This page is still under construction. Though still limited, the information below is very useful. Most trails mentioned are trails where there are few bikers or biking is not allowed (for example, bikes are not allowed in Wilderness areas). I have included several trails, but not all. If a trail is not listed, then I haven’t hiked it yet, OR it is popular enough with bikers that I have chosen not to hike it. In general, I have been listing trails that we at 14erskiers don’t do on a bike. However, some biking trails make great hiking trails. You may also seek some information on our Crested Butte Mountain Bike Guide.
Hikes I plan to incorporate into this page soon include, but are not limited to: Rustler’s Gulch, Stormy Pass, and Dark Canyon.
The hikes below are organized by location. I have hiked most of the trails mentioned and have gathered statistics using either the My Tracks program on my Android phone, using maps, or using Google Maps or Google Earth. Some sources showed varying information, but I have used my best judgement. Elevation gain includes not just the difference in low point to high point, but all the little ups and downs in between.
I have included hiking times, though these times will of course vary from person to person and group to group. I typically hike somewhere between 2.5 and 3 miles for in an hour on average. I don’t run on my hikes. Some hikes are slower than others due to rocky terrain. But, some of the variation in my times is just due to how I was feeling on the day I did the hike and whether I was hiking with another person (I often hike faster solo). The hiking times include short stops.
Please keep in mind that the condition of trails will change according to the season. Some higher elevation trails may not be reasonably accessible in June or even into early July due to snow. Also, these same higher elevation trails can be very wet in early summer due to the melting snow. It is always best, especially in late spring or early summer, to check the conditions. Try calling the Alpineer or CB Sports, or you can even contact us at 14erskeirs.
If you have any questions about any of the trails in the Crested Butte area, please do not hesitate to contact me. My contact info can be found at right.
Note about Map Files
For many of the routes, I have tried to include maps and files to help in navigation. There are many different formats. If you are having trouble viewing a particular format, follow the instructions below. Note: The GPX and KMZ files tend to be more accurate that the Google Map files. But, both are very useful.
1) Google Map -The maps are usually liked to a Google Map URL which anyone with Internet can access. All you need to do is simply click on the map link.
2) Images – Click on the link to view the map as an image. You can use your browser to help zoom in.
3) GPX Files – These are more complicated. Simply clicking on the link won’t work. Instead, save the file to your computer (on a PC, this means right-click on your mouse and “Save As”). Then, open using most GPS software OR Google Earth. In order to open the GPX file using Google Earth, you must have the Google Earth software installed on your computer. Open Google Earth. Then, under File, go to Open, and then open the GPX file that you just downloaded onto your computer.
3) Google Earth Files – Like the GPX files, these are more complicated. They appear as KMZ files. They can ONLY be viewed using Google Earth, as far as I know. Simply clicking on the link won’t work. Instead, save the file to your computer (on a PC, this means right-click on your mouse and “Save As”). Then, open using Google Earth. In order to open the KMZ file using Google Earth, you must have the Google Earth software installed on your computer. Open Google Earth. Then, under File, go to Open, and then open the KMZ file that you just downloaded onto your computer.
Kebler/Ohio Pass Area Hikes
Trailhead Info
1) The “Y” – A common reference point. The Y is a split in the Kebler Pass road that is roughly 6.3 miles from the town of Crested Butte. Taking the right turn heads toward the Irwin area. Going straight, you will head toward Kebler or Ohio Pass.
2) Ohio Pass – the turn for Ohio pass is about a half mile past the Y. The left fork in the road goes over Ohio Pass, a dirt road. Continuing on the paved road will take you over Kebler Pass.
3) Horse Ranch Park – On Kebler Pass road, about 5.5 miles past the Y.
Fall Hikes – This area is known for its bountiful Aspen trees and wonderful fall scenes. Hikes marked with an asterisk (*) indicate that they are among the best to enjoy the changing color of leaves.
| Name | Description | Route | Trailhead | Miles, Time, & Vertical Elevation Gain | Trip Report | Map |
| Swampy Pass * | This trail is not very steep and keeps a fairly consistent grade throughout. It provides occasional spectacular views of the Castles and the Anthracites mountains. It can be done as an out-and-back or a loop with other trails. | From the trailhead, follow signs for 439 and Swampy Pass. The trail is well marked and well-used. Eventually the trail intersects with 438. To see great views of the Anthracites, turn left onto 438 and continue about a half a mile to a large meadow. Return via the ascent route. | Swampy Pass – From the Ohio Pass turn off from Kebler, travel about 5 miles to the trail head. | 12 miles 4 hr 50 min 2100 ft |
July 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| Pass Creek * | Similar to Swampy Pass, this trail is not very steep, except in a few short places. It provides occasional spectacular views of the Castles and the Anthracites mountains, perhaps even more so than than Swampy. It can be done as an out-and-back, or as a short or long loop with Swampy Pass. | From the trailhead, follow signs for 439 and Swampy Pass. After about .8 miles, the trail splits. Take the left path marked as Pass Creek. Curiously, this trail is not marked on recent Latitude 40 maps. Continue following this trail and it will merge with 563 which is on the map. After about 3 miles, the trail has another intersection. To do the short loop (which is about 5-6 miles total) turn right toward Swampy Pass trail. Otherwise, keep going straight. After a couple more miles, the trail opens up to a meadow, providing excellent views of the Castles. For out-and-back hikers, this is a great stopping point. For those wishich to continue on a long loop with Swampy Pass, proceed about .5 to .25 miles further to the intersection with 438. Turn left (north) onto 438 and continue to the intersection with Swampy Pass trail and turn left (east) again to head back to the trailhead. The long loop is about 13 miles. | Swampy Pass – From the Ohio Pass turn off from Kebler, travel about 5 miles to the trail head. | As an out and back:
9.5 miles |
Sept 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| Three Lakes Trail * | This trail has very few steep sections. It winds through the forest, visiting three different lakes, with occasional views of the Raggeds, in a nice loop. | From the trail head, follow the signs for trail 842. After about a half mile, there will be an intersection. Follow the path to the right, taking the Three Lakes trail 843. This will take you in a clockwise loop ending in the campground. Follow the road back to the parking lot. This trail can easily be connected with a Beckwith Pass out-and-back. | Beckwith Horse Trailhead, near Lost Lake Campground. If you park in the campground, you will need to pay a fee. To get to the Lost Lake campground, go about 4.5 miles past Horse Ranch Park and turn left (south) at a sign for the campground. You will continue 2 miles up the dirt road to the horse trailhead. The horse trailhead is just before the campground, but right after a cattle guard. | 4.5 miles 1 hr 55 min 767 feet |
July 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| Beckwith Pass via 842 * | This trail is also low grade and not steep, except for a few places near the top. It winds through nice aspen forests at the beginning and as it gains elevation, high alpine meadows allow for fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. Signs mark the top of Beckwith Pass. | From the trail head, follow signs for 842. After about a half mile, there will be a split in the trail. Take the left path, following the signs toward Beckwith Pass. The trail first drops in elevation before gaining again. After a couple more miles, there is another split in the trail, where the trail meets with the Cliff Creek Trail. The sign has recently fallen down at this split. The path to the left is 840 and goes to Horse Ranch. The path to the right takes you to Beckwith Pass. Return via the ascent route. | Beckwith Horse Trailhead – see Three Lakes | 8 miles 2 hrs 45 min 920 feet |
July 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| Beckwith Pass / Three Lakes Combo * | See Beckwith Pass and Three Lakes descriptions | I have not done this hike in one shot, but I’ve done both parts. From the trail head, follow the signs for 842 toward Beckwith Pass. After a half mile, the path will split. Follow the left path, taking 842 to Beckwith Pass. After reaching the Pass, return via the ascent route until the split mentioned at the beginning of the trail (1/2 mile in). At this split, follow the signs for the Three Lakes trail 843. This will continue in the clockwise loop ending at the campground. Follow the road back to the parking lot. | Beckwith Horse Trailhead – see Three Lakes | 11.5 miles 4 hrs 30 min 1650 feet |
See Beckwith Pass via 842 and Three Lakes | See Beckwith Pass and Three Lakes Maps |
| Beckwith Pass via Cliff Creek 840 * | It’s easy to compare 840 with 830 as both lead to the same pass. This trail is fairly steep at times, especially compared to 830, but is a mile shorter. The views of East Beckwith Mountain are more obscure on 840, but highly visible on 830. It’s a good hike, but personally, I think 830 is better. But 840 is about a 15 minute shorter drive from Crested Butte than 830. | Follow the signs for Cliff Creek Trail 840 toward Beckwith Pass. After a couple of miles, you will see a split. Follow the straight path, which ascends to the pass. The right path is 842 and will descend to Lost Lake Campground. This intersection may not be well marked. The top of Beckwith Pass is well marked. Return via the ascent route. | Horse Ranch Park – located 5.5 miles after the Y on Kebler Pass road. The Horse Ranch parking will be on the right (north) but the trail will be on the left of the road (south). You can park at Horse Ranch, or proceed 1/4 of a mile further to another road on the left side (south). A sign will indicate Cliff Creek Trail 840. Turn left onto this road and park in one of the camping areas. | 5 miles 2 hrs 15 min 1400 feet |
August 2012 | Image Google Earth File Google Map – Includes a short jaunt to the bench above the pass for scenic views |
| Swampy Pass to Beckwith Pass to Horse Ranch * | See Swampy Pass and Beckwith Pass via Cliff Creek 840 | This is best done as a shuttle between Swampy Pass and Horse Ranch. Begin at the Swampy Pass trail head and follow the signs for 439 toward Swampy Pass. After about 6 miles, there will be an intersection. Take the right path, following 838 a couple of miles to the top of Beckwith Pass. Continue down trail Cliff Creek Trail 840 to Horse Ranch. | Most people will want to set up a shuttle, leaving one car at Horse Ranch and taking the other to the Swampy Pass trailhead to start. See Swampy Pass and Beckwith Pass via 840 for trailhead info. | 11.5 miles 4 hrs 30 minutes 2300 feet |
None | Image Google Earth File |
| Dyke Trail to Dark Canyon Loop * | A fairly short loop and the most scenic hike in the Horse Ranch area, with absolutely spectacular views of the Raggeds and Marcellina. This loop is well worth the hike, especially in the fall! The loop climbs up and down throughout, with some steep sections, especially descending. But, the steep sections don’t last long. | From Horse Ranch Park, hike up the Dyke for 1.3 miles. At the sign pointing toward the Raggeds Wilderness, turn left onto Irwin Trail. Follow this 1.2 miles until the intersection of Oh-Be-Joyful Pass trail. Turn left again, and travel 0.6 miles until the Dark Canyon Trail and make another left. Here, the trail flattens out. Look for some overlooks just off the right side of the trail. They are worth the stop. Follow Dark Canyon all the way back to Horse Ranch. | Horse Ranch Park, see above. | 6.5 miles 2 hrs 30 minutes 1700 feet |
September 2012 | Google Map GPX Track |
| Dark Canyon Trail * | A fantastic hike that spans from a beautiful canyon through vast scenic mountain views. This hike is a grand one. This hike is best done as a one-way, involving a shuttle between Horse Ranch Park and Erickson Springs. Hitch-hiking is a viable and relatively easy option. | Most people hike this route from Horse Ranch to Erickson Springs as this direction is mostly downhill. The route is well marked and has only a couple of intersections. Follow the signs to Erickson Springs. Those hiking in the opposite direction should follow signs to Horse Ranch. | Horse Ranch Park, see above. Or Erickson Springs, approximately 15 minutes past the Ruby Anthracite Trailhead, see below. | One way: 14.5 miles 7 hrs 4000 feet |
September 2012 | Google Map GPX Track |
| Ruby Anthracite Trail 836 * | There is one word to best describe this trail – lush! Hikers will experience dense foliage, lots of ferns and willows, as well as wildflowers in the height of summer. It is overgrown and I highly recommend wearing pants as the plants can chafe your legs. Sometimes it is so overgrown, you’ll find yourself wondering if you’re even on the right path. This trail also has fantastic views of Marcellina and the surrounding mountains. It is the only trail in the Crested Butte area that I can think of that looses elevation. At first it looses gently, but then becomes very steep as it enters the very serene Ruby Anthracite Gorge. | From the trailhead, continue on 836. There are no splits until about 5 miles. Unless you plan on doing a large loop that requires a shuttle or hitch-hiking, this hike is best done as an out and back. Follow the trail about 3 miles to Ruby Anthracite Creek. The creek is wonderful and you may wish to turn your hike around there as you must climb back up steep trail out of the gorge. If you want another look at Marcellina from a different perspective, cross the creek and continue on the trail up the other side about a mile. The trail will be overgrown through here until it rises above the gorge and onto a sage-scaped land. Views are good from here and it’s a good place to turn around. Some people may want to continue on down into the Dark Canyon and end at Erickson Springs – generally down hill and a total of 10 miles from the trail head. | On Kebler Pass Road, go past Horse Ranch Park and past the turn for Lost Lake Campground. Continue about 1.7 miles past the campground (about 6.2 miles past Horse Ranch Park) and look for an obscure dirt road on your right. It is marked with a sign just before it. The dirt road is pretty rough, especially when wet and can be overgrown – it scratched my Subaru. You may want to park on Kebler Pass road instead of continuing up the road. The trailhead is about 1/4 mile up the road. | 7 miles + 3 hours + 1500 feet + Data given to Ruby Anthracite Creek. However, hikers can continue on the trail. |
August 2012 | Google Map GPX Track |
| Copley Lake | A short trail, close to town, that is moderately steep, this trail has good wildflowers, even in dry years. Scenic vistas are lacking on the actual trail until the lake, but the views from the lake are phenomenal. | From the trailhead, follow the Elk Creek trail upwards. The trail is not well-marked. The Wagon Trail will run left to right along the Kebler Pass Road. Do not follow the Wagon trail. Instead, follow a trail that looks like and old road and is very steep at first. The steepest part of the trail is at the beginning and it mellows after the first 1/4 mile. It maintains its moderate steepness the rest of the way. The trail is an old road. After about 1.5 miles, there is a meadow with a cairn and a path leading to the left. This intersection is not well marked. Instead of continuing on the road, follow this left path to the lake. | The Trailhead is not well marked. It is about 3.5 miles past the town limits on Kebler Pass Road. There will be a parking area on the left side of the road (south). The trail is directly across the road on the north side. If you pass the signs for Splains Gulch (a left turn off of Kebler Pass), you have gone about 0.7 miles too far. | 4 miles + (can walk some around the lake) 2 hrs 1300 feet |
July 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| Green Lake / Ruby Peak | This hike is great because it has a lot of options – Green Lake, Ruby Saddle, and Ruby Peak. The hike to the actual lake is moderate, but steepens toward the saddle and the peak. Green Lake itself is beautiful. And for those venturing beyond the lake, the views west of Ruby are hard to beat. | Where you start your hike depends on where you actually are able to park your car. Either way, you will be following a road which continuously degrades in condition. The road will split eventually. One fork will go right toward the north side of Owen, the other will head left to the basin between Ruby and Owen. Take the left fork. The road will swing by Green Lake, though to visit the lake requires a quick jaunt off the actual road. The road continues up past the lake to near the saddle. At a fairly obvious point near the saddle, look for a primitive trail that climbs steeply up to the actual saddle. Don’t follow the road past here. Take the trail instead. Those who desire to summit Ruby peak, the path is obvious. Just follow the ridge south from the saddle. The actual summit is about 15-20 minutes away. | From the Y, head toward Irwin Lake and Irwin Campground. It is 2.5 miles to the lake and the campground is just a bit further along the lake. Most cars can reach the campground and some may actually wish to park there. If you wish to venture beyond the campground, follow the road about a half mile until it splits. Take the right fork. In another half mile it splits again. This time take the left fork. Shortly after this left fork, the road deteriorates and most will want to park somewhere along the road close to the south side of Ruby. The map and mileage start at this point. | To Green Lake: 5 miles 2 hours 1400 feet To the saddle: 6 miles To Ruby Peak: 7 miles |
August 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| Mount Owen | This climb has some of the best views in Crested Butte! It ascends along a ridge line which some may feel is exposed and airy. But, the path is relatively well-trodden. | Follow the directions to the saddle above Green Lake near Ruby (see above). From there, follow the obvious ridgeline to the north. Though a trail is not marked, there is a fairly obvious trail to the summit. | For trialhead info, see Green Lake / Ruby above | Stats begin from road near south side of Ruby: 7 miles 4.5 hours 2500 feet |
Sept 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| Scarps Ridge Loop | Of all the trails in the Crested Butte area, this one makes me want to bust out singing “the hills are alive with the sound of music” more than any other. Largely above treeline and with stunning views off all the surrounding Elk Mountains, this one should be on the top of your list. | The trail climbs fairly steeply and steadily straight from the trailhead. If doing the loop counter clockwise (shorter but steeper ascent), simply follow the trail to the ridge and keep following it about 2 miles to the Scarps ridge high point. When returning, follow the same trail back at first for about 1/4 of a mile. After the trail passes through a rock band, you should notice a trail higher along the ridge than the one you came on. The trail is not obvious at first, but becomes more defined as it continues. This trail follows along the ridge for about 1/2 mile before dropping down. Eventually it connects with your ascent trail. If doing the loop clockwise (longer but less steep ascent) then follow the trail from the trailhead. Around .4 or .5 miles, there will be a rock slab on your right. This rock slab is the beginning of your ascent trail, but it is likely not well marked and easily missed. Occasional cairns mark the turn, but don’t count on it. Once passing over the rock slab the trail becomes well defined. Follow this to the high point on the ridge. Return using the lower trail when the trail splits. | From the Y, head toward Irwin Lake and Irwin Campground. It is 2.5 miles to the lake and the campground is just a bit further along the lake. Continue following the road about a half mile until it splits. Take the right fork. In another half mile it splits again. Take the right fork again, going by some CS Irwin buildings. There will be many sings indicating Private Property and it can be somewhat intimidating. The road is public, but the land beside the road is not. So, simply stay on the road and you’ll be fine. The road ends in about a mile after the turn at the Irwin Lodge. The trail is on the left, but is not clearly marked. | 4.5 miles 2 hours – or more to enjoy the views 1530 feet | August 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
Gothic Area/Schofield Pass Hikes
Trailhead Info
The town of Gothic is located on Gothic Rd about 5 miles from Mount Crested Butte. From Mount Crested Butte, continue up Gothic Road (the main road) about 1.7 miles until there is a fork in the road. At the fork, take the left path, following a dirt road another 3.5 miles to the town of Gothic. To reach Schofield Pass, travel another 4 miles past the town of Gothic. After a mile or two past Gothic, the road can be rough and there can be a snow plug around 3 miles that can be present into July (sometimes even later in really big snow years). Check local shops for road status information.
| Name | Description | Route | Trailhead | Miles, Time, & Vertical Elevation Gain | Trip Report | Map |
| Copper Lake | This trail is not steep. The steepest parts of the trail are at the beginning. It travels through pine and aspen forests as well as meadows before reaching the lake. This trail is one of the more popular trails in Crested Butte and can you will see many people on the the weekends. | From the trailhead, follow the signs for trail 983 toward Judd Falls. You will pass the overlook for Judd Falls after about a mile. Continue another 3 miles on the trail to the lake. Return via your ascent route. | Copper Creek Trailhead. From Gothic, continue through the town and go another half mile until you see parking for Judd Falls. You can park here or continue up a dirt road another half mile to the Copper Creek trailhead. This last dirt road is passable by many fairly high-clearance cars. A true 4×4 is usually not necessary. | 10 miles 4 hours 30 min 2300 feet If parked at lower lot, add another mile, 30 minutes, and another 200 feet. |
August 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| East Maroon Pass | Great views of the Eastern portion of the Elks! Worth the extra mile from Copper Lake! | Follow the directions to Copper Lake. Beyond Copper Lake the trail will begin to climb steeply. Continue about another mile up the trail to East Maroon Pass. You can continue on this trail toward Aspen, but an overnight is usually needed. Return via your ascent route. | Copper Creek TH -See Copper Lake. | 12 miles 5 hours 30 minutes 2850 feet |
None | Image – from Copper Lake Google Earth File from Copper Lake |
| Copper Pass Loop | Continues from Copper Lake over two very scenic passes in the Eastern portion on the Elks. | Follow the directions to Copper Lake. Beyond Copper Lake the trail will begin to climb steeply. Continue about another mile up the trail to East Maroon Pass. Descend on the north side of the East Maroon Pass for a mile. Instead of continuing toward Aspen, take a trail that veers right (1981 east). Follow this trail 2.5 miles to the top of Copper Pass. Descend down Triangle Pass trail toward Copper Lake for about 2 miles. Follow 983 back to the trailhead. | Copper Creek TH -See Copper Lake. | 17.5 miles 8-9 hours 4500 feet |
None | Image – from Copper Lake Google Earth File – from East Maroon Pass |
| Rustler Gulch | This is a beautiful hike that travels through one of Crested Butte’s most scenic valleys, showcasing some of our biggest hard-to-reach peaks. Many people use this trail as an access to reach those peaks. | The length of this trail depends on how far up the road you park. Most people park near the 401 intersection. From there, continue up the 4×4 road for about a mile until the road becomes trail. The trail is straigh-forward, as there are no intersections. This hike is best done as an out-and-back as the trail fades near the end of the valley. | The trail head is reached from Schofield Pass road. Travel about 2.7 miles past the General Store in the town of Gothic. Turn right at a sign marking Rustler Gulch. After about 1/4 of a mile, there is a water crossing. The crossing can be quite deep, but water doesn’t flow fast and it is not rocky. Most people park just after the water crossing. | 9 miles 3 hours 45 min 2600 feet |
September 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| West Maroon Pass | This is one of the most scenic hikes in the Crested Butte area. It is known for it’s excellent wildflowers and superb mountain views. Much of this is above treeline, so make sure to go early in the day before afternoon storms approach. This hike can be done as an out and back to and from the pass. But, it is even better done as an overnight, staying in the Aspen area. | From the trailhead, follow the West Maroon Trail up the East Fork Valley. As the trail rises out of the valley along the flanks of Bellview Mountain, the trail will split at 3.3 miles. Follow the right path toward West Maroon Pass. This is the steepest section of the trail. The pass is just over 4 miles from the trail head. Here, you can return via your ascent route, or you can descend down West Maroon Creek valley toward Aspen. If you descend to Aspen, the trail is fairly steep for the first mile or so, becoming more gradual as you descend. Follow the signs to Crater Lake and Maroon Lake. See trip report for details of how to get to Aspen from Maroon Lake. | Schofield Park – Continue over Schofield Pass another .8 miles to a parking area on the right. Schofield Park is a wide open flat meadow. | Out and Back: 8.2 miles 4 hours 2200 feet To Aspen: 12 miles |
August 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| Frigid Air Pass | Again, a very scenic trail! Not only will you likely see fantastic wildflowers, but you will see excellent views of the south side of the Maroon Bells. Like West Maroon Pass, most of this is above tree line, so travel early, before afternoon storms threaten. This trail is best done as an out-and-back, but those who desire can travel further into Fravert Basin -probably best done as an overnight backpacking trip. | From the trailhead, follow the West Maroon Trail up the East Fork Valley. As the trail rises out of the valley along the flanks of Bellview Mountain, the trail will split at 3.3 miles. Take the left path toward Frigid Air Pass. The trail will begin to climb steeply as you approach the pass. Descend via your ascent route. | Schofield Park – See West Maroon Pass | 10 miles 4 hours 30 min 2300 feet |
None | Google Earth File |
| Hasley Pass | I love the views from the other nearby passes. But, the views that span from the top of Hasley are probably my favorite. Diverging from the main Maroon Bells route, you’ll likely see less people – and a whole lot of sheep! Plan on spending some time on top of the pass to soak in the wonderful views. | From the trailhead, follow the West Maroon Trail up the East Fork Valley. After 2 miles, there is a split in the trail that is well marked. The left path leads toward Hasley. After parting from the valley, the trail climbs steeply to a shelf. At the beginning of the shelf, there is a smaller unmarked path that takes off to the right and leads toward Frigid Air Pass. Stay on the main path, which veers left at the split. The views from the shelf are spectacular and you’ll likely see sheep before reaching the pass. | Schofield Park – See West Maroon Pass | 7 miles 3 hours 1800 feet |
See Hasley Pass / Frigid Air Pass Loop | See Hasley Pass / Frigid Air Pass Loop Map |
| Hasley Pass / Frigid Air Pass Loop | My two favorite passes in the Crested Butte area. This hike simply cannot be beat. | Follow the directions for Hasley Pass. From the top of Hasley Pass, there is a trail that begins downward into Hasely Basin. This trail is unmarked, but not difficult to find. However, don’t follow the trail all the way into the basin. Look for a trail to the right that traverses around to another saddle. See the trip report for more details on this path because it can be difficult to find. Continue over the saddle, traversing toward Frigid Air. From the top of Frigid Air, follow your return path for .3 miles until a split. Follow the left path toward West Maroon Pass. After 1.5 miles, there is another split. Follow the right path down the valley instead of heading toward the pass. | Schofield Park – See West Maroon Pass | 10 miles 5-6 hours (plan for time to enjoy the views!) 2900 feet |
August 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| Triple Bipass Loop – Hasley, Frigid Air, and West Maroon | So beautiful you might just need a triple bipass after this hike. Not too much further than my favorite Hasley/Frigid Air Loop and worth the extra effort. | Follow the directions for Hasley Pass / Frigid Air Pass Loop to the top of the Frigid Air Pass. Descend your ascent route from Frigid Air for .3 miles until the path splits. Follow the left path toward West Maroon Pass. After 1.5 miles, there is another split. Follow the left path toward the West Maroon Pass. From the pass, return to the same split and continue down the valley back to Schofield Park. | Schofield Park – See West Maroon Pass | 11.5 miles 6-7 hours (plan for time to enjoy the views!) 3700 feet |
See trip reports for Hasley Pass / Frigid Air Pass Loop as well as West Maroon Pass | See Maps for Hasley Pass / Frigid Air Pass Loop as well as West Maroon Pass |
| Schofield Pass Loop | This loop is a great option for those seeking to stay a little lower than some of the nearby passes (Frigid Air, Hasley, and West Maroon passes), but still wanting great views. The route is also a bit shorter than some of the nearby passes. | This is described as a counterclockwise loop. From Schofield Pass, ascend trail 401. There could be many bikers on this trail, but they will not be traveling much faster than hikers as the trail is fairly steep. The trail begins in a thick forest and eventually climbs above treeline. Where most bikers stop to take a break before their descent, there is a split in the trail (1.3 miles from the Schofield Pass TH). Here you will say “bye” to the bikers and head north on the Schofield Trail. After about a mile and a half, there will be an intersection with the West Maroon Trail. Head left (east). It is 1.5 miles to the Schofield Park trail head. Follow the Schofield Pass Road .8 miles south back to Schofield Pass. | Schofield Passs – parking is limited. Park well off the side of the road. Some may prefer to begin their hike at Schofield Park (see West Maroon Pass) and do the loop clockwise instead of counterclockwise, or walk on the road before accessing the trail. | 5 miles 2 hours |
None | Coming Soon! |
Slate River Area Hikes
Trailhead Info
Oh-Be-Joyful campground is located about 5 miles up the Slate River Road. Most cars can make it to this camground. The best parking is across the Slate River, though this crossing can be really treacherous with high runoff in spring and early summer. If you do make it across the river, then you may choose to go up the road a bit more. The first 1/4 mile isn’t difficult, but the road does worsen. High clearance vehicles are usually needed to make it the 1.7 miles to the end. The mileage and elevation below is from the campground.
| Name | Description | Route | Trailhead | Miles, Time, & Vertical Elevation Gain | Trip Report | Map |
| Daisy Pass | This area is also known for being one of the most scenic areas of Crested Butte. You’ll get wildflowers and spectacular mountain views. This loop is best done as a shuttle so as to avoid over 2 miles of walking on the Slate River road. To do this, go up Slate River Road past the Oh-Be-Joyful Campground. Continue another 2 miles or so to a split in the road. One split goes across the river, the other up the hill. This area is called “Pittsburg” and you should park here. Most cars have the capability of making it to this point, but most don’t have the capability to cross the Slate River (depending on runoff) and continue up the Poverty Gulch road. Park another car at the Oh-Be-Joyful trail head to begin your hike. | From the campground, go up the Oh-Be-Joyful road. This road becomes a trail which climbs gradually most of the time, until it approaches the end of the valley. After about 5.8 miles there will be a split in the trail. Turn right (north) onto the Democrat Basin trail. After another 1.2 miles, there is another split. Turn right (northeast) toward Daisy Pass. Go to the top of Daisy Pass, another mile and a half past the split. Continue down the other side of Daisy Pass another .7 miles until you meet a road. Continue following the road downward. This road merges with Poverty Gulch road. Turn right onto Poverty Gulch and go another 2 miles to Pittsburg. | Oh-Be-Joyful campground. | As a loop: 11.5 miles 5.5 hours 2900 feet As an out and back: 14 miles |
June 2010 | Image Google Earth File |
| Blue Lake | Again, another beautiful hike. Unlike the Daisy Pass hike that takes hikers above the valley to see the views, this hike stays in the valley. Though a bit longer than Daisy Pass, the terrain is generally easier. The lake sits on a bench at the bottom of two wonderful mountains – Purple Peak and Afley Peak. | From the campground, go up the Oh-Be-Joyful road. This road becomes a trail which climbs gradually most of the time, until it approaches the end of the valley. After about 5.8 miles there will be a split in the trail. Turn left (south). Continue another 1 mile up the trail, which climbs steeply at times, until there is a split that you may or may not notice (difficult to find). Turn right at the split and continue another 1/4 mile up to the lake. | Oh-Be-Joyful campground. | 13.5 miles 5.5 hours 2500 feet | Coming Soon! | Google Map GPX File |
| Name | Description | Route | Trailhead | Miles, Time, & Vertical Elevation Gain | Trip Report | Map |
| Twin Lakes | One of the most scenic hikes in the Crested Butte area, this hike is top notch. It winds through forests and meadows before opening up to alpine tundra. The lakes are crystal clear with a stunning mountain backdrop. Access is difficult, but if you can make it work, this hike is definitely worth your while. | From the trail head, hike 3 miles to the lakes. There aren’t any intersections until the lakes. It doesn’t get much easier than that! | Twin Lakes trailhead off of Brush Creek Road. A high clearance 4×4 or a bike is generally necessary to get to the trail head. Details of the trail head access can be found in the trip report. | 6 miles 3 hours 1300 feet |
Trip Report | Google Map – the starting point and ending point on the map shown are a mile from the actual trailhead. GPX File |
| Meridian Lake (also called Long Lake) | This is a popular area for both locals and tourists alike, but few venture farther than the lake itself. After reaching the lake, the trail follows on the west end of the lake and climbs up to a ridge, allowing for some great views of surrounding mountains like Gothic, Avery, and Whetstone. Long Lake itself is the best swim spot in Crested Butte. So, turn your hike into a swimming excursion as well! | From the trailhead, cross the Washington Gulch and follow the trail which climbs very steeply up to the lake. The hike to the lake is about a half a mile. From there, follow the trail to the right, following along the northern, then western, edges of the lake. This portion of the trail is not steep. The trail eventually gains a ridge. On top of the ridge there is a fence indicating private property so hikers can go no further. Descend the ascent route. For a longer hike, instead of walking down the steep trail from the lake, continue on the north side of the lake until you come to a sparsely used dirt road which veers to the left. Follow this down to the Washington Gulch road. Walk west along Washington Gulch road back to the trailhead. This adds on about 1.5 miles. | Meridian Lake Trailhead – take Washington Gulch road for about 1.5 miles. The parking lot on the left, past a subdivision of houses, and marked. | 3.5 miles 1 hr 30 min 700 feet |
Coming Soon! | Google Map GPX File |
| Yule Lakes | This is a beautiful hike through alpine terrain! The lakes are stunning with Treasure as a backdrop. Although the route is not on a defined trail the entire way, the lakes are still not hard to find. Many people opt to camp at the lake and hike Treasure Mountain from camp. | From Paradise Divide, head west on an old rocky road that has several wash outs. Yule Pass is just under 2.5 miles from the start of the road. At the top of the pass, look for the trail (not the road that goes to the left) that goes straight down into the valley on the west side. The trail is not marked, but is not difficult to find. After descending for about a mile there will be a trail on the right that ascends to the north west toward Treasure. This trail is marked with a cairn but not a sign. Take this trail and it is well-defined for about another mile. Then it seems to fade out at a stream crossing. Never fear. At the stream crossing stay on the existing bench and follow it west. You may see evidence of other foot traffic every once in a while. Follow the bench until it ascends a hundred feet or so up to Yule Lakes. Return via your ascent route. | Access is from Paradise Divide. Slate River Road, Gothic Road, and Washington Gulch road all lead to Paradise Divide. But, the best way is probably to take Washington Gulch Road. Park on the side of the road at Paradise Divide. | 9.5 miles 5 hours 2400 feet |
August 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| Mount Crested Butte | Otherwise known as the ski area peak, this hike is a fun one – though it sometimes can be crowded near the top. Some hikers not accustomed to scree hikes may find a joyful challenge. Either way, the hike is certainly worth the view. | Routes vary. The easiest route is to pay for a one ride lift ticket up the Silver Queen and hike the 1.3 miles to the top. If starting at the base, there are many routes. But the most direct is to take the road, which is about 4.5 miles to the top. Any trail that is not designated solely for downhill mountain biking can also be used by hikers. If hikers wish to take a trail, I recommend the Westside trail or Columbine, both scenic and have good views. However, these trails are definitely less direct than the road. Trails don’t extend much beyond the top of the Red Lady Chair, so you’ll need to take a road the rest of the way to the top. Stop by the Adventure Center at the ski area to grab a map or find out trail details. Or, check out www.skicb.com and find a map there as well. | Crested Butte Mountain Resort base area. Follow the signs for ski area parking. | From the top of Silver Queen: 2.6 miles 1.5 hours 660 feet From the ski area base: 11.6 miles Also consider taking the lift up (must pay) and walking down or walking up and taking lift down (free). |
August 2012 | Google Map GPX File |
| Name | Description | Access | Trip Report | Map |
| Avery – Diamond Face | A sporty climb up a flatiron-style rock that is about 45 degrees for 1000 feet. No ropes are required, but rock shoes or approach shoes are highly recommended! | Access is via lower 401 on a gully that crosses the trail and leads directly to the diamond face. Exiting is another matter. Many opt to follow the ridge down on either side of the diamond face, or you can exit on the east side into Virginia Basin | August 2012 | Google Map |
| Axtell | There are a few different ways to reach the top of this peak, but in the end, there are no trails. You’ll hike through a dense forest and find yourself rising out of the trees to some fantastic views. Even better, it’s fairly short and easy to do in just 2-3 hours. | Access is via Splains Gulch, if hiking the west side. It can also be accessed to the north from Kebler Pass road. | August 2012 | Google Map – includes road to Crested Butte |
| Purple & Augusta | Again, there are a few different ways to climb these two peaks. But, they are both considered to be on the northern end of the Ruby traverse. Because of this, it might be best to treat them as part of this traverse, beginning at Paradise Divide and ending at Poverty Gulch. | This is best done as a shuttle. Leave one car at Paradise Divide and hike up to Yule Pass. Gain the Purple ridge from there and continue following the ridge to Augusta. After summiting Augusta, keep following the ridge south, eventually dropping into the basin to the west and taking Angel Pass into Poverty Gulch. | September 2012 | Google Map – ends part way through Poverty Gulch but some people may wish to hike all the way to Pittsburg |
| Afley to Oh-Be-Joyful to Hancock to Scarps Loop | This hike starts off with a fun and fairly low-technical scramble, with the exception of the climb gaining the ridge to Afley. After the middle-Ruby-traverse ridge, this hike descends into to the beautiful Oh-Be-Joyful valley. A stop at Blue Lake is only 1/4 of a mile out of the way as you gain Star Pass. From there, a faint traverse trail leads along the western-most part of Scarp’s Ridge. | Drive past Irwin Lake on the road as far as your car can travel. As the road switches back to ascend toward Green Lake (between Ruby and Owen), continue on the scree toward Scarp’s Ridge. Descend from the ridge, traversing left toward Afley. Climb a fairly obvious couloir to the ridge. This couloir is the hardest and most dangerous part of the climb as the rock can be extremely loose. | September 2012 | Google Map – ends part way up the ascent to Star Pass. Follow obvious traverse south from Star Pass an then west along Scarp’s Ridge. |
