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An all-time hike with an incredible hot spring that has expansive aspen-filled views from its 11,000' perch.


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Map Key

17.4

Miles

28.0

KM

91%

Runnable

11,215' 3,418 m

High

8,780' 2,676 m

Low

2,536' 773 m

Up

2,535' 773 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (3°)

23%

Max Grade (13°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Commonly Backpacked · Fall Colors · Hot Spring · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Camping anywhere near the hot springs requires an advanced permit, allowing you to camp at one of 19 designated sites. You can find more permit information here.

Overview

An epic day trip or a mellow backpack, Conundrum Hot Springs is a must-do for any Coloradan. This hike heads through nice aspen groves and culminates at a large hot spring pool with expansive views back down the valley and up towards the west face of Castle Peak.

Need to Know

The parking lot often fills up, especially on a fall weekend. Get there early and try to avoid the weekends if you can! If the parking lot is full, DO NOT park along Conundrum Creek Road. You'll be towed. You can park in the large pullout on Castle Creek Road, just up valley from the Conundrum Creek Road intersection. Walking from here adds approximately 1 mile to your hike (each way).

Nights at the hot springs can get rowdy and potentially nerve-wracking for folks looking for a mellow experience. While the stars are incredible to experience from the springs, some people see the springs as a better opportunity to experience some partying.

You can dispersed camp anywhere down valley from Silver Dollar Pond.

Runner Notes

Due to the gradient, trail condition, and scenery, this is a very enjoyable run. The trail is mostly runnable unless you hit the weekend/leaf peeping crowds.

Description

From the parking lot, head south on the obvious trail. Conundrum Creek Trail #1981 stays gently uphill for the first 7.0 miles. While beautiful, the trail is no different than other Aspen-area locales. Plow your way upwards to the hot spring!

One of the most popular springs in the state of Colorado, Conundrum Hot Springs is a must-do for any warm water enthusiast. The views of mountains and fields of wildflowers are superb, especially in late spring. Not to mention, the warm 95-degree waters are inviting and pleasant. This trail sees very heavy traffic as it provides a fairly easy hike through the woods and meadows with bridged stream crossings.

Once you've had your soaking fill, head back to your campsite or back to your car. Guaranteed you'll feel more refreshed and ready to take on the world than you did a few hours before.

Contacts

Shared By:

Tom Robson

Trail Ratings

  4.9 from 11 votes

#716

Overall
  4.9 from 11 votes
5 Star
91%
4 Star
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Recommended Route Rankings

#148

in Colorado

#716

Overall
21 Views Last Month
4,433 Since Sep 12, 2018
Difficult Difficult

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75%
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Photos

Fall leaves in the Conundrum Valley.
Sep 29, 2022 near Aspen, CO
A lake along the Conundrum Out-And-Back Trail in Autumn.
Sep 29, 2022 near Aspen, CO
The valley as viewed from Conundrum Hot Springs.
Sep 29, 2022 near Crested…, CO
A moose looking at me as I run by on the Conundrum Out-And-Back Trail.
Sep 29, 2022 near Aspen, CO
Some information on Conundrum Hot Springs.
Feb 23, 2018 near Crested…, CO

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Sep 19, 2020
Jordan G
Beautiful run in peak fall colors 17.2mi — 4h 00m
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