About West Snowmass #2187
ALERT: Due to recent bear activity, bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Hike 1-1/4 miles along the Maroon-Snowmass Trail to the junction with the West Snowmass Trail (about 1/4 mile past the second gate). The West Snowmass Trail then switches back towards Snowmass Creek. Cross Snowmass Creek. This can be a cold and swift crossing well into the summer months. Water sandals are a must! After crossing the creek, climb through stands of Aspen, CO for 1.5 miles. At higher elevations the trail journeys through stands of Spruce, Fir and flower-filled meadows, passing below Mt. Daly, until it finally emerges above the timberline where deer and elk are often seen. From the pass, the trail descends very quickly as it carries you through undisturbed meadows and forests where few people visit. The trail ends at its junction with Capitol Creek Trail.View a downloadable trail description and map (.pdf).SAFETY: Remember climbing is dangerous, even deadly! Check out Colorado Fourteeners Initiative YouTube Channel to learn more.
How to Get There
From Aspen, CO drive 6 miles west of on Highway 82 and turn left onto Brush Creek Road. Continue on Brush Creek Road 5.5 miles then turn right onto Divide Road. Divide Road turns into a gravel road and passes Krabloonik Restaurant and Kennels. The road descends steeply to the valley bottom where it forks. Take the left fork. You will pass the East Snowmass trailhead on the left. The Maroon-Snowmass Trailhead, which is the starting point for the West Snowmass Trail, is at the end of the road. **A high clearance vehicle is recommended.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to West Snowmass #2187
Heading to West Snowmass #2187? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for West Snowmass #2187?
No central reservation system listed for West Snowmass #2187. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10063334) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to West Snowmass #2187?
From Aspen, CO drive 6 miles west of on Highway 82 and turn left onto Brush Creek Road. Continue on Brush Creek Road 5.5 miles then turn right onto Divide Road. Divide Road turns into a gravel road and passes Krabloonik Restaurant and Kennels. The road descends steeply to the valley bottom where it forks. Take the left fork. You will pass the East Snowmass trailhead on the left. The Maroon-Snowmas…
References & Official Resources
