Description

The final day on the Capitol Creek Circuit makes for a great one.

It is tempting to just spend the morning relaxing at Snowmass Lake since it such a beautiful spot, but reaching the Capitol Creek trailhead requires over 17 miles of intense hiking.

You could always stay at Snowmass Lake for an extra day and either day hike in the area or just relax by the lake.

Either would be a good option given that this is one of the prettiest lakes you will ever come across. From the lake, the route takes the Maroon-Snowmass trail through the valley.

It is pretty forested, but views of the surrounding peaks, such as Snowmass Mountain, still appear.

Given that this section of trail is at a lower elevation than most of the circuit, you are treated to a few aspen forests along the way.

Seeing aspen leaves flicker in the wind is a special sight.

Picnicking by one of the aspen forests is not a bad idea, too. The elevation picks up again once on the West Snowmass trail.

It is a long ascent to the final pass on the trail.

Similar to the other passes, this one provides magnificent views and is a good spot to rest.

It is exposed up there, so be mindful of the weather.

Once ready, descend down until you eventually link back up with the Capitol Creek trail.

To shorten the route, you could camp somewhere below the pass, as there are a few spots.

It is only a few more gentle miles from the pass to the finish, though.

Once at the final junction there are two options: to take the Capitol Creek trail, which goes through the forest, or the Upper Ditch trail, which features a more open landscape and better views. The Capitol Creek trailhead marks the end of this magnificent circuit.

This is one of the top backpacking treks anywhere, and anyone who loves the outdoors (especially gnarly peaks and alpine lakes) will especially love this trek!