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Panorama on the Midway Pass hike in Aspen, Colorado

Midway Pass Route Guide

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
505 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
11.6 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3.5-5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead
This hike is a good way to avoid the crowds but still get a fantastic hiking experience. Heading up to Midway Pass does involve slightly more below-timberline-switchbacking than other hikes; however, the generally quiet views from the high alpine plateau are definitely a fair reward for the work.

Route Description for Midway Pass

Begin by heading west from the parking lot. Then, cross Lost Man creek along the Lost Man Loop Trail. On the other side of the creek, the trail will veer northeast again and begin climbing. Shortly, you will reach a signed junction where you will turn left towards Midway Pass.

After the junction, you will begin approximately 2.4 km of switchback climbing. Though somewhat dull, the trail is extremely well graded.

Finally, the trail will veer to the northwest and the tree coverage will get thinner and thinner until you exit the forest.

After exiting the dense trees, you will find yourself on a high alpine plateau, on the flank of an unnamed 3,962 m peak. Contouring around to the west you will soon find yourself at a small alpine lake, a great spot for a break.

From this plateau looking across the valley you will be able to see into the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, including Grizzly Peak, Independence Mountain and Green Mountain.

From here the trail will veer to the northwest, and you will climb to the highest point of the trail. After that, the path will start descending, contouring around the side of the mountain. Looking across the valley, an impressive, nameless mountain will fill your horizon. You will finally arrive at Midway Pass, which is your turnaround point for the hike. After reveling in your sense of accomplishment, take the path back the way you came.

Insider Hints for Midway Pass

  • Watch out for afternoon thunderstorms, since so much of this hike is so far above the tree line!

Getting to the Midway Pass Trailhead

From Aspen, head west on Colorado 82 for 21.6 km. Watch out for the trailhead on the left, directly across from the Lost man Campground.

Route Information for Midway Pass

  • When to do:

    Late June through September

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    Yes, in the National Forest Wilderness

  • Toilets:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    No

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Low

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Midway Pass Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

Reviews for Midway Pass

9.7
13 reviews
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Sofia L.September 2019

The entire route was great, but not advisable for everyone. It was really quiet, and this is perfect if you don't like crowded places.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Irish L.July 2019

It was a nice moderate hike to the top. The views on the entire way were fantastic. I just couldn't have enough of the peaceful and quiet trail.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Ruel Z.July 2019

Lovely hike. The scenery was very compelling. The trail was well kept, and the surroundings were clean.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Earl M.July 2019

The wilderness is a sight to behold. A nice trail for nature lovers. The quiet view of the alpine is what makes it more relaxing.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Jay AdamsJuly 2019

A fantastic hiking experience for us. The relaxing view of the forest is what makes it really awesome. Took lots of photos.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Jethro P.July 2019

The view of the alpine plateau is really breathtaking. A moderate hike for experienced hikers.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Jasper HerreraJune 2019

Lots of amazing views from the plateau. The overlooking scenery was jaw-dropping!

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Em L.June 2019

This hike is fantastic and well worth exploring.

Overall Rating
10
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Wyatt ThomasMay 2019

Midway pass was a really nice walk through the woods without the crowds.

Overall Rating
8
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
1Sarah1May 2019

Midway pass was a very memorable hike. We had a wonderful day out

Overall Rating
10
Trip Length
04:00
Technical Difficulty
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical Difficulty
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.

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Last Updated: July 6, 2026

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