Smuggler Road is a fairly well maintained 4 WD road and immediately begins a steep ascent. The road switchbacks up Smuggler with views of Aspen below. The switchbacks get longer and in about 1-1/2 miles the road curves behind Smuggler Mountain. There is a short steep path on the right leading to a platform, which is good for viewing Aspen.

To continue to Warren Lakes, keep straight on the road (left goes to Hunter Creek). In a short distance, keep straight again past the next left, the road becomes a more rugged 4 WD road and continues to ascend steeply. At the 2-1/2 mile mark there are some communication disks on the right. The road becomes even steeper until about the 3 mile mark, and then it eases. Shortly, the road becomes level with only brief steep sections until reaching the Forest Service bulletin board at the 6 mile mark. The road continues a short distance further to the gate at Warren Lakes. Beyond the gate is Private Land and Wilderness, please respect this and do not trespass.

Directions from Aspen: Travelling east on Main Street in Aspen, turn left (north) onto Mill Street. Travel 1/4 mile and turn right after the bridge onto Gibson. Follow Gibson 1/8 mile to a "Y" intersection and bear left onto South Avenue. Shortly, turn right onto Park Circle and follow for 1/8 mile to the Smuggler Mountain Road on the left. There is parking on the right.

Seasonal Information:
Normally Accessible: June through September (NOTE: Snow may obstruct the road in Early June and Late September.) .