Conquering Peaks and Valleys: Frigid Air Pass Adventure (Day 1)

4 Pass Loop Day 1:

Our journey began with a sense of excitement and anticipation as we embarked on the iconic Four Pass Loop, a challenging backpacking circuit through the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. The iconic 28.5-mile with approximately 8,500 elevation gain backpacking circuit around the spectacular Maroon Bells climbs over four 12,000-ft. passes: West Maroon – 12,500 ft.; Frigid Air – 12,415 ft.; Trail Rider – 12,420 ft.; Buckskin – 12,500 ft. With Bill, Greg, Lennon, and myself, we were ready to tackle the rugged terrain and stunning vistas that lay ahead. Our first target: Frigid Air Pass.

Trailhead to Adventure:
Starting our hike in Schofield Park near Crested Butte, we set out on our ascent towards Frigid Air Pass. The trail wound its way through the picturesque East Fork valley, flanked by towering spruce trees and the gentle murmur of the Crystal River.

Into the Wilderness:
Passing by remnants of an old mining cabin, we crossed into the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, a realm of untamed beauty and natural splendor. Trekking through lush meadows adorned with wildflowers and clusters of spruce trees, we felt the serenity of the wilderness enveloping us.

Ascending to Frigid Air Pass:
As we climbed higher, the landscape transformed, with lush meadows and clusters of willows giving way to rugged terrain and rocky outcrops. Switchback after switchback, we persevered, fueled by the promise of the breathtaking views that awaited us at the pass.

A Spectacular Vista:
Finally, as we reached the summit of Frigid Air Pass, we were rewarded with a panoramic display of nature’s grandeur. The majestic Maroon Bells stood tall against the azure sky, their peaks adorned with streams of cascading water. Below us, emerald meadows stretched out in every direction, inviting us to explore further.

Setting Up Camp:
Descending into the Fravert Basin, we followed a faint trail that led us to our campsite for the night. As we settled into camp, Lennon wasted no time in finding a comfortable spot to rest his weary head. With the soothing sounds of nature surrounding us, we reflected on the day’s journey and looked forward to the adventures that lay ahead on the Four Pass Loop.

Day 1 of our Four Pass Loop expedition was a testament to the beauty and grandeur of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. As we drifted off to sleep under the starlit sky, we felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this magnificent landscape. With Frigid Air Pass behind us, we looked forward to the adventures that lay ahead on the trails of the Colorado Rockies.