Ski to McNamara Hut
6.2 Miles
2200 Feet
Snowboarding, Skiing, Snowshoeing, Backpacking
Intermediate
Winter
Out-and-Back
Only 6 miles outside of Aspen sits a rustic and secluded ski-hut with out-the-door backcountry skiing.
McNamara hut sits in the national forest on the slope of Bald Knob, with easy access to intermediate backcountry skiing and more challenging terrain further away. Built in 1982, it's one of the original huts in the 10th Mountain Division system along with Margy's Hut. The hut comes stocked with padded mattresses, wood stoves & fuel, propane burners, all cookware and utensils, some games/puzzles/books, and sitting and eating areas. The hut sleeps up to 16 people.
Accessing the hut from the most common location, Hunter Creek Lower TH, requires a 6.2-mile trek with backcountry skis, split-board, nordic skis, or snowshoes. While the trail is on fairly easy terrain, there is a decent elevation gain of 2200 ft.
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations.
Nearby Lodging
The Cache
Frisco, Colorado
The Mill Club
Frisco, Colorado
Tucker Mountain Lodge
Frisco, Colorado
Reviews
Overall rating:
McNamara Hut is a must do!
If you're considering this trip, I highly recommend it! While vacationing to Aspen we were able to squeeze in an overnight trip to the hut. It was our favorite part of the trip and unforgettable. The scenery and views on the way up & down are pristine. Unfamiliar with the area and being form out of town lots of preparations were key to a successful trip including using this post, thank you!
