June 10, 2020 Update:
Here we go folks, we are fast approaching our 2020 summer season and ramping up our operation at Maroon Bells Shuttles. Over the next several weeks we will be posting our normal trails conditions updates as the snow continues to melt and we start getting out into the high country. Before we get to trail conditions, we need to make a note about some changes for the 2020 summer season.
Covid-19 will make the summer 2020 season an important one for planning ahead. Covid-19 is having little effect on our business, however, it is affecting some trailhead access and other services specifically for folks hiking West Maroon Pass. If you are hiking between Crested Butte and Aspen over West Maroon Pass, there will be limited access to the Maroon Bells. So it will be beneficial for you to plan ahead and make sure you can get the reservations you need. Of course we can help you through that process. For folks hiking or biking the other routes between Aspen and Crested Butte, you will see little change to those shuttle services.
You can either contact us through the Reservation Form or the Contact Us Form and we can help you plan your recreation between Crested Butte and Aspen.
As for trail conditions. The Gunnison River Basin on the Crested Butte side of the Elk Mountains had a below-average snowpack this past winter. While the Aspen side of the Elk Mountains and the Colorado River Basin faired a bit better with its peak snowpack near to above average. May and June have been very dry and we are seeing a fast melt off to the snowpack. Many or most rivers in Colorado are not likely past their peak. This all means that we are going to see an early recreation season in the high country.
We have multiple reservations for folks hiking between Crested Butte and Aspen kicking off in late June. Over the next couple of weeks you can check back here for more updates on the routes between Aspen and Crested Butte.
Thanks for checking in and we can’t wait to see you this summer!
