This easy hike to Crater Lake is one of the best trails in Aspen Colorado. Let’s be honest: it wouldn’t be Top 10 Aspen attractions without a bunch of incredible hiking destinations! Crater Lake Trail This 3.6-mile round-trip trail rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas of bushy Aspen woodlands and Crater Lake. 14,863 photos. United States ; Colorado (CO) ... Aspen, CO 81611. Be sure to follow the signs to crater lake, which will be heading higher into the valley. Need reservation during day time. Crater Lake (MODERATE) The trail begins at Maroon Lake, 10 miles up Maroon Creek Road. If you enter the park after 6 p.m. : then no need for reservation.. This trail through the aspen groves is a pretty consistent, yet gentle, uphill grade with plenty of width for a group to conversationally hike together. Fishing Information Fishing is permitted at Maroon Lake, Crater Lake, Willow Lake and along all related streams with a valid Colorado fishing license. 4,816 reviews VIEW FULL MAP. The crater lake trail begins at Maroon Lake and quickly breaks off from the scenic trail at .3 miles. Once past Crater Lake, however, crowds dissipate and the long yet moderate climb up West Maroon Creek is stunning. I've been to Maroon Bells two previous times and only ever did the Crater Lake Trail. The Maroon-Snowmass Trail climbs through the Aspens to the lake. Crater Lake Trail is the number-one rated trail around Aspen (and there is A LOT of competition). Crater Lake Trail, Aspen: Address, Phone Number, Crater Lake Trail Reviews: 4.5/5 The first 1.8 miles to Crater Lake climbs through giant aspen groves. It lies at treeline in a massive cirque framed by Snowmass Peak (13,619’), Hagerman Peak (13,841’) and Snowmass Mountain (14,092’). Start at the Deadly Bells Kiosk from Maroon Lake Trail and be prepared for a steep and rocky ascent, cooler temperatures and spontaneous thunderstorms. Perhaps a bit more challenging, Crater Lake Trail (3.6 miles round-trip, 500 feet in elevation gain) passes through the steep valley between Sievers Mountain and Pyramid Peak to the base of Maroon Bells. The Maroon-Snowmass trail ascends steeply through aspen and spruce forest for 0.6 miles to Minnehaha Gulch. It is nearly as beautiful as Maroon Lake, and access may be the only factor that makes Maroon Lake a more recognizable scene. Take advantage of recreation opportunities including an outdoor pool and a spa tub. Website +1 970-925-3445. 7,700 years ago, a violent eruption collapsed an ancient volcano forming what we know as of today; Crater Lake. ... Maroon Bells tip: If you can’t get a reservation for your car and you want to get there for sunrise before the shuttle starts, you can have a taxi drop you off. For more adventure, follow the Crater Lake Trail up and into the wilderness area. My account; ... Forest Rd.380, Aspen, CO 81611 +1 970-925-3445. This classic Aspen hike from Maroon Lake to Crater Lake winds through beautiful aspen groves and alpine landscapes. As you near Crater Lake, the trail splits at the main junction for the popular backpacking route, the Four Pass Loop. Profile. They had booked time to visit the Maroon Bells area under the new reservation system and were hiking at Crater Lake at 7:53 p.m. when the shadows were long and the number of people dwindled. Hikers, backpackers and horse travelers enjoy the wildflowers, views and access to other areas within the Wilderness. Aspen, CO 81611. Unable to display map at this time. The Crater Lake Hike near Aspen is a popular family-friendly hike in Colorado. Snowmass Lake - 17.0 Miles Round-Trip Snowmass Lake is located 8.5 miles from Maroon Lake in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Today, visitors marvel at the panoramic views and natural formations of Wizard Island and Phantom Ship. Camping at Crater Lake (designated sites only) and Snowmass Lake (designated sites only) can get very crowded. Above Maroon Lake, the trail enters a grove of the tallest, skinniest aspen trees I’ve ever seen in my life. The trail passes through a beautiful Aspen grove most of the way with wonderful views of 14ers, the Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak that dominate the skyline. If you enter the park after 6 p.m. : then no need for reservation.. Best nearby. Website +1 970-925-3445. Slightly before reaching Crater Lake arrive at a junction at 1.7 miles. This hotel is 1.9 mi (3 km) from Aspen Recreation Center and 2.8 mi (4.6 km) from Aspen Highlands. The crater lake trail begins at Maroon Lake and quickly breaks off from the scenic trail at .3 miles. The left trail or the scenic trail follows a river and crosses two bridges, then climbs steeply to meet with the Maroon-Snowmass Trail. Inspiration to see the planet. 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