Hiking in Aspen

6-day hike around the Maroon Bells, Snowmass Mountain and Capital Peak following trails but also off trail sections. The reward is a nice bath in the Conundrum Hot Springs.

Aspen Colorado, Lost man trail

An extremely popular and difficult day hike which follows the Pine Creek canyon, ascending through forest, alpine meadows and scree fields to a high mountain lake. The scenic views of the peaks of the Elk Mountain Range are spectacular.

The trail rises steeply, switchbacking through the aspen for about 1-1/2 miles before reaching a spruce forest. From this point to the lake the trail levels with periodic ascents of an easy to moderate grade. On a rainy day the forest aroma is delightful.

A moderate hike, which because of its distance of 8-1/2 miles each way, isoften considered difficult. The trail generally parallels Conundrum Creek weaving its way up the valley through the woods and meadows to three river crossings before the hot springs.

This is a moderate climb with a couple of steep sections. This trail is good for hiking and backpacking. Fishing is fair in Independence Lake, Lost Man Lake and Lost Man Resevoir. The trail is not a complete loop—it is a good idea to set up a shuttle.

Combo route for Castle and Conundrum peaks in the Elk Range of Colorado

level 2 14ers to ocational level 3