Hiking in the Roaring Fork Valley around Aspen and Snowmass, Colorado is a true wonder as it is located in the middle of the White River National Forest and just adjacent to the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area and there are a large number of hiking guides available in town that can assist you with detailed descriptions of hikes and directions to the various trailheads.

Whenever you’re hiking in the area make sure that you have a map, sunscreen, much more food and water than you think you’d normally need, and the right kind of clothing since you can certainly expect drastic and sudden changes in the temperature.  The area is subject to afternoon thunderstorms, so ensure that your hiking day is either over by then, or that you have located proper shelter.

Looking for Aspen Lodging?

One of the more popular hikes is Buckskin Pass Trail which is close to the Maroon Bells, and is a steep but well-used trail.  The trail begins at Maroon Lake and merges with the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Lake Trail.  From here you stay on this trail all the way to Crater Lake where you take the right fork, and then you will find yourself on a long steady climb through dense woodland all the way up to Minnehaha Gulch.

Keep on going for about a mile until the trail opens up into an expansive and gorgeous alpine meadow, and Buckskin Pass will be directly in front of you.  When you see the sign for the Willow Lake trail junction, take the left fork, pass through another stunning meadow and then start your steep and rocky climb to Buckskin Pass.  Take a while to truly savor the majestic views of the Elk Mountains and then get back on the trail by taking the right fork up and over Willow Pass to Willow Lake.

Discover outdoor activities with the Aspen-Snowmass Recreation Guide.

The East Maroon Trail nearby is almost twice as long as Buckskin at nearly 21 miles.  This marvelous wilderness trail which is also located quite near the Maroon Bells allows grand sweeping panoramas of Pyramid Peak.  The trail begins by crossing a bridge, then turn to the right when you will reach a fork.Stay left to keep on the East Maroon Trail.  About a mile farther on, you’ll see two charming old cabins, and then just past a huge avalanche area, you will have to undertake two stream crossings.  Be aware that during spring runoff, these stream crossings can be extremely dangerous as the water can be swift.

Find more information on Aspen Summer Activities