Cathedral Lake

The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness covers more than 174,000 acres in the White River and Gunnison National Forests and has elevations that exceed 14,000 feet. Over 100 miles of constructed trails are available for both foot and horse travel in this area, and hikers and backpackers are treated to scenery that is nothing short of spectacular: panoramic high passes, beautiful alpine lakes, quaking aspen groves, meadows sprinkled with wildflowers and jagged peaks. Unfortunately, the area is close to Snowmass and Aspen, and it gets a significant amount of trail traffic, particularly in the summer around Cathedral Lake.

The lake is stunning and it sits in a bowl surrounded by granite cliffs – including Cathedral Peak (~13,943 ft) and Malamute Peak (~13,348 ft).  The trailhead is accessed accessed via Castle Creek Road which is about 12 miles west of Aspen.  The last ¾ mile is on a rough dirt road and high clearance vehicles are recommended – although you can reach the trailhead with two-wheel drive.  The trail begins with a climb through dense aspen forests, then quickly runs along the Pine Creek drainage where there is rushing water and small waterfalls.  After two miles, the trail is steep with switchbacks across a talus field.  The section is challenging the there are great views at this point.  Cathedral Lake is located in a dramatic cirque surrounded by rugged peaks and dramatic scenery.  Dispersed camping is allowed near the lake but overnight visitors must register and carry permit – although no is fee required.