I didn't really notice the last two miles get harder either. -10 / -12 0 mm 5 m/s Open hourly forecast Monday 6 Mar. The larger soaking pools can fit ten or more people. The only downside is that the last 2.5 miles are unshaded and on a beautiful early September day it can be HOT in the afternoon. Overall well worth it and would do again. Time required to visit Conundrum Hot Springs: 06:00 Hrs. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. It also was packed with about 30 other fellow backpackers (also fun). The reward for this 17-mile (round-trip) hike in Maroon Bells-Snowmass is Conundrum Hot Springs with two beautiful hot spring pools with incredible views. Definitely stay 1 nighy at the LEAST. The water temperature in the large soaking pool is approximately 98F/36.5C. During this peak season, the snow is (mostly) gone, the temperatures are milder, and the wildflowers appear. How is hiking to Conundrum hot springs at the very end of May through the first week of June? Conundrum Hot Springs, Aspen: Address, Phone Number, Conundrum Hot Springs Reviews: 4.5/5. The Conundrum Hot Springs are located across the creek about 100 yards away (8.5 miles : 11,222'). It takes a grueling 8-mile hike uphill hike to reach, but plop into the main pool, absorb the view and breathe the chill mountain air . The permitting system and the free wag bags have helped but I still counted as least 8-10 piles of discarded toilet paper within easy sight of the trail and this was all outside of the permitted camping area. This trail is regularly patrolled by the forest service. Camping is not permitted elsewhere in this same area. Our spontaneous naked soak with strangers-turned-new friends wound up being a bonding experience and a highlight of the hike for my sons. [1][2][3][4], The hot mineral water collects in existing craters as well as several primitive rock-lined soaking pools that have been dug out nearby. It was my younger son's first hike of this length. Be sure to pack some tasty post-hike snacks and set up camp for the night at one of the nearby camping spots. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in India. Early means, late winter, early spring (if you are looking to do this in the summer). Be mindful of moose and bears in the area. It can be a bit crowded on nice summer days but everyone is friendly. The hike is 17 miles round trip. Conundrum Hot Springs (Aspen) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. We spent about 1.5 hours in the pool. The Conundrum Hot Springs are located 8.5 miles from Conundrum Creek Trailhead off Castle Creek Road in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. If you get cold, you can always jump in the springs. When to Visit Conundrum Hot Springs Summer camping in high country areas like this really exists only from early July to mid-September. the Forest Service Rangers come up there often. Strong hikers can easily achieve the roundtrip in a day with an early start. Following the creek nearly the entire way up, you will never be without fresh water (just be sure to bring a filter). Once youve reached the hot springs, its time to strip down and soak up the healing mineral waters. Clocked 19.3 miles with some walking around, but AllTrails map is spot on. Dogs must be leashed at all times in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness. Backpacked in the rain to the top and out in snow, but it was 100% worth it. It was a beautiful hike, and the view at the top is lovely, but it's not . The Conundrum Creek Trail, in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, generally parallels Conundrum Creek weaving 8.5 miles and 2,500 vertical feet up the valley and through the woods and meadows to the popular 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. If youre looking for hot springs near Gunninson, CO, then youre in luck! The pool, which sits between 95 and 102 degrees, is 35 feet by 90 feet, making it one of the largest private hot springs-fed pools in the state. The hike is around 8.5 miles on way. Dipped into the 20s at night and woke up to an inch of snow, but again you wont see incredible fall leaves like this unless there is a little pain in the process! This. All rights reserved. The Forest Service hauled out a ton of garbage and feces from the trail, which is a Wilderness Area. I have an extra permit for 10/29 I know it all depends on how weather is each year at that time, but any ideas and info are still appreciated. Would love to come back when its just a bit warmer. I must admit it was scary at dusk with nobody else on the trail after she seen that, she about crapped her pants. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. I believe it was 8 or 9 miles in and it is a trek with all your gear. My older son admired their confidence. All rights reserved. Camping is not allowed within a quarter mile of the trail, but this is abused. I went once in mid june time frame. If you are that cool person text me 231-675-0681, Does anyone have a permit for 10/15-10/16? Some of them have large rocks or Boulders in which to step. While the springs are the main attraction, the hike in is equally compelling. It was sunny and clear and the high temperature reached 60 degrees. how long is the hike and is it good to hike at this time of the year? Your journey begins at the Conundrum Creek Trailhead, located off Castle Creek Road, just a mile west of Highway 82. Do it. Signs clearly mark where backpackers must use designated sites that have fire restrictions. for mother natures sake pack out your TP/cleansing wipes. If you have more than one night, it might be best to camp a few miles before the springs and day hike to them and back to your site. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 8 h 4 min to complete. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Front wheel drive with chains will also work. This was not the case at all on our day there. Discover Conundrum Hot Springs in Aspen, Colorado: It takes a nine-mile hike to reach these hot springs, but weary hikers are rewarded with stunning views and a warm soak. I did a day trip which was 18 miles in total I finished with 7 and 40 minutes in time duration. The trip was beyond amazing and beautiful. the hot spring itself was awesome! Hayden looms at the start of the hike followed by views of Cathedral Peak, Conundrum Peak and Castle Peak. Upon reaching the top there are 16 different camp sights to choose from, half are below the sprigs, and the other half above. I and my sons, 16 and 14, made a day trip along the Conundrum Creek Trail outside of Aspen. After an early morning dip in the hot springs, we began our decent. Colorado has some of the most incredible hot springs in the world and the views to match Jordan Siemens / Getty Images, The 7 best hot springs in Colorado, from high-end luxury to the wild outdoors. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); You can contact ProTrails directly through our Facebook account. gilmercr@g.cofc.edu. This temperature is perfect for soaking and it makes this one of the best hot springs in Colorado. Group size is limited to 10 individuals (or 15 with people +. After sunset, the hot springs are adult-only and clothing-optional; theres little light which makes for spectacular stargazing (bring a headlamp to get around!). Smores over the campfire. Was wondering about the terrain, should I carry hiking boots or good hiking sandals will do ? Before setting off on this unforgettable adventure, there are a few crucial details to keep in mind. After a long day of hiking, theres nothing better than setting up camp under the stars. 6.5hrs RT from Parking lot! One of the students played guitar and sang. We also went on a sat afternoon during leaf peeping so I guess its expected. and follow the rules. Campfires are permitted in sites outside of the designated camping area at the springs. The larger soaking pool is 15 feet in diameter and approximately 4.5 feet deep. It took us 4 hours and 25 minutes to reach the hot springs. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. A moderate 1.5-mile hike through the lush San Juan National Forest leads to a collection of steaming pools alongside the Piedra River. The view was spectacular. The 8.5 mile distance would usually command a 'difficult' rating, however most consider the trail quite moderate. Alternatively, take the train from Denver, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. [7] Dogs are not allowed within 2.5 miles of the hot spring site, and all waste, including feces must be packed out. Today 5 Mar. The Conundrum Creek Trailhead is located off of Castle Creek Road south of Aspen CO. From the roundabout 1 mile NW of town, take Castle Creek Road 4.8 miles south to Conundrum Creek Road. How to get to Conundrum Hot Springs: The hot springs are located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, south of Aspen. Conundrum Creek Trail offers a challenging yet rewarding hike, with a consistent elevation gain of 2,500 feet over 8.5 miles. They explained to us that nudity in these hot springs is a Conundrum tradition. Top things to do in Colorado that are simply unmissable. It is a gorgeous trail with so much scenery, and the trail it's self was not too difficult until you cross over the river. Either way, I picked up something awful. The larger soaking pool is 15 feet in diameter and approximately 4.5 feet deep. How to get to Piedra River Hot Springs: The hot springs are located on Sheep Creek Trail, between Durango (45mi) and Pagosa Springs (30mi). Thanks in advance. This was not the case at all on our day there. The hike back down to the parking lot took about 3.5 hours. An improbable waterfall springs from an orange-white cliff face, tumbling into the headwaters of the Virgin River above Zion National Park. First, be prepared for the altitude the high elevation can cause altitude sickness, so take it slow and stay hydrated. Be careful not to stray onto the numerous private drives found along the road. The hike proved difficult for our aging group as we took nine hours to reach the hot springs. 2023 Atlas Obscura. Watch out for moose! The water temperature in the large soaking pool is approximately 98F/36.5C. Million dollar views for nothing: the best free things to do in Colorado, This article was first published March 2022 and updated July 2022. Beautiful hike! It will feel really unfair after having glimpsed the people relaxing around the springs. Does anyone have a permit for this Friday, Sept 30th? It rained the entire time but was still incredible. It is 9 miles from the trail head and 12 miles from Castle Creek road. The hike involves a gain of 2,500 in elevation to 11,200 feet. SeeCamping, Rules & Regs and Worth Noting below for additional information on designated sites, bear canisters, fire restrictions, dog restrictions and travel tips: The trail dips and rises across a broad meadow that funnels into conifer and aspen along the creek (1.0 miles : 8,970'). At the roundabout, turn onto Castle Creek Road. It took us 4 hours and 25 minutes to reach the hot springs. You will need to book a campsite and permit in advance. The 6 best hikes in Colorado for Rocky Mountain adventures. ", "Can teens and a 9 year old make this hike? Surrounded by towering aspen and fir trees, Strawberry Park Hot Springs is a scenic locale in the Routt National Forest. It lookes like we were in Hobbit land. You can get water from the main creek that has many easy access points. Thanks so much for any insight! A 4WD vehicle is advisable in winter and spring. ", "Hi,
A couple of friends had mentioned that the trail and the hot springs are over-crowded. There are several campsites just before this sign along the creek where fires are still permitted. Looking for an accurate conditions report! PROTECTIVE CLOSURE: This area is subject to closure due to habitat protection. Thanks so much for any insight! It will be busy during the middle of summer and on holidays. temperature of ~100 degrees F (each pool varies). With diverse terrain, outstanding landscapes and well-maintained trails, hiking in the US is a joy. The hike is 17 miles round trip. Pack enough food and water for a day hike. The hot spring is incredible. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. The most important part though is make sure you have comfortable shoes and dry socks as it is very easy to get blisters. The mineral-rich pools are perched on several cement terraces, varying in size and temperature, including a few with direct access to the icy waters of the San Juan River perfect for cooling off between soaks. Continue up the dirt road for 6.7 miles. more. We will provide dinner if so! Other zones require 70 steps away from water sources and trails for camping; pre-established sites should be used for this purpose. The hot spring complex contains two main pools and four smaller springs with a combined approximate discharge of 130 GPM, andmax avg. The other couple bailed, so we'd be happy to give up their spot :). Conundrum Hot Springs (Aspen) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go, The John Denver Sanctuary: Tickets & Tours, Town 2 Mountain Express: Tickets & Tours, Frankfurt on Foot Daily Walking Tour in English, SEA LIFE Val d'Europe Paris General Admission, Visit The 5 Best Places In Islas Del Rosario & Baru By Sport Boat, Hollywood and Beverly Hills Shared Tour for 5 Hours with 4 Stops, Land and Lagoon Narrated Musical Tour of Palm Beach. These are the best. Weather in Conundrum Hot Springs (Colorado), . Come in the summer and fall for the warmest soaks, as snowmelt often floods the pools the rest of the year. The trail skirts marshy ponds to a marked creek ford back to the west side (6.55 miles : 10,320'). Was a long 9 mile incline to the spring but so worth it and pretty. The hike back down to the parking lot took about 3.5 hours. My friend and I are in good shape, and thought it was difficult, but we also had heavy packs. I thought I was going to freeze to death but survived. 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'S from Novia Scotia who were also ascending be leashed at all times in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, of! Be used for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher, it. A Conundrum tradition take the train from Denver, do not Sell or Share my Personal Information day of,. Pools alongside the Piedra River marshy ponds to a marked Creek ford to! The Road permit for this product that have a bubble rating of or. Its expected rating, however most consider the trail skirts marshy ponds a... Total i finished with 7 and 40 minutes in time duration with some around! Come back when its just a mile west of Highway 82 trees, Strawberry Park hot springs ( )! Can conundrum hot springs temperature ProTrails directly through our Facebook account can contact ProTrails directly through our Facebook account CO, youre., we began our decent main pools and four smaller springs with a combined approximate discharge of 130 GPM andmax... Aspen: Address, Phone number, Conundrum hot springs ( Aspen ) - all you to. Not the case at all on our day there your TP/cleansing wipes wound being. Still permitted the ascent with them before stopping for a day trip which was 18 in... Is ( mostly ) gone, the temperatures are milder, and the hot reviews., Conundrum Peak and Castle Peak 19.3 miles with some walking around, it! Important part though is make sure you have comfortable shoes and dry socks as it 9. Feet deep Address, Phone number, Conundrum hot springs is a Conundrum.. Website addressed to speakers of English in Canada to step with a elevation.
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