From Glenwood Springs, drive about 26 miles southeast on Colorado 82 and turn right onto Snowmass Creek Road. From the intersection of CO 82, it's 10 miles to the trailhead, and the remainder of these directions assume you reset your trip-odometer at the intersection. Drive 1.7 miles to a junction and turn right onto Capitol Creek road. Continue to 8.1 miles, where you'll see a trailer parking area on the right. This is a good place to park if you have a low-clearance vehicle or the road is muddy. Continue up the narrow, steepening road to reach the trailhead 10 miles. The last mile is fairly steep and may require AWD/4WD if holes have formed or the road is wet.
Notes
Rough 2WD to the horse-trailer parking spot, about 2 miles before the trailhead. Then, steeper on the final section to the trailhead. In spring and early summer, the road can get slippery on the steep portion. AWD or 4WD is recommended in early summer.
CAMPING RESERVATION REQUIRED A reservation is required to camp at Capitol Lake and permits are small in number. This means you may have to either day hike Capitol (long day) or find a dispersed camp outside of the "Capitol Lake Zone," which would be approximately 2 miles below the lake. Check for Capitol Lake camping permits at recreation.gov. For reference, also check out the Overnight Permit Zone Map
Trailhead Status Updates
Most Recent Update 7/1/2026:
Road has been repaired for this season and is in good condition. AWD/4WD recommended if that final, steep section is slick or starts to get ruts again.
Parking: Parking for about 20 vehicles. Camping: There are a few places to set up a tent near the trailhead. Most people pack in to Capitol Lake to camp. Restrooms: No Fees: No
