West Maroon Pass

View of the Pyramid massif

Imposing peaks, pretty waterfalls, stunning lakes, a huge alpine basin and panoramic views from a 12,500-ft. pass encompassing Treasure Mountain, Pyramid Peak and the Maroon Bells are the scenic rewards on this 13-mile (RT) hike to West Maroon Pass.
See Trail Detail/Full Description

• Distance: 3.4 miles (round trip) to Crater Lake
  13.0 miles (round trip) to West Maroon Pass
  
• Elevation: 9,580-ft. at Trailhead
  10,076-ft. at Crater Lake
  12,500-ft. at West Maroon Pass
  
• Elevation Gain: 496-ft. to Crater Lake
  2,920-ft. to West Maroon Pass
  
• Difficulty: strenuous
• More Hikes in:
  Aspen / Central Colorado

Why Hike West Maroon Pass

Wonderful views of the Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak, pretty waterfalls, two stunning lakes and a scenic alpine basin await hikers on this popular 13-mile (RT) hike to West Maroon Pass. The journey follows the Maroon-Snowmass trail to Crater Lake and then climbs the long, narrow West Maroon valley beneath the towering crags of the Maroon Bells and Pyramid massifs.

The pass is located on a ridge at the head of the valley above a huge basin rimmed with maroon cliffs and clad in emerald meadows sprinkled with wildflower. Views from the pass extend west to Treasure Mountain. To the east the Maroon Bells and the Pyramid Peaks fill the skyline.

The popular hike is part of the famous 26.6-mile Four Pass Loop, a backpacking trip climbing four pass over 12,000-ft. in the Maroon-Snowmass Wilderness. With proper planning the route is part of a longer day hike to Crested Butte or a the first segment of a two day trip covering the West and East Maroon trails with overnight accommodations in Crested Butte.

Elevation Profile

Trail Resources

Trail Detail/Full Description / Trail Photo Gallery / Trail Map

Basecamp(s) Information:
Aspen

Region Information:
Central Colorado

Other Hiking Regions in:
Colorado