Top Colorado Hike: Crested Butte to Aspen Through Iconic Maroon Bells
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Trekking Crested Butte to Aspen in 2024: Two Routes, One Wilderness
Aspen and Crested Butte are gateways to some of the best Colorado hikes. More specifically, the trails for hiking the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness dole out jaw-dropping views and wildflowers upon every turn.
Hiking between Aspen and Crested Butte is no small endeavor, but can be accomplished many different ways.
Be forewarned it takes a lot of planning months ahead of time.
The best months to hike between Crested Butte and Aspen, Colorado are late June to mid-October. July is the best time of year to immerse yourself in wildflowers, and late September is ideal fall foliage peeping. June and October could easily mean trudging through snow if you’re up for it.
Many prefer to hike the West Maroon Pass from Aspen, starting at Maroon Lake and ending near Schofield Pass, north of Gothic.
We hiked the West Maroon Pass in reverse from Crested Butte to Aspen. We absolutely loved this route and we will share details and explain below just how we did it.
Planning this Colorado hiking trip is complicated and honestly, it’s a lot of details to wrap one’s brain around when it comes to reaching trailheads. Book a Zoom call with us and we can help make sure you understand all the steps you should take to best plan for this adventure.
We highly recommend taking two days to hike in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness, via two different routes.
Some folks only hike Aspen to Crested Butte (or Crested Butte to Aspen) in one direction, and then ride a reserved private shuttle back. Or you can hire someone to transport your vehicle back to you between Aspen and Crested Butte.
On Day Two, we hiked the less popular East Maroon Pass (below video) from Aspen to Crested Butte’s Judd Falls/ Copper Lake Trailhead, closer to Gothic. Forest Rangers told us we’d hardly see a soul while hiking the beautiful East Maroon Pass, and they were right!
No matter how you slice it, the hike from Crested Butte to Aspen, and vice versa, takes some planning and coordinating.
The top of East Maroon Pass
Enjoy Hiking in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness
The Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness in Colorado is part of the Elk Mountains and covers the White River and Gunnison National Forests. The Wilderness area encompasses the iconic Maroon Bells Scenic Area.
A lot of avid backpackers and hikers frequent this area. Permits are required for overnight stays in the backcountry.
PRO TIP ON CAMPING IN BACKCOUNTRY HERE: The best way to plan for your trip and to be ready to reserve a permit is to understand where you plan to camp each night of your trip. Look over the Overnight Permit Zone Map to understand which zones in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness require a permit. If you (and your group) plan to camp in a permitted zone, you will need to reserve a spot in each zone for each night that you camp. For example, this would all be required if you choose to backpack the Four Pass Loop or camp overnight at Conundrum Hot Springs.
If you plan to start your trip at the Maroon Scenic Area, you will need to reserve a parking or bus reservation. You will receive a link in your confirmation email when you reserve parking or bus transportation. There are a limited number of parking spaces available so you may need to reserve a bus ticket. More on this again below.
One of the sweet things about the Maroon Bells is that people of all capabilities can enjoy them. Beginner hikers to advanced hikers, as well as old and young can enjoy short hikes to longer overnight backpacking trips spanning several days and nights. Permits and restrictions apply*.
How to reach the maroon bells from aspen
Again, from the Aspen side, reservations are required to hike to the Maroon Bells when entering the scenic area by personal vehicle or shuttle. Vehicle access begins mid-May and the shuttle system from Aspen Highlands begins in early June. You will receive a link in your confirmation email to reserve parking or bus transportation.
Personal vehicles are allowed from mid-May until the Maroon Bells Shuttle begins operating in early June, however, reservations are now required due to minimal parking at the lake.
During the high season, starting in mid-May, private vehicles can only drive up to the Bells before 8am and after 5pm.
Between early June and late October between the hours of 8am and 5pm, ALL VISITORS are required to take the shuttle bus from Aspen Highlands. Visit the Aspen Resort Chamber Association site for 2024 reservations* and updated dates this summer.
NEW for 2024: Roaring Fork Express now offers private shuttles from Denver International Airport to the Maroon Bells and the Aspen airport during the summer months.
Down below we break down our itinerary and share logistics for hiking Colorado’s Crested Butte to Aspen — and back! We felt our plan worked out heavenly and would totally do the trek this way again!
*Those wanting to park overnight to backpack in the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness need to make a reservation for camping in the backcountry, in addition to their reservations to park overnight.
How to Hike from Crested Butte to Aspen — and back!
This 2 day hike is a 3 day commitment to accommodate for driving into the mountains, even if you live in Colorado.
Day 1: Drive to Crested Butte, go paddling, and acclimate to higher elevation
Day 2: Hike Crested Butte to Aspen, sleep in Aspen
Day 3: Hike Aspen to Crested Butte
While this ultimate adventure should definitely be on every avid hiker’s list of best Colorado hikes, it definitely requires some planning months in advance.
PRO TIP: You will not need a permit to park on the Crested Butte side at Schofield Pass, but you will need a high clearance vehicle to reach the trailhead. My Ford Explorer did fine. Remember, anyone wishing to park a car at the Maroon Scenic Bells Area on the Aspen side will need to make a reservation to park there in the high season.
Book a Zoom call with us and we can help you make sure you’re taking all the steps to best plan for this memorable hiking adventure.
Headed up West Maroon Pass - Backpacking the Four Pass Loop
Having hiked the Grand Canyon rim to rim to rim in Arizona, we know how strenuous hikes tax the body. This arduous hike from Crested Butte to Aspen in Colorado is totally doable for the active, prepared hiker who’s willing to rise before dawn.
You should definitely train for this hike. Log lots of miles, inclines and declines, and practice carrying your pack ahead of time.
Always be aware of how you feel hiking at higher altitude, especially if coming from much closer to sea level.
Wear the right backpack
You’ll be logging lots of steps and hours on these Colorado trails so it’s important to wear the right hiking daypack.
We love Osprey’s Packfinder tool - they make some of the world’s best daypacks and overnight backpacks, in our combined 50+ years of hiking and backpacking experience.
You’ll want a 24L to 36L pack to get the job done.
We talk about what to pack near the end of this post.
Here’s our Crested Butte - Aspen hiking and travel itinerary broken down, including extras like hotel stays, restaurants, and SUP paddling locations.
Table of Contents
Day 1 - Driving to Crested Butte via Cottonwood Pass
Where to stay in Crested Butte Colorado
Where to eat in Crested Butte
Day 2 - Hiking West Maroon Pass from Crested Butte to Aspen
Reaching the West Maroon Pass Trailhead
Private Shuttle Option to West Maroon Pass TH
Where do I get the Maroon Bells Shuttle to Aspen?
Where to stay in Aspen Colorado
Where to eat in Aspen
Day 3 - Hiking the East Maroon Pass from Aspen to Crested Butte
Reaching the East Maroon Pass Trailhead
Highlights of the hike from Aspen to Crested Butte
How to get back to your vehicle at the other trailhead
Overnight Backpacking in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness
Packing list - you’ll definitely want this!
Let’s Talk.
Got questions about planning this epic hike in Colorado? Book a one hour call with us and we can help!
Photo by Donald Giannatti on Unsplash
Day 1 - Driving to Crested Butte via Cottonwood Pass
We made a bee line from Colorado Springs to Crested Butte’s Lake Irwin for some afternoon SUP paddling at Lake Irwin (10,200’). This is a great way to spend a little more time acclimating to higher elevation.
Lake Irwin is also a breathtaking place to camp in Crested Butte in the summer.
NOTE: Construction/Remodel dates are still pending for Lake Irwin - The campground will open on a First come First Serve basis as soon as weather allows (Around Mid June 2024 is normal). No reservations will be available until further notice!
The best part about the drive? We drove all the way from Colorado Springs, sans-interstate, to Buena Vista via Hwy 24. We stopped at Brown Dog Coffee in beloved Buena Vista before hopping on one of Colorado’s scenic highways, Cottonwood Pass, over towards Crested Butte.
Open seasonally, Cottonwood Pass will take you up and over 12,000’. You’ll pass wonderful reservoirs and campgrounds, before cutting off via CR-742 and CR-813 to State Hwy 135 North into Crested Butte.
The Isle Megalodon is a a great multi person inflatable paddle board that also travels well.
For Hikers Who Also Love to Paddle Board in Colorado
Buena Vista and Salida offers some stellar hiking trails, as well as fun paddling at Cottonwood Lake. Note that Cottonwood Pass in Chaffee/Gunnison Counties in southwestern Colorado is typically closed from November through May.
Bringing your own inflatable paddle boards and picnic lunch for a sweet afternoon paddling in the sunshine.
Here are favorite places to take your SUP in Crested Butte.
PRO TIP: When you bring your own inflatable paddle boards, you can enjoy them on Colorado lakes from sunrise to sunset without the stress of a reservation window or late return fee.
The Isle Megalodon is a fabulous multi person inflatable paddleboard easy to travel with anywhere.
Emerald Lake sits is along the breath-taking Schofield Pass just outside Crested Butte — you’ll pass it on the way to the West Maroon trailhead — and is beautiful lake for paddling. In early summer, paddling the lower Slate River in Crested Butte is scenic and relaxing.
Head over to Wheelies and Waves if you’d rather rent paddle boards in Crested Butte.
Where to stay in Crested Butte, Colorado
Hands down, every hardcore hiker who’s opting out of camping should stay at the historic Nordic Inn.
The Nordic Inn is the first and only remaining hotel in Mt. Crested Butte since this ski town was established in 1963. Beautifully renovated, charming, spacious, and clean, a double queen room was perfect. The host even sent us off with hard-boiled eggs in the morning. (14 Treasury Rd, Crested Butte, CO 81224)
Can’t get a room at the Nordic Inn? We’ve also had great luck at the spacious Elevation Hotel and Spa across the road. Right on the mountain, the Elevation Hotel is a great base for winter skiing too.
Or why not stay a few nights in dreamy Crested Butte after your big hike? Then you can have ALL the adventures! Boasting two prime sports, skiing in winter and mountain biking among wildflower havens in summer, remember Crested Butte offers more than just stunning hikes and paddling.
Book a Crested Butte vacation home and discover a charming historic town with an easy-going vibe. Its hip restaurants intermixed with funky shops make Colorado that much more colorful year-round.
Get 20% OFF Newly Listed Vacation Homes.
Crested Butte is ideal for a romantic Colorado retreat. Read about Crested Butte and 10 other Colorado destinations for couples getaways.
Where to Eat in Crested Butte
Here are a few of our favorite hops and stops for fueling up before the next day’s big hike:
Secret Stash — voted best pizza in Crested Butte year after year. We understood why after we dove into the Pinhead Pesto and the Notorious Fig, the famous Winner of the World Champion Pizza Challenge. Great salads, secret sloshes, and excellent gluten-free and dairy free options as well. 303 Elk Ave, Crested Butte, CO
Camp 4 Coffee — this tiny license-plated building roasts their own beans and serves up pastries and delicious Chai tea to boot. Outdoor seating only and worth the wait. 402 1/2 Elk Ave, Crested Butte, CO
Soupcon is for those not afraid to splurge. Tantalize your tastebuds in this historic mining cabin. Feast on American cuisine crafted with French methods and paired with an award winning wine list. 127 Elk Ave # A, Crested Butte, CO
Day 2 - Hiking West Maroon Pass from Crested Butte to Aspen
Length: 11.5 miles from West Maroon Pass to Maroon Lake
Time needed: 6 hours; but you are only as fast as your slowest hiker!
Elevation: Start hiking at over 10,000’, gaining 2240’ to the pass at 12,500’
Route: West Maroon Trail #1970 over the pass and to Crater Lake, then Maroon Snowmass Trail #1975 to Maroon Lake.
Driving Gothic Road up to the West Maroon Pass Trailhead
REaching the Trailhead
We drove an SUV with high clearance to the trailhead. An SUV or 4X4 vehicle is strongly recommended to drive the long, bumpy stretch to the West Maroon Pass Trailhead. Allow yourself 45 minutes to make the drive*.
From Crested Butte, drive Gothic Road north 14 miles over Schofield Pass, following the East River. There is a bit of the road that is wide enough for one vehicle only. Take your time!
NOTE: Early in summer, there still could be plenty of snow at Schofield Pass, forcing you to park sooner and start your hike earlier, adding mileage. Check road conditions before you go.
You will pass Emerald Lake on your left. Shortly after the pass there is a large parking lot and the trailhead is on the right side. See this map to get your bearings.
PRO TIP: Those driving uphill have right away. Be prepared to hit reverse on the way down if someone is driving up. Drive slowly and surely!
*Private Shuttle to the West Maroon Trailhead
If you don’t have the proper 4X4 vehicle to drive you to the West Maroon Trailhead, you can book a shuttle through Alpine Express or Dolly’s Mountain Shuttle. They will pick you up from town and take you to the trailhead.
Both companies also offer a pick up at the trailhead with a drop off back in town for your return trip, or they can be booked for a ride all the way back to Aspen.
Also, keep in mind that Maroon Bells Shuttles offers to drive your personal vehicle around to the other side so it’s waiting for you, should you desire to only hike one way between Crested Butte and Aspen. You can start your day in either Aspen or Crested Butte. Just tell them where you want your vehicle picked up and dropped off in those towns and they’ll transport it while you’re out on the trail.
Highlights OF THE HIKE FROM CRESTED BUTTE TO ASPEN
One of the best Colorado hikes, trekking the West Maroon Pass from Crested Butte to Aspen is tough to beat.
We left the Nordic Inn with boiled eggs and hot coffee in hand by 5:30 am to reach the trailhead by 6:15 am so as to begin the hike at dawn.
It was colder than expected at the end of August, but then again, we were beginning our hike at over 10,000’ elevation. Temps were in the 20s (F). Be grateful for beanies and thin gloves.
The trail begins by weaving through a forest next to Crystal River. On your left, you will pass an old fallen cabin and then the trail forks. Stay to the right and feast your eyes on huge meadows of wildflowers while you hike with the rising sun.
Keep your eyes peeled for small wooden signs directing you towards West Maroon Pass (trail #1970). Make your way up through the valley until you reach the junction for Frigid Air Pass; stay straight ahead for the West Maroon Pass. You will reach the pass at four miles in.
At about mile 3, the trail begins to climb more as you approach the pass. The last little bit will really push you, but you’ll reach the pass before you know it.
Enjoy stunning 360 degree views from the top of the West Maroon Pass. Safely and carefully take pictures. Capture your accomplishment and enjoy a quick snack before making your way down the other side of the pass towards Crater Lake.
Safely cross creeks as you hike through the valley. Early spring run-offs can be dangerous. Switch out your hiking boots for Chacos or Tevas for stream crossings.
Since we were hiking in August, the streams were easily managed with our hiking boots.
We recommend Black Diamond Distance trekking poles for long, hard hikes like this one. Save your knees! Especially if you plan to hike back the next day.
Look up to see Belleview Mountain (13,223’), followed by Maroon Peak (at 14,163’, the 27th highest peak in Colorado), and then North Maroon Peak (14,019’). On your right, opposite Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, you will see Pyramid Peak looming at 14,025.
Depending on the time of year, Crater Lake may be full to the brim or nearly dried up when you reach this idyllic picnic spot. Refuel and wake up the senses with a quick foot soak in the ice-cold lake.
From Crater Lake, you will hop on Maroon Snowmass Trail #1975 towards Maroon Lake above the town of Aspen. (See this printable paper map of the trail.)
On the final stretch, make your way down to Maroon Lake through boulder fields and aspen and pine filled forests on the Maroon Snowmass Trail #1975 to Maroon Lake.
High-five each other! You did it! Snap some photos in front of Maroon Lake and the iconic Maroon Bells - Colorado’s historic postcard mountains. Then head to the bus pick up location along the driveway loop right by the Info boards and restrooms (just below the amphitheatre). Here’s our recording in All Trails.
Where do I get the Maroon Bells Shuttle down to ASpen?
Remember, this hike takes planning. Reserve your downhill shuttle tickets. You will book a one-way shuttle down on aspenchamber.org for $10 each. Print out your reservation confirmation to show the bus driver.
Plan to arrive at the trailhead / bus pick up spot, ready to depart before 4:00PM so as not to risk missing your ride down — the last bus departs at 5:00PM.
The bus pick up spot is right on driveway loop next to the Info boards and restrooms (just below the amphitheatre).
Once the Maroon Bells bus arrives at Aspen Highlands, you will get off and wait about ten minutes before hopping on the next free bus down to Aspen.
If you’re staying at the wonderful Hotel Aspen (more below), you will ride the free Aspen RFTA bus and get off at Paepcke bus stop. If you’re staying elsewhere, be sure to call the hotel and ask what bus stop they are nearest to.
PRO TIP: As of 2021, no commercial shuttles are being allowed in either direction. You can only use the RFTA bus or get a permit to park a vehicle overnight at the Maroon Bells.
Where to stay in Aspen
Complete with an outdoor heated pool and relaxing hot tub, the Hotel Aspen is everything you need. Clean rooms with comfy beds and to-go breakfast boxes at your request.
A perfect way to recoup following nearly 12 miles of hiking in the Colorado Rockies.
Located just a half mile walk to Aspen’s main hub of restaurants and shops, the Hotel Aspen is just what you’re looking for. (110 W Main St, Aspen, CO 81611)
PRO TIP: If you are a Colorado resident, ask about the discount at Hotel Aspen.
Aspen is ideal for a romantic Colorado retreat. Read about Aspen and 10 other Colorado destinations for couples getaways.
Or why not come back for a few more nights in Aspen for more stunning area hikes, paddling, biking, world-class skiing, and more? This peaceful Colorado retreat in nearby Marble features two south-facing decks on 1.2 acres and offers easy access to all kinds of year round outdoor adventure.
Not just for the A-listers, Aspen offers cozy chalets, rustic cabins, gorgeous condos and villas in the heart of outdoor adventures.
Prefer to camp? Right along Maroon Creek Road leading up to Colorado's Maroon Bells Scenic Area are three campgrounds: Silver Bar, Silver Bell, and Silver Queen. Best for tent camping, truck campers, or tiny trailers.
If you camp along Maroon Creek Road at the above campgrounds, you are allowed to drive your personal vehicle to the Maroon Bells area ANY TIME OF DAY. No shuttle for you! All three campgrounds sit just before the East Maroon Portal / Trailhead and are only a 10-minute drive from the Maroon Bells Wilderness.
A heated pool and hot tub await you at the Hotel Aspen.
Where to Eat in Aspen, colorado
Here are a few of our favorite hops and stops for refueling before the next day’s hike:
Aspen Public House serves up craft beer, cocktails, and comfort food with relaxed vintage vibes in the historic Wheeler Opera House. Go for one of three amazing plant-based bowls, the Motherlode Burger with local goat cheese, or the Lemongrass Coconut Yellow Curry. 328 E Hyman Ave, Aspen, CO
J-Bar at Hotel Jerome is on the list for next time. We peeked in for the 19th century Old West decor in one of Aspen’s hot spots boasting best burger, superb libations, and more. Relax and recharge in this gorgeous, historic gem. 330 East Main Street, Aspen, CO
Paradise Bakery & Cafe is the place for yummy after-dinner gelato and next-morning baked goods — including gluten free and dairy free options. Also offering soups and sandwiches. 320 S Galena St, Aspen, CO
Day 3 - Hiking the East Maroon Pass from Aspen to Crested Butte
Quick Look
Length: 16.5 miles from East Maroon Creek
Time needed: 8 hours; but you are only as fast as your slowest hiker!
Elevation: Start hiking at 8770’, gaining over 3000’ to the pass at 11,812’
Route: From the East Maroon Wilderness Portal parking lot, hike East Maroon Creek Trail #1983 to Copper Creek Trail #983 to Judd Falls/Copper Creek Trailhead along Gothic Road. We preferred following the maps in the Hiking Project app for this route.
REaching the East Maroon Pass Trailhead
Avoid afternoon thunderstorms by starting your hike early. In other words, we arranged for a private drop-off* at the trailhead by 6 am, since the earliest Maroon Bells bus doesn’t head up there until 8 am — much too late for our liking.
If you have a friend who can drive you and drop you off at the East Maroon Wilderness Portal parking lot early in the morning by 6 am, this is absolutely the way to go.
If you are driving yourself, you will have to reach the East Maroon Pass Trailhead, drive 1/2 mile west of Aspen on Highway 82 to the Roundabout. Go around the Roundabout and turn right onto Maroon Creek Road. East Maroon Wilderness Portal is 6.4 miles up Maroon Creek Road on the left-hand side.
PRO TIP: From mid-June through September, Maroon Creek Road is restricted to vehicles from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m beyond the T-Lazy 7 Ranch. In this case, you must either drive the road before 8 am to reach the trailhead. Or, you can take the shuttle from Aspen Highlands Ski Area, which leaves every 20 minutes. From the Hwy 82 Roundabout, just west of Aspen, take the Maroon Creek Road turn. In approximately one mile is Aspen Highlands, turn left here to park and get on the shuttle!
Reservations are required to access the Maroon Bells Scenic Area and related amenities. Choose between private vehicle trailhead parking permits from May 15 through October 31, 2024, or RFTA shuttle reservations from May 24 through October 20, 2024. Make your reservations now.
FEE REQUIRED*: The Maroon Bells Scenic Area requires a mandatory recreation fee area. A $10 per night, per person fee will be required for these areas from May 1 through October 31. No fee will be required for children 16 years old and younger. If arriving up there during non-bus hours, continue another 4 miles to the Welcome Station. The use fee will be collected here, or in the fee tube immediately behind the station if un-manned; continue another 1.5 miles to the parking lot entrance on the left for East Maroon Wilderness Portal. Interagency, Senior, & Golden Access Passes are honored when vehicles are permitted to enter the scenic area.
*Passes may not be valid when the road is restricted from 8am–5pm, and parking reservations are still required.
Arranging for private drop off at East Maroon Pass trailhead is the easiest and most ideal option to get that early 6 am start!
*PRIVATE DROP-OFFS: Private vehicles are allowed to drop off passengers between 6 AM and 8 AM without a parking reservation; however, any visitor planning to come back down the hill between 8 am - 5 pm will need to reserve a one-way ticket to ride the shuttle down to Aspen Highlands. Commercial drop-offs (LYFT, UBER, taxis and the like) are not allowed at any time. Remember, a $10 fee is required at the Welcome Center Entrance self-pay station. Learn more and get your tickets here.
Taking the RFTA bus back up the hill to Maroon Bells Scenic Area? You will need to reserve tickets again, the earliest option being 8am. Honestly, this is not an ideal start time to hike over the East Maroon Pass before afternoon thunderstorms. In the morning, get on the RFTA ASPEN HIGHLANDS bus at Paepcke, then switch over to the Maroon Bells bus. Once at the Maroon Bells Scenic Area, you will have to access Maroon Creek Trail #1982 and hike this for 0.6 miles to meet up with the East Maroon Trail #1983 (turn right).
Highlights OF the hike FROM ASPEN TO CRESTED BUTTE
If you’re looking for one of the best Colorado hikes sans crowds, the route from Aspen to Crested Butte via the East Maroon Creek Trail #1983 is your ticket. A well marked trail, just watch for the small wooden signs at each junction, especially around Copper Lake.
We suggest following this Hiking Project map. After you climb the East Maroon Pass and descend upon Copper Lake, you will connect with Copper Creek Trail #983 to Judd Falls / Copper Creek Trailhead along Gothic Road.
While a longer hike than the day before, this route from Aspen to Crested Butte climbs slowly and surely, deeming it an easier hike overall.
Begin your hike by 6am so you can cross over the East Maroon Pass before threatening afternoon thunderstorms roll in. You’ll see way less people on this hiking trail. In fact we hardly saw a soul until we reached Copper Lake.
Right away, you'll drink in fantastic views of the Maroon Bells to the west.
Dip in and out pine and aspen forests, as well as large meadows showcasing the sprawling Rocky Mountains throughout this valley.
Wildflowers are abundant on the East Maroon Creek Trail. You are more likely to spy a bear on the east side. Carry that bear spray.
You will come across 21 creek crossings during your 16 miles of hiking the East Maroon Pass from Aspen to Crested Butte.
Again, Chacos and trekking poles come in quite handy on challenging hikes like these.
At the start of the trail from the East Maroon Portal, cross a bridge and stay right. At 1.5 miles the trail branches; stay to the left for the East Maroon Trail (the Maroon Creek Trail to Maroon Lake heads off to the right). At 4.5 miles, the trail forks — just be sure to stay straight.
Six miles in, after traversing a big avalanche area, you will come up to two stream crossings. Spring runoff often makes these crossings dangerous and even impassible. The second stream crossing is about a mile farther. We exchanged our hiking boots for water sandals to complete one crossing in late August.
Around 9 miles in, the trail forks again. Be sure to stay to the right towards East Maroon Pass — otherwise you’ll be headed off towards Copper Pass, Triangle Pass and Conundrum Hot Springs! Save those for another day.
Stay on the main trail, ignoring spurs to the left. The trail continues for another mile then heads left uphill to East Maroon Pass.
Be on the lookout for:
Deer
Bear Tracks - carry bear spray! Stay 100 yards away.
Moose Tracks -stay very quiet if you see one. Keep 25 yards away.
Wild Raspberry bushes, Thimbleberry and more
Wildflowers like Mules Ears Sunflowers, Fireweed, Subalpine Larkspur, Bluebell, Indian Paintbrush, Prairie Flax and more.
Birds of all kinds like the Northern Flicker, Woodpecker, Dusky Grouse Ptarmigan, Spotted Sandpiper and Hummingbirds
At the top of East Maroon Pass, you will have another breathtaking 360 degree view. See Copper Lake below. She’s gorgeous. If time allows, take a quick little jaunt to her shore and enjoy a picnic lunch.
You’re back below tree line.
Now that you’ve made it over the East Maroon Pass safely, follow trail signs for Copper Creek Trail #983 as you wrap up the last five easy going miles down towards Judd Falls and then Gothic Road.
You will follow what was once an old wagon trail. You may pass horses on this wide and very rocky trail. Enjoy more creek crossings and the final spectacular treat of Judd Falls near the end of the trail.
How to get back to your vehicle at the other trailhead
Plan A - your best bet!
Arrange for a private pick up at the end of your East Maroon Pass hike to take you back to your car at the West Maroon Pass Trailhead. For example, a friend picked us up at the Judd Falls/Copper Creek Trailhead at 3pm by the bathroom in the lower parking lot on Gothic Road.
You will not have cell service.
Arrange your time beforehand and give yourselves 9 hours to complete the hike. While the East Maroon Pass took less than 8 hours to complete, it’s good to build in leeway.
Our private driver drove us 6 miles back to our car at the West Maroon Pass Trailhead.
If you don’t have a driver, you can book a shuttle through Alpine Express or Dolly’s Mountain Shuttle.
Do not be confused: There is also a 4X4 vehicle parking lot that sits higher on the hill (no vaulted toilet there) where people also park for the Judd Falls / Copper Creek Trailhead. You will hike down past this to the parking lot on Gothic Road, where there is a map station and bathrooms.
Judd Falls / Copper Creek Trailhead parking lot off Gothic Rd.
Plan B - for risky, adventurous folks
If you leave a car parked at the West Maroon Trailhead and complete the hikes in the order suggested above, then your return hike via the East Maroon Pass will end at the Judd Falls / Copper Creek vehicle passenger lot (with restrooms!) on Gothic Road.
There’s a chance TWO of you (safety!) could catch a ride from a passerby back up to the West Maroon Trailhead to fetch your car, then return down the hill to pick up the rest of your group — if you’re feeling adventurous.
Remember, you won’t have cell service, so you’re basically winging it on a hope and prayer if you go this route. In the end, be prepared to hike up to fetch your car.
RELATED READING: Our 17 Best Unmissable Hikes in Colorado
Let’s Talk.
Got questions about planning this epic hike in Colorado? Book a one hour call with us and we can help!
Overnight Backpacking in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness
Just a few quick notes on backpacking and overnight camping along the two main hiking routes between Crested Butte and Aspen.
NOTE: Permits are required for overnight stays in the backcountry of Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness.
If camping at Crater Lake (Aspen side), use designated sites only. Campfires are prohibited and only camp stoves are allowed. Camping farther along the trail can be found between the two river crossings. No fires are allowed above 10,800 ft. Heavy bear activity is reported in this area, so bear canisters are required.
Along the East Maroon Pass, camping by Copper Lake is ideal. Copper Lake is a wonderful alpine lake, nestled right at tree line, and an ideal base camp for other day hikes in the area.
Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness is a major access point for wilderness hiking. Other popular trails include backpacking the Four Pass Loop or the Conundrum Trail (overnight permit required).
In fact, Tanya just experienced this fabulous backpacking trip in late June 2024: Hike to Conundrum Hot Springs near Aspen, Colorado. Purely for outdoor enthusiasts who crave a backcountry retreat right in nature's lap, you’ll slip into soothing warm waters above 11,000 feet with panoramic views of majestic peaks.
NOTE: Camping is not allowed within 100 feet of any water source, within ¼ mile of treeline or above treeline, or within ¼ mile of Copper Lake unless in a designated site.
Please educate yourself about Wilderness Ethics and know the following rules:
DOGS: Must be leashed out of consideration for both other people and wildlife.
GROUP SIZE: Limit group size tp 10 people with no more than 15 pack animals per group
SANITATION: Bury human waste 100 feet from water and 6 inches in the soil
Soaking in Conundrum Hot Springs above 11,000’ after having hiked 8.9 miles. We backpacked and camped overnight with a permit.
Packing List for the Trek between Crested Butte and Aspen
ARriving into Crested Butte
Paddleboards - Here are the best inflatable SUPs we own — and we own two!
Life jackets - We love Oru life jackets for Colorado paddling adventures
PJs and toiletries
Swimming suit if you want to use terrace hot tub at Nordic Inn
Ziploc Bags to prep snacks, etc. for hike days
What to pack for Hiking Days
Daypack 24 L or larger - we love the Osprey Sirrus or Stratos options
3L water reservoir
extra Nalgene water bottle
Rain jacket
Nano Puff jacket for those cold mornings. Read a review of the Nano Puff
Long, lightweight hiking pants (or pants that zip off to shorts, etc)
Hiking shorts
Hiking socks
Hiking boots
Short sleeve shirt
Sports bra
Trekking poles - Save your knees! We love Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles
Sun Hat / Baseball cap
Long sleeve sun shirt
Beanie
Thin gloves
Chacos or Tevas for stream crossings and post hike (attached to your pack)
Which Daypack is Best? Let Us Help!
Pack list for Your Day Pack:
*Change of clothes for second day’s hike, inside large Ziploc Bag, inside your Daypack:
Clean underwear
Shorts and shirt (if you like fresh hiking clothes)
Something to sleep in?
Swimsuit for Hotel Aspen pool and hot tub
*optional
Goal Zero Flip Powerbank - a lightweight portable phone charger
Cell phone if using for mapping your hike and for pictures
Charging cords
Personal Meds
Split these items up between your group; not everyone needs to pack:
Sunscreen
Moleskin
Water Purification Tablets, just in case!
Immodium
Bear Spray - you’re in the Colorado Rockies!
Bandana - many uses!
Sunscreen
Printed reservations for shuttle rides, hotels
Hiking Maps printed — leave one set in your car at the trailhead
CASH and CC: bring at least $50 in cash, preferably broken into $5/$10 bills. Parking, etc might be cash only.
ID
Hiking Snack Ideas:
Electrolytes for quick energy boosts, like NUUN and Cliff Shot Blocks
Trail mix
Protein and granola bars
Salty snacks like Cheese-its or pretzels
Beef jerky
Dried mango or other dried fruit
Got questions about hiking these two fantastic routes between Aspen and Crested Butte? Feel free to contact us. We love talking about some of the best hikes in Colorado!