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Carbonate Creek #1971

Somerset, Colorado · Gunnison County · Facility

ALERT: Due to recent bear activity, bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The first 1 1/2 miles travels through private property to the stream crossing, so please stay on the trail. The trail gets steep after the stream crossing for a 1/2 mile, then moderate until just…

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About Carbonate Creek #1971

ALERT: Due to recent bear activity, bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The first 1 1/2 miles travels through private property to the stream crossing, so please stay on the trail. The trail gets steep after the stream crossing for a 1/2 mile, then moderate until just before the pass. At the crossing the trail makes a sharp turn to right and goes uphill before a second, smaller stream. After the pass it is a steep descent to Arkansas Mtn. Trail. It is 7 miles to this junction. From here you can loop back along Arkansas Mtn. trail, which joins back into Carbonate about a mile after the trailhead. This trail also connects with the North Lost trail. This trail has various vegetaion at first and then mostly aspen and meadows with lots of wildflowers and spectacular views of the Raggeds Wilderness Area.

How to Get There

Travel south on Hwy 133 for 25 miles past Carbondale to the Marble turnoff. Turn left onto County road 3, continue to the community of Marble and park behind the Beaver Lake Lodge at the trailhead.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Carbonate Creek #1971

Heading to Carbonate Creek #1971? 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 Carbonate Creek #1971?

No central reservation system listed for Carbonate Creek #1971. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10070555) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Carbonate Creek #1971?

Travel south on Hwy 133 for 25 miles past Carbondale to the Marble turnoff. Turn left onto County road 3, continue to the community of Marble and park behind the Beaver Lake Lodge at the trailhead.