Capitol Peak
Approach
The namesake Knife Ridge as seen from near K2
Photo by theplugger
You may start from either the Capitol Creek or West Snowmass Creek trailheads. The West Snowmass Creek trailhead offers the most secluded approach and will be used here. From the West Snowmass Creek trailhead follow the Maroon-Snowmass trail for 1.2 miles to the signed junction with West Snowmass trail. Follow this trail and ford Snowmass Creek at the easiest spot. Finding the easiest spot may take time especially at times of high run off. Once on the west side of the creek follow the trail for 2 miles to a meadow at 9,800 feet. Leave the trail here before it climbs Haystack Mountain and continue up the west side of the valley. The trail from here is well traveled but sometimes difficult to find. You will come to several meadows before reaching treeline that have excellent camp spots. You must cross to the east side of West Snowmass Creek and follow the trail to treeline at 11,400 feet where you will find several small lakes. The largest and highest lake is Moon Lake at 11,740 feet. From Moon Lake follow the valley west then south through large boulders. After the valley turns south one may encounter snow on the gentle north facing slope with a distinct peak called K2 to the southwest. Find the easiest route to K2.
