West Maroon Creek Trail

Starting at Maroon Lake, the West Maroon Trail ascends through aspen woods to Crater Lake. This is one of the best place to hike in the US. At the Crater Lake fork, go the left. Following the lake, the trail briefly follows a creek before entering a forest. You will go across a field of rocky scree after leaving the trees. In just over three miles, there will be the first stream crossing. The path ascends through willow and forest before coming to another stream crossing in a wide meadow. The trail ascends gently through willows and tundra after crossing. The pass is visible in the distance, and this area is fairly open. This delightful walk, which links Aspen and Crested Butte, is at its best in July when wildflowers are in bloom. Along the 10-mile trail, abundant larkspurs, violets, blue columbines, and white thimbleberries spray color. It also features some of the most breathtaking views in the Rockies.

Switchbacks and a lengthy traverse that leads to the West Maroon Trail's summit at the top of the Pass are used to continue the trail's steep ascent. On a clear day, the vistas are breathtaking. The trail descends on the opposite side of the pass to the East Fork Creek Trail and Schofield Park before continuing on to Crested Butte or Frigid Air Pass.

Length: 32.8 km

Elevation: 1,645 m

Level: Easy to Moderate