Elevation View
Snowmass to Aspen via Government Trail
A classic, one-way singletrack ride through aspen groves, evergreen forests and alpine meadows
13.98
Miles
2,047'
Ascent
2,584'
Descent
9,613'
High
7,899'
Low
About Snowmass to Aspen via Government Trail
This singletrack trek from Snowmass Village to Aspen is a classic hike. Starting in Snowmass Village, head up the gravel road on Fanny Hill to the start of the Village Bound trail. Wind your way up the West side of Snowmass on Village Bound until you intersect with the Government Trail. Take a left onto Government trail and follow it East across the entirety of Snowmass over bumps and stumps, across streams, and through aspen groves and alpine meadows. This trail showcases the very best diversity while hiking in the Rockies. After crossing Snowmass and continuing on East, you’ll reach the Buttermilk ski area and begin your descent into Aspen. At the base of Buttermilk, you’ll reach a short strip of pavement where you’ll take a left to the Tiehack parking lot. Follow the bridge over Maroon Creek and take a left onto the singletrack trail immediately following the bridge crossing. Follow the single track to the bridge over Maroon Creek Road where the rest of your hike into Aspen is on pavement. From here, follow the signs to downtown Aspen.
To return to Snowmass via public transportation, take the RFTA bus to Snowmass Village.
Please note: this trail is currently closed for elk calving season. It will open on June 28.
Parking
Free parking is available in the numbered parking lots in Snowmass Village as well as the parking structure in Base Village.
Map Location of Parking LotMore about Snowmass to Aspen via Government Trail
Related Trails
ALONG THE TRAIL
Snowmass offers some of the best hiking trails in the valley. You can expect to find spectacular views, wildflowers, rolling meadows, dense forests and a wide variety of wildlife that can be spotted from the trail.
OUTFITTERS
Snowmass Village has everything you need to gear up for your next hiking adventure. Local shops offer the latest in outdoor gear and apparel to make the most of your time outside.
TRAVEL & PARKING
Getting to Snowmass is easy and getting to the trailhead is even easier. Snowmass Village boasts plentiful free parking at multiple locations making it hassle-free to get out of your vehicle and to the trailhead.
