Electric Pass Route Guide
Table of contents
Route Description for Electric Pass
Beginning along the Cathedral Lake Trail, you’ll initially head southwest and start gaining elevation. Soon you will find yourself above the roaring Pine Creek as you veer to the west and continue climbing.
Luckily, you will soon be out of the foliage, and you’ll be granted incredible views across the valley, looking up the flanks of Malemute Peak. You will also be able to see the edge of Cathedral Lake as you look up the valley. As you ascend the views will improve.
Veering right (more to the north), you will soon reach a junction where you will keep to the right towards Electric Pass. Soon, after a handful of switchbacks, you will enter an absolutely gorgeous hanging valley. To your left the aptly name Cathedral Peak and its incredible massif will fill your view, and to your right the grassy Leahy Peak.
You will slowly climb up the gently ascending valley before veering to the east and proceeding to climb along a lengthy switchback. You will finally switchback again and start heading to the northwest.
After a few much smaller switchbacks you will finally gain the scraggly Electric Pass. Those last few switchbacks can definitely be a challenge, simply due to the thin air at this elevation. Take extreme care here to not put yourself in any danger. If you feel nauseated or dizzy, begin descending immediately. Getting to a lower elevation is the only way to alleviate the dangers of altitude sickness.
From the pass you will be awarded stunning views. Looking back you will have one of the best views of Cathedral Peak, and Cathedral Lake at its base. To your left Leahy Peak will seem quaint. Looking north you will be able to make out South Hayden and Hayden Peak. After you’ve had your fill of the thin air, return the way you came.
Testing your lungs up high? Compare more day hikes in Aspen.
Insider Hints for Electric Pass
- As the name would suggest, lightning is very common on Electric Pass. Take care and complete this hike early in the day. Be sure to be off the pass by the early afternoon.
- The elevation of this hike can make it more challenging for those who live at lower elevations. This can be extremely dangerous, so consider doing other hikes in the area first before attempting to hike at this altitude right away.
Getting to the Electric Pass Trailhead
Head west from Aspen along Colorado 82. When you reach the first traffic circle take the third exit to Castle Creek Rd. Follow this road for 19.3 km, until you see signs for the Cathedral Lake Trail. The sign is very small so, set your odometer at the traffic circle. Turn right and go until the parking lot.Route Information for Electric Pass
When to do:
Late June through September
Backcountry Campsites:
Yes, at Crater Lake
Toilets:
No
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Low
Route Type:
Out and back
Electric Pass Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews for Electric Pass
A moderately challenging steep hike! Bring water! Beautiful colors of the scenery including the lake, makes the trail worth a visit.
- Trip Length
- 07:30
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Steep on the first part of the trail. Spectacular views both at the lake and on top of the pass.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Perfect view from the top!
- Trip Length
- 07:30
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
It may not be suitable for everyone because it requires a lot of stamina. I am regularly exercising yet I found it really challenging.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Enjoyed the sunny da!. The views were gorgeous, despite all the trouble we had to endure to complete the hike.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
It was so hard, and I almost fainted. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to replenish all the converted energy. It made me sweat a lot. My legs were so sore afterward.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
It was a long and arduous hike to the top. Good cardio!
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
My legs hurt after the hike. I must say, it was worth it. The scenic beauty of the mountain and lake is refreshing.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
A trail not for the faint-hearted. This trail poses a challenge to every hiker. But it's definitely worth it because of the views it offers.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
The elevation of the trail is quite a challenge. Be careful cause it's dangerous. Aside from that, the astonishing view is really great.
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
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