Needle Creek

This swimming spot is so secret that even most locals have never heard of it!

Plan Around Needle Creek

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Needle Creek Details

This swimming spot is so secret that even most locals have never heard of it! Tucked away in the San Juan Mountains, this powerful creek can be reached by trekking along the Needle Creek Trail near the Chicago Basin. There are several waterfalls and plenty of shaded areas where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The waters can be cold (it is mostly snowmelt runoff from the mountains), but it is makes for a refreshing swim for anyone looking to escape the hot weather.

Difficulty

Low

Distance

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Estimated time

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Nearby Parks Around Needle Creek

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Nearby Points of Interest Around Needle Creek

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Needle Creek while the map context is still fresh.

6.2 mi away

Adrenaline Falls

With a name like this, you know this swimming hole is going to be a whole lot of fun.

11.2 mi away

San Juan National Forest

San Juan National Forest is about 1.8 million acres of outdoor opportunity.

14.4 mi away

Shenandoah-Dives Mill

This historic mill was built in 1929 in Silverton to mine for silver, gold, lead, zinc, and copper.

25.0 mi away

Animas River Trail

This pleasant 9.4-mile route along the Animas River is a mix of both scenic views and urban landscapes.

26.0 mi away

Bear Creek National Recreation Trail

Follows the path forged by miners looking to extract and transport gold in the 1800s.