The Grottos Loop hike
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The Grottos Loop hike
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Hiking into the Grottos is like visiting an alien country. It’s different from all the other more mountainous hikes on the list. The Roaring Fork River carves the rocks smooth, giving them statue-like properties.
Getting there
Head east out of Aspen along Colorado 82 for 8.9mi. Watch out for the Grottos Day Use Area on your right. Turn off here and go to the moderately sized parking area.
About
| When to do | June through September |
| Backcountry Campsites | No |
| Toilets | Yes, at the trailhead |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Poor |
| Crowd Levels | High |
| Route Type | Circuit |
The Grottos Loop
Elevation Graph
Weather
Route Description for The Grottos Loop
Begin the hike by crossing the Roaring Fork River on a small footbridge. On the south side of the river, hang a right at the first junction and start along a very wide trail. As you hike there will be many junctions, most of which are signed. Follow the signs for the ‘Ice Caves’, the first stop on the hike.
As the name would imply, the Ice Caves are home to small pools of water that freeze in the winter. One you reach the turnoff for the Ice Caves, descend down to the left and spend some time exploring the silky-smooth rock landscape. After appreciating the rocks’ strange beauty, return to the trail and continue east.
As you continue hiking, the path will veer to the left (north) with signs pointing towards the Cascades. Soon you will arrive at the river. You will be treated to a stunning, cascading waterfall. Although not particularly high or steep, the waterfall’s beauty comes from the stunning features carved into the rocks. This part of the hike is truly beyond words, and can only be experienced in person.
After enjoying the cascades, follow the trail as it starts to head back to the bridge along the side of the river. Soon you will arrive back at the bridge, which you will cross over to return to the parking lot.
Insider Hints
On sunny summers day this can be a great spot for a family picnic.
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Kristian Valtierie 4 years ago
I had high expectations and wasn't disappointed. The path was clearly marked and fun to follow.
Alex Lavinson 4 years ago
We walked Grotto Canyon, and it was fun. The pictographs are close to the waterfalls. So amazing. You shouldn't miss it!
Lola M. 4 years ago
Amazing short hike! It's not very technical but be careful of some slippery sections.
Rocco Ellysia 4 years ago
I really enjoyed this walk. Working our way through the canyon was part of the fun, as was keeping an eye out for the glyphs/pictographs, watching the rock climbers, and just admiring the nature of it all.
BoulderBound 4 years ago
The beauty of this trail is awesome. The ice caves were pretty cool and then the actual waterfalls were beautiful.
Joshua Zagreb 4 years ago
The trail was uncomplicated so had a carefree walk. Great hike to do in the morning. Just don't forget to apply some bug repellent.
Tiffany Swift 4 years ago
Easy trail with nice waterfalls. Love this place.
Xyla O. 5 years ago
The cascading waterfalls was mesmerizing. The surrounding landscapes were impressive as well. The trail was mostly flat and it is very accessible.
lilibethl 5 years ago
Beautiful hike. Great for a short, brisk walk in the morning. The river looks great!
Lloyd Frank 5 years ago
Stunning river and surroundings. It's very unique and intruiging.