Explore the Majestic Maroon Bells: Colorado’s Iconic Peaks
Even if you have never heard of the Maroon Bells, there is a good chance that a picture of two of the most photographed peaks in America has appeared on your feed. Located a short distance from Aspen, Colorado, the Maroon Bells are bell-shaped peaks that have a lovely maroon tint due to an abundance of an iron-rich material known as hematite. There are several vantage points and trails where visitors can admire the majestic beauty of the Maroon Bells.
Although the Maroon Bells are sometimes referred to as the ‘Deadly Bells’ due to a high number of hiking-related accidents in the area, there are still plenty of safe places to gain a sweeping view of the lovely peaks. From mid-June through September, vehicle access is restricted on Maroon Creek Road. Visitors can park and take a shuttle from the Aspen Highlands Ski Resort to access the Maroon Bells Scenic Area, which is home to a number of trails that offer panoramic views of the Maroon Bells.
Photo by depositphotos.com
The Maroon Lake Scenic Trail is one of the easiest and most popular hikes in the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. The 1-mile Maroon Lake Scenic Trail winds around Maroon Lake and offers stunning views of a meadow that explodes with wildflowers during the warmer months, an active beaver pond, and a crystal-clear creek. Visitors can expect to see a mirror image of the Maroon Bells reflected in Maroon Lake.
If you’re searching for a slightly more challenging hike, the Maroon Creek Trail is a moderately strenuous 3.2-mile trek that will bring you slightly closer to the Maroon Bells than the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail. Expect to see aspen trees galore and abundant wildlife such as porcupines, bighorn sheep, and the occasional red fox. The Maroon Creek Trail also allows hikers to gain a clear view of the Maroon Bells’ distinctive ‘creased’ texture.
The Maroon Bells are widely popular, so it is important to note that reservations are required to access the Maroon Lake Scenic Area. If you have your heart set on visiting the Maroon Bells, it is best to plan ahead because space is limited. Reserving your spot in the Maroon Lake Scenic Area at least a month in advance is highly recommended.
Even though the Maroon Bells are widely photographed, no picture can truly capture the nuances of color and texture at one of the most breathtakingly beautiful vistas in Colorado‘s exquisitely beautiful Rockies.
Location on Google Maps.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Maroon Lake Scenic Area, Maroon Bells, Colorado, USA (Maroon Lake visitor-area reference)
- Coordinates
- 39.0969911, -106.9451892
- Access
- The 2026 public shuttle to Maroon Lake ran May 22–October 18, 08:00–17:00, and has ended for the season. Aspen Snowmass says Maroon Creek Road access is reservation-controlled from mid-May to mid-November, with weather-dependent conditions; its seasonal restriction permits shuttle-only road access from 08:00–17:00 during the operating period. For Oct 19–31, the current reservation guidance requires a reserved Maroon Lake parking space for vehicle access. Check the reservation portal and Forest Service road status before travel; late-season snow can change access.
- Admission
- 2026 public shuttle: adult fare $16; $10 for seniors over 65 and children under 12 (the Aspen Snowmass page labels the $10 fare “one-way downhill”). A separate Maroon Lake vehicle-parking reservation is $10 per vehicle; the Aspen Highlands garage is paid separately. Confirm the fare type and availability in the reservation portal before travel.
- Time needed
- No single visit duration is published for the scenic area; it varies with the walk or trail chosen. Budget time for the reserved shuttle slot and return bus, and bring water because none is available at Maroon Lake Trailhead.
- Best season
- The 2026 shuttle season runs May 22–October 18. Late spring access can be affected by snow and fall service ends on the published date; peak foliage varies annually. Check road and shuttle status before travel.
- Opening hours
- There are no simple year-round visitor hours for the scenic area. The 2026 public shuttle season ended October 18 (08:00–17:00). Reservation rules and road status vary by date; vehicle access after the shuttle season is subject to a reserved parking space, road opening and weather. Check current Maroon Bells reservation and White River National Forest notices before setting out.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-28
- Facts checked
- 2026-10-20
Map marks the area, not a visitor entrance.
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