Elk Camp Summit

The Summit Trail begins at the top of the Elk Camp gondola, offering hikers a direct ascent to the peak of Elk Camp Peak. This route provides one of the most impressive 360-degree views in the Aspen Snowmass area, with the Maroon Bells serving as a prominent focal point looking down the valley. The trailhead starts within a dense mix of evergreen and aspen forests, guiding visitors through changing natural environments as they climb toward tree line. Access to the start of the hike is available via a scenic gondola ride, which requires a ticket, or by hiking up the Vista Trail from Base Village. After reaching the summit, hikers can choose to descend via the Elk Camp Chair Lift, which does not require a ticket, before transferring back to the gondola, or simply retrace their steps down the trail. The surrounding Snowmass valley features rolling meadows, wildflowers, and diverse wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking spectacular mountain vistas.