Trail Overview

Three Basins Trail will take you into 3 interesting basins a short distance north of Silverton. These basins are easily accessible but not as well known as many of the larger ones; Ross Basin, Minnehaha Basin, and Velocity Basin. The hanging rail line at this old mine is in Minnehaha Basin. Ross Basin is the shortest of the three and is visible from the Animas Loop road as you go from Silverton to Corkscrew Basin. The road ends at a wide spot on top of mine tailings. The view looking back down the basin is enjoyable. Velocity Basin is a relaxed drive up into another beautiful basin.

Photos of Three Basins

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Difficulty

Uneven, rutted dirt trail with loose rocks, sand, erosion, and washes. Potential water crossings up to a foot deep, mud holes, and obstacles up to 18", including ledges and short, steep grades. Roads are typically one vehicle wide with places to pass.

Technical Rating

Wide Open Roams

Sep 14, 2025

Open

We headed up to Velocity Basin from Silverton, starting on a smooth, wide fire road that’s easy for most vehicles. At the first waypoint, the trail narrows to a single-vehicle width with trees tight on both sides and a shelf edge dropping off as you climb. From there, the road gets steeper and rougher but still very manageable. As you ascend, the trees thin and the basin slowly reveals itself. Cresting the top, the entire basin opens up with a lake, dispersed campsites, and a steep hiking trail for those looking to explore further. It’s an easy-to-moderate trail with a rewarding destination — incredible views, a peaceful lake, and plenty of space to camp or hike. Perfect for a quick outing or an overnight adventure. Watch our video on YouTube! @WideOpenRoams

John P

Aug 12, 2025

Open

Easy going trail. Might be tight in some areas for two-way traffic. Plenty of opportunities to find space to pass. I only visited Velocity Basin. A couple spots give your rig a shake but nothing too terrible. At the trail’s is a beautiful peaceful mountain lake wrapped around by tall mountains. Picked up a tennis ball for the trash bin.

Dave Ohhhh

Jun 27, 2025

Open

I drove it from 10 east and then south to 110. It was open, no snow. A couple water crossings. The road is dry otherwise. A fun, mostly easy drive. Some loose rock, but easy to drive around.

Trey B

Jun 15, 2025

Open

Trail obstructed by snow. We made it to the Minnehaha basin.

Sam Wilson

Jul 24, 2023

Open