TR: Swampy Pass Hike

(Last Updated On: September 13, 2017)

After biking around in the Castles last fall, I knew I wanted to spend some more time exploring this beautiful area. So, Swampy Pass quickly went on my list of things to be hiked. I was finally able to find the time to hike this trail at the end of July.

The trail head off of Ohio Pass.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

The Castles, as seen from the beginning of the trail.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

Close-up of the spectacular Castles.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

The Swampy Pass trail passes through a large aspen forest.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

And the Castles keep getting closer.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

Well-traveled by people on horse-back, encountering a horse camp is likely.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

The trail also reveals great views of the south side of the Anthracites.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

The trail also passes through a dense pine forest for a ways.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

Views of the Anthracites from Swampy Pass.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

The pass itself is not particularly scenic. What is scenic is the meadow beyond the pass. Keep going on the trail past the pass and then turn left at the intersection with 438. Continue about a half mile until you reach the meadow.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

Whetstone peaking out from beyond the trees.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

On the way back from the pass, I enjoyed the scenic Castles once again.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

And the views of the Ohio Creek Valley are also great.
Swampy Pass hike near Crested Butte, CO.

While Swampy Pass is certainly a wonderful summer hike, the best time to hike this area is probably in the fall, during late September or early October just as the leaves are changing…. Speaking of which, fall is just around the corner! So, get out there and enjoy the trails before the snow flies!

Brittany Walker Konsella

Aside from skiing, biking, and all outdoorsy things,Brittany Walker Konsella also loves smiles and chocolate 🙂 Even though she excels at higher level math and chemistry, she still confuses left from right. Find out more about Brittany!

Summary
Article Name
Swampy Pass Hike
Description
The hike to Swampy Pass offers a great walk through magnificent aspen forest with occasional stunning views of the nearby Castles and Anthracites!
Author

Brittany Walker Konsella

Aside from skiing, biking, and all outdoorsy things, Brittany Walker Konsella also loves smiles and chocolate :) Even though she excels at higher level math and chemistry, she still confuses left from right. Find out more about Brittany!

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