crested butte
Up before the sun
Maroon Peak in Summer
Me, Keely, and Liam
Wildflowers galore
Emerald Lake
Just after the Fourth of July, Keely and Liam came to visit Aspen for a second time and I joined them on the 22 mile roundtrip, 3,000 ft climb from Aspen to Crested Butte and back. By car, the drive from Aspen to good ol’ Crusty Butt is around 100 miles but if you’re interested in the hike of a lifetime, you can take the extra scenic route on foot.
Starting our trek before sunrise, we made the gradual climb to the peak watching the light change on the Maroon Bells, the hills, and the creeks we crossed on the way. Having grown up visiting Yosemite many summers in a row, I didn’t think I would ever find another hike that could compare to those in the valley so I was bubbling over with excitement at how beautiful the hike through the Shire-like land was. Once we reached the top, we stretched our legs and backs and perched up to enjoy lunch and the 360 degree views.
Once we suited up again we made the steep descent into the sea of never ending wildflowers that extended out as far as we could see. This was the norm for nearly the remainder of the hike, slowly coming into view of the butte and eventually into some nice shady trees. From the end of the trail, it was another 2 miles or so until we reached the pickup point for our shuttle in town. Emerald Lake was a sight to drink in while we sat for another snack and waited for our ride. If I could do it all over again, I’d make sure we got a later shuttle or left earlier so we could enjoy some time at the lake.
After settling into our hotel room we took the free bus into town and enjoyed some frozen margs and guac at Bonez and walking down the main street before our dinner reservations at the (now closed, so sad!) Ginger Cafe. We each ordered two dishes so we could have some delicious lunch options at the top of the hike the next day.
The way back to Aspen, with an easier hike, was even more enjoyable than the day before. We chowed down on our leftover Pad Thai and Fried Rice at the top and were so excited to be back at the car in no time, on the way to a full body massage (an absolute must!) at A1 Foot Massage in Aspen.
Some things to note: the hike from Aspen to Crested Butte is much harder than the hike back, with the high point of the trail being much past the half way point. For those looking for a less grueling experience, there are shuttles that can be booked between the two towns and I would recommend shuttling to Crested Butte, spending a day or two exploring the cute town, and then hiking the 11 miles back in to Aspen. When you reach the end of the trail you can either walk into town (not suggested), arrange for a shuttle pickup (approx. $25) or try to hitch a ride—rumor is this is fairly easy to do. In order to give yourself adequate time to meet your shuttle and enjoy the best light of the day, and to secure a parking spot at the Maroon Bells parking overnight lot (permit required), you should aim to be on the trailhead around 5 AM. You want to be sure to give yourself 5-8 hours for the duration of the hike, especially for the sake of having a nice rest and picnic at the top!
