Ben hiking across mountain range

Maroon Bells-Snowmass

Ever since Katie and I moved to Utah, we’ve been slowly losing touch with friends and family back home.  Although we visit a few brief weekends every year, it’s hard to see everyone we’d like to.  In August, a couple old friends from high school wanted to get out of town for a weekend and I quickly recommended the Maroon Bells-Snowmass area in western Colorado.  Firstly, this pristine wilderness outside of Aspen is lightly traveled and would be perfect for a three night backpacking trek for us.  Secondly, western Colorado is directly between SLC and Lincoln so I could easily meet them there.

Right out of the gate our plans had to change: an increase in bear activity caused the park service to require bear canisters instead of bear bags for all backcountry trips.  We called every outfitter in a 100 mile radius and they were all sold out so we settled on some local tent camping with a few light dayhikes in the area.

Brian and Ben on our first hike into Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area
Brian and Ben on our first hike into Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area

We started with walking a few trails around Maroon Lake and Crater Lake.  But some afternoon fog rolled in, so we departed to another hike on the east side of Aspen.  This second trail took us on a loop along a ridge where we passed an old mining cabin and got unabridged views of the White River range.

Ben overlooking Linkins Lake on our second hike
Ben overlooking Linkins Lake on our second hike
Justin after a short summit
Justin after a short summit
Ben and Brian spotted other hikers on a neighboring mountain
Ben and Brian spotted other hikers on a neighboring mountain

The next day we rented some kayaks on the nearby Twin Lakes and enjoyed some beers on the water before departing home.

Brian and Justin kayaking in Twin Lakes south of Leadville
Brian and Justin kayaking in Twin Lakes south of Leadville

Here’s all of the pictures.