Aspen Expeditions Seven Summits

Credentials

The Professional Mountain Guides at Aspen Expeditions support the mission of the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA), and have achieved and/or are actively pursuing Certification in a variety of disciplines through the AMGA. Each of our Ski Guides has achieved Certification as a Ski Guide (Level 1) or Ski Mountaineering Guide (Level 2). The AMGA is the only U.S. organization which offers Mountain Guide Certification, and is the only U.S. member of the International Union of High Mountain Guides (UIAGM)/IFMGA.

Aspen Seven Summits

The Central Rockies represent the heart of the Colorado's wild and rugged mountains and some of the state's most dramatic fourteen thousand foot peaks. Proudly seated just a few miles south of the Roaring Fork Valley, running east to west are the Aspen Seven Summits - not only a challenging goal for aspiring mountaineers, now a new and premier guided program, created by Aspen Expeditions. These peaks, which include the famous Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak, are some of the most extensively photographed peaks in the United States and signature mountains to Aspen, Colorado.

While all of these ascents are challenging, some are world-class and demanding projects, which might take two or three seasons to complete. Take for example Snowmass Mountain (14,092). This eight-mile hike to get to the base of the climb is followed by an early start the next day, crossing snowfields and broken ledges to reach the summit. Or consider the airy and committing knife-edge ridge of Capitol Peak (14,130 ft.) or a snow and ice climb that leads you onto the saddle between North and South Maroon Bells. Some of the Aspen "Seven" like Mount Sopris (12,998 ft.) and Castle Peak (14,265 ft.) are also excellent ski descents during the springtime.

All of these peaks and some of the routes described are a draw for Colorado and North American climbers, but are also destination climbs for mountaineers around the world.

Tour Number I - Mount Sopris & Castle Peak

Mount Sopris:	12,998 feet
Castle Peak:	14,265 feet
Trip Length:	4 days
Dates:	Call for availability
2008 Rate:	$1,295 based on 4 participants
Difficulty Level:	Moderate to Athletic

This introductory Seven Summits tour is an excellent first step onto Colorado fourteener hiking, combining high-altitude, overnight backpacking and a significant vertical elevation gain.

Your journey into the rarified air will take you the summit of the imposing Mount Sopris, revered by the Ute Indian's as 'Mother Mountain' because of its dueling summits.

You'll also climb Castle Peak, a relatively friendly fourteener, running a spectacular ridge system to Castle's summit

Although the routes are non-technical climbs, they are still challenging ascents, requiring physical fitness and stamina.

Reaching the summits of these peaks will offer you a lifetime memory with some of the finest views in Colorado.

Tour Number II - South Maroon & Snowmass Mountain

South Maroon Peak:	14,156 feet
Snowamsss Mountain:	14,092 feet
Trip length:	5 days
Dates:	Call for availability
2008 Rate:	$1,295 based on 4 participants
Difficulty:	Athletic, Challenging

The routes we have selected on these two world-class colorado fourteeners are straightforward but offer variations to accommodate your adventurous mountain spirit!

Depending on the time of year, South Maroon Peak can provide aspiring mountaineers the opportunity to hone technical snow climbing skills on the classic 'Y' couloir. In addition, Snowmass Mountain has a year-round snowfield which makes for an ideal alpine snow climb or if conditions allow, a ski-mountaineers' chance to ski one of Colorado's fourteeners.

Both peaks will be vigorous yet rewarding, offering incredible mountain experiences that will create a lifetime of memories.

Tour Number III - North Maroon & Pyramid Peak

North Maroon Peak:	14,014 feet
Pyramid Peak:	14,018 feet
Trip Length:	4 days
Dates:	Call for availability
2008 Rate:	$1,195 based on 3 participants
Difficulty Level:	Athletic, Strenuous

These two fourteeners are the 'classics' of the Aspen Seven Summits. Both peaks are signatory to Aspen, Colorado but also to North America. For both climbs, you'll hike through pristine forests, skirt across alpine scree fields and scramble airy ridges, topping out at just over fourteen-thousand feet on the Elk range's most dramatic looking peaks!

From the summits of either of these centrally located peaks, you'll take in 360-degree views of the Elk range, seeing miles and miles in all directions. Both ascents are world-class and will award mountain adventurers a timeless memory!

Tour Number IV - Capitol Peak

Capitol Peak:	14,130 feet
Trip Length:	4 days
Dates:	Call for availability
2008 rates:	$995 based on 3 participants
Difficulty Level:	Challenging, Demanding

Whether Capitol Peak is on your Seven Summits tick list or looms large as solitary mountaineering goal, this 'Grand Teton' of Colorado awaits your arrival! This overnight mountaineering experience takes you into the heart of central Colorado's Elk Range.

You'll camp at Capitol Lake and enjoy first class mountain scenery underneath Capitol's northwest face, saddling up early for your summit day the next morning.

Capitol Peak is the granddaddy of the Aspen Seven Summits. For years, this world-class climb has earned the reputation as perhaps one of the most difficult fourteen thousand peaks in Colorado, largely due to its' exposed 'knife-edge' ridge. With an AMGA trained or certified guides from Aspen Expeditions, you'll be able to enjoy this exciting part of the climb with confidence and safety.

An ascent of Capitol Peak is the pinnacle of Colorado's fourteener climbing. Let Aspen Expeditions take you on an adventure that you'll never forget!

Peak Ascents

One Day - Mt. Sopris, Castle, Maroon Bells and Pyramid Peak

Description:	The Elk Range of the Rocky Mountains offers some of the best mountaineering, technical climbing, and adventure hiking in the country. Routes range from conditioning "hikes" up Mt. Sopris, or Castle Peak, to technical routes on Pyramid Peak and the Maroon Bells. The Elk Range 14,000' peaks are often regarded as Colorado's most challenging. Aspen Expeditions has guided these peaks safely for over twenty-five years and our knowledge of the mountains will add security and enjoyment to your adventure plans. Whether you're looking to climb all of Colorado's 14,000' peaks or just have a single mountaineering objective in mind, Aspen Expeditions can enhance your experience and help make your dreams a reality.
Ideal For:	Any adventure hiker or mountaineer looking towards a lofty goal. No Experience Necessary!!
Fitness Level:	Climbing a Colorado 14,000-foot peak requires a moderate to high level of fitness and motivation.
Pricing per person:	Mt. Sopris 12,998: $495 Castle Peak 14,265': $495 North Maroon Peak (NE Ridge) 14,014': $495 South Maroon Peak (S Ridge) 14,156': $595 Pyramid Peak 14,018':$495

Two Day - Capitol and Snowmass Peak

Description:	The Elk Range 14,000' peaks are often regarded as Colorado's most challenging. Aspen Expeditions has guided these peaks safely for over twenty-five years and our knowledge of the mountains will add security and enjoyment to your adventure plans.
Capitol Peak:	This climb requires two days with one night spent at a wilderness base camp. The following day at pre-dawn we will ascend to the summit of Capitol Peak along the North East route. Offering the unique ability to alpine climb on snow for most of the summer.
Snowmass Peak:	This is an ideal setting for the "new-to-snow 14'er climber". Perched above breathtaking Snowmass Lake, this peak experience offers a true backcountry adventure with a remote feel of being far away from civilization. Climbing from the lake, next to a 1,000' waterfall, through a boulderfield, across snowfields and steeper slopes, attaining a rocky ridge and steep ledges to the summit - Snowmass Peak truly offers it all.
Ideal For:	Any adventure hiker or mountaineer looking towards a lofty goal. No Experience Necessary!!
Fitness Level:	Climbing Capitol Peak/Snowmass Peak requires a moderate to high level of fitness and motivation. Mountaineering experience preferable, but not required.
Pricing per person:	Captiol Peak 14,130': $925 Snowmass Peak 14,092': $925

Trekking

High Alpine

Description:	Come explore the Elk Range and get a taste of the high country with a trek led by Aspen Expeditions. Go on a ridgeline trek or cross high mountain passes. Whether you're looking for a high paced fitness trek, or a relaxing scenic stroll through the mountain environment our professional guides can add enjoyment and security. Treks can range from a few hours in length to a multi-day backpacking excursion. Let us help you pick an ideal adventure or come with a specific destination in mind.
Ideal For:	Any individual or group looking to spend a spectacular day in the alpine environment. No Experience Necessary!!
Fitness Level:	Aspen Expeditions can customize treks to fit the abilities and desires of most groups.
Pricing per person:	Full Day: $175 Short Day (4 hours):$100

Journey from Aspen to Crested Butte

Description:	In this exquisite high-alpine trek, you'll circumnavigate the stunning 14,000-foot Maroon Bells, some of the most extensively photographed peaks in North America. You'll hike over four beautiful 12,000-foot passes - traveling past wildflowers, lakes and streams and through the pristine, high-alpine tundra - each one offering stunning views of the Colorado Rockies. Through the course of this wilderness trek you'll also visit the small mountain town of Crested Butte for one night, enjoying fine food and accommodations - then return to Aspen where we'll celebrate the completion of this rewarding mountain trek with a fine dining experience in downtown Aspen!
Includes:	Professional AMGA trained or certified mountain guide; one mountain activity (paragliding or fly-fishing); a gondola ride and lunch at the Sundeck Restaurant; one night camping (includes tents and meals); meals in the field; accommodations in Crested Butte; dinner in Crested Butte; one dinner Aspen; Local transportation
Trip Length:	4 days
Dates:	Call for availability
2008 Pricing:	$1,495 per person based on 4 participants
Difficulty Level:	Moderate to athletic 5 - 7 hours of hiking per day

Custom Trips

Aspen Expeditions also offers custom trips through StayAspenSnowmass.com. Whether you have limited time during your visit or you're interested in spending more time in the field with Aspen Expeditions, we can tailor our trips to accommodate your scheduling needs.

Other Aspen Expedition Adventures

If outdoor adventures are your passion, please take a look at some of these packages Aspen Expeditions has put together for you.

Aspen Paragliding

Rock Climbing

Four Mountain Sports Adventure

Package Information / Reservations

For all-inclusive packages, including lodging, airfare, rental cars, or anything else you may require, call one of our local vacation experts at 888.649.5982, or e-mail info@stayaspensnowmass.com to have a customized colorado hiking vacation quote sent to you via e-mail. Check lodging availablity online here.