The Richmond Pass trail has it all: alpine access, peak access, aspens that turn golden yellow in the fall and wildflowers bursting with color in the summer. The distance is 2.4 miles one way with an elevation gain of 2807’. The trail starts up a series of relentless steep switchbacks through an aspen covered slope. Eventually after continuous steep climbing the aspens thin out and spruce trees prevail before entering the meadow and alpine area. The views of Red Mountain and the Ironton region are amazing from the meadow and pass. From the pass, you can scramble up to Hayden Peak another .6 mile and 600+ feet of additional elevation gain. This is one of my favorite fall hikes.
