Capitol Creek #1961
Capitol Creek #1961 does not offer reservations through Recreation.gov.
Please take a look at the area details below for more information about visiting this location. Enjoy your visit!
Overview
ALERT: Due to recent bear activity, bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.
The Capitol Creek Trail descends steeply, losing 600 feet in elevation in the first 1/2 mile. The trail crosses Capitol Creek and bears to the right, paralleling the creek most of the way up the drainage. A sign marks the West Snowmass Trail on the left at about 4 miles. At the 6 mile point the trail switchbacks to a double log crossing. In another 1/2 mile, the trail crosses the stream again. In the fir stands on the right, 1/3 mile from this crossing, are the last campfire sites. Stove sites can be found on the knolls to the right about 50 yards before the Mt. Daly Trail. Camping is not allowed in the meadows or within 200 feet of Capitol Lake. Continue on the trail to Capitol Lake. To reach the pass and Avalanche Creek Trail, follow the trail along the west side of the lake.
View a downloadable trail description and map. (.pdf)
SAFETY: Remember climbing is dangerous, even deadly!
Check out Colorado Fourteeners Initiative YouTube Channel to learn more.
Getting Here
GPS Coordinates
Driving Directions
From Aspen, CO drive 14 miles on Highway 82 to Old Snowmass and turn left onto Snowmass Creek Road next to the Conoco gass station. Continue 2 miles to the "T" intersection. Take the right turn and continue 5 miles until the pavement ends. Follow the dirt road about 3 miles to the trailhead. The last mile is on a 4WD road. If you don't have 4WD, park at the Bureau of Land Management meadow on the right, approximately 2 1/4 miles below the trailhead. The road continues past the Capitol Lake Trailhead and climbs very steeply to the Hell Roaring Trailhead. The road is slick when wet.