Maroon-Snowmass Trailhead, #1975
ALERTS:
• Bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.
• Advance reservation permits are required for overnight stays in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones.
Starting from the Snowmass Creek Trailhead, the trail climbs into the aspen trees. The trail climbs on the east side of Snowmass Creek for about 6 miles. It continues past a large beaver pond and soon crosses Snowmass Creek at a second beaver pond. Sandals are recommended for this stream crossing. The trail then continues south climbing several switchbacks before entering the forest. As the trail levels you will come to a wooden sign post. Continue straight ahead to get to Snowmass Lake. Take the left fork to remain on the Maroon-Snowmass Trail. The trail descends through forest and crosses Snowmass Creek. The trail ascends into the valley and begins a steep climb to Buckskin Pass. From the top of Buckskin Pass the trail drops steeply into a vast alpine meadow. The trail descends steeply through Minnehaha Gulch, which provides excellent camping, and then continues its steep descent to the junction at Crater Lake. You can camp in designated sites at Crater Lake or continue to the left towards Maroon Lake.
SAFETY: Remember climbing is dangerous, even deadly!
Check out Colorado Fourteeners Initiative YouTube Channel to learn more.
At a Glance
Permit Info: | A permit is required for overnight stays in Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. This permit must be acquired in advance at recreation.gov. For all other overnight trips to the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, registration is required at the trailhead. |
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Usage: | Light |
Restrictions: | Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness regulations protect this special place:
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Closest Towns: | Aspen, CO |
Water: | Filter and treat all water |
Restroom: | No restrooms in Wilderness; see Restrictions |
Information Center: | Supervisor's Office: 900 Grand Ave. Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 970-945-2521 |
General Information
Directions:Located 10 miles southwest of Aspen, Colorado, on Maroon Creek Road. From Highway 82 take the Maroon Creek Road exit at the roundabout on the West edge of town. Follow Maroon Creek Road to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station.
Coming to Aspen via Independence Pass: Take Highway 82 West from downtown Aspen 1 mile to the roundabout (rotary). From the roundabout, take Maroon Creek Road 4.7 miles to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station. You will pass Aspen High school and Aspen Highlands Ski Area on the way to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station, Independence Pass (Highway 82) is normally open from Memorial Day through mid-October, weather dependent. If you are planning an event during these times, please call the Colorado Department of Transportation Hotline for road updates at (877) 315-7623.
Coming to Aspen via Glenwood Springs: Take Highway 82 for 40 miles to the roundabout (rotary). From the roundabout, take Maroon Creek Road 4.7 miles to the Welcome Station.