Express Creek Road to Taylor Pass

White River National Forest

A popular high-altitude 4WD route which is also available for Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing, the 5.5 mile Express Creek Road to Taylor Pass is rated difficult. Snow may be present well into mid-July. From the top of Taylor Pass views of Taylor Lake below, Castle Creek Valley and the surrounding peaks are visible. Several choices of extending you trip are available once at the Pass by making a loop back to Aspen via Richmond Hill Road, or by traveling to Crested Butte along the Taylor River.

The first 1/8 mile along Express Creek Road is fairly flat. After crossing a bridge the road begins to climb steeply passing several private drives along the firs mile.

A spur to the right is reached at about 2 miles. Following the main road which becomes a little steeper and in another 1.75 miles begins a long steep uphill. The road crosses a bridge and is very step for the last mile.

To reach Express Creek Road from Aspen Colorado, travel west along Highway 82 for 0.5 mile to the Roundabout. Travel around the roundabout and turn right onto Castle Creek Road. Continue along Castle Creek Road for about 11 miles. Just past Elk Mountain Lodge and before the ghost town of Ashcroft, Express Creek Road will be on your left.