Top 10 Aspen Outdoors Adventures

Our Local Expert Says:

A challenging peak that is only for experienced climbers or those hiring a local guide to lead them to the top; one of the most difficult 14ers to ascend!

Description:

One of the true jewels of Rocky Mountains, 14,014 ft. North Maroon Peak is a coveted summit for those bagging 14ers or simply climbers looking for an adventure. North Maroon is a difficult, semi-technical climb that is not for inexperienced climbers; those lacking mountain experience can hire a guide in town. The round trip adventure ascends over 3,000 ft. and is a 16 mile round trip. For this reason, many chose to camp out and do the peak in two days instead of in an epic 1-day push. Even the easiest route up North Maroon is a technical climb on steep snow and rotten rock, so be ready for tough terrain and class 4 moves if you want to top out!

Description:

Standing 14,265 above sea level, Castle Peak is one of Colorado's famous 14ers and the highest point in the Elk Range. Despite its lofty presence, a hike to the top of Castle Peak is a non-technical but strenuous trek that is best made in summer or early autumn. Get an early start to avoid storms! The round trip mileage for a trip to Castle's apex is roughly 12 miles if you start from the passenger car trailhead and 7 miles if you drive farther up the rugged 4x4 road. Most reasonably fit people can reach the top; just make sure to take a few days to adjust to the altitude if you are coming from out of town. For more detailed information on routes, please visit 14ers.com.

Our Local Expert Says:

In Summer, you can drive up and park if arrival at the gate is before opening; call for details.

Description:

If you have to choose one outdoor related activity while in Aspen, put a visit to Maroon Bells at the top of your list. Its three prominent and sharply defined peaks are some of the most photographed mountains in North America. Hike the trail around Maroon Lake, which is easy and offers spectacular views of the mountains reflecting off the shimmering water. Due to heavy traffic, this area is accessible only by bus during the summer, unless you prefer to hike or bike in. Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, buses run daily from 8:30am to 5pm. After Labor Day, car traffic is allowed on weekdays up until the road closes for the winter due to snow. Pack water and food for there are no refreshment stands.

Description:

Those looking for an epic winter adventure will love the challenge of the 25-mile Aspen to Crested Butte ski traverse. This hut-based adventure can take anywhere between 1-3 days and ends in the town of Crested Butte, where you'll need to either leave a vehicle or take a shuttle back to Aspen. Established but ungroomed trails go over a 12,075 ft. pass that cuts through the Elk Range and ends in the town of Crested Butte. Huts must be reserved in advance (contact the Ashcroft Ski Touring Center (970) 925 1971 for more info) and include Tagert and Friends Huts.

Description:

Cathedral Lake Trail is a hearty day hike, but don't let its strenuous nature deter you. The 6.4 mile round trip is an out and back, on-trail adventure that climbs steeply to the amazing amphitheater of Cathedral Lake. Huge rock formations surround the alpine waters, making for an incredible all-natural setting. Nearby Electric Pass provides even more scenery for fit hikers or backpackers that have the energy to explore the area. To reach the trailhead, drive 1/2 mile west of Aspen on Highway 82 and at the roundabout, turn onto Castle Creek Road. Continue 12.2 miles up Castle Creek and turn right onto a gravel road, driving a 1/2 mile to the trailhead.

Our Local Expert Says:

Stream crossings in June and July can pose difficult crossings. Wildflowers in July/August are superb.

Description:

This is a moderate climb with a couple steep sections. This trail is good for hiking and backpacking. Fishing is fair in Independence Lake, Lost Man Lake, and Lost Man Reservoir. The trail is not a complete loop; it is a good idea to set up a shuttle. The narrative is from Lost Man Campground, follow in reverse if starting from the upper parking lot. The trail begins to the left of the bulletin board and quickly crosses a wooden bridge. At the 1/2 mile mark, the trail forks. Take the right (left goes to Midway Pass) and continue to Lost Man Reservoir and keep left around the reservoir. At approximately the 3-1/2 mile mark there is a junction, turn right (left goes to South Fork Pass). The trail gradually ascends to Lost Man Lake. From the lake the trail ascends steeply to the top of a pass and then descends steeply to Independence Lake. The trail descends gradually to Highway 82, about 4 miles to the trailhead. Directions: 1. Lost Man Campground: Drive 14 miles east of Aspen on Highway 82 to the parking lot directly across from Lost Man Campground. The trailhead begins on the left (north) side of the highway. 2. Last Switchback: Drive 18-1/2 miles east of Aspen on Highway 82 to the... read more

Our Local Expert Says:

A wonderful, modest day hike into the beautiful Colorado backcountry that is just over 5 miles, round trip.

Description:

Difficult Creek campground is the starting point for this backcountry adventure. The trail crosses several streams and sagebrush flats before ending 2.6 miles at a series of old mining cabins. Those hoping to explore off-trail can continue on into the wilderness, provided they are adequately prepared to self-navigate in the woods. Wildlife abounds in this area and photographers will have plenty of opportunities to shoot images of the mountain wilderness. To reach the Difficult Creek Trail, drive 5 miles southeast of the Aspen Ranger District Office on Hwy. 82 and turn right into Difficult Campground. 0.6 miles down the road, park your vehicle at the picnic area on the right.

Description:

This 17-mile hike presents a continuous visual buffet line of amazing mountain scenery. Gin-clear alpine lakes, cascading streams, beaver ponds, and endless mountain peaks are the norm rather than the exception. Time this two-day hike in late July for an amazing wildflower display. Camping options abound in the Minnehaha Gulch area. As an exclamation point to the hike it ends at the base of the famous Maroon Bells. From Snowmass follow Divide Road past Krabloonik's Restaurant. After a deep descent, take the left fork. The trailhead is at the end of the road. This trail is one of the most heavily used trails in the Aspen area. Hikers, backpackers and horse travelers enjoy the wildflowers, views and access to other areas within the Wilderness. Camping at Crater Lake (designated sites only) and Snowmass Lake can get very crowded.

This trail description starts at Snowmass Falls Ranch following a road that turns into a single track. In a little over 1 mile the trail forks, stay left (right goes to West Snowmass Trail). The trail ascends to the east side of the Snowmass Creek for about 6 miles. The trail continues to the left of a large beaver pond and shortly crosses a second beaver pond...