About this campground
ALERT: Due to recent bear activity, bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. West Maroon Trail #1970 starts at Maroon Lake and climbs through aspen trees to Crater Lake. Take the left fork at Crater Lake. After the lake the trail follows the stream for a short distance and then enters the forest. Upon emerging from the forest you will cross a rocky scree field. The first stream crossing is in a little over three miles. The trail climbs through forest and willow before reaching another stream crossing in an open area. After crossing, the trail climbs steadily through willow and then tundra. This area is very open and the pass can be seen in the distance. The trail continues to climb steeply through switchbacks followed by a long traverse that ends at the top of the Pass. The views are spectacular on a clear day. From the top of the pass the trail descends on the other side to the East Fork Creek Trail and Schofield Park into Crested Butte or Frigid Air Pass. View a trail description and map (.pdf)
Getting there
Make sure to review Maroon Bells Scenic Area Access information to get latest rates, seasonal vehicle restrictions & bus information. From Aspen, Colorado, head southwest for 6.5 miles on Maroon Creek Road. From Highway 82 take the Maroon Creek Road exit at the roundabout on the West edge of town. Follow Maroon Creek Road to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station.
Activities
- HIKING
- HORSEBACK RIDING
Nearby federal campgrounds
- EAST MAROON PORTAL PICNIC SITEWhite River National Forest0 mi
- Maroon Creek #1982Colorado1 mi
- Silver Bell CampgroundWhite River National Forest1 mi
- Silver Queen CampgroundWhite River National Forest1 mi
- Silver Bar CampgroundWhite River National Forest2 mi
- Maroon Bells AmphitheatreWhite River National Forest3 mi
Explore more Colorado camping
West Maroon #1970 doesn't take campsite reservations — but plenty of nearby Colorado campgrounds do, and we'll alert you the moment a sold-out site opens up.
Browse Colorado camping →Details from Recreation.gov's official RIDB catalog. Conditions change — confirm with the managing office before you go. Not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.