Wonderful views of the Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak, pretty waterfalls, two stunning lakes and a scenic alpine basin await hikers on this popular 13-mile (RT) hike to West Maroon Pass. The journey follows the Maroon-Snowmass trail to Crater Lake and then climbs the long, narrow West Maroon valley beneath the towering crags of the Maroon Bells and Pyramid massifs.
The pass is located on a ridge at the head of the valley above a huge basin rimmed with maroon cliffs and clad in emerald meadows sprinkled with wildflower. Views from the pass extend west to Treasure Mountain. To the east the Maroon Bells and the Pyramid Peaks fill the skyline.
Trailhead to Crater Lake
Distance from Trailhead: 3.4 miles (round trip)
Ending/Highest Elevation: 10,076-ft.
Elevation Gain: 496-ft.
Driving Directions from Aspen:
From Aspen: The Maroon Bells has limited accessibility by car. From June 9th through October 8th the Maroon Creek Road is restricted to vehicles from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. beyond the T-Lazy 7 Ranch, unless you have campground reservations or you are overnight backpacking.
Crater Lake to West Maroon Pass
Distance from Trailhead: 13.0 miles (round trip)
Ending/Highest Elevation: 12,500-ft.
Elevation Gain: 2,920-ft.
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