day, but that would mean nearly 24 hours hanging out near the bridge.
Not as much time in the wilderness.
You probably want to reserve a spot on the train a few months in advance just to be safe, especially during the busy season. Again less flexibility.

Sean Nunn

[sieggy80305]

Ended up grabbing the train and we'll be rolling with that. Thanks for all the input!