Copper Lake Campsites

For Colorado locals seeking the ultimate immersion in the state's rugged and breathtaking high country, Copper Lake Campsites offer an unparalleled backcountry wilderness experience. Unlike traditional drive-up campgrounds, these are designated sites deep within the pristine Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area, requiring a significant hike to access. This distinction immediately sets Copper Lake Campsites apart as a destination for serious adventurers, backpackers, and those who truly wish to disconnect and embrace the raw beauty of the Elk Mountains. Nestled near the stunning Copper Lake, these campsites provide an unrivaled opportunity to wake up to panoramic alpine views, surrounded by towering peaks and the serene sounds of nature.

Copper Lake Campsites are not for the faint of heart, but for those prepared for a strenuous journey, the reward is immeasurable. The journey to Copper Lake, typically via the Copper Creek Trail from the Crested Butte side or the East Maroon Trail from the Aspen side, is an adventure in itself, passing by waterfalls, through dense forests, and across pristine alpine meadows. It’s a testament to Colorado's commitment to preserving its wild spaces, where visitors are encouraged to respect the environment and adhere to wilderness regulations. For locals eager to push their limits, witness truly spectacular scenery, and find solitude in one of the most iconic wilderness areas in the United States, Copper Lake Campsites promise an unforgettable, deeply rewarding, and genuinely authentic Colorado wilderness experience.

Copper Lake Campsites are located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area, with the general address being Unnamed Road, Aspen, CO 81611, USA. It's crucial to understand that these are not drive-up campsites; they are designated backcountry camping areas accessible only via strenuous hiking. Copper Lake sits at an elevation of approximately 11,320 feet.

There are two primary ways for Colorado locals to access Copper Lake, each involving significant hiking.

From the Crested Butte Side (more common for direct access to Copper Lake): The most direct route is via the Copper Creek Trail (#983) from the Copper Creek Trailhead. To reach this trailhead from Crested Butte, follow Gothic Road (FSR #317) north for about 6-8 miles. Two-wheel-drive vehicles will park at a designated parking area around the intersection with FSR #317.3A. High-clearance/4WD vehicles can continue for another half-mile up FSR #317.3A to the Copper Creek Trailhead. The hike to Copper Lake from this trailhead is approximately 5 miles (one-way, 10 miles round-trip) and is rated as strenuous, with significant elevation gain.

From the Aspen Side (as part of a longer traverse): Copper Lake is also a destination on the popular Aspen-Crested Butte traverse, often via the East Maroon Pass Trail. This route typically begins from the East Maroon Trailhead on Maroon Creek Road near Aspen. Access to Maroon Creek Road during peak season usually requires a shuttle bus reservation from Aspen Highlands, or private vehicle access before 8 AM (parking is extremely limited and fills quickly). The hike from this side involves crossing East Maroon Pass and is a longer, more challenging backpacking trip (around 9.5 miles to the pass, then descending to the lake).

Regardless of the approach, accessibility requires physical fitness, proper gear, and planning. Overnight stays in designated areas of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, including Copper Lake, require an overnight permit which must be acquired in advance through Recreation.gov. Wilderness restrictions apply, including group size limits (typically 10 persons) and specific regulations regarding fires, pets (must be leashed), and human waste (WAG bags are highly recommended). The best season to visit is typically late June to mid-October, outside of heavy snowpack.

As backcountry campsites, Copper Lake Campsites offer minimal "services" in the traditional sense, emphasizing self-sufficiency and Leave No Trace principles.

• Designated Campsites: Camping is restricted to 8 designated campsites around Copper Lake. This helps concentrate impact and protect the fragile alpine environment. Visitors must camp in these specific marked sites.

• No Potable Water: There is no potable water source at Copper Lake. Campers must filter or treat water directly from the lake or Copper Creek, or pack in all their water. Multiple creek crossings on the trail mean opportunities to refill if you have a filter.

• No Developed Restrooms: There are no flush or vault toilets. Campers are required to practice Leave No Trace principles for human waste, which includes digging catholes 6-8 inches deep and at least 200 feet from water, camp, and trails, or preferably, using WAG (Waste Alleviating Gel) bags and packing out all human waste.

• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: This is a critical requirement. All food, trash, and scented items must be stored in an IGBC (Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee) approved bear-resistant container. This is strictly enforced to protect both campers and the local bear population. Visitors without approved containers will be ticketed and required to leave.

• Fire Restrictions: Campfires are generally not allowed within 1/4 mile of Copper Lake, or above 10,800 feet elevation, due to the fragile alpine environment and high fire risk. Backpacking stoves are permitted for cooking.

• Permit System: An overnight permit is required for camping at Copper Lake. These permits help manage visitor impact and preserve the wilderness character of the area.

• Pack In, Pack Out: All trash, including food scraps and human waste (if not buried properly), must be packed out. There are no trash facilities.

• Stunning Alpine Lake and Mountain Views: Copper Lake is a large, picturesque alpine lake nestled in a basin, offering "outstanding views of multiple peaks that are over 13,000 feet in elevation including White Rock Mountain (13,539 ft.) and Precarious Peak (13,360 ft.)." The views from East Maroon Pass overlooking Copper Lake and Pyramid Peak (14,019 ft.) are particularly breathtaking.

• Gateway to East Maroon Pass and Triangle Pass: The campsites serve as an excellent base for day hikes to iconic passes. East Maroon Pass offers further panoramic vistas and is part of the famous Aspen-Crested Butte traverse. Triangle Pass also provides expansive views.

• Judd Falls: On the approach via Copper Creek Trail, hikers pass Judd Falls, a scenic waterfall that adds to the natural beauty of the trek. It's a popular short side trip from the main trail.

• Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Immersion: Staying at Copper Lake places you deep within one of Colorado's most spectacular and protected wilderness areas. This offers a true sense of solitude and connection with nature, far from roads and developed areas.

• Wildlife Viewing: The pristine environment supports a variety of alpine wildlife. While bears are present (hence the container requirement), other wildlife like marmots, pikas, elk, and various bird species can be observed.

• Challenging and Rewarding Hiking: The trails leading to Copper Lake are rated as moderate to strenuous, offering a significant physical challenge that is immensely rewarding with incredible scenery along the way, including "several challenging river crossings."

• Photographic Opportunities: The stunning landscapes, from waterfalls to alpine lakes and jagged peaks, provide endless opportunities for landscape photography, particularly during wildflower season (July) or fall foliage (late September).

• Historical Significance: The routes to Copper Lake were once old mining roads and horse trails connecting Aspen and Crested Butte, adding a historical layer to the adventure.

Copper Lake Campsites are located within the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, which is managed by the USDA Forest Service (specifically, the White River National Forest from the Aspen side and the Gunnison National Forest from the Crested Butte side).

Address: Unnamed Road, Aspen, CO 81611, USA. (Note: This is a general location and not a specific street address for a front-country campground).

Phone for Wilderness Permits and Information: +1 (877) 444-6777. This is the national Recreation.gov reservation line where you must obtain overnight permits for camping in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, including Copper Lake.

For specific trail conditions, current fire restrictions, and detailed wilderness regulations, it is highly recommended to contact the relevant Ranger Districts:

• Aspen-Sopris Ranger District (White River National Forest): (970) 925-3445

• Gunnison Ranger District (Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests - for Crested Butte side access): (970) 641-0471

It is imperative to obtain an overnight permit well in advance, especially for popular summer dates, and to be fully prepared for backcountry travel.

For Colorado locals, Copper Lake Campsites represent the pinnacle of wilderness adventure within their home state. While not a typical drive-up campground, its "off the beaten path" nature is precisely its appeal for those who seek genuine solitude and a deep connection with the Rocky Mountains. This is where the true spirit of Colorado's outdoors can be experienced – raw, challenging, and profoundly rewarding.

Locals, often seasoned hikers and backpackers, will appreciate the strenuous yet "stunning" journey to Copper Lake, passing by beautiful features like Judd Falls and ultimately being rewarded with "outstanding views" of 13,000-foot peaks. The requirement for advance permits and bear-resistant containers aligns with the responsible outdoor ethics prevalent in Colorado, ensuring that this pristine environment is preserved for future generations. For Coloradans looking to test their limits, immerse themselves in a world-renowned wilderness, and find a true sense of accomplishment, Copper Lake offers an unparalleled opportunity. It's a place to push beyond the front-country, to truly disconnect from the everyday, and to witness some of the most breathtaking alpine scenery that their state has to offer. For those who embrace the challenge, Copper Lake Campsites are not just a place to lay your head; they are a transformative journey into the heart of Colorado's wild and magnificent high country.

Copper Lake Campsites

Unnamed Road, Aspen, CO 81611, USA