Elk Mountains, CO

“The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness looks like a great place to backpack. April's issue of Backpacker had an article on the area. I think it would be a great trip for next July. Has anyone hiked in that area? Is anyone else interested in a backpacking trip to that area? The route the writers in Backpacker starts at 9500 feet and goes through 4 passes higher than 12,400 feet.”

“I haven't backpacked, but I have been in and around Aspen a few times. It is a fabulously beautiful area.

If you pass through Aspen, my second cousin has one of the best restaurants in Aspen-La Cocina. He manages the front, his wife the kitchen. Great food, much of it New Mexican style. The bar is always packed, and it is a good place to look for famous people, if you are into that.”

“"...the bar is always packed..."
As is most of CO.

I read the same article, and toyed with the idea of adding that destination to my roadtrip this year. I opted for the Weminuche Wilderness, CO, instead.

It does look like a very scenic area, and is close in. I say go for it.”

“I camped and planned to do the hike to Conundrum Springs. But didn't. However, yes, the area is great. I always thought I'd hate Aspen for all it stood for, but for some weird reason, I think it's OK. And lots of great hikes in area!!!”

“We are supposed to go in the summer of 2003 . . . . . . . . .”

“Ketchum, ID; Jackson, WY; Durango, CO, etc, are about as "Aspen" as I can stand...

I get enough congestion as a resident of the ATL exurbs.

I'm not terribly bothered by the backcountry "crowds", tho. I've been to supposedly crowded destinations (Bryce, Tetons, Sawtooths, Weminuche, Winds, Black Hills, etc), and didn't consider them to be so terribly crowded (well... mebbe the Blax). Solitude is ALWAYS achievable (even in the Blax) - IMHO.”

“Last time I went to Aspen was 1990, and the US Navy paid the way. :D”

“Hey wingding0. I'd love to go. Maybe I will have time to hit that area before next July. If I do, I will post the info on this thread. A friend sent a picture of Snowmass to me yesterday and it looks so beautiful.”

“I'm interested. I'll have to get that magazine issue.

If interest builds, here's my email: tekapo@mediaone.net”