Porphyry Basin - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

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.

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.

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

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.
    

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.

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.

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.

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

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