West Snowmass Creek

PERMIT INFORMATION: In order to provide quality recreation experiences and to protect the wilderness lands the Forest Service must gather data regarding visitor use and travel patterns. Each party overnighting in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is required to self-register at the Trailhead and to carry a copy of the registration with them during their visit. There is no fee charged and no limit to the number of permits issued. DAY/BACKPACKING OVERVIEW: This trail connects the Maroon-Snowmass and Capitol Creek Trails. It climbs steeply for 4 1/2 miles to the top of the ridge separating the Snowmass and Capitol Valleys, passing through the low spot between Mt. Daly and Haystack Mountain, before plunging another 2 1/2 miles to Capitol Creek. The view from the top is magnificent, several 14,000' plus peaks are visible, and wildlife is abundant. You must be in good shape to hike this trail with a backpack.