Tabor Creek Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

When hiking up the Tabor Creek Trail, one may find themselves thinking they are in the heart of wild Alaska. The terrain is big and imposing, the trail has a balanced blend of adventure and achievability, and it is not uncommon to see deer, elk, marmot, pika, and sometimes even a bear or two.

This trail is accessed from the Lincoln Creek Road, which begins off of Highway 82, 10 miles east of downtown Aspen in the direction of Independence Pass. Drive a little over 4 miles up the Lincoln Creek Road, keeping your eye out for a small parking area and trailhead on your right.

To start the hike, hopscotch your way across Lincoln Creek (the creek is mellow here, but you may have to do a little wading depending on the time of year), and start your climb up Tabor Creek Trail #2185.1 which parallels the creek. After four hundred vertical feet you'll cross a large canal/road. Look for the trail continuing its climb into the conifer trees on the looker's left side of Tabor Creek.

As you ascend higher and higher into Tabor Creek, the area will feel more and more wild. Savor the tranquility, the sounds around you, and keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that makes this spectacular valley home.

The trail continues all the way to the ridge that separates West Truro Peak and Tellurium Peak. Since this hike is almost always done as an out-and-back, turn around wherever you please. A short side trip can also be taken to Tabor Lake if one desires.

You'll pass through many different forest ecosystems, eventually finding yourself above treeline in the alpine zone. Along the way expect to possibly see deer, elk, marmot, pika, and black bear.