Perched at 11,200 feet, deep inside the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area between the mountain towns of Aspen and Crested Butte, it reigns as North America’s highest elevation hot springs. Tell us when your experience with this trail happened. Below are weather averages from 1971 to 2000 according to data gathered from the nearest official weather station. Mild grades continue across a second large meadow at 3.85 miles (9,550'), past which it steepens on rugged terrain above a deep gorge in the valley (4.5 miles). The sites are clearly marked. For this average-to-avid backpacker, the Conundrum Creek Trail’s 2,400-foot elevation gain is strenuous, especially in the final 2 miles. 8,766–12,904ft Δ 4,137ft. Seasonal Popularity. Visitors must hike around 8 miles on the Conundrum Creek Trail to reach the hot water springs. Conundrum Hot Springs. We hiked from the trail head to the Conundrum Hot Springs and back to the trail head. Peak, the shorter of the 2 14,000' peaks in the valley. There is a seven night maximum stay the rest of the year. Ask me to put you on: evan (at) vote.org, Conundrum Hot Dogs are not permitted beyond this point. With over 6,000 overnight visitors during the short summer season, the delicate tundra ecosystem faces large impacts due to the … TRAIL OVERVIEW: The distance to Conundrum Hot Springs from the Conundrum Creek trailhead is approximately 8.5 miles (one-way) with an elevation gain of approximately 2,500 feet. The Conundrum Creek Trail continues 2 miles and 1700' up to Triangle Pass. A dramatic (There are some higher Campfires are not permitted above or within .25 miles (440 yards) of treeline, or within 100' of any trail, lake or stream. The Conundrum Hot Springs are located 8.5 miles from Conundrum Creek Trailhead off Castle Creek Road in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Conundrum Creek to Conundrum Hot Springs Featured Route 16.8mi White River NF. Total Length 10mi; Elevation Range Conundrum Hot Springs from Mapcarta, the free map. the "throne" on my favorite mountain, looking into East Maroon Valley. Glenwood Hot Springs, Colorado. Conundrum Hot Springs, highest in it is the GLENWOOD SPRINGS — A 20-year-old woman from Pennsylvania died almost two weeks ago on her way to Conundrum Hot Springs near Aspen after suffering from acute altitude sickness, according to her mother. The hike is 17 miles round trip. The hike out is the exact same way you came in, after you hike about 2000ft back up and out of the bowl for 3 miles, your trip is primarily downhill the rest of the way which is really nice. The 8.5 mile distance would usually command a 'difficult' rating, however most consider the trail quite moderate. Weather. The ascent is about 2500 ft in elevation. At only a mere 15 minutes from the heart of downtown Aspen, the Conundrum Creek Trail provides jaw-dropping views, overnight camping opportunities and the added bonus to have a soak in natural hot springs. When you do make it to the top I highly suggest you immediately drop your pack and run to the springs, and I promise your efforts will be rewarded and your body will thank you! The trail skirts marshy ponds to a marked creek ford back to the west side (6.55 miles : 10,320'). This makes for a long day trip, however, it is definitely doable if one is in reasonably good shape. Comments. The Conundrum Creek Trail sees heavy traffic throughout the summer, especially on weekends. Campfires are permitted in sites outside of the designated camping area at the springs. Weather forecast for Conundrum Hot Springs (Colorado), with all weather data such as: Temperature, Felt temperature, Atmospheric pressure, Relative humidity, Wind speed, Wind gusts, Isotherm, Precipitation, Cloud cover and Heat index - www.ViewWeather.com stain on one of the valley walls. If you know of a higher one, let me know! 8,765' - 11,222' (11,222' max elevation @ the hot springs), +2,457' net elevation gain (+3,025' total roundtrip elevation gain), "Conundrum Hot Springs is relatively moderate for hikes in the Aspen area, but fairly long - especially with snow cover and carrying an overnight pack. The hike takes the average person … These fall The nearest weather station for both precipitation and temperature measurements is CRESTED BU which is approximately 7 miles away and has an elevation of 8,860 feet (2,347 feet lower than Conundrum Hot Springs). Consider camping down-valley, where sites have more space between them. The hot springs … The hike is 17 miles round trip. 1. rock, where we sacrifice nothing. The hot spring complex contains two main pools and four smaller springs with a combined approximate discharge of 130 GPM, and max avg. side. good for altitude problems, fatigue, colds, sore throat, toothache, View 7 Day Forecast on weather.gov. Rifle Falls. John Leffingwell is a The main attraction on this trail is the Conundrum Hot Springs which is approximately 9 miles from the Copper Creek Trailhead. The 2,000' elevation gain is moderate but steady and never too steep. ", "Can teens and a 9 year old make this hike? Especially with no campfire. The hike is not so difficult from elevation grade but rather for […] Review Intro. The ascent is about 2500 ft in elevation. The ford can be voluminous at peak runoff, but is generally safe and easy. I thought I was going to freeze to death but survived. A permit is required for overnight stays within the Conundrum Hot Springs Zone, this zone includes: all of Conundrum Creek Valley from Silver Dollar Pond to Triangle Pass, and includes the popular Conundrum Hot Springs. If the lot is full, use overflow parking on Castle Creek Road around the Conundrum Creek Road turnoff. But you’ll soon understand why that hard work is worth it once you see the incredible views and get to soak at the warm natural springs. The gorgeous If you are not in decent shape or haven't had experience carrying weight the trip might be very long and tiring, but regardless it will be WORTH it. It was my younger son's first hike of this length. This area carries special legal designation to protect its natural, undeveloped and untrammeled qualities as well as to provide outstanding opportunities for solitude or primitive and unconfined recreation. The trail crosses Conundrum Creek three times before the hot springs. The hike up there was moderate, to difficult in the fact that you are carrying weight, you have to cross the river a couple of times and maneuver a boulder field. Conundrum Hot Springs is a spring in Colorado and has an elevation of 11,207 feet. temperature of ~100 degrees F (each pool varies). (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); You can contact ProTrails directly through our Facebook or Instagram accounts. ... With overnight/weekend packs this is intermediate to difficult, mostly due to the majority of the elevation gain being over the last 1/4-1/3 of the trail. Note young aspen and fireweed on these steeper slopes, which indicate a recent disturbance that renewed the natural forest cycle. Backpackers at the springs will experience little privacy, if any. Castle Creek Road is winding and narrow in places. It was a full moon taboot so there were some drunk folks talking about lady gaga but I still loved every moment of it even if I wish they would've been more quiet and lesa drunk. Had I not wet my hair, the night temperatures wouldn't have been as bad. The road is graded and suitable for 2WD cars. Will not show on comments list. This adds a one mile+ walk to the trailhead. Conundrum Hot Springs. If you know of a higher one, let me know! The temperature averages 100° F. The small pools tend to be little cooler.The pools were formed in existing craters or rock through years of visitation. Just allow plenty of time to reach your campsite. And, of course, there's a natural hot spring waiting for you at 11,200' to soak your tired legs. Trail Photos Total Length. The Forest Service is considering tightening access to Conundrum. Alternate Routes. DIFFICULT 10.8 mi. 3 shots from This trail is good … From here, you’ll hike another 3 miles to reach the hot spring! muscle aches, etc. The hike is 17 miles round trip. Only used to identify you to ProTrails. Fishing is permitted along Conundrum Creek with a valid Colorado fishing license. Conundrum Hot Springs requires a 9 miles hike and more than 2000 feet of elevation gain to reach, and still manages to be incredibly popular and crowded, particularly on holidays and weekends. The hot spring complex contains two main pools and four smaller springs with a combined approximate discharge of 130 GPM, and max avg. At 11,200' great juggler, who also performed on the Aspen Mall. The pond is visible about halfway down. jeffchu 5 months ago Conundrum Hot springs Trail . The trail to Conundrum Hot Springs starts from the Conundrum Creek and is about 8.5 miles (13.67 km) one-way. Campfires are otherwise permitted in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, with potential seasonal restrictions. This route takes you to the Conundrum Hot Springs, one of the many wonders of the Elk Range. It is roughly 9 miles of wildflowers, beaver pools, aspen groves, and wonderful views. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from June until October. Parking is strictly prohibited on private property that lines the trailhead access road. The main attraction on this trail is the Conundrum Hot Springs which is approximately 9 miles from the Copper Creek Trailhead. Conundrum Hot Springs, at 11,200 feet in elevation, are a special feature of the 181,976-acre Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. This is … Anticipate the turnoff, and be considerate of cyclists sharing the road. ", "It was gorgeous!!! Below are weather averages from 1971 to 2000 according to data gathered from the nearest official weather station. Conundrum is probably the highest hot springs in North America at 11,200'. Conundrum Hot Springs, at 11,200 feet in elevation, are a special feature of the 181,976-acre Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The nearest weather station for both precipitation and temperature measurements is CRESTED BU which is approximately 7 miles away and has an elevation of 8,860 feet (2,347 feet lower than Conundrum Hot Springs). Conundrum Hot Springs. The Conundrum Hot Springs is one treasure that is hidden almost in plain sight. Enjoy! Springs is in the Elk Range between Aspen and Crested Butte. A person is limited to two permits in a calendar year. Conundrum 10mi. Perched at 11,200 feet, Conundrum Hot Springs, near Aspen, Colorado, are among the highest elevation hot springs in North America. Hot Springs & Geysers. This trail is regularly patrolled by the forest service. Help keep the Conundrum Hot Springs area clean by packing out all that you take in, and picking up trash along the way. Conundrum Creek trailhead is at 8,765 feet. ", "Hi, We hiked from the trail head to the Conundrum Hot Springs and back to the trail head. Triangle Pass - 21.0 Miles Round-Trip Triangle Pass is located 10.5 miles from Conundrum Creek Trailhead in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. This area carries special legal designation to protect its natural, undeveloped and untrammeled qualities as well as to provide outstanding opportunities for solitude or pr... Curecanti National Recreation Area Tours You can see MUCH better recent photos in my many galleries on Picasa, We have a Conundrum email list! Was wondering about the terrain, should I carry hiking boots or good hiking sandals will do ? Due to heavy use, campfires are not permitted in the Conundrum Hot Springs vicinity. Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness | Aspen Ranger District 806 West Hallam Aspen, CO 81611 970.925.3445, Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness | Sopris Ranger District 620 Main Street Carbondale, CO 81623 970.963.2266, White River National Forest 900 Grand Ave. P.O. Rifle Falls is a lovely 0.6-mile hike to one of Colorado’s iconic waterfalls! Conundrum Hot Springs is a scenic place, which is in a bucket list of every Coloradan. The hike is 17 miles round trip. Frost in August. Perched at 11,200 feet, Conundrum Hot Springs, near Aspen, Colorado, are among the highest elevation hot springs in North America. photos are copyright by Evan Ravitz The distance to Conundrum Hot Springs from the Conundrum Creek trailhead is around 8.5 miles (one-way) with an elevation gain of 2,400 feet. at 14,265'. Once you get to the top, you begin your descent into the Conundrum Springs bowl which turns into Conundrum Creek Trail. After hiking through aspens, pine and fir, you get to camp near treeline. Mt. This is a one-of-a-kind hike is an experience that you’ll never forget. The larger pools can host about a dozen people and are around three foot deep. Consider post-Labor Travel for lighter crowds. Contact the Aspen Ranger District (970.925.3445) for the latest weather, trail conditions and trail-specific guidelines when planning your trip. This luxury resort is named the world’s largest hot springs pool. A forest Assuming you don’t mind the 8.5-mile trail and 2,400-foot elevation gain on approach. Aspen and willow produce brilliant autumn colors, and thimbleberries and raspberries are particularly abundant along the first three miles. highest elevation hot springs in North America. Cold stuff forms far out. Email: evan (at) vote.org, The following are old film images. One amazing hike is taking the Conundrum Trail to the Conundrum Hot Springs. use.). Hot stuff forms close in. The Conundrum Hot Springs are located 8.5 miles from Conundrum Creek Trailhead off Castle Creek Road. The Conundrum Hot Springs is one treasure that is hidden almost in plain sight. Plush and green untainted nature (by humans). Primitive … The hike is 17 miles round trip. Almost at the Most parties will camp at the Hot Springs and attempt the route the following day. This route is almost certainly done as a backpack as it is 21 miles in length and gains nearly 7,000' of elevation. As visitation numbers spike, the U.S. Forest Service, the federal agency tasked with maintaining the area’s wild character, says the hot springs’ popularity threatens the very things that make it unique. The green Be aware, that in the winter, this trail contains significant avalanche danger. The springs also serve as a first stop on longer routes to Crested Butte, Copper Basin and East Maroon Pass. We hiked from the trail head to the Conundrum Hot Springs and back to the trail head. Backpackers are more susceptible to altitude sickness up there, and need to be aware of the symptoms of more serious complications. We took It … It's a bit longer but the increase in elevation is gradual throughout the whole hike so it is very manageable. But that’s not the case at Conundrum Hot Springs, an extremely popular area of natural pools at an elevation of over 11,000 feet with views of surrounding peaks in White River National Forest. Weather. Stoves only. The appeal of Conundrum Hot Springs is undeniable. alex.stevens 5 months ago Down ... Elevation Profile. leaves turning pink. The Conundrum Creek Trail runs through long stretches of level meadows, aspen forests and wide valley openings to the springs. See. Be prepared for much more. pond a mile West and 1100' above the hot springs. Trip Reports Taken from my favorite mountain Location-specific restrictions may also apply. Glen bravely went to fetch stuff from his camp. There are three creek crossings before you reach the hot water pools. While soaking in one of Conundrum’s 100-degree natural pools, you look … Conundrum Hot Springs Conundrum Hot Springs, photo: William Currier. fumaroles on volcanoes but ", "Deepti - you'll definitely want sturdy shoes for this hike. Signs clearly mark where backpackers must use designated sites that have fire restrictions. Conundrum Hot Springs These clothing-optional hot springs sit at an elevation of 11,200 feet, and you’ve definitely earned your soak if you hiked in from Conundrum Creek Trailhead. Also I would suggest bringing some sort of water shoes for the hike/the springs! Backpack to Conundrum Hot Springs. I can't wait to go back up and get in the water with such amazing views. It takes about 5-8 hours to hike in and 3-6 hours to hike out, on average. The trail opens across a talus field with your first clear view of the upper valley (7.2 miles : 10,455'). Camping is not permitted elsewhere in this same area. The Conundrum Creek Trail, in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, generally parallels Conundrum Creek weaving 8.5 miles and 2,500 vertical feet up the valley and through the woods and meadows to the popular Conundrum Hot Springs. This makes for a long day trip, however, it is definitely doable if one is in reasonably good shape. It is a difficult out and back trail, but well worth the hike after getting to soak in the pristine waters of Conundrum Hot Springs. Try Conundrum Hot Springs outside Aspen, Colorado. given. Conundrum Hot Springs, located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness just outside of Aspen, Colorado is a truly incredible backcountry experience. Conundrum Creek to Conundrum Hot Springs Featured Route 16.8mi White River NF. Blue Lakes Trail. And arguably it’s most scenic. When I went green leaves of yarrow and strawberry The hot mineral water collects in existing craters as well as several primitive rock-lined soaking pools that have been dug out nearby. A mere 15 minutes from the heart of downtown Aspen, Conundrum Creek Trail is an 8.5-mile trek that combines jaw-dropping mountain scenery, overnight backcountry camping, and the opportunity to soak in warm natural hot springs at the end of the hike. to climb. The only way to access the hot springs is by hiking the 8.5 miles up through the Maroon Bells-Snow Mass Wilderness. photos are about half-way up the Aspen side. It spans a small notch in the west valley wall above Conundrum Hot Springs, with terrific views and continuing passage to Crested Butte (Gothic), Copper Basin and East Maroon Pass.. The Coors The distance to Conundrum Hot Springs from the Conundrum Creek trailhead is around 8.5 miles (one-way) with an elevation gain of 2,400 feet. Previous visitors would recommend an overnight stay near the hot springs to make the most of the trip. Trail Attributes. Backpack to Conundrum Hot Springs. The Conundrum valley from its western edge -my favorite meditation spot. Overflow parking is available on Castle Creek Road, a little over one mile away. The 8.5-mile long hike along Conundrum Creek leads you to natural hot springs with fantastic views of the entire valley. And arguably it’s most scenic. There are several creek crossings on this trail - expect to get wet. Definitely stay 1 nighy at the LEAST. Conundrum Hot Springs These clothing-optional hot springs sit at an elevation of 11,200 feet, and you’ve definitely earned your soak if you hiked in from Conundrum Creek Trailhead. White River National Forest Hike. Conundrum is probably the highest hot springs in North America at 11,200'. Conundrum Hot Springs is the highest elevation natural hot springs in North America sitting at an elevation of 11, 200 feet. Classic bike race starting line. Upon reaching the top there are 16 different camp sights to choose from, half are below the sprigs, and the other half above. Camping is only permitted in designated sites beyond this point, and fires are not permitted. Located at an elevation of 11,200 feet (3,413 m) in height, it belongs to Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. turn-around at the Maroon Bells. Arrive early to secure a space. Trail Map Conundrum Hot Springs to Conundrum Creek Trailhead. Overnight permits for April 1 - July 31: 8a on February 15th, Overnight permits for August 1 - November 30 are available at 8a on June 15th, Overnight permits for December 1 - March 31 are available at 8a on October 15th. Conundrum Hot Springs, at 11,200 feet in elevation, are a special feature of the 181,976-acre Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Location: COLORADO Conundrum Hot Springs knows no equal. Backcountry Camping Permit Information for Conundrum Hot Springs and the Conundrum Creek Valley: Overnight permits for the Conundrum Creek Valley are released according to the following schedule: Once released, permits may be reserved online up to the day of the trip. Conundrum Hot Springs. With over 6,000 overnight visitors during the short summer season, the delicate tundra ecosystem faces large impacts due to the … Featured Routes. The trip was beyond amazing and beautiful. All overnight users will be required to purchase and carry a permit when camping between Silver Dollar Pond and Triangle Pass. but handy in winter. It's a bit longer but the increase in elevation is gradual throughout the whole hike so it is very manageable. to Colorado College I worked with a "Big Brother"-type program. Hot stuff gets blown out to where cold stuff is. Hiking and Camping at Conundrum Hot Springs Located at 11,200 ft, the hot springs and surrounding campsites are subject to the conditions associated with high elevation travel. The bridge is elevated and narrow - consider crossing in the water if slick or carrying a heavy pack. Be mindful of private property on the trailhead access road - cars will be ticketed and/or towed. these are all swampy and smelly as far as I know, and not in common the kids to Aspen. Historical Weather. This is a challenging hike stretching 16 miles there and back. Conundrum Hot Springs is a geothermal spring in a remote section of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area of the White River National Forest in Colorado Rocky Mountains. This is on the 9-mile trail from the Aspen Clothing is optional, and expect a lively crowd. Also, one IMPORTANT TIP: Do not wet your hair because if it gets to sunset w/o your hair drying, you will freeeeeze! The trail hops a creek braid and opens past spurs for designated sites to the split for Triangle Pass. Rules - especially campsite location, food storage, dog restrictions and fire restrictions - are strictly enforced. The ascent is about 2500 ft in elevation. This makes for a long day trip, however, it is definitely doable if one is in reasonably good shape. Group size is limited to 10 individuals (or 15 with people +. A very popular summer destination in Aspen is the Conundrum Hot Springs. in 1982, when I performed my tightrope show on the Aspen Mall, having We hiked from the trail head to the Conundrum Hot Springs and back to the trail head. While the springs are the main attraction, the hike in is equally compelling. It was my younger son's first hike of this length. To get to Conundrum Hot Springs, you have to hike 8.5 miles up (it is 11,200 feet in elevation). Trailhead parking is very limited and often full. View 7 Day Forecast on weather.gov. A permit is required for overnight stays within the Conundrum Hot Springs Zone, this zone includes: all of Conundrum Creek Valley from Silver Dollar Pond to Triangle Pass, and includes the popular Conundrum Hot Springs. Conundrum Hot Springs - 17.0 Miles Round-Trip The Conundrum Hot Springs are located 8.5 miles from Conundrum Creek Trailhead off Castle Creek Road in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Appreciate any suggestions. The It was my younger son's first hike of this length. Even among Colorado’s many dramatic views and stunning alpine wonders, Conundrum Hot Springs is a rare gem. Conundrum Hot Springs, at 11,200 feet in elevation, are a special feature of the 181,976-acre Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. At 11,200 feet, the Conundrum Hot Springs are among the highest hot springs in North America.There are several pools of varying size and temperature. Dispersed backcountry camping is permitted in the, Camping is prohibited within 100' of any trail, lake or stream. There's one large pool and one small pool in the main area where most people congregate. At only a mere 15 minutes from the heart of downtown Aspen, the Conundrum Creek Trail provides jaw-dropping views, overnight camping opportunities and the added bonus to have a soak in natural hot springs. Yarrow is good for colds. If you have more than one night, it might be best to camp a few miles before the springs and day hike to them and back to your site. Important Camping Update: Conundrum Hot Springs will be transitioning to a permit-only system in 2018. Bear right, then keep left on the dirt road for one mile to the trailhead. It steepens away in a cluttered forest to a sign on the hot springs perimeter (8.15 miles : 10,965'). The Conundrum Hot Springs rests at 11,200 feet in elevation set amongst the beautiful scenery of … Conundrum Hot Springs, at 11,200 feet in elevation, are a special feature of the 181,976-acre Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. been banned in Boulder. (You also may enjoy the privacy and quiet of campsites away from the springs - they can get quite 'lively'!) A mere 15 minutes from the heart of downtown Aspen, Conundrum Creek Trail is an 8.5-mile trek that combines jaw-dropping mountain scenery, overnight backcountry camping, and the opportunity to soak in warm natural hot springs at the end of the hike. weed in front is osha, or bear root, the most valuable herb in the temperature of ~100 degrees F (each pool varies). ", "The trail is definitely not 8.5 miles one way. The springs are at treeline in a valley topped by Cathedral Peak (13,943'), Conundrum Peak (14,022') and Castle Peak (14,265'), which share a similar geologic make-up and appearance to Maroon Bells. The trail is at high elevation, beginning at about 8,000 feet and ending at about 11,200 feet. There are several campsites just before this sign along the creek where fires are still permitted. Travel is quick to a bridge leading to the west side of the creek (2.75 miles : 9,390'). Weather in Conundrum Hot Springs (Colorado), . Ticketing and towing is enforced. The old Forest Service ranger cabin, now unused We are planning to do conundrum hot spring hike as a day hike. However, there was a terrible shock for mainstream scientists, with the discovery that the inner solar system stuff found at Wild 2 was younger than the assumed age of comets! Illegal fires carry a $325+ fine. Print Trail There are 16 campsites in the area of the hot springs, varying in protection from the elements and distance from the springs. Trust us when we say, “the hike is worth the views,” on the backpacking trip to the Conundrum Hot Springs. balloons on the Aspen Mall fountain is a favorite. Expect crowds and minimal privacy during peak months, especially weekends and holidays. Conundrum Hot Springs is the highest elevation natural hot springs in North America sitting at an elevation of 11, 200 feet.