soldiers trained in the mountains of Colorado to prepare for wintry battles in the Alps. Photo by Ed Ogle/10th Mountain Division Hut Associationĭuring World War II, hundreds of U.S. The route can also be done as a day hike for the ambitious. To get there, hike as if you were going to take Buckskin Pass and, when the path forks with the signage for Buckskin to your left, bear right instead and continue toward the lake. Most backpackers usually hike over West Maroon Pass to Crested Butte or over Buckskin Pass to Snowmass Lake, but Willow Lake offers the same stunning views of Maroon Bells without the crowds. If you just can’t get enough and want to spend the night in the Maroon Bells–Snowmass Wilderness, consider camping at lesser-known Willow Lake. There’s also a bus from the Aspen Highlands parking lot for those seeking an easier adventure. ![]() Relief comes on the ride home, which is an easy downhill coast. ![]() The mostly uphill 11-mile ride from downtown will have your quads and lungs burning-you’ll gain about 1,630 feet of elevation along the way-but the views at the top will be well worth the effort. To explore the site for yourself, rent a bike in town at Hub of Aspen, and be sure to bring a water bottle and some snacks for energy. Visitors flock to the natural landmark to snap a picture of the two giant, snow-capped mountains (Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak), reflected in a turquoise lake and, depending on the season, surrounded by either wildflowers or bright yellow foliage. Just 10 miles west of Aspen, the peaks known as the Maroon Bells are the most photographed place in Colorado. Take a drive down the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway The entire journey is an amazing opportunity to experience how the layers of forest have grown and adapted to their surroundings over time, providing life for the many animals that call Rocky Mountain National Park home. Finally, you’ll reach the glacier layer, where you can get up close and personal with elk in the fresh snow (even in the summertime). Next comes the alpine layer, known as the “land above the trees.” Here, you’ll spot a different set of greenery, along with birds, elk, and smaller mammals. From there, you’ll ascend to the sub-alpine section of the park-an area full of firs, pines, elk, mountain lions, and coyotes. Start your exploration in the Montane Ecosystem, where lush trees, shrubs, and flowers provide a habitat for moose, bear, marmots, badgers, and a wide range of birds. Whether you opt to hike, bike, or drive at your leisure through Rocky Mountain National Park, take Trail Ridge Road for the best photo ops and scenic views. Hike to the glaciers in Rocky Mountain National Park Below, even more ideas for making the most of your time in the Centennial State. ![]() The easy spirit invoked by John Denver’s “Rocky Mountain High” is alive and well here, whether you’re visiting the musician’s memorial park in Aspen, or actually summiting one of Colorado’s 53 peaks above 14,000 feet. The state’s iconic activities range from listening to live music in a red-rock amphitheater and whitewater rafting through a historic mining valley, to soaking in high-mountain hot springs, skiing hut to hut in the backcountry, and discovering ancient architecture in a national park. Some experiences simply cannot be repeated anywhere but Colorado.
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