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Snowmass Wilderness adventures

Snowmass Wilderness Adventures

Snowmass Wilderness in Colorado offers a pristine natural retreat with stunning mountain landscapes and a diversity of outdoor activities.

105,330
Acres Protected
80
Miles of Trails
Undisclosed
Annual Visitors
1964
Year Established

Popular Activities

Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable trip to Snowmass Wilderness.

Entrance Requirements

No entrance fees, but permits required for overnight stays.

Best Time to Visit

Late June through September for favorable weather and trail access.

Visitor Information

Aspen Ranger Station offers information and wilderness permits.

Getting There

Accessible via Highway 82; some roads may close seasonally.

Weather & Climate

Summers are mild with highs in the 70s; winters are harsh with deep snowpack. Thunderstorms are common in July and August.

Conservation Efforts

Fire risk during dry seasons; conservation efforts focus on maintaining habitat integrity for native species.

Camping in Snowmass Wilderness

Find the perfect spot to stay overnight and immerse yourself in the details.

Geneva Lake Backcountry Camp

Backcountry
No Reservations Needed

Close to Geneva Lake, offering rustic sites accessible by foot.

Capitol Lake Campsites

Primitive
No Reservations Needed

Near Capitol Lake, ideal for those seeking solitude and stunning views.

Top Trails

Maroon Bells-Snowmass Trail

Hard
25.7 Miles

Known for challenging terrain and extraordinary mountain and lake vistas.

Capitol Lake Trail

Moderate
7.4 Miles

Leads to Capitol Lake through beautiful subalpine forests and meadows.

Geneva Lake Trail

Hard
8 Miles

Challenging trail offering access to stunning alpine lake and wildflower meadows.

Snowmass Lake Trail

Hard
20.9 Miles

Features magnificent views of Snowmass Mountain and multiple scenic lake views.

Trailblazer Tips

Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially at higher elevations.

Early summer sees snowpack and runoff; late summer and early fall are ideal for hiking.

Wilderness permits are required for overnight stays, available at trailheads.

Bring bear-proof containers for food storage; bear activity can be significant.

Helpful Resources