Conundrum Hot Springs

If you drive 1/2 mile west of Aspen down Highway 82 you'll reach a roundabout where you'll turn right on to Castle Creek Road. After a short five mile drive you'll come to Conundrum Road. There's a parking lot another 1 mile down, which where the trail begins to take you 8.5 miles to Conundrum Hot Springs. Once you arrive at the hot springs prepare to be wowed by the panoramic views of mountains and wildflowers. This hike also serves as the beginning for the much more challenging hikes to Crested Butte.  The hike is moderate, but be warned, 8.5 miles is nothing to scoff at. It's recommeded that you plan on backpacking and camping at the designated campsites around the springs. They're just a short 1/4 mile away. Also, take note that clothing is optional at the hot springs. So, if you have puritanical sensibilities, you may wanna check them at the gate (along with your bathing suit).  The hiking trail takes you through woods and meadows and across three rivers on log bridges. Along the hike you'll get amazing views of Cathedral Peak, Conundrum Peak, Caslte Peak and Mt. Hayden.  "In order to provide quality recreation experiences and to protect the wilderness lands the Forest Service must gather data regarding visitor use and travel patterns. Each party overnighting in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is required to self-register at the Trailhead and to carry a copy of the registration with them during their visit. There is no fee charged and no limit to the number of permits issued." - FS.USDA.GOV -Roadtrippers There are several pools hewn from craters and fed by plastic pipe, some larger than others and varying in temperature from 102°F to 105°F.No matter which you sink into, you'll have outrageous alpine views, including glimpses of steep avalanche chutes and waterfalls. For obvious reasons, most folks spend the night at the nearby campsite, unofficially called 'The Bluffs'. From here you can either retrace your steps, or continue over Triangle Pass and return on East Maroon Creek Trail to catch a bus from Maroon Lake back to Aspen.