Hunter Creek

Aspen, CO

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Hunter Creek

A backpack following trails and wilderness routes along Hunter Creek. Hunter Creek was one of the main sources of timber for Aspen during the mining boom. Much of the valley burned in 1889 when one sawmill operator set fire to a mill belonging to a competitor. The Hunter Creek Trail starts by traveling high atop the ridge to the north of Hunter Creek, then descends to the valley floor. It links up with the Woody Creek and Midway Pass trails, providing opportunities for multiple-day backpacks. The upper reaches of the trail are un-maintained, penetrating into some of the wildest and most remote country in the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness. Experienced off-trail backpackers will find the upper reaches of Hunter Creek to be both challenging and rewarding. The link from the head of Hunter Creek to the Midway Pass trail follows elk trails through difficult country, making map and compass skills necessary.

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Directions to: Hunter Creek

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Trail Statistics & Information

ActivityHiking
Nearby CityAspen
Length18 mi
Elevation Gain5,490 ft
Skill LevelModerate
SeasonLate June to mid-October (maintained trail); mid-July to mid-October
Trailhead Elevation8,250 ft
Top Elevation12,820 ft
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