Capitol Peak via Capitol Ditch Trail

The trail starts from the Capitol Creek Trailhead. Be aware that the final two miles of the road leading to the trailhead can be quite rough, often requiring a high-clearance 4WD vehicle.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trail. However, as it's within the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, always ensure your dog is under control, preferably on a leash, and follow all Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all waste.

The best time to hike is typically from late spring through early fall. You'll find lush meadows and vibrant wildflowers during peak season, and the fall offers spectacular autumn colors, sometimes with a light dusting of snow on Capitol Peak for added drama.

While there isn't an entrance fee for the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness itself, specific regulations apply. For overnight stays in the Capitol Creek drainage, hard-sided bear canisters are required due to past bear problems. Always check current regulations before your trip.

The initial section follows an old irrigation ditch with minimal elevation change. After about a mile, the trail ascends along the shoulder of the mountains, offering a mix of open areas and groves of trees, including huge patches of thimbleberries. It eventually merges with the Upper Capitol Creek Trail and requires crossing Capitol Creek, which can vary in depth seasonally.

You can expect diverse and spectacular scenery. The trail passes through lush meadows, especially vibrant with wildflowers, and groves of aspen trees. As you gain elevation, you'll be treated to increasingly impressive vistas of Capitol Peak, Mount Daly, and the surrounding jagged peaks and craggy ridges.

The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is home to various wildlife. Hikers may encounter deer, elk, marmots, pikas, and a variety of bird species. Due to past issues, bear activity is also possible, which is why hard-sided bear canisters are required for overnight stays in the Capitol Creek drainage.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Capitol Ditch Trail and the Capitol Creek Trail. It also passes through sections of the Capital Peak Route Trail and the West Snowmass Trail, making it a gateway to more extensive exploration within the wilderness area.

Hikers often prefer this route because it offers a more gradual elevation gain, avoiding a significant initial descent and a steep climb back to the trailhead on the return journey that is characteristic of the traditional Capitol Creek Trail. It's considered a moderate hike and a popular alternative for reaching Capitol Lake.

If you plan to stay overnight, especially in the Capitol Creek drainage, you are required to use hard-sided bear canisters for food storage. This is a critical regulation to protect both wildlife and visitors. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and be prepared for changing alpine weather conditions.

The Capitol Ditch Trail itself is approximately 6.5 miles with about 762 feet of elevation gain to its end, where it connects to the Capitol Lake trail. The full hike to Capitol Lake involves about 2,000 feet of elevation gain over nearly 6 miles from the trailhead. The entire tour as described, which goes beyond Capitol Lake, is estimated to take around 3 hours and 53 minutes of moving time.