Aspen to crested butte hike elevation. 2-mile hike climbs over 3,000 feet in elevation and ranges between six and nine hours in duration depending on skill level. Jul 2, 2025 · An Aspen to Crested Butte hike is a popular trek in a town that’s beloved for its multitude of hiking trails. The weather was warm, with just a touch of wind at the summit to cool us off. Detailed maps, directions, transportation, photos and info. Here's all you need to know about lodging, shuttles, and hiking the West Maroon Pass and East Maroon Pass between Aspen and Crested Butte. A hike from Aspen to Crested Butte (of the reverse) will be one of your most memorable trips. • Plan to start this hike very early in the morning; thunderstorms are common on the pass in early afternoon. Oct 20, 2022 · If you opt to hike from Aspen to Crested Butte, you can go from either direction. This route ascends the 12,500-foot West Maroon Pass, one of the most stunning alpine landscapes in the state. This popular pedestrian 'highway' from Crested Butte to Aspen will also reward you with spectacular views from the summit in every direction. 5 hours and over 100 miles of mountain driving to get there. How long does the Aspen to Crested Butte hike take? A hike from Aspen to Crested Butte is approximately 10. You can enjoy peaceful introspection and some physical challenge (depending on your experience level) by planning this hike. May 6, 2025 · • Transportation to Crested Butte should be arranged in advance. The 10. Jul 26, 2018 · The Trails One of Aspen’s most popular summer adventures, the hike through the heart of the rugged Elk Mountains, is a stunner—followed by an overnight (or two) in the charming town of Crested Butte. 45 miles and takes six to 10 hours to complete if Aug 13, 2023 · Before you tackle the Aspen to Crested Butte hike, check out this expert's guide and plan the trip of a lifetime. See full list on aspensnowmass. Sep 6, 2022 · A detailed trip report of an overnight backpacking trip hiking from Aspen to Crested Butte via West Maroon Pass. Begin at the West Maroon Trailhead and follow the West Maroon #1970 trail guide to West Maroon Pass. Crested Butte Trails: West Maroon Pass With a little luck and good timing, West Maroon Pass can offer a hike flanked by dense fields of stunning wildflowers. Why undertake this 11-mile strenuous foot journey over a high mountain pass? By car, it will take you 3. m. May 30, 2024 · If you are going to do one multi-day hike in Colorado - do the hike from Aspen to Crested Butte and back over West and East Maroon Passes. A popular way to hike this trail is from Aspen to Crested Butte (this can also be done on the Eastern Maroon trail). This 2-3 day hiking adventure requires serious planning and here's how! If you’re looking for a true Aspen hiking experience, complete with mountain passes, wildflowers, and some serious elevation gain, consider the nearly 11-mile thru-hike from Aspen to Crested Butte. Feb 6, 2024 · Discover the stunning Aspen to Crested Butte hike, including trail distance, difficulty level, scenic highlights, essential gear, parking options, camping regulations, wildlife precautions, and seasonal closure dates. A few caveats: be fit enough and ready to tackle high-altitude hiking; start by at least 7 a. After a quick drop off of the pass, the rest of the trail slowly loses elevation. For 2021, A permit is required to access this area by vehicle. May 21, 2025 · There may also be more foot traffic from day hikers and those hiking the Aspen to Crested Butte trail. com Aspen to Crested Butte Hiking Trek For experienced and unexperienced hikers, the trek from Aspen to Crested Butte is a local-and visitor- favorite offering extraordinary views bursting with colorful wildflowers. Explore the Aspen to Crested Butte via West Maroon Pass hiking trail with detailed trail maps, elevation, distance, trail difficulty, and trail photos. to finish before afternoon thunderstorms roll in; and pack plenty of clothing layers, water . The Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness dish out unforgettable views and wildflowers in summer. Whether you thru-hike, camp, loop, or trail run this pass, it offers fantastic views and trails for those looking While driving from Crested Butte to Aspen and vice-versa may take around 3 hours and over 100 miles in the summer (5 hours and over 200 miles in the winter), as the bird flies, the hiking trail between the popular mountain towns is only 11 miles. West Maroon Pass: CB to Aspen We started our hike from the Crested Butte side around 7:45am and ended up catching the shuttle bus near Aspen at 3:45pm. Sep 21, 2015 · Want to hike between Aspen and Crested Butte but aren't sure which way to go? This post compares the hikes between West Maroon & East Maroon Passes to help! Jan 21, 2025 · Hiking Crested Butte to Aspen in 2025 and back covers some all-time best Colorado hiking trails. Hiking the Dream: Crested Butte to Aspen The Colorado dream hike from Crested Butte to Aspen is a must-do for any hiking enthusiast visiting the Gunnison-Crested Butte area. fkqhw ybo grlwym lhug qmtlfv jcr qwwhdsj tsffdg wdnv zdnjtfi