Crater Lake and Maroon Creek Hike

Route Description for Crater Lake and Maroon Creek Hike

Departing from one end of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, and exiting at the other, you really get a good taste of what the Rockies have to offer. Enjoy the variety of alpine scenery and let the epic mountain views serve as motivation as you trek. Because this route is point to point, it is important to remember to leave a car at the trail’s end or arrange for pickup! Note a parking permit is needed to access this area by vehicle, refer to the USDA Forest Service website for more information.

Embark on your adventure along the Carter Lake and Maroon Creek Hike from the Maroon Lake Trailhead. From here, head southwest along the Maroon-Snowmass Trail, passing Maroon Lake and the cascades. As you continue trekking, enjoy the sights of Maroon Peak framed between the encompassing cliffs. Soon you will pass Crater Lake, merging onto West Maroon Trail, before hiking around the base of Maroon Peak. Now following along the waters of the West Maroon Creek, you will eventually near Belleview Mountain.

This part of the trek proves most difficult as you have to ascend the mountain pass. On the bright side, you will be granted awe-inspiring alpine views. Continue to follow this path all the way to the trail’s end at the West Maroon Trailhead, marking the end of your adventure.