Near Sunnyside-Radio Tower
The Sunnyside Trail is sure to give Fido a workout!
Near Sunnyside-Radio Tower
Enjoy great views from the Sunnyside Trail.
Near Sunnyside-Radio Tower
On a clear day, both Aspen and Independence Pass can be seen from the Sunnyside Trail.
Near Sunnyside-Radio Tower
A beautiful aspen grove stands near the top of the Sunnyside Trail.
Near Sunnyside-Radio Tower
The Sunnyside Trailhead is marked by this signpost and informative kiosk.

Looking for more photos?

View All Photos
Driving Directions
Classic Hike Route

Sunnyside-Radio Tower

4.8 (4 Ratings)
The best out-and-back hike high above the valley floor to see stunning views of Aspen and the surrounding Elk Mountains.
5
mi
Distance
1,576
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Regional Classic
A must do route for the area handpicked by local experts.
Fall ColorsViews
Access Issues
No camping, no campfires.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
4.99mi
Distance
1,576ft
Elevation Gain
1,576ft
Elevation Loss
50%
Max Grade
9,418ft
High Point
7,840ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
The Sunnyside trailhead is directly off of McLain Flats Road, with a 10+- vehicle parking lot on the opposite side of the road. Starting with a relatively low grade, the trail grows steeper soon after beginning and is then a long, steady zig-zag climb to the finish, with the exception of a flat traverse of about a quarter mile. Obvious directional signage is present along the entire trail. The beginning of the trail has slight Aspen tree coverage, transitioning into low brush. Most people hike only as far as the small radio tower, which is a natural stopping point in a quiet Aspen grove, before returning to the trailhead.From the trail, there are sweeping views from Independence Pass to all four of the Aspen/Snowmass ski mountains and the high peaks in between. Be sure to bring your camera along so that you can make all of your friends jealous.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
No Condition Reports
Report Conditions

Nearby Hike Routes

Hunter Creek Trail

Classic Hike Route

Hunter Creek Trail

Fall Colors
moderate
7.98 mi
+774 ft
Rio Grande Trail

Classic Hike Route

Rio Grande Trail

Dogs Allowed
easy
42 mi
+277 ft
Ute Trail to Ajax Sundeck

Classic Hike Route

Ute Trail to Ajax Sundeck

Dogs Allowed
strenuous
2.94 mi
+3,178 ft
Intercept Lot to Rodeo Lot via Sky Mountain Park

Hike Route

Intercept Lot to Rodeo Lot via Sky Mountain Park

Birding
moderate
7.72 mi
+1,636 ft
Conundrum Hot Springs

Hike Route

Conundrum Hot Springs

Birding
strenuous
16.7 mi
+2,911 ft
Margy's Hut to Lenado Trailhead

Hike Route

Margy's Hut to Lenado Trailhead

Commonly Backpacked
moderate
5.5 mi
+83 ft
Contributors
Seamus Crowley