Avalanche Creek access is a popular trailhead located 12. 5 miles south of Carbondale on Highway 133, with parking at the southeast end of Avalanche Campground (accessible via a 2. 5-mile dirt road that crosses a small stream).

The area serves as the gateway to the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness and offers access to multiple trails including Hell Roaring, East Creek, and Capitol Lake, with overnight permits required for backcountry use and bear canisters mandatory for all backpackers.

Note that potable water is not available at the trailhead, and the access road can be problematic during spring runoff.