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Carbondale, Colorado

Looking for the best chillin in Carbondale? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Carbondale. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Chillin Spots in and near Carbondale

  • Minturn, Colorado

    Backpack the High Alpine Seven Sisters Lake Chain

    12 mi / 1000 ft gain
    This lake chain is in a spectacular, undeveloped bowl of jagged and rugged mountain goodness located in the Holy Cross Wilderness Area. This hidden gem is easily accessible and, to my amazement, it is relatively unheard of even among many locals. More wonderful perks included in this backpacking ...
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  • Independence, Ohio

    Hike Mountain Boy Ridge from the Top of Independence Pass

    5.0
    6 mi
    The trailhead is to the Independence Pass viewing deck is located at the Summit parking area, which is about 20 miles from Aspen and 24 miles west of Highway 24 on the Leadville side. At the parking area you will notice a paved walkway that takes you to the viewdeck, which is a easy five minute w...
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  • Independence, Ohio

    Watch the Sunset from Independence Pass

    1.0
    Start in the town of either Aspen or Twin Lakes and continue on Interstate 82 to the top of Independence Pass. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the Ghost Town of Independence, fields of wildflowers and the occasional moose, elk or deer. Continue on to the top of the pass where you will fi...
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  • Independence, Ohio

    Photograph Fall Colors Along Independence Pass and Twin Lakes, CO

    5.0
    While this is a more of a photography adventure and a fall drive to take through Colorado, there are also many areas to hike along the way. The drive can start from really anywhere in the general area. From the front range area of Colorado, head up I70 and get off toward Twin Lakes around Copper....
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  • Independence, Ohio

    Drive Independence Pass

    5.0
    32 mi
    Whether you are driving or biking, the elevation gain is significant, it's over 4,000 ft. The road is fairly narrow so being cautious is important. The highway itself is seasonal; it's closed for winter due to icy conditions. We stopped along the Grotto trailhead to hike around and get some views...
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  • Minturn, Colorado

    Hike to Tuhare Lakes

    12 mi / 3000 ft gain
    Overview: About a 12 mile hike, with 3 alpine lakes, a significant climb and views worthwhile Photos: See all photos here. Getting There: The hike is accessed from the Half Moon pass parking lot - from the Fall Creek trailhead. The parking lot and trailhead are accessed at the end of Tigiwon Rd. ...
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  • Buena Vista, Colorado

    Summit La Plata Peak

    5.0
    9.25 mi / 4500 ft gain
    The Northwest Ridge is the most easily accessible and popular route, and for good reasons. The trailhead is on the side of Hwy 82, otherwise known as Independence Pass, about 14.5 miles from the Hwy 24 junction, or about 10 miles from Twin Lakes to the east. The trailhead is hard to miss, and you...
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  • Turquoise Lake, Colorado

    Escape to Turquoise Lake

    5.0
    Turquoise Lake is an 'off the beaten path' gem only 3 hours from the Denver Metro Area. The area surrounding the lake is home to some spacious and tree-shaded campgrounds. If you plan ahead and book early, you'll have your pick of the best spots within close proximity to the lake. The campground ...
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  • Vail, Colorado

    Hike the Upper Piney River Trail

    4.0
    5.6 mi / 350 ft gain
    Beginning at an elevation of 9,397 feet, this hike provides an easy 2.8 mile (one way) trip through the gorgeous meadows against the distant aspens and alpines. Wildflowers and wildlife are abundant, which make this trip a fantastic education and play experience for kids.Coordinates for the trail...
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  • Leadville, Colorado

    Overnight at the Emma and Marceline Yurts, Leadville

    11 mi / 1200 ft gain
    Drive past the main downtown of Leadville and then head into the mountains south of town, following Mt. Sherman Road to the Yurt parking along a ridge before you come to the Black Cloud Mine. There are signs that say "Yurt Parking". Follow the road a little further down to a jeep road just before...
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