Darren K Offline Upload & Sell: Off
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Not only is (dispersed/boondock) camping free, but there is no real travel time to and from at either end of the day, which is particularly useful at sunrise. That's stating the obvious, though. If camping is not in the cards, I would sure think Carbondale or Basalt would be economically more friendly for lodging over Aspen for that particular area, but I don't do anything except camp, so I can't say for sure. Crested Butte and Ridgway/Ouray would definitely be the best options for their respective areas.
Jala, I've never heard of an MVUM map! How about that. Doesn't look like those maps contain anything that aren't in a state road atlas, other than the fact there is no cost.
You could easily spend an entire week in that area alone when peak color is going, so yes, it is a great location. Per your other post, though, you would be early and would have a lot of green, so you'd likely feel the need to roam around a bit more. Black Canyon is always nearby as another option if the trees aren't keeping you busy.
The drive to Aspen would take a few hours from Kebler. If the Maroon Bells are on your list, by all means, do it. Drive north and spend an evening towards the end of Capitol Creek Road out of Snowmass for sunset of Capitol Peak, then drive the 45 minutes out to camp at the quiet East Maroon Creek TH to be ready for sunrise at the Bells, then spend the better part of the morning along Maroon Creek and Castle Creek before heading back around and to the south. You could take an alternate route back to 133 and drive West Sopris Creek/Prince Creek roads that gets you closer to our second tallest (not highest) peak in the state, Mt. Sopris. That would be a worthwhile trip, no doubt.
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