Standing before the Maroon Bells in Colorado feels like stepping into a living postcard. These magnificent twin peaks, just outside Aspen, have earned their reputation as the most photographed mountains in North America.
To visit the Maroon Bells, you’ll need to make reservations in advance for either a shuttle service or personal vehicle access to the scenic area. This protected wilderness has implemented a reservation system to manage visitors.
I’ve made the trip to Maroon Bells several times, and the breathtaking reflection of those rugged peaks in Crater Lake never gets old. The area offers something for everyone – from casual photographers hoping to capture that iconic shot to hikers looking to explore the moderate 3.6-mile round-trip Crater Lake Trail through beautiful aspen woodlands.
When planning your visit, timing matters enormously. Dawn creates magical lighting for photography, while fall transforms the landscape with golden aspen leaves.
I always recommend bringing layers regardless of when you visit, as mountain weather can change quickly even during summer months. The journey through this 300-million-year-old landscape is worth every bit of planning required.
Planning Your Visit
Visiting the stunning Maroon Bells requires some preparation to make the most of your experience. A little planning goes a long way to ensure you’ll have unobstructed views of these magnificent peaks while avoiding the crowds.
Best Times to Visit
I’ve found early summer through fall offers the most spectacular views at Maroon Bells. June through September provides lush greenery and wildflowers, while late September brings stunning golden aspen trees that frame the mountains perfectly.
Early mornings (before 10 AM) are magical – the still waters of Maroon Lake create perfect reflections of the peaks. This is also when lighting is best for photography.
Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends. If you’re visiting during peak season (July-August), I recommend arriving extra early or late afternoon when the shuttle crowds thin out.
Winter visits offer a completely different experience with snow-capped peaks, but require snowshoeing or cross-country skiing as the road closes to vehicles.
Transportation Options
Getting to Maroon Bells has become more regulated to protect this natural treasure. From mid-May through October, personal vehicles are restricted between 8 AM and 5 PM.
The shuttle bus from Aspen Highlands is your primary transportation option during peak hours. I recommend reserving tickets online well in advance as they sell out quickly.
The buses run frequently and provide informative commentary about the area.
If you prefer driving yourself, you can access Maroon Bells before 8 AM or after 5 PM with a parking reservation. These spots are limited and must be booked online.
Cycling the 10-mile road to Maroon Bells is a popular option for active visitors. The ride offers stunning views, though be prepared for a steady uphill climb.
Securing Permits and Passes
Reservations are absolutely essential for visiting Maroon Bells. The $10 access fee can be paid when booking your transportation option.
For the shuttle bus from Aspen Highlands, I recommend booking at least 1-2 months ahead during summer and fall. Tickets cost around $16 for adults and include your entrance fee.
If driving, you’ll need both a timed-entry reservation and parking pass. These can be booked on the same reservation system as shuttle tickets but tend to sell out even faster.
For backpackers planning overnight trips in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, additional wilderness permits are required. These should be secured well in advance, especially for popular routes like the Four Pass Loop.
Experiencing the Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells offer visitors a truly magical Colorado mountain experience that changes with the seasons. The iconic twin peaks reflect beautifully in Maroon Lake, creating the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Scenic Points and Activities
Maroon Lake sits at the heart of the experience, offering the classic postcard view that made these mountains famous. I love arriving early morning when the lake’s surface is perfectly still, creating mirror-like reflections of the peaks.
The 1.5-mile Scenic Loop around the lake is perfect for all fitness levels. I’ve spotted deer, marmots, and even the occasional moose during my walks here.
In summer, wildflowers blanket the meadows with vibrant colors. Fall brings spectacular golden aspen groves that contrast dramatically with the red-hued mountains.
Be prepared for the altitude (9,580 feet at the lake). Drink plenty of water and take your time to adjust before attempting any activities.
For families, the area offers picnic spots and educational signs about local wildlife and geology. I recommend bringing binoculars for wildlife viewing.
Hiking Trails Overview
The Maroon Lake Scenic Trail is my go-to recommendation for first-time visitors. This easy 1-mile roundtrip path hugs the shoreline and offers stunning views without much elevation gain.
For a more challenging adventure, the Crater Lake Trail extends 3.6 miles roundtrip with about 500 feet of elevation gain. The trail winds through aspen groves before reaching another beautiful alpine lake.
More experienced hikers might tackle:
- Buckskin Pass (9.1 miles roundtrip, 3,000 ft gain)
- Willow Lake (6.2 miles roundtrip, 1,600 ft gain)
- Maroon Creek Trail (3.2 miles one-way, moderate difficulty)
Always check trail conditions before setting out. Mountain weather changes quickly, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.
Proper footwear is essential, even for shorter hikes. I’ve seen too many visitors struggle in sandals or casual shoes on rocky terrain.
Photography Tips
The most iconic shots happen at sunrise when the peaks glow with alpenglow and reflect perfectly in Maroon Lake. I arrive at least 30 minutes before sunrise to secure a good spot along the shoreline.
For the best reflections:
- Visit early morning when winds are calmest
- Position yourself at the northeast corner of Maroon Lake
- Use a polarizing filter to enhance reflections
- Include foreground elements like rocks or flowers for depth
Fall photography (mid to late September) captures the golden aspen trees framing the mountains. The contrast between yellow leaves, blue sky, and red peaks creates magical images.
Try different perspectives beyond the classic view. I’ve captured beautiful shots from the hiking trails and meadows surrounding the lake.
Remember that lighting changes dramatically with the seasons and weather. Cloudy days can actually create more dramatic, moody images than perfectly sunny ones.
Adventures Beyond the Bells
While the Maroon Bells themselves are breathtaking, the surrounding wilderness offers countless opportunities for deeper exploration. The vast White River National Forest creates a playground for nature lovers with diverse trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Connecting with Nature
I’ve found that early mornings at Maroon Lake offer the most magical wildlife encounters. Dawn reveals elk grazing peacefully along the shore and occasional black bears foraging in distant meadows. Remember to maintain a safe distance and bring binoculars for the best viewing experience.
Bird watchers will appreciate the diverse species that call this area home. I’ve spotted everything from mountain bluebirds to soaring hawks while quietly observing from the lakeshore.
The Aspen Forest takes on different personalities throughout the seasons. Summer brings lush greenery, while fall transforms the landscape into a golden paradise. Winter blankets everything in pristine snow, creating a serene wonderland.
Lesser-Known Trails
Beyond the popular Maroon Lake Trail, several hidden gems await adventurous hikers. Crater Lake Trail (3.6 miles round-trip) offers stunning views with fewer crowds than the main viewpoint.
For a true wilderness experience, I recommend exploring:
- Willow Lake Trail – A challenging 12.5-mile round-trip hike with rewarding alpine views
- Buckskin Pass – Connects to the Four Pass Loop for ambitious backpackers
- East Maroon Creek Trail – Less traveled path to Crested Butte (14 miles one-way)
The area between Aspen and Vail contains numerous unmarked paths known mainly to locals. These routes often provide solitude and pristine wilderness experiences that the main trails can’t match during peak seasons.
Preparation and Safety
Visiting the stunning Maroon Bells requires thoughtful preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. The high altitude and remote wilderness setting present unique challenges that every visitor should be ready for.
Health and Altitude Awareness
The Maroon Bells sit at over 14,000 feet elevation, which can affect even the fittest travelers. I always recommend taking time to acclimate if you’re coming from lower elevations. Spend a day or two in Aspen (elevation 8,000 feet) before heading up to the Bells.
Altitude sickness is no joke – I’ve seen symptoms like headaches, nausea, and dizziness ruin many trips. Drinking plenty of water is crucial – I aim for at least twice my normal intake. Some visitors find over-the-counter remedies helpful, but check with your doctor first.
The elevation change on trails can be significant. Even the popular Crater Lake Trail involves a 500-foot climb that feels more strenuous at altitude. I always pack extra layers as temperatures can drop dramatically, even in summer.
Respecting Wildlife and Nature
I’ve spotted bears, marmots, and mountain goats during my Maroon Bells visits. While exciting, remember these are wild animals. Keep a safe distance (at least 100 yards from bears) and never feed wildlife.
The fragile alpine ecosystem deserves our protection. I always stick to marked trails to prevent erosion and preserve delicate plants. Pack out everything you bring in – I carry a small trash bag for any waste.
Camping requires permits in designated areas only. I recommend securing these well in advance as they’re limited and popular. Practice proper food storage using bear-resistant containers to keep wildlife wild.
Weather changes rapidly in the mountains. I check forecasts obsessively before heading out and always have rain gear handy. Summer afternoons often bring thunderstorms, so I try to complete hikes before noon.
Making the Most of Your Trip
Your visit to the Maroon Bells deserves more than just a quick photo stop. The surrounding Aspen area offers incredible opportunities to enhance your mountain experience with relaxation and delicious food.
Relaxing in Aspen
After hiking around the Maroon Bells, I love unwinding in Aspen itself. The town’s charm is undeniable with its historic architecture and stunning backdrop of mountains.
During fall, the aspen trees create a golden canopy throughout town that rivals even the famous Bells vista. I highly recommend taking a scenic drive along Independence Pass to extend your mountain experience.
Many visitors don’t realize that Aspen offers excellent public parks perfect for a picnic lunch. Wagner Park and Paepcke Park both provide grassy areas where you can rest tired hiking legs while people-watching.
For relaxation, try the Aspen Recreation Center or book a massage at one of the luxury spas in town. The oxygen bar at some spas helps adjust to the altitude!
Culinary Delights and Local Eats
Aspen’s food scene surprised me with its quality and variety. After burning calories hiking in the Elk Mountains, I always treat myself to a good meal.
For breakfast, Poppycock’s offers hearty options to fuel your adventure day. Their oatmeal pancakes are my go-to before heading to the Bells.
Lunch spots worth trying include:
- White House Tavern for amazing sandwiches
- Big Wrap for quick, healthy options
- Meat & Cheese for local ingredients and charcuterie
For dinner, I’ve found Meat & Cheese Restaurant and Farm Shop serves incredible farm-to-table dishes showcasing Colorado ingredients. Their cheese boards pair perfectly with local craft beers.
Don’t miss trying some game meat dishes featuring elk or bison – it’s a taste of the mountains that surround you!
