Located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness near Aspen, this is about a 17-18 mile round-trip hike.
Yes, it is long and there is water to deal with along the way, but the payoff is natural hot springs located at nearly 11,000 feet.
Think of it as a natural infinity pool with a view that is unmatched and goes on for miles. It is also getting very crowded at times - and while there are a group of campsites around the hot springs - they fill up quickly in the summer, even on weekdays.
The trailhead can be a bit difficult to find and is located near several homes. Do not park on the road leading to the trailhead: your car may not be there when you return. There are parking spaces at the trailhead and make sure to sign in at the registry before starting the hike.
Make sure you pack your sunscreen and also bug spray as there are plenty of biting flies, but the views are amazing.
In the late summer, expect tall wildflowers and grasses to line the - at times - very thin trail. The first few miles are very open.
You will walk along a creek at the beginning that will lead to a meadow about two miles in at an elevation of about 9,000 feet. You should make it quickly to a bridge where you will cross that creek about two-and-a-half to three miles into the hike.
You will gain about another 500 feet over the next few miles as you get to enjoy the view of steep cliff walls in the canyon. Depending on when you go, you may see several waterfalls high above you.
Eventually you will pass through more meadows before another bridge about six miles in.
Dogs should not be brought past this point. There are signs when you get to the campsites that clearly state dogs are not allowed, you will see these signs at the trailhead as well.
I went during a very stormy period in late July. About six or seven miles into the hike you will find a marshy area.
It was very difficult to find the trail at this point. A little help from people also looking to make it to the hot springs helped and eventually you will get back to a field that offers a view of the valley that is your destination.
At this point, you are almost there, just about another mile and half to go. After walking through forests of aspens you will arrive at a final creek crossing that is at the entrance to the campsites.
Look for a sign there that will show you where the camping spots are along with the hot springs. If you go to camp be prepared: the sites are just below 11,000 feet.
Near the campsites you will find the remains of a cabin that is not suitable for shelter anymore. Also, bring a headlamp if you plan to stay. You will have to cross on a log bridge at least once, depending on your campsite from the hot springs.
I also spotted a deer a few feet away on the trail back to my campsite from the hot springs the night that I stayed.
Fair warning: the hot springs are clothing optional.
If you go, move around the hot springs, as there is one pool that is very hot in spots with cooler locations and other pools that are smaller, more private, but not as warm.
There are 16 campsites there, some can fit more than one tent, and they are spread out over more than a quarter mile.
