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Conundrum #981
Conundrum Trail #981 begins at the intersection with the Copper Creek Trail #983 at the turn off for Copper Lake. It becomes the Conundrum Trail #1981 when it crosses into the White River National Forest at Triangle Pass. This trail is in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. This trail provides excellent scenery, but wanders along hillsides where there are loose rocks. There is very little water along the route. The main attraction on this trail is the Conundrum Hot Springs which is approximately 9 miles from the Copper Creek Trailhead.
A permit is required for overnight stays in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. This zone includes: all of Conundrum Creek Valley from Silver Dollar Pond to Triangle Pass, and includes the popular Conundrum Hot Springs. This permit must be acquired in advance at Recreation.gov.
Copper Creek Trail Map (.pdf)
At a Glance
| Permit Info: |
|
|---|---|
| Open Season: | June - October |
| Usage: | Heavy |
| Best Season: | Summer |
| Busiest Season: | Summer |
| Restrictions: | Wilderness Regulations:
|
| Closest Towns: | Crested Butte, CO |
| Water: | Treat all water before consuming. |
| Restroom: | Pack out human & canine waste using a clean waste bag. |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: | Gunnison Ranger District, (970) 641-0471 |
General Information
Directions:Copper Creek Trailhead:
From Crested Butte, follow the Gothic Road, FSR #317, for approximately 6 miles to the intersection with FSR #317.3A. There is a parking area at this intersection, two-wheeled drive vehicles will need to park here. High Clearance/4WD vehicles can continue on FSR #317.3A for an additional half mile to the Copper Creek Trailhead. Follow the Copper Creek Trail #983 for approximately 4.5 miles to the intersection with the Conundrum Trail #981.
Parking:
Copper Creek Trailhead: T. 12S., R. 86W., Section 34. U.S.G.S. Maps: Gothic and Maroon Bells. Elevation: 9,920 feet.
Activities
Day Hiking
Backpacking
Horse Riding
Highlights
Location
