Maroon Bells

Rising over 14,000 feet into the crisp Rocky Mountain sky, the Maroon Bells loom with quiet majesty. Located just ten miles from Aspen in a glacial valley, these twin peaks—Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak—are among the most photographed mountains in North America, and for good reason. They reflect like a dream across the surface of Maroon Lake, their maroon-colored slopes mirrored in the still water, framed by golden aspens, wildflower meadows, and snow-dusted forests. But photos can only whisper what it feels like to stand there, wind curling through the trees, the scent of pine and sun-warmed earth in the air.

This is Colorado at its most compelling. Whether you’re hiking a rugged trail, gliding across snow on a winter tour, or catching your breath beneath the stars at a creekside campsite, the Maroon Bells invite you to slow down, look closer, and feel deeply connected to the land.

The Science Behind the Beauty

What makes these peaks so visually arresting isn’t just their dramatic shape. Over 300 million years of geological transformation have sculpted this landscape into something rare and haunting. The maroon hue of the rock is due to hematite, an iron-rich mineral that has weathered over time, giving the slopes their distinctive coloring. Maroon Lake, which nestles at the base of the mountains, fills a basin carved by Ice Age glaciers and now serves as the centerpiece for countless outdoor adventures.

How to Visit: Planning Ahead is Key

The Maroon Bells are incredibly popular, and the region is carefully managed to protect its fragile ecosystems. Access during peak months is restricted to shuttle or car reservations from late May through late October. The shuttle, operated by the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA), runs from Aspen Highlands daily between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets are $16 for adults and $10 for children under 12 or seniors.

If you prefer to drive, you’ll need to arrive before 8 a.m., and parking reservations cost $10 per vehicle. Spaces fill quickly, so it’s wise to book as far in advance as possible. Shuttles begin with a free connection from Rubey Park in downtown Aspen to Aspen Highlands, where the scenic shuttle departs.

Winter months bring a new kind of magic. With Maroon Creek Road closed to vehicles, visitors can reach the area by snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling. Guided snowmobile tours from T-Lazy-7 Ranch whisk guests through icy meadows and groves of frosted aspens, offering a thrilling way to experience the serene winter landscape.

Hiking the Maroon Bells

The trails around the Maroon Bells showcase the region’s diverse terrain and are suitable for a range of abilities. Here are three top routes that highlight the area’s natural features:

• Maroon Lake Scenic Trail
• Length: 1-mile round trip
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Circles Maroon Lake, offering up-close views of the peaks and access to a vibrant beaver pond.
  
• Maroon Creek Trail
• Length: 3.2 miles one way
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Highlights: Traverses alpine meadows, aspen forests, and rocky slopes. Keep an eye out for wildlife including mule deer, red foxes, bighorn sheep, and porcupines.
  
• Crater Lake Trail
• Length: 3.6 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Highlights: A steeper climb that winds through dense woodlands to reach the tranquil shores of Crater Lake. Cooler temperatures and rougher terrain make this a rewarding hike for those prepared.

Afternoon storms can roll in quickly, especially in summer, so it’s best to start hikes early and always carry a waterproof layer. Sunscreen, water, and sturdy footwear are essentials. Dogs are welcome on most trails and shuttles, but must remain leashed at all times.

Camping in the Heart of Wilderness

For those wanting to stay overnight, the Silver Bell Campground provides a quiet retreat. Set at 8,460 feet along Maroon Creek, the campground features 14 tent sites tucked between wildflower meadows and tall spruce and fir forests. From here, hikers can access the Maroon Creek Trail directly, and anglers will appreciate the excellent trout fishing nearby. Permits and fees are required for camping in several areas of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, and securing these in advance is highly recommended.

When to Go for the Best Experience

• Summer: Wildflowers bloom across open meadows and the trails are dry and accessible. Mid-week visits are ideal for lighter crowds.
• Fall: This is the season for photographers and leaf watchers. Golden aspens set the hillsides ablaze from mid-September to mid-October, with peak color typically arriving in the third week of September.
• Winter: Snow transforms the entire area into a quiet alpine wonderland. Access is limited to those willing to ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile, adding a sense of solitude and wonder.
• Spring: A more solitary season. Meadows begin to green, wildlife stirs, and the snowmelt feeds the lakes and creeks, creating a feeling of renewal.

Getting There

From Aspen, take Highway 82 to the roundabout on the west end of town and exit onto Maroon Creek Road. Drive approximately 4.7 miles to the welcome station. If coming from Glenwood Springs, follow Highway 82 south for about 40 miles to reach the roundabout.

A Place Worth Every Step

The Maroon Bells are unforgettable. Their deep, rich colors shift with the season and time of day, and their reflections in Maroon Lake seem to ripple with mystery and grace. From the golden silence of fall mornings to the hushed sparkle of winter snow, every visit reveals a different mood and story.

Here, beneath two of Colorado’s most iconic peaks, you’ll find a space carved by time, revered by travelers, and perfectly suited for those who crave a deeper connection with the wild.