Conundrum Creek Trail #1981

Dogs No Dogs

Features Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Hot Spring · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The Conundrum Valley is one of the busiest hiking corridors in the Elk Mountains, mostly due to the popularity of the Conundrum Hot Springs. Because of this heavy usage, it is highly recommended that hikers and backpackers use human waste bags (WAG bags) to pack out their human waste in the Conundrum Creek Valley as well as in all areas of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.

Start at the Conundrum Creek parking area and head south along the Conundrum Creek through aspen and conifer woods. The trail stays gently uphill for the first 7.0 miles or so until you get above treeline where you gain nearly 2,000 ft in about 2.0 miles up to Triangle Pass.

Once over the pass you cut back and head northwest down along the ridge line until you come to a faint split - going left down the ridge toward the trees will take you down to Copper Lake and right up the steep slope over the ridge takes you along the Copper Pass Spur #1983.1 which connects to the East Maroon Creek Trail #1983.

Although camping at the famous Conundrum Hot Springs requires advanced permits and is strictly enforced, one can swing by here for a quick dip in the pools before continuing to the top of Triangle Pass or further.