Moonstone1

Where's the best spot to base oneself when doing day hikes in Maroon Bells? Aspen? Or would Crested Butte work?

TIA

Bill_H

Aspen.

tekwriter

Crested Butte is actually very far away from Aspen over state-maintained paved roads. There are 4WD mountain roads that would be OK for experienced off-roaders in their own jeeps, but not for tourists in rental cars. Don't rely on Mapquest for directions - they are notorious for giving routes over these roads, making it seem like they're acceptable routes for everyone!

Aspen is a wonderful town, with a range of accommodations from budget to luxury. No reason not to stay there. And Maroon Bells is the most spectacular spot in the state, esp. in the summer. Wait til you see the carpet of wildflowers in the meadow!

Moonstone1

Thanks, that clears it up. Some of the literature seemed to imply that it was a do-able thing from CB.

We've been to Aspen before and stayed at the Little Nell. Not sure we want to spend as much this time around.

Can anyone suggest a "nicer" hotel for - let's say - under $300/nt towards the end of September?

BoniseA

Last August, through Pricline, we got a condo at The Gant for $110 a night.

It was wonderful and the Bells are as beautiful as ever.

sylvia3

If Aspen doesn't work, Glenwood Springs isn't too far to go.

tekwriter

A couple of years ago, my husband and I really liked our accommodations at Aspen Mountain Chalet - only about half of your budget, but a great value. Simple, but clean rooms, outstanding location (next to St. Regis), great "cold" breakfast buffet (a lot more than stale donuts!), pool, weight room and other amenitites. Might be some place for you to look into.

MaureenB

We also like The Gant. Or try Aspen Square, which is right in the middle of Aspen. Just be sure to ask for a recently remodeled unit, as some we've seen are very dated.
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seniormsuedu

How about Carbondale? I also am planning a trip to Maroon Bells this fall and Aspen doesn't want my pups. I wish the Aspen Mt. Chalet would change their policies - it looks very nice.

Carbondale looks closer than Glenwood Springs.

Can you spend much time in M.B. on a day trip from Carbondale?

Thanks, special Colorado experts! See you at M.B., moonstone.

williamscb13

Actually, I was in Crested Butte this week and Crested Butte is on the backside of Aspen and you can get to the Maroon Bells from Crested Butte.
Granted it may not be the famous Aspen view but it is definitely the Maroon Bells. Because I saw them and was in the Maroon Bells Park. So there.

Crested Butte is a fabulous cute town with lots of dogs. It has a funky fun atmosphere that is very laid back. It is totally different than Aspen.

There are several hiking paths/ routes that lead you up into the Maroon Bells from Crested Butte. All of them are past Mt. Creste Butte past the small research town of Gothic.

Crested Butte is known for its wildflowers. but if you are going in September the wildflowers will be over, right now is the peak.


Make sure you get a free hiking/trail map available at the 4 way stop or any outdoor shop. We did the hike to Judd Falls/ Copper Lake and when you do this hike, keep driving, there's a lower parking lot and an upper parking lot and you want the upper parking lot.

Lots and lots of people will say Aspen, but they've never been to Crested Butte or they prefer more ritzy. Me I like laid back casual and empty. Crested Butte is open and off the beaten track and doens't get the crowds like the rest of Colorado. Can you tell I love it?

Moonstone1

Thanks again for the replies!

We've booked a stay at the 'Annabelle Inn' in Aspen. Looks like it'll meet our needs.

As far as Crested Butte is concerned - we're not going to stay there, but ARE going to stop through for a while on our way back, for lunch and possibly some more short hiking. With the possible exception of "lots of dogs", it sounds like the kind of town we enjoy.

Thanks again!