During early July in 2024, I finally got the chance to hike the Four Pass Loop, a challenging but spectacular backpacking route near Aspen, Colorado. Known for the four backcountry passes along the route, the loop takes you near some of the state’s most iconic 14ers, including the Maroon Bells and Snowmass Mountain.
With peaceful alpine lakes like Snowmass and Crater Lake, an abundance of wildlife, and relatively small crowds thanks to a newly instituted permit system, this loop should be on the bucket list of any avid backpacker.
In this guide, I share maps, photos, and advice based on my own experience along the Four Pass Loop to help you plan your visit and have the best trip possible. Safe travels on the trails!
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Four Pass Loop Key Details
- Round-Trip Distance: 26 Miles
- Elevation Gain: 7,300 feet
- Trailhead: Maroon Lake
- Difficulty Level: Very Difficult
- Range: Elk Mountains
- Location: Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness
- National Forest: White River NF
TAKE CARE & STAY SAFE!
You are responsible for your own safety in the backcountry.
These peaks can be unpredictable and dangerous. Help is often hours or days away: your safety is primarily your responsibility. Prepare for your trek, understand your limits, be aware of the risks, and equip yourself with the necessary skills and gear.
About the Four Pass Loop
The Four Pass Loop is a well-known backpacking route in the Elk Mountains of Colorado. The trail takes you over four mountain passes: West Maroon Pass, Frigid Air Pass, Trail Rider Pass, and Buckskin Pass. Each pass offers stunning views and presents its own unique challenges.
The loop can be done in either direction, but it usually depends on which camping permits you are able to secure. You must camp in each zone on the night you have a permit, largely dictating the direction you take. I took the route starting at Maroon Lake with Buckskin Pass, finishing with West Maroon Pass and Crater Lake: the counter-clockwise direction.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Permits, Reservations & Logistics
This route is spectacular, and as a result it has exploded in popularity over the past 10 years. To protect the pristine area from damage, the Forest Service instituted a permit system for those camping in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness along the Four Pass Loop, in addition to longstanding parking and shuttle requirements for reaching the Maroon Bells trailhead.
Overnight Camping Permits
You must secure a camping permit for each zone, for the night you plan to camp there. For example, during my trip, we secured three camping permits:
- Night 1: Snowmass Lake Zone
- Night 2: North Fork Zone
- Night 3: Crater Zone
There are six zones along the route, providing a variety of options for spending anywhere from 3-5 nights in the backcountry depending on what permits you’re able to secure. View the full map online here.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Tips for Securing Permits
Permits are released each year on February 15 at 8am MT for the period through July 31st. Then on June 15 at 8am MT, permits are released for the period through November 30.
These permits sell out fast each year, sometimes within minutes of being released. Here are tips to ensure you get the right tickets:
- Set a Reminder: Permits are released on February 15 at 8am MT for the period through July 31st, and on June 15 at 8am MT for the period through November 30. Set a reminder a few days before these dates to prepare.
- Create an Account: Make sure you have an account on recreation.gov well in advance. Log in before the release time to avoid any last-minute issues.
- Know Your Dates: Decide on your preferred camping dates and have backup options ready in case your first choice is unavailable.
- Be Ready Early: Be online and ready to go at least 15 minutes before the release time. Refresh the page as the release time approaches.
- Act Fast: Permits can sell out within minutes. Be quick to select your dates, input your information, and complete your purchase.
- Have Payment Ready: Ensure your payment details are saved in your account or have your credit card ready to speed up the checkout process.
- Check for Cancellations: If you don’t get a permit initially, keep checking the site for cancellations. People sometimes change their plans, and permits can become available later.
- Be Flexible: If you can be flexible with your dates or the zones where you camp, you increase your chances of securing a permit.
- Use Multiple Devices: If possible, try using multiple devices (e.g., phone, laptop) to increase your chances of getting through.
- Team Up: Coordinate with friends or family who can also try to secure permits at the same time. This increases the chances of getting at least one permit.
Learn more by visiting this reservation page at recreation.gov.
Trailhead Parking & Shuttle Reservations
There is very limited parking available at the Maroon Bells Trailhead by reservation only. Road access here is controlled and you will not be allowed to drive to the trailhead without a parking reservation.
I recommend parking at Aspen Highlands and reserving a spot on the shuttle that runs from there to the trailhead every 15 minutes.
Don’t forget this step or you may need to add a 9 mile approach hike just to reach the trailhead!
Learn more by visiting the parking and shuttle info page here.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Best Time To Visit:
The best time to hike the Four Pass Loop is from mid-July to early September. During this period, the snow has mostly melted, river and creek crossings become less treacherous, and the wildflowers are in full bloom, offering the most scenic views.
Be sure to check the weather forecast before your trip and be prepared for sudden changes in conditions. Snow is possible along the route all year-round, and it is common for thunderstorms to develop without warning on hot summer afternoons.
While the loop can be traversed during winter months, there are significant hazards including a very high level of avalanche risk. Winter visits are recommended only for experienced winter backcountry experts.
Four Trail Loop Route Guide
Use the detailed route description, maps, elevation profiles, and route photos below to research and plan your visit to the Four Pass Loop. Additional info and resources are located further below.
Route Description
I describe the loop here in the clockwise direction which I took, starting at the Maroon Bells trailhead, heading towards Buckskin Pass. However, the route can be done in either direction, and it also possible to begin from Crested Butte or from the Geneva Lake direction.
Segment 1: Maroon Lake Trailhead to Buckskin Pass
(4.6 mi distance, 3,100 ft elevation gain)
Starting from the Maroon Bells Trailhead, follow the main trail past the lake, heading towards Crater Lake. This trail will likely be relatively busy with day hikers, but it will thin out considerably as you near the second lake.
Just before you see Crater Lake, 1.6 miles from the shuttle stop, you will come to a trail junction with a sign pointing right for Buckskin Pass. This is the the path you take, turning right and beginning a long ascent towards your first of four passes.
The climb towards Buckskin Pass is steep and continuous. There are multiple small river and creek crossing along the 3-mile route up to tree line. Ascending approximately 2,400 feet, this section is a slog. Take your time, stop for breaks, and keep hydrated. Enjoy your first views of Snowmass Mountain and Capitol Peak across the valley once you reach the pass.
Segment 2: Buckskin Pass to Snowmass Lake
(3.6 mi distance, 280 ft elevation gain)
The trail will gradually descend from Buckskin Pass into the Snowmass Creek basin, with your destination – snowmass lake – visible across the valley. Pass a stream near tree line, perfect for a water refill if required.
When you reach the low-point along the valley floor, the trail comes to the first significant river crossing of the loop. When we visited, there was a log laid across but it was too unstable to cross. This was the deepest crossing we encountered, reaching mid-way up our thigh, but it was slow-moving. The bottom was muddy, so take care to step from rock to rock to avoid getting stuck in the muck.
Once past the crossing, you’ll begin to ascend again as you leave the valley and follow the hillside on your left towards the lake. Passing several trail junctions, keep left to stay on the main route until you near the lake. Then, take the right junction that leads down towards the shoreline.
If camping near the lake, remember to pick a site at least 100 feet from the shoreline. This ensures wildlife can still access the lake for drinking water and helps reduce erosion of the fragile shoreline. Please note, campfires are not permitted at Snowmass Lake.
For those looking for even more adventure, consider adding a climb of Snowmass Mountain to your trek. Click here to read my route guide for this rugged Colorado 14er.
Segment 3: Snowmass Lake to Trail Rider Pass
(1.9 mi distance, 1,419 ft elevation gain)
The trail continues southwest from Snowmass Lake and immediately begins to climb again. This time, you are heading to Trail Rider Pass, second of the four mountain passes along the loop.
We encountered several snowfields in the talus fields above the lake, including one that was particularly steep with a high consequence fall zone of rock. We had trek poles and felt comfortable moving slowly but surely across the snowfield, maintaining three points of contact at all times, but other groups scrambled across the talus field below the snow without issue.
Once above the tree line, the snowfields diminish, and it is a much easier ascent than your climb the previous day, with only half the elevation gain required to finally reach the summit of Trail Rider Pass. This is a good spot to stop for an early lunch and to take a look at the weather conditions in the North Fork Zone you are entering.
Segment 4: Trail Rider Pass to the North Fork Valley
(3.3 mi distance, 249 ft elevation gain)
The descent from the pass here is long and will provide welcome relief after your initial climb. Multiple small creek crossings provide plenty of water refill opportunities and spots to relax and enjoy lunch.
Once you reach the meadows along the valley floor the trail levels out and you’ll be treated to magnificent wildflower blooms, if you visit during July or early August when conditions are still right for it. There are campsites scattered along this portion of the trail, but I recommend getting through this segment before stopping for the night to avoid a longer day tomorrow.
This segment ends as you reach the low point and second major river crossing of the four pass loop. This crossing was not as high as the previous one but had swifter water. We took our time crossing one by one to ensure we did not slip and fall in the current.
Segment 5: North Fork Valley to Frigid Air Pass
(3.9 mi distance, 2,040 ft elevation gain)
Once beyond the river crossing, you will pass 4-5 good campsites along the valley floor as you approach a large waterfall that guards entrance to the Fravert Basin high above you. We stayed at a great campsite on a hill covered in trees overlooking the creek across from the falls. Campfires are allowed at these campsites, another reason to pause here for the night.
The trail continues to the right of the waterfall in a series of switchbacks leading into the Fravert Basin. Work your way through this tough section before the trail mellows out in the upper basin. Continue for another 2 miles, crossing multiple creeks and springs, with a few easy snowfields possible during July or early August.
As you near Frigid Air Pass, the third of the four passes, the trail will switchback several times, and finally top out on the rugged pass. The rarely-seen south face of Maroon Peak rises dramatically across the valley floor, a great view for your lunch break.
Segment 6: Frigid Air Pass to West Maroon Pass
(2.5 mi distance, 808 ft elevation gain)
Descending into the next basin, this section can have limited water supplies during later months of the year, however we passed numerous creeks that were still flowing in mid-July during a typical snowpack year.
After the trail levels out, continue along the side of the ridge through an area known for great wildflowers. The town of Crested Butte lies just beyond the mountain ridge ahead and to the right of you. Come to a trail junction and stick left – the trail to the right eventually leads to a trailhead near Crested Butte.
From here, the trail begins an 800-foot climb to West Maroon Pass, last of the four passes on the loop. It is the most rugged of them as well, with lots of rock debris lying around. Be careful not to knock loose rock down on those below you. Follow the switchbacks as you gain elevation and top out at the final pass of the route.
This pass is usually the busiest of the four due to its proximity to Maroon Lake trailhead and those who hike the Aspen-to-Crested Butte route.
Segment 7: West Maroon pass to Crater Lake
(3.9 mi distance, 86 ft elevation gain)
Descend from the pass back into the Maroon Valley – but don’t get complacent. You still have two significant river crossings and more than 6 miles of hiking to reach the trailhead. Thankfully, almost all of it is downhill.
There are several late season snowfields along this section of the trail, however they are all on relatively level areas where a fall would be insignificant. If you have an ice axe, there may be 1-2 spots where you can glissade to save time while descending (PLEASE: Only glissade with an ice axe and if you know how to self-arrest an uncontrolled slide).
The first river crossing is approximately halfway into the hike. The crossing is narrow and the best spot is relatively obvious, but we found the currents here to be stronger than some of the other crossings. Take your time and use trek poles for balance.
Continue hiking 0.7 miles until you reach the fourth and final river crossing, back over Maroon Creek. This crossing was the most difficult because it was knee-deep, fast-flowing, and there was no obviously-best spot to cross. Take time to scout out your opportunities before you cross.
Once over the river, hike the final 1-2 miles until you reach the Crater Lake camping zone. There are 11 sites, and all require advanced reservations. Please only camp in the campsite where you have a reservation. No campfires are allowed at Crater Lake.
Segment 8: Crater Lake to Maroon Lake Trailhead
(2.4 mi distance, 147 ft elevation gain)
Your last day’s hike is short and sweet, a 2.4 mile trip back to West Maroon Lake Trailhead. Leave your campsite and hike past Crater Lake, ascending a small 147 foot moraine which forms the lake.
The trail will get busier here with more day hikers visiting from Aspen. Remember to yield to those hiking uphill (although many will defer to you and take the opportunity to stop for a momentary rest).
Finally, the trail will bring you within sight of Maroon Lake, coming to a gravel trail with Wilderness Signs, followed by an actual paved trail that leads back to the shuttle stop, parking area, and restrooms. There are trash bins for leaving your garbage, and a visitor center to spend time while waiting for your shuttle.
As you leave the trailhead, keep the memories of your experience and all you saw and learned alive in your heart for the future. Safe travels on the trails!
Route Map
This topographic map shows the entire Four Pass Loop route, starting and ending at the Maroon Lake Trailhead. Click “open in CalTopo” to view it full-size or use more filters and features.
Elevation Profile
This graph shows the elevation gain and loss throughout the route, starting at the Maroon Lake Trailhead and starting first with Bucksin Pass, then Trail Rider Pass, Frigid Air Pass, and lastly West Maroon Pass. You gain approximately 7,900 feet over 26 miles.
Route Photos
These photos show the route, starting from Maroon Lake and going clockwise around the passes, starting with Buckskin Pass and finishing with West Maroon Pass.
Trail Conditions
The trail conditions can vary significantly depending on the time of year and recent weather patterns. During peak season, expect well-trodden paths but also be mindful of potential muddy or slick areas, especially after rain. Always check the latest trail reports before heading out.
Here are sources I recommend using to research conditions:
- Four Pass Loop Facebook Group: Read trip reports or ask for updates on conditions.
- White River National Forest Office: Call them at 970-945-2521 for a condition update.
- All Trails Condition Reports: Check the trail reports submitted by recent visitors.
- Snowmass Mountain Condition Reports: While this 14er is off-route, condition reports for the peak often have info on Snowmass Lake and the approach trail.
Trail Conditions
Check the weather forecast several times in the days leading up to your trip and plan accordingly. Remember, the forecast may be wrong and thunderstorms are common during the summer even when clear skies are forecast. Always be ready for rain!
Read the full National Weather Service weather forecasts for the following locations along the Four Pass Loop below.
Trailhead Info
The most common starting and ending point for the loop is the Maroon Lake Trailhead.
You can also begin the loop from the Crested Butte direction, from the Schofield Trailhead. However this requires significant route and timing variations from what is shown in this route guide.
Access
The road to the trailhead is restricted during the summer and fall season. The trailhead closes during the winter until the snow melts in the spring.
There are three easy ways to reach the trailhead:
- Get a parking reservation for the trailhead (convenient, but these permits are hard to get).
- Park in Aspen and get a shuttle reservation to the trailhead (these are easier to get).
- Park in Aspen and hike the extra 9 miles (cheapest option but difficult).
Learn more by visiting this reservation page at recreation.gov.
Amenities
There are restrooms, trash collection services, and drinking water available at the trailhead during the summer season.
An amphitheater provides educational programming, and trek poles and gear are sometimes available to rent or borrow at the main visitor center.
There is no camping available at the trailheads. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed at all times. No mountain bikes are allowed beyond the trailhead.
For more info about the trailhead, visit the USFS page here.
Directions
Located approximately 6.5 miles southwest of Aspen, Colorado, you can find the Maroon Bells by taking Maroon Creek Road. Starting from Highway 82, exit at the roundabout on the west edge of Aspen and proceed along Maroon Creek Road until you reach the Maroon Bells Welcome Station.
If you are traveling to Aspen via Independence Pass, begin by heading west from downtown Aspen on Highway 82 for one mile until you reach the roundabout. Take Maroon Creek Road from the roundabout and continue for 4.7 miles past Aspen High School and the Aspen Highlands Ski Area to arrive at the Maroon Bells Welcome Station. Note that Independence Pass is typically open from Memorial Day through mid-October, depending on the weather. For updates on road conditions during these months, please contact the Colorado Department of Transportation Hotline at (877) 315-7623.
If approaching Aspen from Glenwood Springs, drive east on Highway 82 for 40 miles to the roundabout. From there, take Maroon Creek Road for another 4.7 miles to reach the Welcome Station.
Packing List
The right backpacking gear is the key to a safe and successful trip around the Four Pass Loop.
Here’s what I brought with me during my 4-day, 3-night visit to the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area during an early July trip.
- Backpacking Pack: REI Co-op Flash 55 Pack
- Lightweight tent: REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent with Footprint
- Sleeping Pad: NEMO Tensor All-Season Sleeping Pad
- Sleeping Bag: REI Co-op Trailmade 20 Sleeping Bag
- Backpacking Pillow: NEMO Fillo Pillow
- Sunglasses: Julbo ****Camino Spectron 4 Sunglasses
- Sunscreen: Sun Bum Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion – 3 fl. oz.
- Bug Spray: Ben’s Spray Pump Insect Repellent – 30 Percent DEET – 1.25 fl. oz
- Hiking Boots: Oboz Bridger Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots
- Trekking poles: REI Traverse Poles
- Rain Gear: Arc’teryx Beta LT Jacket
- Headlamp and extra batteries: Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp
- Water filter system: Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter System
- Cooking stove and fuel: MSR PocketRocket 2 Mini Stove Kit
- Bear–resistant container: BV475 Trek Bear Canister
- Map: Colorado Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Map
- GPS Device: Garmin InReach Mini 2
- Two-Way Radio: Rocky Talkie Mountain Radio
- Power Bank: BioLite Charge 20 PD Power Bank
- First aid kit: Mountain Series Explorer Medical Kit
- Multi-tool or knife: Leatherman Skeletool Topo Multi-Tool
- Stormproof Matches: UCO Titan Stormproof Match Kit
- Wag Bags: GO Anywhere Toilet Kit Wast Bags 12 Pack
- Stuff Sacks: REI Co-op Ditty Sacks – Set of 3
Nearby Camping & Lodging
I highly recommend spending a night camping or at at nearby hotel before you start your hike to acclimatize and reduce your risk of altitude sickness. There are many options to choose from near the Maroon Lakes Trailhead
Camping Near the Maroon Lake Trailhead
There are options for dispersed camping and organized campgrounds near the trailhead. Here are my top recommendations on where to camp:
Lodging Near the Maroon Lake Trailhead
Aspen is home to dozens of hotels, motels, and other lodging options ideal for a stay before hiking the four pass loop, in addition to airbnb and other short term rentals. Here are my top lodging recommendations:
Leave No Trace Tips
Practicing Leave No Trace principles is essential to preserving the natural beauty and integrity of the Four Pass Loop. Here are some key tips to help you minimize your impact on the environment:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare: Research the area and weather conditions before your trip. Make sure you have the necessary permits and understand the regulations. This helps reduce the likelihood of unexpected issues and ensures you know how to minimize your impact.
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established trails and campsites. Avoid trampling vegetation and disturbing wildlife. Camp at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams to protect water sources and prevent erosion.
- Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter. Use a portable toilet or dig a cat hole at least 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet away from water sources to dispose of human waste. Pack out used toilet paper and hygiene products.
- Leave What You Find: Preserve the past by leaving rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you find them. Avoid introducing or transporting non-native species. Do not build structures, furniture, or dig trenches.
- Minimize Campfire Impact: Use a lightweight stove for cooking instead of a campfire. If fires are permitted, use established fire rings and keep fires small. Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, and scatter cool ashes.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and do not follow or approach them. Never feed animals as it can alter their natural behaviors and make them more susceptible to predators. Store food and trash securely to prevent attracting wildlife.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Respect other hikers and campers by keeping noise levels low and yielding the trail to those ascending. Be courteous and follow trail etiquette to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience.
By following these Leave No Trace principles, you contribute to the preservation of the Four Pass Loop for future generations. Your efforts help maintain the area’s pristine condition and ensure that wildlife and natural resources remain undisturbed.
Learn more by visiting our Leave No Trace Tips page with 50+ actionable ways to protect the outdoors.
Safety Tips
The Four Pass Loop is dangerous, especially if you are not prepared for the rugged terrain, river crossings, wildlife, and snowfields. Here are some best practices to manage your risk and stay safe along the route.
- Always carry a map and compass, and know how to use them. GPS devices are helpful but should not be relied upon as the sole means of navigation.
- Be prepared for rapid weather changes, and always carry layers, including waterproof gear.
- Inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time before heading out.
- Carry a first aid kit and know basic first aid procedures.
- Be mindful of altitude sickness symptoms and take appropriate measures, such as descending if symptoms worsen.
- Stay hydrated and ensure you have a reliable method for purifying water. Use electrolyte salts or rehydration fluid to balance salts lost to sweating.
- Be cautious of wildlife and know how to store food properly to avoid attracting animals. Give them space and never feed them.
- Know your limits and turn back when you are out of your comfort zone. The mountains will be there tomorrow.
- Always scout out the best place to cross rivers. Use trek poles and maintain three points of contact along the stream bottom. Move slowly and carefully. Be mindful of rising water levels during the afternoon
- Be careful crossing snowfields. Use trek poles, an ice axe, and microspikes or crampons as by conditions require. Turn back when you do not have the right gear to safely proceed.
- Do not glissade (slide down snow) without an ice axe and the ability to self-arrest an uncontrolled fall or slide.
Continue developing your risk management skills by reading our comprehensive mountain safety guide with actionable ways to stay safe while backpacking the Four Pass Loop and other backcountry trails and peaks.
Wilderness Regulations
Here’s a summary of the USFS regulations for the Four Pass Loop area in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness:
- Overnight Permits: Required for stays within specific wilderness zones.
- Bear Safety: All food, trash, and scented items must be stored in IGBC-approved bear-resistant containers. Violators will be ticketed and asked to leave.
- Human Waste Management: Visitors should use WAG bags for human waste disposal, available for free at specified trailheads, and must pack them out. Alternatively, waste can be buried 6 to 8 inches deep and at least 200 feet away from water, trails, and campsites.
- Group Size: Limited to 10 people and 15 stock animals per group to minimize impact and preserve solitude.
- Dog Restrictions: Dogs are prohibited in the Conundrum Creek Valley from Silver Dollar Pond to Triangle Pass, including the hot springs. Elsewhere, dogs must be leashed.
- Campfire Ban: Prohibited at Conundrum Hot Springs, Capitol Lake, Crater Lake, above 10,800 feet including Snowmass Lake. Use of lightweight camp stoves is recommended.
- Camping Regulations: Camping is allowed only in designated sites at certain locations; elsewhere, camping should be more than 100 feet away from lakes, streams, and trails, using previously impacted sites.
- Prohibition of Motorized Equipment: No motorized or mechanized equipment, including drones and bicycles, is allowed in order to maintain a primitive recreational experience and ensure solitude.
These rules are in place to protect the natural environment and ensure safety and solitude for all visitors.
Additional Resources
Here are additional websites and articles with more info about the Four Pass Loop.
FAQs
Check out answers to common questions about the four pass loop. Ask additional questions in the comment section further below.
Q: How difficult is the four pass loop?
A: The Four Pass Loop is considered a challenging hike due to its significant elevation gain and high altitude. Hikers will traverse four mountain passes, each presenting its own unique challenges. The trail has an elevation gain of 7,350 feet over 27 miles, which can be strenuous, especially for those not acclimated to high altitudes. Proper preparation, physical fitness, and acclimatization are essential for a successful hike.
Q: How long does it take to hike the four pass loop?
A: Most hikers complete the Four Pass Loop in 3 to 5 days, depending on their pace, fitness level, and how many nights they plan to spend in the backcountry. The number of days can also be influenced by the availability of camping permits for specific zones along the route.
Q: Is the four pass loop worth it?
A: Absolutely. The Four Pass Loop offers some of the most stunning scenery in Colorado, including views of iconic 14ers like the Maroon Bells and Snowmass Mountain, peaceful alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The challenge of the hike is well-rewarded with breathtaking landscapes and a sense of accomplishment.
Q: What is the elevation of the four pass loop in Colorado?
A: The Four Pass Loop reaches its highest point at West Maroon Pass, which has an elevation of approximately 12,500 feet. The other three passes—Buckskin Pass, Frigid Air Pass, and Trail Rider Pass—also exceed 12,000 feet.
Q: Is the four pass loop dog friendly?
A: Dogs are allowed on the Four Pass Loop, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Keep in mind that the trail’s difficulty and high altitude can be very challenging for dogs. Ensure your dog is physically fit, acclimated to altitude, and well-prepared for the rugged terrain. Also, be prepared to pack out all dog waste.
Q: What are the four passes along the loop?
A: The Four Pass Loop includes Buckskin Pass, Trail Rider Pass, Frigid Air Pass, and West Maroon Pass. Each pass offers stunning views and unique challenges, contributing to the overall experience of the hike.
Q: Is a permit required for the four pass loop?
A: Yes, a permit is required for overnight camping in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness along the Four Pass Loop. Campers must secure permits for each zone they plan to camp in. Permits are released in mid-February for the period through July 31st, and in mid-June for the period through November 30th.
Q: How crowded is the four pass Loop?
A: The Four Pass Loop has gained popularity over the years, leading to an increase in hikers. However, the newly instituted permit system has helped manage the number of overnight campers, resulting in relatively smaller crowds compared to other popular trails. Weekdays and shoulder seasons tend to be less crowded than weekends and peak summer months.
