Crested ButteHiking

TR: Pass Creek Trail (22 September)

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With a big hike planned for Sunday, I set my sights on something shorter to do the day before. Still wanting to soak in the myriad of magnificent fall colors, I opted to head over Ohio Pass to hike the Pass Creek trail from Swampy Pass trailhead. With a very unassuming name, this trail is surprisingly scenic and makes a fantastic hike.

I began on Swampy Pass trail, and enjoyed a view of the Anthracites.
Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

Carbon Peak.
Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

After less than 20 minutes, the trail split, and I took the left path toward Pass Creek Trail.
Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

The forest radiated in gold…
Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

and other rainbow hues.
Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

Occasionally, the Castles came to view.
Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

It was a beautiful day.
Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

Another view of the Anthracites.
Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

After about 3 miles, I came to another intersection. I intended to turn right, to head back to Swampy Pass, creating a short clockwise loop. But, something was pulling me the other way. So, I continued straight, following Pass Creek trail a bit further.
Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

And after another 2 miles, the trail opened up to reveal spectacular views of the Castles.
Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

After enjoying the views for a bit, I turned around, following the Pass Creek trail back to the Swampy Pass trailhead. This time, enjoying the views in reverse.
Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

Pass Creek hike near Crested Butte, CO

Despite being a perfect day during the peak of leaf season, I saw not one hiker the whole time – only a handful of cowgirls on horses. It was a nice change from the Kebler Pass leaf-peeper mayhem.

Although the leaves have generally had their peak, colors still surround us, while snow glistens on our high peaks. So, get out and enjoy the rainbow-trees for one more weekend!

Brittany Walker Konsella

Summary
Pass Creek Trail
Article Name
Pass Creek Trail
Description
The Pass Creek Trail near Crested Butte, CO, offers bold aspen colors and stunning mountain views which are especially enjoyed in fall!
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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