エルクマウンテンズの峠・トップ10

At over 12,500 feet, the air is thin. Once you reach the top, the reward is a breathtaking, 360-degree panorama. The view looking down at Crater Lake and the iconic Maroon Bells is a sight you will never forget.

The pass gets its name for a reason—even on a warm day, you can expect strong, frigid winds at the top. You’ll be looking down on both the Crystal River Valley and the vast basins to the west. Watch your step as you go down the south side.

At over 12,400 feet, the pass is often windy and cold, even on a sunny day, but the views from the top are your ultimate reward. You'll get a perfect, bird's-eye view of Snowmass Lake, a stunning emerald jewel nestled in the valley below.

The altitude here is over 12,000 feet, so be mindful of your breathing and the thinner air. You want to get here early in case of afternoon thunderstorms. You'll be rewarded with a spectacular view of the Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak.

Climbing Independence Pass eastwards from Aspen is a bucket-list journey to the Continental Divide, reaching an extreme altitude of 12,095ft, making it one of North America's highest paved passes. Prepare for a very long 18-20 mile and challenging climb gaining over 4000ft; while the average grade is moderate at 4-5%, expect long, sustained climbing sections particularly above the tree line, likely averaging 6-8% in parts, amplified significantly by the thin air. Along the route you'll see the stunning transition through beautiful aspen groves to breathtaking alpine tundra vistas. Be aware that services are non-existent between Aspen and Twin Lakes so be self-sufficient and check the road status before attempting the climb.

Mt. Sopris is located in the Elk Range of Colorado and is actually a twin summit mountain. It stands above the town of Carbondale and the Roaring Fork Valley at an elevation of 12,965 ft.

Starr Pass sits at 12,330 feet in elevation and is between the towns of Aspen and Crested Butte. From the top of the pass you are rewarded with incredible views of the Elk Mountains. Beware of this ride if there is a chance of thunderstorms, since there is quite a bit of time above treeline.

With camping, fishing, and restrooms available at this small alpine reservoir, Lake Irwin is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts to visit. You can hike up in the mountains on challenging singletrack trails and OHV roads, or you can hike on the flatter nature trail around the lake, itself. This is also the site of Marcellina Pass at 10,325 feet.