Conundrum Creek Trail

Overview

The actual trail leading to Conundrum Hot Springs, the highest hot springs in North America. The 8.5-mile one-way approach climbs through aspen and spruce forest along Conundrum Creek into a high alpine basin. Most hikers backpack rather than day-hike. Permits required for overnight stays. The full route covers 17 miles round trip with about 2,700 feet of climbing, and most hikers finish it in around 10 hours. It sits in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, near Aspen in Pitkin County, topping out at 11,200 feet.

Trail Highlights

How Hard Is It?

This is rated hard. The big 17-mile distance paired with demanding 2,700 feet of gain is what sets the effort level. You hike out to the turnaround and return the same way, so you see the route twice and can turn back early without missing the payoff. You spend time above 10,000 feet, so pace yourself and drink more than you think you need. If you hike regularly, plan for roughly 10 hours of moving time; add a buffer for photos, snack stops, and the slower pace at altitude.

Best Time to Hike

The best seasons here are summer and fall. Summer is the reliable window once the snow clears, though that also means the busiest trailheads and the daily afternoon thunderstorm risk. In Colorado the weather turns fast in the high country, so start early, aim to be heading down by early afternoon, and watch the sky. Lightning, not distance, is what turns most summer hikes around.

Getting to the Trailhead

The trailhead is in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, closest to Aspen (Pitkin County). A wilderness permit is required. Reserve it ahead of time, since quotas sell out for the popular dates. The parking coordinates are 39.1016, -106.8627; plug those into your map app rather than the trail name, since several Colorado trailheads share names. Mountain weather and road closures can change access, so confirm the access road is open before a long drive.

Dogs & Kids

Dogs are allowed, and they should stay leashed to protect wildlife and other hikers. It is a tough one for young kids given the 17 miles and 2,700 feet of gain. Save it for older, trail-tested kids or go without them.

What to Pack

Pack the Colorado basics: more water than you expect, layers for a 30-degree temperature swing, sun protection for the high-altitude UV, and rain protection for the afternoon. For a big, demanding hike like this one, the gear that earns its weight most is sturdy footwear and poles. Here is what we actually recommend for trails like this:

• ›hiking boots with real traction
• ›a packable rain shell
• ›trekking poles for the climb and descent
• ›a water filter for the longer day

Frequently Asked Questions