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42.3 km
~2 days
2304 m
Multi-Day
“Embark on the Four Pass Loop's majestic 26-mile trek, encountering wildlife and historic remnants amidst the Elk Mountains' splendor.”
Nestled in the heart of the Elk Mountains, the Four Pass Loop is an iconic trek that takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness near Aspen, Colorado. This challenging loop covers approximately 42 kilometers (26 miles) and features a cumulative elevation gain of around 2300 meters (7,500 feet), offering seasoned hikers an exhilarating experience.
Getting to the Trailhead
The journey begins at the Maroon Lake Trailhead, which is accessible by car or public transportation. If you're driving, take Maroon Creek Road from Aspen to the parking area near Maroon Lake. During the summer and fall, access by car is restricted, and you'll need to take a shuttle bus from Aspen Highlands. This helps to reduce traffic and protect the natural environment.
Navigating the Loop
The Four Pass Loop can be tackled in either direction, but many choose to hike it counterclockwise to spread out the elevation gain. HiiKER is an excellent tool for navigation, providing detailed maps and waypoints to keep you on track.
Maroon Lake to Crater Lake
From the trailhead, you'll be greeted with the iconic view of the Maroon Bells, two of the most photographed peaks in North America. The first leg of the journey takes you to Crater Lake, a distance of about 2.7 kilometers (1.7 miles), with a modest elevation gain. The trail is well-traveled and offers stunning reflections of the peaks in the lake's waters.
Ascending West Maroon Pass
Leaving Crater Lake, the trail becomes steeper as you approach West Maroon Pass, the first of the four passes. The ascent covers roughly 6.4 kilometers (4 miles) and takes you through wildflower-filled meadows and aspen groves before reaching the pass at an elevation of 3,658 meters (12,000 feet).
Frigid Air Pass and Beyond
After descending into the valley, you'll make your way towards Frigid Air Pass. This section of the trail offers a chance to spot wildlife, including elk and marmots. The pass itself sits at an elevation of 3,658 meters (12,000 feet) and provides panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.
Trail Rider Pass
The next segment leads to Trail Rider Pass, crossing through a landscape dotted with alpine lakes and streams. This pass is also at an elevation of around 3,658 meters (12,000 feet) and marks the halfway point of the loop. The descent from Trail Rider Pass brings you to the serene Snowmass Lake, a perfect spot for a rest or an overnight camp.
Buckskin Pass
The final pass, Buckskin Pass, is reached after a steady climb from Snowmass Lake. At an elevation of 3,962 meters (13,000 feet), Buckskin Pass offers some of the most dramatic vistas on the loop, with views of Pyramid Peak and the Bells.
Completing the Loop
The descent from Buckskin Pass takes you through Minnehaha Gulch and back to Crater Lake. From there, you'll retrace your steps to Maroon Lake and the trailhead, completing the loop.
Flora, Fauna, and History
The Four Pass Loop traverses diverse ecosystems, from aspen forests to alpine tundra, and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. The area is rich in history, with the Ute Indians being the original inhabitants. Miners and settlers later came in search of silver and gold, leaving behind traces of their endeavors.
Preparation and Considerations
Due to the high elevation and remote nature of the trail, it's essential to be well-prepared. Weather can change rapidly, and snow can be present even in summer. High-quality gear, including a map, compass, and GPS device, is recommended. HiiKER can serve as your digital map and guide. Be sure to pack enough food, water, and clothing for the unpredictable mountain conditions.
Leave No Trace
As always, practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the beauty and wilderness of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass area for future generations to enjoy.
What to expect?
Activity types
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Four Pass Loop and how much climbing does the Four Pass Loop involve?
The Four Pass Loop is 42.26 km, or about 26.3 miles, with 2,304 m of elevation gain, roughly 7,559 feet. It is rated Extra Difficult and climbs four passes above 12,000 feet in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, so it is usually treated as a demanding multi-day backpacking route rather than a casual day hike.
Where do you start the Four Pass Loop and how do you get to the Four Pass Loop trailhead?
The standard start for the Four Pass Loop is the Maroon Lake Trailhead near Aspen. Access is via Maroon Creek Road, but from May 22 to October 18 private vehicles are closed inbound from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, so many hikers use the shuttle from Aspen Highlands; limited trailhead parking is available with reservations, and the shuttle ride takes about 15 minutes.
Do you need a permit to backpack the Four Pass Loop overnight?
Yes. Overnight permits are required for the Four Pass Loop permit zone in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, and permits are required year-round for this popular route. The permit system covers heavily used areas on the loop, including the Crater Lake and Snowmass Lake zones, so overnight trips need to be planned in advance.
When is the best time of year to hike the Four Pass Loop?
The usual hiking season for the Four Pass Loop is late summer into early fall, when the high passes are more likely to be melted out. The route is often snow-bound from October through June, and the Forest Service notes that deep snow can linger on the passes well into summer, while early summer runoff can make stream crossings more hazardous.
Are dogs allowed on the Four Pass Loop?
Dogs are allowed on the Four Pass Loop, but they must be leashed. The route travels through heavily used wilderness terrain near sensitive wildlife habitat in the Maroon Bells area, so leash control is part of the standard access rules for this backpacking route.
Do you need a bear canister for the Four Pass Loop?
Yes. Bear-resistant food storage is required for backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, including the Four Pass Loop. An approved bear canister or Ursack is required for food and other scented items, and visitors without compliant storage can be cited and required to leave.
How hard is the Four Pass Loop and which passes does the Four Pass Loop cross?
The Four Pass Loop is considered one of Colorado’s classic hard backpacking circuits because it combines 42.26 km of travel with 2,304 m of ascent at high elevation. The route crosses West Maroon Pass, Frigid Air Pass, Trail Rider Pass, and Buckskin Pass, all above 12,000 feet, which adds major climbing, exposure, and weather risk.
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