Grottos Trail - 13 Things to Know Before Visiting

One of the great things to do when visiting Grottos Trail is to go hiking. The trail offers a variety of different landscapes to explore, including forests, meadows, and streams. There are also several caves that can be explored, which are a great way to cool down on a hot day. In addition, the views from the top of the trail are stunning and well worth the effort. For those looking for a more relaxing experience, Grottos Trail also has a picnic area where you can enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by beautiful scenery. No matter what your interests are, Grottos Trail is sure to have something for everyone.

The Grottos Trail is a popular hiking trail in Pitkin County, Colorado. The trailhead is located near the town of Aspen, and the trail winds its way through a beautiful canyon for about two miles before reaching a series of natural stone bridges and caves. The Grottos Trail is believed to be named for these features, which were thought to resemble the caves and bridges found in Italy's Grottoes National Park. The trail was originally built in the early 1900s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and it has been popular with hikers and climbers ever since. In recent years, the trail has been extended and now includes a series of steep switchbacks that lead up to the top of a nearby peak. From the summit, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Regardless of its history or scenery, the Grottos Trail is sure to provide an enjoyable and memorable experience for all who hike it.

The best time to visit Grottos Trail in Pitkin County, Colorado is during the summer months. From June to August, the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the area's natural landmarks. 

1. The trail is best accessed from the north side of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area. To get there, take the Maroon Creek Road from Aspen and follow it for about 12 miles.
2.  Plan to hike the trail either in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day.
3. The trail is located in a remote area, so cell phone service is spotty at best. Be sure to let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
4. Wildlife sightings are common along the trail, so keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, and other animals. If you see a bear, do not approach it!
5. Take your time and enjoy the scenery along the way. Grottos Trail offers some incredible views of the Maroon Bells and other nearby peaks.
6. Leave pets at home. Dogs are not allowed on the Grottos Trail for their safety and the safety of other hikers and wildlife.
7. Don't hike alone: It's always best to hike with a partner, especially on a trail like the Grottos Trail where help may be far away if something goes wrong.
8. Hikers should be aware that there are several boulder fields along the trail, which can make passage difficult in places.

1. The trail was originally built in the late 1800s by miners who were looking for a shortcut to reach their claims. 
2.  In addition to being a popular hiking destination, Grottos Trail is also used by mountain bikers and horseback riders. 
3. Grottos Trail is designated as a National Recreation Trail, which is a designation given to trails that provide significant recreational opportunities for the public. 
4. While most of the Grottos Trail is located above tree line, there are areas of dense forest along the lower sections of the trail. 
5. Picnic tables are available at the trailhead for hikers who want to pack a lunch to enjoy on the trail.
6. Pitkin County Open Space and Trails manageGrottos Trail and offer guided hikes during the spring and summer months. 
7. A permit is required for camping overnight within the White River National Forest; however, no permit is needed for day use ofGrottos Trail. 

It is said that it takes anywhere from 2-4 hours to explore Grottos Trail in Pitkin County, Colorado. This allows for plenty of time to take in all of the stunning views and natural beauty that the area has to offer.

To reach the Grottos Trail, take the Castle Creek Road from Aspen for about 6 miles. Turn right onto the Grottos Trail Road and follow it for about 2 miles until you reach the trailhead. The trail is about 2.5 miles long and leads through a forest of aspen and evergreen trees. 

There is no entrance fee to explore Grottos Trail. However, there is a parking fee of $5 per vehicle.

The trailhead is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM during those months, and hikers are encouraged to start their hike early in the day to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.