Copyright: USDA Forest Service
The ptarmigan is one of those amazing birds that is able to survive on the plants of the high alpine tundra
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This is a moderate to difficult hike through spruce and fir forests. From the White River National Forest and the Gunnison National Forest boundary the trail is not maintained, you need to use orienteering skills to continue to Ptarmigan Lake. From the parking area the trail crosses Lincoln Creek then follows an old road for 1 mile to the aqueduct road. This crossing can be tricky during high spring runoffs. Follow the aqueduct road to the right for 1/2 mile. The next creek you come to is Brooklyn Gulch and the second creek is New York Creek. After crossing the creek the trail begins on the left (east) side of the creek. The trail parallels the creek for 3/4 mile through spruce forests, crosses the creek and emerges into a meadow. Follow the trail for another 1-1/4 miles to the upper meadows above tree line. This section has cairns and wooden posts for the last mile to the top of the 12,280 foot pass.
Directions from Aspen: From Aspen drive ten miles east of Aspen on Highway 82 to Lincoln Creek Road. Turn right and and drive 3.1 miles on Lincoln Creek Road to the New York Trail turnoff.
Seasonal Information:
Normally Accessible:
June through September
(NOTE: Snow may obstruct the trail at high elevations.)
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Winter Conditions. Beware of avalanche danger and hypothermia. Updated: 2002-12-23 14:37:00.0
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