American Lake Trail
Scenic valley near Aspen leading to a lake with rainbow trout surrounded by 12,000' and 13,000' mountains.
The American Lake Trail (USFS #1985) is 6.5 miles round-trip with 1970' vertical gain. This steep hike is worth the challenge when you reach the pristine high, alpine lake. Afterwards, visit the nearby ghost town of Ashcroft which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The trail is surrounded by conifers and aspens, beautiful in the fall.
American Lake Trail generally does not have a standard seasonal closure, but winter snowpack usually makes it impractical for normal hiking until late spring. If the road is open and adequate off-road parking is available, a difficult snowshoe is possible.
- Suitable Activities: Hiking, Snowshoeing
- Snowshoeing Category: Intermediate
- Seasons: May, June, July, August, September
- Weather: View weather forecast
- View avalanche forecast.
- Length: 6.5 mi
- Elevation Gain: 1,970 ft
- 11,576 ft
-
Land Manager:
U.S. Forest Service
Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area, Aspen Ranger District (WRNF)
- Parking Permit Required: USFS Permits & Passes
- Recommended Party Size: 12
- Maximum Party Size: 12
- Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
- AllTrails
- CoTrex
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