Maroon - 4 Passes Loop Clockwise Day 4 (8/19/18)

Day 4 also began with some rain. The ascent up to Buckskin pass was less steep than the others, but more unrelenting. On our way up, we stopped to divert a rivulet off the path that was causing erosion. Interestingly, the approach to the top of the west side of the pass became a fairly easy hike through a very high grassy slope, quite different from the rocky climbs we had experienced earlier. Views from the top were, again, spectacular. The descent was unrelenting, moderately steep (20-25% grades) down for 3,000', which was hard on my knees. On the east side we got to enjoy a plethora of scenery: rocky crags, steep slopes, lush forest, boulder fields, aspen glens, and finally the beauty of Maroon Lake again.