Conundrum Hot Springs

Can I get up there right now? Never been before. I figure snowshoes/skins, but anyone have any beta or conditions?

Approaching from aspen is a mild hike, doable in a day. as for the snow, who knows, a big slide could have covered that thing pretty deep, im sure there would be a little hot hole, but id wait another month or two for when the wild flowers are popping off up there.

I'm afraid I don't have anything definitive, but I doubt there is danger of a big slide at the springs itself. If I remember right, there are lots of evergreen trees around the springs. I would expect aspens if it were prone to slides.

I also have had friends make the trip from Crested Butte in the winter on skis, so I know it's not unreasonable to go in the winter.

Good luck. Report back if you go.

Not so much worried about getting caught in a slide right now. More wondering what the approach is like, if the hot springs themselves are accessible, and just what to expect in general if I were to attempt the hike out.

Bump.

TheBirdman wrote:Not so much worried about getting caught in a slide right now. More wondering what the approach is like, if the hot springs themselves are accessible, and just what to expect in general if I were to attempt the hike out.

TheBirdman: Did you hike Conundrum? Was planning on going next weekend, trying to find out how much snow is up there. Were the springs accesible?

I did attempt the hike. First four miles were cruiser. Then we hit a lot of snow. Not only was it deep, it was also terrible condition. Mostly semi-solid water that snowshoes sunk through. I'm not even sure skis would float in this crap. Also, the trail is not marked, so with the snow covering the footpath, it was really difficult to follow. Finally, we did get snowed on a few times as storms blew into the valley. We didn't end up finding the springs as I think they were not nearly as obvious with all the snow around.

That was 2 or 3 weeks ago now though so it may have melted out some. All the bridges (that we found) were in good shape so not too much in terms of creek crossing but we still got soaked due to the high moisture content of the snow. All that being said, I think it's still definitely possible. I mean, as nice as the trail is to follow, you just have to get up to far side of the valley. Be prepared for crappy snow and inclement weather. Wear waterproof everything, bring poles, and I'd recommend camping up there for the night if your party is up for it. Although you'll be hauling more gear/food, you'll be better prepared to hunker down should the weather blow in. Good luck.