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Video Trip Report
Trip Report
This isn't just a trip report about Scarp Ridge, but also to show off how cool the fall colors that were on Kebler Pass (or all over Western Colorado if you watch the linked YouTube video we did).
We were headed to the Crested Butte area for our 30 anniversary. I had heard that Kebler Pass had an incredible fall foliage display. So instead of heading up to Crested Butte via US 50, we went through Paonia and up Kebler Pass.
I will say that the fall colors on Kebler Pass were AMAZING. Someone told us it is the largest Aspen grove on Earth. Not sure if that is true, but either way, it is extensive!
After the leaf show, we headed to the Lake Irwin area and the Ruby Mountains (a sub-range of the Elk Mountains) to hike to the top of Scarp Ridge. Scarp Ridge is "just" a 12er, but a popular peak with a really nice trail to the top.
Not sure what was up with my wife that day, but she was cruising. I was taking video and photos and it was all I could do to stay within ear shot of her. Because of her pace, we made quick work of the hike and were on top in just over an hour.
The top is incredible, with a sharp drop-off to the north. Also to the north are incredible views of the Elk Range... with 14ers Maroon Bells, Pyramid Peak, Snowmass Mountain and Capitol Peak all visible. We could see the town of Crested Butte and ski area to our east. Even Kebler Pass and the beautiful aspens were visible to our southwest. It is no wonder that this peak is so popular.
After our hike down it was off to Crested Butte to clean up before our anniversary dinner at the Soupcon Restaurant, which turned out to be incredible!
Getting There
I hate to say this, but the best way to give directions is to search for Lake Irwin Lodge on Google Maps.
I will say that the road gets a tad rough after Irwin Lakes and a bit of clearance will be nice. I don't think a rugged 4x4 is required, but you'll need some clearance. I didn't see any sedans at the trailhead.
Hiking Directions
From the closed lodge, follow the road to it's end, then start hiking up the Scarp Ridge trail. We just stayed on the same trail up and back, but you can do a loop, which stays on the ridge longer.
