Snowmass to Willow Lake Loop

The Snowmass - Willow Lake Loop is a challenging 22.3-mile loop within the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, offering an immersive journey through some of the Elk Mountains' most scenic alpine areas. With a total elevation gain of 6,210 feet, the route traverses rugged mountain passes, pristine lakes, and deep, forested valleys. The journey begins at an elevation of 8,378 feet and climbs to a maximum elevation of 12,699 feet, showcasing spectacular high-alpine environments. Starting at the Maroon-Snowmass Trailhead, the path follows Snowmass Creek south for approximately nine miles, climbing steadily to the shores of Snowmass Lake. From the lake, the route ascends the Buckskin Pass Trail, climbing steeply to the top of Buckskin Pass. This high vantage point provides sweeping views of the surrounding 14,000-foot peaks. Descending from the pass, the route branches onto the Willow Pass Trail to cross Willow Pass, where hikers can take a short detour to Willow Lake or continue north over a steep ridge between Peak 13,000' and Peak 13,336'. Once past the high ridge, the route joins the East Snowmass Trail for a long, scenic descent. The path winds through open meadows and evergreen forests alongside East Snowmass Creek for roughly seven miles before reaching Snowmass Creek Road. A short walk west along the road completes the loop back to the Maroon-Snowmass Trailhead.