Hike Like a Local: Hidden Gem Trails You Don’t Want to Miss
Everyone does Smuggler, everyone does Hunter Creek. Do you want to get out of town and experience the best hikes in the Aspen / Roaring Fork Valley? If the answer is yes, we'd love to give you some direction.
1. American Lake
6 miles total - out and back. Located up Castle Creek Rd. just before Ashcroft. This hike takes you from the valley floor up through beautiful Aspen groves, into the higher evergreen forest and then finally into the alpine. American Lake is situated just below treeline. With incredible views of high peaks and lush foliage this is a great intermediate/ to difficult hike you'll love.
2. Capitol Creek / Capitol Lake
14 miles total - out and back. Located at the end of Capitol Creek Rd in the Old Snowmass area. Capitol Peak is the most stunning peak in the Elk Mtns. in our opinion. You have views of the ominous north face of Capitol Peak from start to finish on this intermediate to difficult hike. Not a ton of challenging climbs and the trail is well maintained. The length of the hike to the lake and back is what is challenging to most. Capitol Lake is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in all of the Rockies and is well worth the mission. If you really love adventure and high mountain action, climb Capitol via the suggested route to the top of one of Colorado's most spectacular 14er's. Contact Doran or Hannah at Mtn. Goat and we will get you dialed in with a hike that will surely not disappoint.
