And finally, be sure to pack out any trash that you have because there are no receptacles anywhere on Conundrum Creek Trail. Enjoy stories, how-to articles and reviews from our team of expert guides, certified coaches, and career outdoor professionals. Supervisor's Office 72 F. RealFeel 78. We had great conversation. Be warned, if you park on the road you might get towed. ( In addition, you get to soak in a natural spring while taking in the vistas of the Elk Mountains. This Wilderness is located inColorado within the Elk Mountains and spans the White River and Gunnison National Forests. These storms can appear quickly, and often involve cloud to ground lightning and intense bouts of precipitation. It goes from Copper Creek to Triangle Pass down to Conundrum Hot Springs. From early October to late June in the Rocky Mountains, campsites, trails and mountan passes are snow covered and trailheads may be inaccessible. Hayden looms at the start of the hike followed by views of Cathedral Peak, Conundrum Peak and Castle Peak. or anything. more. How is hiking to Conundrum hot springs at the very end of May through the first week of June? Some of them have large rocks or Boulders in which to step. This makes for a long day trip, however, it is definitely doable if one is in reasonably good shape. The highly competitive permits become available on three release dates throughout the year. There are three river crossings, which could be covered in snow during winter months. Be sure to pack accordingly for high altitude weather during all seasons and a night of camping near the hot springs. Remember that there is a ban on both dogs and campfires throughout the year as well. If you leave Aspen westbound on Highway 82, take Maroon Lake Road west for a very short time until you can head south onto Castle Creek Road. If you want to hike two 14ers at the same time, go for it and enjoy the incredible views. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph. It is 9 miles from the trail head and 12 miles from Castle Creek road. This trail is a little bit longer at about 22.5 miles total. Not sure if some of the hot spring water could have gotten in our wine bottle because it was raining, or if it was from the streams. To change your permit zones or reservation dates, you must cancel your existing reservation and make a new reservation. Conundrum Hot Springs is one of Maroon Bells more unique features. Editors Note: Check local conditions prior to planning your trip. The best way to plan for your trip and to be ready to reserve a permit is to understand where you plan to camp each night of your trip. If you (and your group) plan to camp in a permitted zone, you will need to reserve a spot in each zone for each night that you camp. They explained to us that nudity in these hot springs is a Conundrum tradition. When we were leaving there were two. Current Weather. We brought lots of snacks/food and water so we had energy to sustain the hike (A MUST). United States. The trail starts at 9300 feet, so be prepared for high altitude hiking. In Conundrum Hot Springs, Crater Lake, and Capitol Lake Zones, the permit holder and group are . The best time to visit the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is July through September. South southeast wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. During this peak season, the snow is (mostly) gone, the temperatures are milder, and the wildflowers appear. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. View all hotels near Conundrum Hot Springs on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Conundrum Hot Springs on Tripadvisor, The John Denver Sanctuary: Tickets & Tours, Town 2 Mountain Express: Tickets & Tours, Montmartre and Sacre Coeur Walking Tour in Paris, Unlimited WiFi Router Hotspot Naha (Okinawa) Airport 4G LTE plus Free Power Bank, Kandy to Ella train ride on (Train No: 1015 "Udarata Menike"), MJ Live at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino, Capri Private Boat Tour from Positano or Praiano or Amalfi. The Conundrum Creek Trail near Aspen, Colorado was an adventurous 18.5-mile round trip hike with 3,025' total elevation gain, plenty of colorful foliage, creek crossings, incredible . We provide tools and tips to discover Any information of what to expect & how to prepare for it would be much appreciated. E. coli bacteria live in the intestines of humans and animals. If you plan on camping back here to get to Conundrum Hot Springs, then you'll need to get a permit online before you go. About 5 miles after getting onto Castle Creek Road, you will come to Conundrum Creek Road. Hiking and soaking are wonderful under the clear blue skies during the day and looking up at brilliant Milky Way galaxy each night. Some of them have large rocks or Boulders in which to step. None of us found it more than moderately difficult in any part. The Wilderness area surroundsthe extremely popularMaroon Bells Scenic Areawhich is a major access point for Wilderness travel. Map updates are paused. This makes for a long day trip, however, it is definitely doable if one is in reasonably good shape. Get an email notification whenever someone contributes to the discussion. You can even take the route that goes to the lake or around it as both send you in the right direction towards Triangle Pass. We then dried off in the sun on the rocks surrounding the main spring and ate our lunch. We had an absolute blast backpacking up the these springs. You have permission to edit this article. This zone includes: all of Conundrum Creek Valley from Silver Dollar Pond to Triangle Pass, andConundrum Hot Springs. New reservation is subject to availability. If there is more issues with avalanche damage, the going on the trail will be a little more difficult and could add more time to the already long hike. If you get cold, you can always jump in the springs. If you are planning on spending the night or are an avid hiker, the route from Crested Butte / Gothic might be better for you. There was a major avalanche in the area during the 2018/19 winter which covered some of Conundrum Creek Trail in debris making the hike much more difficult. There is also no toilets anywhere in the valley so make sure that you bring a trowel to bury waste up to 6 inches or take some WAG bags available at the beginning of the trail. Currently loving her sleep-deprived existence in Glenwood Springs, CO, she and the family often pack an absurd amount of stuff and their one-eyed dog, Ahab, into a mini van and get a little lost in the mountains or on the rivers of Western Colorado and Eastern Utah. Thanks in advance. That being said, check with local rules and regulations prior to planning a trip to this destination. There was a problem saving your notification. Crater Lake Zone Designated Campsites Most visitors do their best when it comes to taking care of the land. Permits are required year-round, but the best time to visit the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is July through September. However, all of those are relatively minor points; the major one being that the Condundrum Creek valley is one of the most heavily avalanched areas in Colorado, with the summer trail crossing at least half a dozen major slide paths on its traverse above the creek. We were on a such a time crunch and should have prepared better. The Hot Springs are at an elevation of 11,200 feet from the Sea-level due to their location amid the Rocky Mountain Ranges. The water temperature of Conundrum Hot Springs hovers around 102 degrees. 10 Incredible Hikes in Colorado That Will Change Your Life, The 9 Best Hikes near Leadville, Colorado, Decalibron Loop: Bag Four Colorado 14ers In A Single Day. If youre not prepared to travel and camp in snow, plan your trip for summer., Were excited that you want to visit the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness and thank you in advance for being a good steward. Use the 'Report' link on Find more on local conditions here. During the fall colors season, mid-September to early October depending on the year, backpackers experience the floor to ceiling gold of Colorados aspen groves. Take a look at this USFS map to see exactly where all the campsites are located in relation to Conundrum Creek Trail and the hot springs in the creek. He spends most of his time outdoors hiking and fishing but also spends plenty of time reading, writing, and working on his photography. There's a parking lot another 1 mile down, which where the trail begins to take you 8.5 miles to Conundrum Hot Springs. National Forest Recreation.gov is your gateway to explore America's outdoor Not only can snow increase avalanche risk (check with CAIC for a risk forecast), it can also make the trailhead difficult to access, requiring additional miles of snowy hiking to reach. It was sunny and clear and the high temperature reached 60 degrees. Chance of precipitation is 60%. Be prepared for this if you are making a day trip. The hike to Conundrum Hot Springs just about 18 miles round trip. From early October to late June campsites, trails, and mountain passes are snow covered and the trailheads may be inaccessible.. Is the weather too cold to hike and stay overnight at the conundrum hot springs in mid-November? They attended a local community college and had camped out the night before. 8,326 were here. Permit holder or alternate leader must be present. Find incredible places and experiences that help you bring home a story through 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. [6] Capitol Lake Zone Designated Campsites Signup today for free and be the first to get notified on new updates. It is really a WILDERMESS. Visitors and locals alike reported that during last summer, the permit system seemed to work very well. Two others had a floating chess board and played a round with each of my sons. There is one main hot springs pool that fits about 15 people and is about 102 degrees. If you (and your group) plan to camp in a permitted zone, you will need to reserve a spot in each zone that you plan to camp. Some thunder is also possible. Wag bags are also available at the trailhead, although they can run out, so better to bring your own. and reservations. The hike proved difficult for our aging group as we took nine hours to reach the hot springs. Then soak again after you come down off the mountains. You must bury your waste up to 200 feet from water, campsites, and trails. Conundrum Hot Springs is the most famous alpine hot spring in Colorado, which is part of the reason why its also a hot spot (pun intended) of conservation controversy. 100% of travelers recommend this experience. You can print your permit as soon as 14 days before you are set to head out on your trip. Hoping to hike this beauty mid May this year. Mt. . The best time to visit the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is July through September. Map Information Activities Hiking The Hot Springs is full of bacteria, and users deficate anywhere they feel like it. Be prepared for temperature to drop well below freezing at night during this season. Conundrum Hot Springs is the most famous alpine hot spring in Colorado, which is part of the reason why it's also a hot spot (pun intended) of conservation controversy. Share with Us. We started our hike at about 7:45 am. Categories Backpacking, Colorado, Hot Springs. Don't Threaten. racist or sexually-oriented language. Share sensitive information only Make a reservation beforehand to ensure that you can get one of the available campsites. At both the beginning and tail end of the the seasons, there might be snow covering the trail so be prepared. Keep all of this in mind when planning your trip. The Forest Service implemented a strict permit system for overnight visitors to dramatically decrease the impact to the wilderness area. If permit holder or alternate are not present, permit is not valid, Group size may be changed up to the maximum allowable until the permit has been printed, Once permit has been printed, you cannot make changes to the permit, Permit can be printed up to 14 days prior to trip. WindPrecip. It goes over a pass and back again with lots of loose rock in-between. Avalanches are a possibility, especially toward the afternoon. This is a popular trail for backpacking, birding, and camping, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph. Conundrum Hot Springs, Conundrum Creek Trail #1981 COTREX is a project by the Colorado DNR and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Parking is available in a small lot at the trailhead. I would highly recommend budgeting an entire day to tackle this hike if you are not going to spend the night. Be Nice. Summer camping in high country areas like this really exists only from early July to mid-September. Wildlife local to Conundrum includes elk, moose, bear, foxes, coyotes, and very pesky jays. The trail is largely protected in forests, but it does cross a few potential avalanche areas. The springs are located above most of the campsites and are easy to find. NWS Be sure to grab a permit online, get your best hiking friends together, and enjoy everything that Conundrum Hot Springs has to offer. I know each day & week makes a huge difference on the trail. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Front wheel drive with chains will also work. Don't knowingly lie about anyone Author BillMiddlebrook. The temperature averages 100 F, however, the smaller pools tend to be a little cooler. There are 16 crossings of the creek along the trail. You will make memories that last a lifetime. High in the Elk Mountains above Aspen is one of the most stunning hot springs in the West, one large and several smaller pools bubbling to the surface just at timberline. They were respectful yet unbashful. Backpacking during the winter is very challenging and potentially dangerous, even for the very prepared and experienced backcountry enthusiasts. A huge number for a wilderness area without trash cans or bathrooms. Geneva Lake Zone Recommended Campsites, Map showing recreational areas. and follow the rules. Advance reservation permits are required for overnight stays in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. The tiny plants turn a brilliant orange or deep red, and the alpine lake nearby is surrounded by this colorful carpet. Also make sure you are prepared for anything backcountry wilderness might throw at you. Summit 14,274 feet. The conundrum is one of the highest altitude hot springs located in all the United States. I did this hike (on a whim) super pregnant in one dayand I shouldn't have. The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness 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.. See section below for more. The hot spring complex contains two main pools and four smaller springs with a combined approximate discharge of 130 GPM, and max avg. The steaming, 103-degree water provides a soothing oasis amidst the rugged wilderness, and the alpine pool's edge overlooks an awe-inspiring deep gorge. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The hike is not so difficult from elevation grade but rather for the distance it takes to make it all the way to the hot springs. West wind 10 to 15 mph. After a long grind, hikers will finally reach a hot spring pool, able to soak tired muscles. Air Quality Excellent. This creek crossing can be hazardous, especially during spring runoffs. After sunset, clothing is often optional. My friend and I were worried about the parking situation (because we heard it is a highly trafficked area) so we arrived at the trailhead around 5:50am. 98% of travelers recommend this experience. Start 9,800 feet. It will be busy during the middle of summer and on holidays. how long is the hike and is it good to hike at this time of the year? Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. A slight chance of snow showers. I must admit it was scary at dusk with nobody else on the trail after she seen that, she about crapped her pants. Just make sure you have a change of cloths if you are only going for the day. It takes a grueling 8-mile hike uphill hike to reach, but plop into the main pool, absorb the view and breathe the chill mountain air . The trip to the Springs may seem like a long, somewhat treacherous one, but soaking in the waters of this paradise pool is something that everyone should try at . After hiking through aspens, pine and fir, you get to camp near treeline. The third crossing requires wading through the creek. A typical June of July day will see 200 hikers and 75 cars parked at the trailhead. I and my sons, 16 and 14, made a day trip along the Conundrum Creek Trail outside of Aspen. Recent years have brought a number of new rules and policies, including a permitting system for camping. It was sunny and clear and the high temperature reached 60 degrees. I and my sons, 16 and 14, made a day trip along the Conundrum Creek Trail outside of Aspen. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 12 h 57 min to complete. RealFeel Shade 72. 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. The permit holder must reserve a zone for each night of their trip. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, Weather forecast for Connundrum 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 The $6 reservation fee is non-refundable, Canceled permits will be available on permit website within 24 hours of cancellation. PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK. Conundrum Hot Springs Zone reserveable campsites, When planning your trip, please keep the following in mind:, A few more items to agree to and consider when planning include:, Aspen-Sopris Ranger Station (970) 963-2266. connected to the .gov website. A 30 percent chance of snow showers. Additionallya friend (hiking a little ways ahead of me) seen a mountain lion cross the trail! Zoom in to see updated info. So rewarding to say I did this, in one day, super pregnant. A chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 20. What restaurants are near Conundrum Hot Springs? It is a gorgeous trail with so much scenery, and the trail it's self was not too difficult until you cross over the river. Leslie joined OutThere Colorado in November 2020. It was sunny and clear and the high temperature reached 60 degrees. Thank god it didn't see her, she noticed it and turned around quietly. But even proper LNT practices- like burying human waste- were creating unsafe conditions. If you plan on camping back here to get to Conundrum Hot Springs, then you'll need to get a permit online before you go. It will be busy during the middle of summer and on holidays. My older son admired their confidence. If youre staying just for the day hike in and out or overnight, make sure to bring plenty of provisions like water, food, and camping equipment. The reward for this 17-mile (round-trip) hike in Maroon Bells-Snowmass is Conundrum Hot Springs with two beautiful hot spring pools with incredible views. Many of them are on well-constructed wooden bridges. The springs are an 8.5 mile hike from the Conundrum Creek trailhead. But the views at the top were worth it. The pool fed by the main hot spring is in a meadow surrounded by mountains. Be Proactive. The most important part though is make sure you have comfortable shoes and dry socks as it is very easy to get blisters. For the prepared backpacker, Conundrum Hot Springs offers a perfect balance of hiking, relaxation, and world-class views. Will it be ok or plan on bringing snow gear? You will know you are in the right place when you have to cross a bridge over Castle Creek as soon as you turn right onto Conundrum Road. The hot springs are located approximately 5 hours from Aspen by car. It took us 4 hours and 25 minutes to reach the hot springs. Formed in existing craters or rocks through years of visitation, the Conundrum Hot Springs offer therapeutic soaking in a natural environment. It is 9 miles from the trail head and 12 miles from Castle Creek road. Make sure to bring a bear bag or bear resistant container to hang or store all of your food and toiletries overnight so as not to attract bears to the campsites. Bring enough water or a purification system. Raft the Colorado River through Glenwood Springs - Half Day Adventure, Real Gold Mine Tour with, gold panning and more, Browns Canyon Sizzler 6-Hour Whitewater Rafting Experience from Buena Vista, Glenwood Springs Short and Mild Rafting Trip, Extreme Sledding in Breckenridge: Country Boy Mine, French Alpine Bistro - Creperie du Village. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. I would consider this a must-do Colorado activity. Today 5 Mar. 3,350 feet if you start at 11,200'. Total Gain 4,850 feet if you start at the main trailhead. Plan accordingly by bringing plenty of water, food, and extra clothing that might be needed after soaking in the hot springs. This over crowded 9 mile trail to the Hot Springs has been over used by the Denver Front Range hikers and it is a mess. The water temperature of Conundrum Hot Springs hovers around 102 degrees. This makes for a long day trip, however, it is definitely doable if one is in reasonably good shape. Map Information, White River Hikers and snowshoers must endure a 9-mile one-way trek up to 11,200 feet in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness near Aspen, which can be further complicated and lengthened depending on recent weather. For more information on camping in this wilderness area, watch the following video, which is mandatory viewing for overnight visitors. If you want to hike to Conundrum Hot Spring and are a less experienced hiker I would recommend the route that leaves from closer to Aspen at Conundrum Creek Trailhead. A 20 percent chance of snow showers after midnight. that is degrading to another person. We'd love to hear eyewitness Be warned that this is a much more difficult than the ascent from Conundrum Creek Trailhead. Honestly, the worst part was getting all the way up and then having to turn around and leave the hot springs after only soaking for an hour or so. Some thunder is also possible. Then camp near the hot springs before you head back out to the trailhead. One of the students played guitar and sang. However, during the middle of the summer this is a heavily trafficked trail and will certainly be busy with people looking to enjoy the hot springs. United States government. It took us 4 hours and 25 minutes to reach the hot springs. Either way, I picked up something awful. Instances of human-bear interactions, illegal fire rings, and trash were drastically reduced. Conundrum Hot Springs is one of Colorado's most primitive spots for a soak in heated mineral water. If you are an experienced Winter hiker and have a 20 below bag and a good tent, good warm boots and gators to keep the snow out of your boots, a trip to Conundrum is possible. You might be able to even get a campsite up to the day of your trip depending upon availability. However, throughout the summer and fall, that debris has been cleared off the trail by the forest service and it should be easier to keep with the trail and not have to traverse over downed trees. 84 F. RealFeel 97. A side note: The students in the pool fed by the main hot spring were all completely naked. Triangle Pass is on the same trail continuing up above treeline and connects with Copper Creek Trail on the other side. You will need a reservation and permit for camping. each comment to let us know of abusive posts. During this break we met two women from New Mexico who were descending and who had camped out near the hot springs overnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 19. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. She loves camping, hiking, mountain biking and snowboarding. person will not be tolerated. Permit holders should cancel their permit if they will not use it to allow another visitor the opportunity to visit this amazing place. As one of the highest hot springs in North America, Conundrum Hot Springs sits at a staggering 11,200 feet above sea level, offering jaw-dropping views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Leslie James is all about Colorado when it comes to writing features, sharing adventures, and creating colorful galleries. Exposure is common through water or food. Wind Gusts 10 mph. Once this parking lot is full, however, you may not park on the road, and will need to arrange a shuttle. There are only 20 campsites at Conundrum Creek Hot Springs so check for a reservation at this website. We hiked the first half of the ascent with them before stopping for a snack. In October, the leaves will be just changing to their auburn colors and are gorgeous. It can be difficult but definitely well worth the journey into this remote wilderness. Cameron Bailey is a writer and musician currently living in Evanston, IL. To access all of the content on Yr, we recommend that you update your browser. I went once in mid june time frame. A water filtration system is necessary, and it is important to drink more than two liters every day. The camping permit system, and the regulations, are in place to help protect this unique Wilderness treasure. This is a high avalanche area so if you are going in the winter, be sure you are experienced and know what you are getting into. Please select one of the following: Partly cloudy, with a low around 34. Avalanche hazards exist in the mountains. Thanks so much for any insight! No parking is allowed on Conundrum Road outside of the trailhead because it is very narrow and goes over private property. Once she back tracked and met up with rest of us it was gone. Do not attempt the full route as a day hike unless you are fully prepared and experienced in similar distances and elevation. . The trail follows Conundrum Creek from the trail head to the hot springs. Though it requires a long and strenuous journey, a winter hike to Conundrum Hot Springs allows for a more intimate experience compared to treks made during the summer amid notorious crowding. Weather NOAA Forecast. This was not the case at all on our day there. Time required to visit Conundrum Hot Springs: 06:00 Hrs. After storms, it becomes a "valley of death" in which avalanches regularly sweep . All NOAA, Dry, gusty winds will drive elevated to critical fire weather Tuesday in the southern Rockies, southern Plains, and Mid-Atlantic. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible. When we arrived at the pool fed by the main hot spring there were four students-- guys in their late teens/early 20s-- soaking in the springs. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 12 h 55 min to complete. I would also recommend bringing bear spray to protect yourself in case you have an unfortunate encounter that somehow cannot be avoided. Camp jays are notorious in the area for helping themselves to any tasty items available, even from your plate! Thispermit must be acquired in advance at recreation.gov. Conundrum Hot Springs Designated Campsites There are several excellent day hikes available from the campsites at Conundrum Hot Springs. Conundrum Hot Springs - Aspen, CO. Photo: 12 Incredible Colorado Hot Springs Where You Can Camp. By mid-July, the snow will have likely melted, but you will need to plan around the regular summer storms associated with monsoon season. 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Opportunity to visit the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is July through September only 20 campsites at Conundrum Hot Springs Crater... Bags are also available at the very prepared and experienced in similar distances elevation! The available campsites will be just changing to their auburn colors and are gorgeous permits become on! You head back out to the day of your trip guides, coaches... By car so check for a Wilderness area without trash cans or bathrooms compensated for traffic. Guides, certified coaches, and the high temperature reached 60 degrees that fits 15! Weather during all seasons and a night of their trip be avoided if they will use. Worth the journey into this remote Wilderness community college and had camped out near the Hot.. Absolute blast backpacking up the these Springs: 06:00 Hrs how long is the hike proved difficult for aging. Competitive permits become available on three release dates throughout the year within Elk! Foxes, coyotes, and the trailheads May be inaccessible that during last summer, the leaves will busy.