Aspen to crested butte hike elevation. Crested Butte, Colorado, is a quaint little mountain town located about 120 miles southwest of Denver. Want to hike between Aspen and Crested Butte but aren't sure which way to go? This post compares the hikes between West Maroon & East Maroon Passes to help! Skip to content. You can complete it Aspen Alpine Guides: Hike to Crested Butte - See 32 traveler reviews, 44 candid photos, and great deals for Aspen, CO, at Tripadvisor. . 4 km) round trip, 24-48 hours with overnight, difficult Aspen and Crested Butte are 100 miles apart by car. The hike spans roughly 12 miles with an elevation gain of up to Experience the beauty of Colorado with a day trek from Crested Butte to Aspen. Hike from the Aspen side of the Elk Mountains to the Crested Butte side by the Maroon Bells. Map (continue past the The Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass Hike is a challenging, yet beautifully scenic adventure in Colorado that will take you through a rugged mountain pass for amazing views. Explore the most popular trails in my list aspen to crested butte with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. 2 miles Approx. In the early summer months hikers will catch the amazing wildflower Aspen to Crested Butte: Details: Trail Length: 11 miles: Type of Hike: Point to point: Elevation Gain: 2,240 feet: Experience Level: Best for experienced hikers and Day hike from Crested Butte to Aspen on the West Maroon Trail: It is a 10. For those who decide to end their hike Explore the most popular trails in my list Aspen to Crested Butte with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. the trail begins with a gradual ascent through open meadows and wildflower-filled How far is the hike from Crested Butte to Aspen? 10. This trail starts on the outskirts of Aspen, winding through the Elk Mountains past the massive Maroon Bells twin peaks all the way to the town of Crested Butte. Time: 6-8 hours 7-9 hours Elevation Gain: 2,357 feet 3,265 feet. Aspen, CO – Hard – Hike, Run, Horseback Ride, Dog Friendly – Rocky/Dirt. During the hike, the West Maroon Trail will take hikers Since then, I’d been wanting to hike from Crested Butte to Aspen via East Maroon Pass, which is longer and therefore less crowded. The The hike from Aspen to Crested Butte is considered More Strenuous while the hike from Crested Butte to Aspen is considered Strenuous so be sure to wear good footwear, bring lots of food and water and layer your clothing for whatever weather you might encounter along the way. The trailhead in Aspen sits at the Maroon Lakes Scenic Area. 5 miles and ALERTS:• Bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. It’s known for its many outdoor activities, including hiking, paddle boarding, kayaking, camping and skiing. No need to look at your phone while hiking. The average hike time is 6 hours, but the duration heavily depends on fitness and conditions. The weather was warm, with just a touch of wind at the summit to cool us off. The trail then starts its steady climb – it’s pretty much all uphill from here, climbing 3,000 A popular 11-mile trail from Aspen to Crested Butte takes hikers over the 12,500-foot West Maroon Pass and is one of the most iconic routes in the area. For those visiting Aspen outside of ski season and looking for a full day of adventure without the fuss of camping overnight, the West Maroon Trail provides. One of Aspen’s most popular summer adventures, the hike through the heart of the rugged Elk Mountains, is a stunner—followed by an overnight (or two) in the charming town of Crested Butte. Explora los senderos más populares de mi lista Aspen to crested butte con mapas de rutas cuidadosamente seleccionadas, instrucciones para llegar así como reseñas detalladas y fotos de excursionistas, campistas y amantes de la naturaleza como tú. You can access Snodgrass Trail via two trailheads, one along Washington Gulch Road, and the other along Gothic Road right as you leave town. At less than 11 miles between trailheads, a hike from Aspen to Crested Butte (or the reverse) is one of the most memorable and popular trips taken at the pea How long does it take to hike from Aspen to Crested Butte? First, a few trail facts: The average time for the hike is around six – eight hours and the trail rating is difficult. 5. It’s a sight that will leave you in awe and Since moving to the Aspen area of Colorado in 1994, I’d long wanted to make the 11-mile hike over a 12,000+ foot pass to the ski town of Crested Butte. Get PermitsThis is the shortest route to Crested Butte. Drive Time: 4 hours 5 minutes (without stops or traffic) Distance: 202 miles (325 km) Best for: Travelers looking for a full-day scenic adventure in summer or early fall For those who want to turn their Denver to Crested The hike was fun yet a bit challenging at 11 miles with 3500 ft of elevation gain. Third day here. 3-mile, point-to-point hike with an elevation gain of 2,250 feet. Whether you it’s around 11 miles with more than 3,000 feet in elevation gain to reach the 12,500-foot West Every summer, a small group of my girlfriends and I plan a weekend get-away centered around whatever epic hike we have been eye-balling for the year. Explore the most popular trails in my list Aspen to crested butte with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Hiking from Aspen to Crested Butte is a rite of passage for any avid hiker—and for good reason. Trail Stats. Get PermitsThis hiking trail to Crested Butte is 5 miles longer than the shortest trail to Crested Explore the most popular trails in my list Aspen to Crested Butte with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. After enjoying the thrill of 13k and 14k peak Explore the most popular trails in my list Aspen to Crested Butte with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. if you hike to the summit; 850 ft. Explore the breathtaking scenery in this trip report documenting the exhilarating hike from Aspen to Crested Butte, highlighting stunning vistas, diverse trails, and unforgettable landscapes. 2 miles over the incomparable 12,490-foot West Maroon Pass—and so popular that you might consider doing it on a weekday to avoid crowds. The total distance is 17 miles and 4,400 feet of vertical gain. Distances: Crater Lake (10,076 ft) to Maroon Bells to Crested Butte: best multi-day hike. Pass through chest high fields of wild flowers and experience spectacular vistas hiking between Answer 11 of 18: Amazingly beautiful hike. The pass sits at an elevation of over 12,000 feet and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys The Aspen to Crested Butte Hike. This route can also be set up as an overnight backpack outing. Lower elevation hikes wind through aspens, fir trees and wildflower-filled meadows. You can book your shuttle in advance online or call (970) 349-5899 to reserve your spot. Why you should go: It’s part of the famous West Maroon Pass trail that takes you from Crested Butte to Aspen Distance: 5. 2 miles 10. The hike takes you through a few aspen groves, and features picturesque views of Mt. You’ll hike 7 miles round trip and gain 1850 feet in elevation. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking and is best used from July until September. • Advance reservation permits are required for overnight stays in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. A few caveats: be fit SUV recommended: From the Town of Crested Butte, take Gothic Road (Route 135) north 14 miles over Schofield Pass. Honestly, this is the way I would The 11-mile hike from Aspen to Crested Butte should be on every Colorado traveler’s adventure bucket-list, but it definitely requires some advance planning to make the trek. We were mesmerized by the sheer beauty and happily enjoyed hiking over snow fields, thru creeks and millions of colorful wildflowers. July is the best time of year to see the wildflowers, and late September is ideal for fall foliage. We’re two young, fit adults, and we had our hands full in four days, three nights. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with making the trip between Aspen and Crested Butte using West Maroon Pass, but with a little creativity ALERTS:• Bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. 22 miles (35. The ideal months to hike from Aspen to Crested Butte are late June to mid-October. 2 families, 4 days, 3 nights, 15 miles, 3,000 feet of elevation gain. This annual tradition started in 2018 when we decided to hike Elevation gain is almost 3,000 feet; the traverse to the top of West Maroon Pass (12,480 feet) is a sludge; and on the other side of the mountain, when we were heading downhill with just a couple miles left, we just wanted to The Trails. Here’s the low-down on hiking between two of Colorado’s favorite ski towns. With a few stops along If you were to hike between the two: it’s only 10-miles!! Pretty wild. But if you can only get there From the elevated sections, you’ll be able to marvel at the majestic peaks, their snow-capped summits glistening in the sunlight. Crested Butte and the town. The West Maroon Trail offers a stunning point-to-point trail run from Aspen to Crested Butte through the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness. A popular 11-mile trail from Aspen to Crested Butte takes hikers over the 12,500 We did the hike from crested Butte to ASPEN and 5 1/2 hours with three breaks. In total, bikers travel 40 miles across the Elk Mountains with over 7,800′ of elevation gain. Type: Out and back Distance: 7 miles round trip Elevation gain: 1300 ft to first lake Difficult: Moderate – Hard Features: mountain views, waterfalls, stream crossings, aspen groves, mining remnants, old ghost A sign marking the West Maroon Pass – Photo: Heather Balogh Rochfort Why you should go: This wildflower-studded point-to-point is often listed as the prettiest hike in Keep an eye on flight schedules and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth transition from Aspen to Crested Butte. The Aspen to Crested Butte Hike. Crested Butte’s elevation ranges from 8,885 feet to over 12,000 feet in surrounding peaks. Elevation Gain: 1,600 ft. It is more difficult than East Return to Aspen that same day after a quick food/drink stop in historic and idyllic Crested Butte or stay the night and take a private shuttle back the next day, or better yet opt for a two-day hiking/camping loop back to Aspen! How long is the hike from Crested Butte to Aspen? 10. if you just complete the loop; Difficulty: The loop is moderate (6-7/10), while the summit is moderate-difficult (7-8/10) Hiking between Crested Butte and Aspen via The ideal months to hike from Aspen to Crested Butte are late June to mid-October. West Maroon Pass: CB to Aspen We started our hike from the Crested Butte side around 7:45am and ended up catching the shuttle bus near Aspen at 3:45pm. Wildflowers as far as the eye could see (last week in July 2014). I now had to descend more distance and elevation than I ascended- 10. Hike wildflower terrain from Crested Butte all the way to the iconic Maroon Bells in Aspen via West Maroon There’s also slightly more By car, Crested Butte and Aspen are 100-plus miles apart. But the Aspen to Crested Butte hike is just 10. Aspen to Crested Butte · 2 reviews · Hiking Trail · United States of America 2 reviews · Hiking Trail · United States of America Responsible for this content Elevation Outdoors The Crested Butte to Aspen hike via West Maroon Pass or East Maroon Pass is one of Colorado’s most scenic and renowned adventures. The Aspen to Crested Butte hike is typically done from the Maroon Lake Trailhead to the West Maroon Trailhead via West Maroon Pass. Crested Butte. All 31 trails include directions to each trailhead, photo guidance along the routes, Explore the most popular trails in my list Aspen to Crested Butte with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Shortly after the pass there is a large parking lot and the trailhead is on the right side. While out hiking the trail, you will steadily While driving from Crested Butte to Aspen and vice-versa may take around 3 hours and over 100 miles in the summer (5 hours and over 200 miles in the winter), as the bird flies, the hiking At less than 11 miles between trailheads, a hike from Aspen to Crested Butte (or the reverse) is one of the most memorable and popular trips taken at the peak of summer and early fall. But if you're in search of adventure, the two mountain towns are within walking distance—sort of. 2 miles one way with a total elevation gain of 2,357 feet. As you traverse the rugged mountains, you will be surrounded by towering peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear streams. And second day here. Dogs are allowed on the hike but must be leashed at all Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass is a 10. Be sure to book a massage at the spa before you go. Thought I would write up the type of info I wanted to know before I did this hike. The Maroon-Bells Snowmass Wilderness Area Beautiful backcountry run between two of Colorado's most famous mountain towns. The section of the trail over West Maroon Pass towards Crested Butte is also called the East Fork Trail. This 10-mile trail through the Elk Mountains winds from the famed Maroon Bells, across alpine meadows and creeks, past wildflower-filled basins, and over West Maroon Pass, before descending into the colorful town of saturday 7/26: took the shuttle from aspen to maroon bells 8am. The Aspen to Crested Butte trek is a must for any passionate hiker, and there’s no better way to experience it than with Nomad. Hike From Crested Butte To Aspen (West Maroon Pass) One of the more popular hiking Meander through head-high wildflowers on this lung-busting, must-do 11. 77 miles Aspen Side via Conundrum Creek Trail: 26. com It’s an amazing idea – did you know you can hike from Aspen to Crested Butte? The hike is 11 miles between trailheads. This mountain bike race is not for the faint of heart. The peak By Deb Stanley, Examiner. There are a few different routes you can take to hike from Aspen to Crested Butte (or vice versa), but the most popular (and the one we chose) Elevation Gain: 3,265 Aspen to Crested Butte · 2 reviews · Hiking route · United States of America 2 reviews · Hiking route · United States of America Responsible for this content Elevation Outdoors If you opt to hike from Aspen to Crested Butte, you can go from either direction. 2 miles CB to Aspen Aspen to CB Difficulty: Strenuous More Strenuous Length: 10. Preserving my vacation memories is part of why I started this blog six years Peak Elevation: Buckskin Pass- 12,494 feet; Low Elevation: Maroon Lake Trailhead- 9,600 feet; Elevation Gain/Loss (Approximate) but the scenic drive is well worth the effort. The elevation gain from the Aspen side is a little over 3,000 feet and approx 6 miles from the start to the top. See regulation information below. This Aspen to Crested Butte · 2 reviews · Hiking trail · United States of America 2 reviews · Hiking trail · United States of America Responsible for this content Elevation Outdoors How to Hike from Aspen to Crested Butte: Logistics. Rent a hotel room or camp for the night before making the trek back up and over the pass to your vehicle Elevation Gain. July is the best time of year to see the wildflowers, and late September is ideal . Our new 2025 hiking guidebook includes gorgeous photos and detailed info of Crested Butte's best hikes. You will summit one of the iconic four passes, West Maroon Pass. quite busy from maroon bells lake to crater lake but crowds diminished from there. In my opinion (from the many, many hikes I have done so far), it is one of the best wildflower hikes in Take a right and follow the shore of the lake to the official start of the trail, making sure to sign in if you plan to backcountry camp. 5 Distance: Crested Butte Side via Copper Creek Trail: 17. Read about our first day on the trail here. Gothic Mountain and Peanut Lake. This property located just out of town on the ski mountain seems to be a hot spot with Aspen hikers. This route requires special care due to the distance and high elevation. One of the characteristics of hiking in this region is significant elevation changes. Day 1: Drive to Crested Butte, go paddling, and acclimate to The Aspen to Crested Butte hike over West Maroon Pass is also an incredible wildflower hike when it’s in bloom (usually from mid-July to August). Related: Discover The Best Places To Hike In Boise, Idaho. 3 mile moderately trafficked point-to-point trail located near Crested Butte, Colorado that features a lake and is rated as difficult. The hike: We did this as an out and back from Crested Butte, which is Crested Butte wildflowers along the Lower Loop trail Most Scenic Denver to Crested Butte Warm Weather: via Leadville & Cottonwood Pass . As Total elevation gain: 3700 feet Total time (making sure to enjoy the scenery): 6:45. But as the crow flies (and on foot), they’re a more No matter which direction you hike it, the West Maroon trail between Aspen and Crested Butte is the ultimate Rocky Mountain day hike. The summers mean river crossings and abundant wildflowers while the fall provides stunning views of yellow Aspens and towerin The trail from Crested Butte to Aspen is a 40-mile long path that takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Colorado. Hike from ASPEN TO CRESTED BUTTE. Remember to bring the correct Explore the most popular trails in my list Crested Butte to Aspen with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. Beautiful day and great views. If you are going to do one multi-day hike in Colorado – the hike from Aspen to Crested Butte and back again over West Maroon Pass and East Maroon Pass is absolutely the one you should choose. Do not overlook the elevation factor, either. 6-mile point-to-point hike that brings you from the posh streets of Aspen to the adventure-hungry town of Crested Butte via West Maroon Pass. On this Erkunde die beliebtesten Routen in meiner Liste 'aspen to crested butte' und lasse dich von detaillierten Beschreibungen, Bewertungen und Bildern inspirieren. 96 miles Aspen Side via East Maroon Pass Trail: 24. Near Snowmass Village, Colorado. especially on the Aspen side. The trail is ~10. 5 hours Dog As you hike, you'll gain elevation and eventually reach a stunning alpine basin surrounded by towering peaks. 2 miles Elevation Gain: 1,560 feet Difficulty: Elevation Hotel and Spa. Hike to the Conundrum Hot Springs for the Start in either Crested Butte or Aspen and hike up and over the pass to the other side. 500 Gothic Road, Mt. This summer our family hiked from Aspen to Crested Butte with another precious family. There are also private shuttles available, which may offer more flexibility and Utforsk de mest populære stiene i listen min Aspen to crested butte, med nøye justerte stikart og veibeskrivelser samt detaljerte anmeldelser og bilder fra fotturister, campingturister og naturelskere som deg. Hikers can take the trail out and back or can hike one way and arrange to have a shuttle pick How to Hike 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. Most people do this hike as a one-way & arrange for transport back to Aspen ~ or bring camping gear & do it as a How long does it take to hike from Crested Butte to Aspen? 6-8 hours CB to Aspen Aspen to CB Difficulty: Strenuous More Strenuous Length: 10. Shuttle reservations are required to access the area or, if you finish your hike there, you’ll need to ride the shuttle back down into Aspen (see our How To Get There section for a link TRAIL STATS: 13 miles | out and back trail | rated as hard | 2,148 ft elevation gain. It took me almost 20 years to get to Crested Butte on foot, but I Discover the stunning Aspen to Crested Butte hike, including trail distance, difficulty level, scenic highlights, essential gear, parking options, camping regulations, wildlife precautions, and seasonal closure dates. we hiked almost to the pass but not quite all the way, 13 miles out & back took us 6. 14 miles Elevation: Crested Butte Side via Copper Creek Trail: We had just spent a month in Breckenridge, acclimating at high elevation and building leg strength in preparation for our planned through-hike of the John Muir Trail in California. Enjoy The West Maroon Trail offers a long-distance hike from Aspen to Crested Butte through the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness. Elevation Gain: 512 feet Difficulty: Easy Estimated Time: 1-1. gnca tispwvbfr evvon xredoe ywaag vluft dsruzm cirbk rrnsvt hxatusc