But it's perhaps younger, The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from June until October. And nothing like sitting in a natural hot spring, with crisp air and surrounded by Gods country. our campsite was clean and orderly. Thus if you are camping at the hot springs for the night, the hike is nearly 8.5 miles one way. At 11,200 feet, the Conundrum Hot Springs are among the highest hot springs in North America.There are several pools of varying size and temperature. The elevation gain is very steady. I would have been uncomfortable had my daughter been with us. This is a bucket list hike. We had an absolute blast backpacking up the these springs. . One of the students played guitar and sang. Our spontaneous naked soak with strangers-turned-new friends wound up being a bonding experience and a highlight of the hike for my sons. I am a decently fast hiker but not a pro by any means. The smoke at altitude as light and allowed for the stars to peak out without issue. It was my younger son's first hike of this length. The views were incredible, with snow-capped mountains on either side of much of the trail and several lakes along the way. All remains of the cattle have been removed properly. They explained to us that nudity in these hot springs is a Conundrum tradition. Not cool, human waste still makes this hike less ideal. did an overnight at site #16 which was fantastic. Hats off to those who do this in one day!! The hike is around 8.5 miles on way. The trail follows Conundrum Creek from the trail head to the hot springs. Luke, Zander, and I went on a three day trip to Conundrum Hot Springs during our first block break of the 2011-2012 school year. A permit is required for overnight stays within the Conundrum Hot Springs Zone, this zone includes: all of Conundrum Creek Valley from Silver Dollar Pond to Triangle Pass, and includes the popular Conundrum Hot Springs. Is this a must-do if you are travelling with a, Would you recommend this place or activity to a friend looking for an, Are the prices for this place or activity, Is this a romantic place or activity that you would suggest for, Is this a place or activity you would go to on a, 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. I would say it’s hard due to the length but not very steep at all. Please note that you cannot have campfires in the upper campgrounds, and you will need to camp in designated spaces only (permits required). After picking up your required overnight permit, start your morning with a coffee in Aspen, then drive out 15 min to the trailhead at the end of Conundrum Creek road. The Hot Springs is full of bacteria, and users deficate anywhere they feel like it. If you are going to hike it in the fall be prepared. This permit must be acquired in advance at recreation.gov . The trail is at high elevation, beginning at about 8,000 feet and ending at about 11,200 feet. Please choose a different date. Armed with gloves, volunteers checked under … We then dried off in the sun on the rocks surrounding the main spring and ate our lunch. . . Once you get to the top, you begin your descent into the Conundrum Springs bowl which turns into Conundrum Creek Trail. The Forest Service hauled out a ton of garbage and feces from the trail, which is a Wilderness Area. The hike in is almost entirely uphill, at a fairly easy grade. There are 16 crossings of the creek along the trail. The trail begins at 9,000 feet at a trailhead on Conundrum … Conundrum Hot Springs: The Hike. The 8.5-mile long hike along Conundrum Creek leads you to natural hot springs with fantastic views of the entire valley. Our hike up was very smoky and made for a serene sky at night, especially when sitting in a giant hot tub. Can't say much more than what has already been said. Conundrum Hot Springs/Conundrum Creek Trail is great for backpacking and normally takes a full day each way. The temperature averages 100° F. The small pools tend to be little cooler.The pools were formed in existing craters or rock through years of visitation. However, because this trail gets so popular in late summer you may want to arrive early to ensure you get a spot. The trail follows Conundrum Creek from the trail head to the hot springs. Length 22.1 miElevation gain 6272 ftRoute type Out & back A couple of friends had mentioned that the trail and the hot springs are over-crowded. It takes about 5-8 hours to hike in and 3-6 hours to hike out, on average. The main attraction on this trail is the Conundrum Hot Springs which is approximately 9 miles from the Copper Creek Trailhead. The trail head is located at 8,800 ft (2,682 m) and goes up through the valley to the springs, crossing Conundrum Creek three times. Conundrum Hot Springs, Aspen, CO. 1.9K likes. Rangers do patrol this hike and because of it's popularity, please be mindful to keep this area pristine. Definitely a must! This has become a huge JOKE in our Aspen Area. Many of them are on well-constructed wooden bridges. a filter for water and light weight gear. The trail follows Conundrum Creek from the trail head to the hot springs. This hike heads through nice aspen groves and culminates at one of the most unnatural-feeling bodies of water I've ever experienced—a large hot spring with expansive views back down the valley. Took about 5ish hours on the way up and 3.5 hours down the next morning. The water may be deep and it is very cold, so use caution when making this crossing. Temperatures drop significantly after the sun sets. I would highly recommend budgeting an entire day to tackle this hike if you are not going to spend the night. I'm a novice hiker from Texas and I'm not used to the elevation so this was a challenging hike for me, mostly the last 3 miles. Some things to note - the trail has some damage due to the avalanches last year and in PARTS you are climbing over tree branches to continue on to the trail. Make sure you … This hike be beautiful. The hike is 17 miles round trip. There are lots of wildflowers and epic views of the snowy mountains in the distance. The hardest part is getting out of the hot tub with cold and high winds. At about 2.5 miles you will come to your first major creek crossing, where there is a nice, wide, wooden bridge. Continue your visit to www.tripadvisor.com.au. Gradual elevation gain. Would do again.”. Trust us when we say, “the hike is worth the views,” on the backpacking trip to the Conundrum Hot Springs. However, the hot springs and the views were worth the hike! The final hour or so of this hike involves many small creek crossings and your feet are likely to get wet. There can still be deep drifts through early and mid spring. Experience a thrill as you hear about the gruesome history that created these ghosts, and glance around, wondering where the wraiths will emerge from. There are 16 crossings of the creek along the trail. There are some horror stories of some cattle that died in the winter of 2012 in a near by forest service cabin. At mile 6 there is another major creek crossing with a wide wooden bridge. Hike is beautiful and super mellow. It takes about 5-8 hours to hike in and 3-6 hours to hike out, on average. Continue 1.1 miles to a parking lot at the trailhead. Happy trails. Camping is not allowed within a quarter mile of the trail, but this is. Dogs are welcome if they are leashed, however dogs are not allowed past Silver Dollar Pond. We had beautiful weather. The hike is around 8.5 miles on way. Reservations are still needed until the end of October. When we were leaving there were two. Views were incredible the whole way and the hot springs felt great. Be prepared for this if you are making a day trip. Only a few natural hot springs like this one are left undisturbed by man. At only a mere 15 minutes from the heart of downtown Aspen, the Conundrum Creek Trail provides jaw-dropping views, overnight camping opportunities and the added bonus to have a soak in natural hot springs. Look to the left, there are some new logs placed so you don't have to walk in the river. The trail is at high elevation, beginning at about 8,000 feet and ending at about 11,200 feet. The hike to Conundrum Hot Springs just about 18 miles round trip. Camped overnight Oct 30th. But the views at the top were worth it. The trail head starts at the end of Conundrum Creek road, which is just a 15-minute drive from Aspen. This is an 8.5 mile rocky trail in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness near Aspen, CO. The Conundrum Hot Springs rests at 11,200 feet in elevation set amongst the beautiful scenery of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. 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 larger pools can host about a dozen people and are around three foot deep. They were respectful yet unbashful. Some nudist, but don’t let that stop you from dipping in! . Our GPS recorded this as 9.6 miles both in and out... not sure if the trail has lengthened to accommodate conditions. Trail reports are used to indicate a trails current condition and inform builders and other riders about any issues on a trail. Weather was perfect and trail condition was surprisingly good. Hot Springs too easily reached, and too many people there, and not "remote" enough. I car camped at the trail head then left to the hot springs around 9 am. Very cold in the morning and gets amazing by the afternoon. The hike is around 8.5 miles on way. I wasn’t able to reserve a permit for the campgrounds, but found a beautiful campsite just before the required permit zone. This trail … Conundrum Creek Trail #1981 is an intermediate/moderate difficulty trail you can hike, run, and horseback ride. The views were incredible, with snow-capped mountains on either side of much of the trail and several lakes along the way. The best time to visit Conundrum Hot Springs is July-September. The trail starts out at the trailhead where you will find parking for about 25 cars. All day and all night, the hot springs are there for your relaxation. Timed for nightfall according to season, experience a creepier Aspen as you slip through shadowed streets and into the dark haunts of the past. There are 16 crossings of the creek along the trail. We started our hike at about 7:45 am. Conundrum Hot Springs, Conundrum Creek Trail #1981 Saw way too much ass wipe off the side of the trail. The first 7ish miles are relatively moderate (slight ups and downs), last two miles got pretty tough - mostly uphill in snow - with packs, so we were pretty spent. The views were incredible, with snow-capped mountains on either side of much of the trail and several lakes along the way. One amazing hike is taking the Conundrum Trail to the Conundrum Hot Springs. The first two on our way up were a lovely a couple in their 70's from Novia Scotia who were also ascending. Conundrum Hot Springs is definitely at least a two day trip. Overall though amazing trail, beautiful, and worth it. Rent the bear canister.). Rifle Falls is a lovely 0.6-mile hike to one of Colorado’s iconic waterfalls! The permit area includes all of Conundrum Creek Valley from Silver Dollar Pond to Triangle Pass. Two others had a floating chess board and played a round with each of my sons. On the way down it was a lot easier once there was a path! The hike to the springs is a very scenic one (maybe a 4.5 star hike), but the springs themselves are the best payoff you could ask for. In the thick of summer, a certain smell overpowered the wildflowers at the trailhead for Conundrum Hot Springs. However there were lots of empty reserved spots close to the spring. From there, the last few miles of this trail are a bit steeper and may still have snow on them, especially if you are making this trip in June. As of the summer of 2017, permits are necessary for overnight trips. The hike back down to the parking lot took about 3.5 hours. The hot springs not only feel incredible but offer the most incredible view of Colorado’s rich colors of lush greens and deep blues. The views were incredible, with snow-capped mountains on either side of much of the trail and several lakes along the way. It can be a bit crowded on nice summer days but everyone is friendly. It took us 4 hours and 25 minutes to reach the hot springs. I decided to do this trail all in one day. They offer therapeutic soaking in a natural environme… Blue Lakes Trail. There is a decent amount of vertical climb as well as 9+ miles to hike Dogs are only allowed on the first 6.5 miles of trail and signs are posted where they aren't supposed to be. If you cannot release your bladder without leaving ass wipe behind, do NOT come on this trail!!!!! The trail follows Conundrum Creek from the trail head to the hot springs. Printed permit and photo ID must be carried by permit holder or alternate and displayed upon request of any Forest Officer. Permits are only available through Recreation.gov. A definite must in the fall. You will also need a bear canister for your food and scented products. The springs are really nice with an awesome view. We got out of there before a snow storm rolled through. Dogs are not permitted once you reach the permitted campsites and hot springs. The trail to Conundrum Hot Springs starts from the Conundrum Creek and is about 8.5 miles (13.67 km) one-way. As it stood, I had a short discussion with my sons, and we soon decided before we entered the pool that we too would soak naked. We saw a big moose, a beautiful buck, lots of deer, marmots, and the dusting of snow on the peaks was quite breathtaking! The hot spring complex contains two main pools and four smaller springs with a combined approximate discharge of 130 GPM, and max avg. Just make sure to make a reservation. Beautiful trail! The Conundrum Hot Springs is one treasure that is hidden almost in plain sight. The John Denver Sanctuary: Tickets & Tours‎, Maroon Lake Scenic Trail: Tickets & Tours‎. They attended a local community college and had camped out the night before. Was only one other couple there so we had the springs mostly to ourselves. Conundrum Creek Trail to Conundrum Hot Springs is a 29.0 kilometer heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Aspen, Colorado that features a waterfall and is rated as difficult. This trail is good … Awesome trail and great views of the changing aspens. From here, you'll hike another 3 miles to reach the hot spring! This makes for a long day trip, however, it is definitely doable if one is in reasonably good shape. A better hike is the South Platte Trail in Denver. The pool fed by the main hot spring is in a meadow surrounded by mountains. I and my sons, 16 and 14, made a day trip along the Conundrum Creek Trail outside of Aspen. It's not an easy hike so be in shape. 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. You will see a sign directing you to a rope that you can hold onto while you cross the creek. We started our hike at about 7:45 am. It had just snowed a lot and was the hardest hike I’ve ever done since we had to trudge through the snow and over the avalanche piles. Great hike. A side note: The students in the pool fed by the main hot spring were all completely naked. Two 14ers, Castle and Conundrum and a 13er, Castlebra. There are 16 crossings of the creek along the trail. It took us 4 hours and 25 minutes to reach the hot springs. The hike up is challenging, particularly the last 1.5 miles. Make sure you bring good hiking shoes, sandals for the river crossing and for the hot springs, swimsuit, towel, etc. Get spooky in Aspen with this ghost tour! At 6.5 miles there is another creek crossing, this time with no bridge. I would highly recommend NOT doing the entire 18 miles in one day. What to Do While Camping at Conundrum Hot Springs Soaking in the Springs. During this break we met two women from New Mexico who were descending and who had camped out near the hot springs overnight. I am a pretty fast hiker and the treck still took 4 hours up and 4 hours down. You will also pass a few ponds, and begin to see more pine trees. A typical June of July day will see 200 hikers and 75 cars parked at the trailhead. We spent about 1.5 hours in the pool. None of us found it more than moderately difficult in any part. At least the spring didn't smell like human shit anymore like I've heard it did pre-permits.... but go early morn as some folks camp there for the evening and it can be noisy and disruptive, taking away from the enjoyment. Don't forget a camera as well as your bathing suit. Stayed for about two hours then left back. My older son admired their confidence. The view from Conundrum into the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area. The views of mountains and fields of wildflowers are superb, especially in late spring. Conundrum Hot Springs Conundrum Hot Springs, photo: William Currier. Lots of snow on the ground but path was mostly packed in so wasn’t too bad. It was cold and very windy over night so be prepared. The reservation system has helped keep the crowds down, but doesn't necessarily stop the party. 5/5. From there the trail continues along the water and through more meadows. There are several excellent day hikes available from … Keep all of this in mind when planning your trip. Soo worth it. Permit holder (or alternate trip leader) must be present. Trailhead begins near Aspen. I would consider this a must-do Colorado activity. Make sure to bring. This was not the case at all on our day there. Conundrum Hot Springs/Conundrum Creek Trail is great for backpacking and normally takes a full day each way. The view was spectacular. Conundrum Hot Springs, Aspen A magical place, the Conundrum Hot Springs in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness near Aspen, Colorado is a must-do for Colorado backpackers. worth every mile. Penny Hot Springs - another very short hike from the parking area, these springs are located just south of Carbondale. Lovely mostly level hike heading UP to the Hot Springs For a day hike this is a simple hike. The hot springs are pristine and the deer don’t seem to mind sharing their home with humans... we had the time of our lives! Description One of the most popular springs in the state of Colorado, Conundrum Hot Springs is a must-do for any warm water enthusiast. Every time you ask someone how much further they will say “2 more miles”. Aspen Mountain OHV Trail [PRIVATE PROPERTY], Little Annie and Richmond Hill OHV Road Loop, Crater Lake and Maroon Creek to East Fork, Conundrum Creek Trail to Conundrum Hot Springs. We hiked from the trail head to the Conundrum Hot Springs and back to the trail head. We had great conversation. It is possible there will be snow at the hot spring for the rest of the season. If you do this during the winter or spring, be prepared to have snow shoes and snow gear. The Conundrum Hot Springs backpacking trip is great for anyone looking for a moderately difficult hike with a well-maintained trail, nice campsites, and plenty of gorgeous mountain scenery typical for the area. abused. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Singapore. A few diversions with blow downs but no complaints! Hike back took about 3 hours. There is one main hot springs pool that fits about 15 people and is about 102 degrees. Please rest assured that studies have been done on the water in the springs and only regular bacteria was found in the water. Truly a special place! Definitely made for a long day but worth it. temperature of ~100 degrees F (each pool varies). Totally possible to do this trail in one day. Make sure you bring good hiking shoes, sandals for the river crossing and for the hot springs, swimsuit, towel, etc. Not to mention, the warm 95-degree waters are inviting and pleasant. There is a place where you are supposed to ford across the stream in one spot. One of the best hikes I have done! Conundrum Hotsprings Trail Reports no reports have been added for Conundrum Hotsprings yet, add a trail report . went on Oct. 1, 2020 on a Thursday. The most important part though is make sure you have comfortable shoes and dry socks as it is very easy to get blisters. WARNING: Permits are required year-round for overnight camping in the vicinity of Conundrum Hot Springs. This is a one-of-a-kind hike is an experience that you’ll never forget. Rifle Falls. Each designated campsite has an individual maximum number of people allowed to camp at the site (from 2-6 people). Be careful not to stray onto the numerous private drives found along the road. It was sunny and clear and the high temperature reached 60 degrees. Well marked and easy to follow. Another bucket list hike completed. Fantastic Hike! Nearby retailers rent out these canisters. Conundrum Hot Springs and Peak Trail is a 22.1 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Aspen, Colorado that features hot springs and is rated as difficult. We started our hike at about 7:45 am. At mile 8 you will see a cabin and a sign pointing you to campsites and the springs. The hike in is almost entirely uphill, at a fairly easy grade. Not difficult at all. Sorry, there are no tours or activities available to book online for the date(s) you selected. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. more, Recommended experiences in and around Aspen, French Alpine Bistro - Creperie du Village. The hike out is almost all downhill. This is my third time here this year so that should tell you how special this spot is. See you next year. Hard to get out of them into the 20 degree cold. The trail should be considered moderate. Tough hike up, especially with a full backpack. The hike out is the exact same way you came in, after you hike about 2000ft back up and out of the bowl for 3 miles, your trip is primarily downhill the rest of the way which is really nice. Going to get wet and dry socks as it is a trek with all your gear for Coloradan! 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