Panorama on the Midway Pass hike in Aspen, Colorado
Panorama on the Midway Pass hike in Aspen, Colorado

Midway Pass hike

Aspen
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Trail of the Midway Pass Hike near Aspen, ColoradoLooking up from the high alpine meadow on the Midway Pass Hike near Aspen, ColoradoThe path leading across the meadows on the Midway Pass Hike near Aspen, ColoradoLooking across the plateau on the Midway Pass Hike near Aspen, ColoradoThe high alpine tarn on the Midway Pass Hike near Aspen, ColoradoLooking back on the Midway Pass Hike near Aspen, ColoradoCresting the highpoint on the Midway Pass Hike near Aspen, ColoradoUnnamed Peak from the Midway Pass Hike near Aspen, ColoradoLooking back from the Midway Pass Hike near Aspen, ColoradoMaroon Bells Wilderness from the Midway Pass Hike near Aspen, ColoradoDescending on the Midway Pass Hike near Aspen, Colorado

Midway Pass hike

Distance: 7.2mi
Elevation: 1,657ft
Time: 3.5-5h

Difficulty Rating:

User Ratings:
9.7 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty

This hike is a good way to avoid the crowds but still get a fantastic hiking experience. Heading up to Midway Pass does involve slightly more below-timberline-switchbacking than other hikes; however, the generally quiet views from the high alpine plateau are definitely a fair reward for the work.

Midway Pass Hike Map

Getting there

From Aspen, head west on Colorado 82 for 13.4mi. Watch out for the trailhead on the left, directly across from the Lost man Campground.

I’ve done this 37 people have done this
I want to do this 70 want to do this route

About

When to do

Late June through September

Backcountry Campsites

Yes, in the National Forest Wilderness

Toilets

No

Family friendly

No

Route Signage

Average

Crowd Levels

Low

Route Type

Out and back


Midway Pass
Elevation Graph


Route Description for Midway Pass

Begin by heading west from the parking lot. Then, cross Lost Man creek along the Lost Man Loop Trail. On the other side of the creek, the trail will veer northeast again and begin climbing. Shortly, you will reach a signed junction where you will turn left towards Midway Pass.

After the junction, you will begin approximately 1.5mi of switchback climbing. Though somewhat dull, the trail is extremely well graded.

Finally, the trail will veer to the northwest and the tree coverage will get thinner and thinner until you exit the forest.

After exiting the dense trees, you will find yourself on a high alpine plateau, on the flank of an unnamed 13000ft peak. Contouring around to the west you will soon find yourself at a small alpine lake, a great spot for a break.

From this plateau looking across the valley you will be able to see into the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness, including Grizzly Peak, Independence Mountain and Green Mountain.

From here the trail will veer to the northwest, and you will climb to the highest point of the trail. After that, the path will start descending, contouring around the side of the mountain. Looking across the valley, an impressive, nameless mountain will fill your horizon. You will finally arrive at Midway Pass, which is your turnaround point for the hike. After reveling in your sense of accomplishment, take the path back the way you came.

Insider Hints

  • Watch out for afternoon thunderstorms, since so much of this hike is so far above the tree line!

Comments

Sofia L. 5 years ago

The entire route was great, but not advisable for everyone. It was really quiet, and this is perfect if you don't like crowded places.

10.0 Overall Rating
Technical Difficulty
Physical Difficulty
Irish L. 5 years ago

It was a nice moderate hike to the top. The views on the entire way were fantastic. I just couldn't have enough of the peaceful and quiet trail.

10.0 Overall Rating
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Ruel Z. 5 years ago

Lovely hike. The scenery was very compelling. The trail was well kept, and the surroundings were clean.

10.0 Overall Rating
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Earl M. 5 years ago

The wilderness is a sight to behold. A nice trail for nature lovers. The quiet view of the alpine is what makes it more relaxing.

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Physical Difficulty
Jay Adams 5 years ago

A fantastic hiking experience for us. The relaxing view of the forest is what makes it really awesome. Took lots of photos.

10.0 Overall Rating
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Jethro P. 5 years ago

The view of the alpine plateau is really breathtaking. A moderate hike for experienced hikers.

10.0 Overall Rating
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Physical Difficulty
Jasper Herrera 6 years ago

Lots of amazing views from the plateau. The overlooking scenery was jaw-dropping!

10.0 Overall Rating
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Em L. 6 years ago

This hike is fantastic and well worth exploring.

10.0 Overall Rating
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Physical Difficulty
Wyatt Thomas 6 years ago

Midway pass was a really nice walk through the woods without the crowds.

8.0 Overall Rating
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1Sarah1 6 years ago

Midway pass was a very memorable hike. We had a wonderful day out

10.0 Overall Rating
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Physical Difficulty
4h 00m Time Taken
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