We ran into, or rather were passed by, Linden Mallory and Ben Koons on Buckskin Pass.
We had a great run on the Four Pass Loop last Thursday, an ideal escape from the madness of Aspen on the 4th of July. The trails are dry and the flowers were setting up to be in full bloom soon.
As usual, we ran the loop counter-clockwise, which has become our preferred direction for several reasons. You get the big climb up Buckskin Pass out of the way first, and you finish with the shortest climb of the day, up West Maroon Pass. Another reason for the CCW preference is that due to the trail surface and layout of the climbs, the Trailrider to Frigid Air section is easier that way. And if you follow the route clockwise, ascending West Maroon in the early morning can sometimes be a cold and wet proposition, having to pass through the big stands of shaded willows covered in morning dew.
Some photos:
Christy arrives at Buckskin Pass after taking the long way around the lingering snowfield.
The classic shot with Snowmass Mountain.
The start of the Trailrider Pass descent.
Nearing the spur to Geneva Lake.
After making the turn up towards Fravert Basin, the route heads up through the valley towards Frigid Air Pass.
There were flowers in some parts, but “peak” bloom was probably 2-3 weeks away.
The last steps up towards Frigid Air Pass, with the backside of South Maroon Peak in the distance.
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