Avalanche Creek

Avalanche Creek is an easy but occasionally rough and rocky out-and-back road that serves as one of the major access points into the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness near Redstone, Colorado. The trail follows Avalanche Creek through a narrow mountain valley framed by steep slopes, dense vegetation, and expansive views toward some of the Elk Mountains' most recognizable peaks, including distant glimpses of Capital Peak and Snowmass Mountain. While the road is suitable for most high-clearance vehicles and requires no specialized off-road experience, drivers should expect a rugged surface of hard-packed dirt mixed with embedded and loose rock that creates a consistently bumpy ride.

The trail's most notable challenges are a rocky drainage crossing filled with loose river rock ranging from baseball to grapefruit size, and a typically shallow crossing of Bulldog Creek, usually less than 10 inches deep. Neither obstacle is particularly difficult in normal conditions, but both warrant slower speeds and careful tire placement. The route is popular with campers, hikers, backpackers, horseback riders, and anglers, providing access to the Avalanche Creek Trailhead and the vast backcountry beyond. Camping opportunities are limited to the Avalanche Campground near the end of the trail, where you will find 9 first-come, first-served sites that charge a nightly fee. The sites are small and only suitable for 1-2 vehicles. Each site has a steel fire ring, table, and a bear storage box. Additionally, the area offers two outhouses. Avalanche Creek is open from approximately mid-May through mid-November, and although it is a very popular route, it offers a rewarding blend of mountain scenery and wilderness access that appeals to both casual explorers and experienced outdoor enthusiasts.