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
- As checked November 2, 2026: the shuttle season ended October 18. The official Maroon Bells access site says November 9 is the last day to visit this season. From November 1 through November 9, parking is first come, first served; no shuttle runs. Maroon Creek Road is scheduled to close for winter on November 10, after which the scenic area is inaccessible by vehicle until the road typically reopens around May 15, weather permitting. The Forest Service notes winter conditions can change access; check current road status before setting out.
- Admission
- For the remaining 2026 vehicle-access period (through November 9), the operator says parking is first come, first served and no parking reservation is required. The seasonal shuttle fare and service ended October 18. The operator lists a $10 scenic-area vehicle fee; confirm current pass or fee details at the official site. After the November 10 winter road closure, this is not a vehicle-accessible visitor stop.
- 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 operator's 2026 public shuttle season ran May 22–October 18; the final vehicle-access date is November 9, 2026. The operator does not identify a single best month. The 2027 shuttle and reservation calendar was not posted on the page checked November 2; check for next-season dates and weather conditions before planning.
- Opening hours
- No fixed year-round visitor hours are published. In 2026 the shuttle ran May 22–October 18, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. The official access page says parking is first come November 1–9 and the last visit day is November 9; Maroon Creek Road closes for winter November 10. Check current road notices. The point marks the Maroon Lake visitor area, not the shuttle terminal at Aspen Highlands.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-28
- Facts checked
- 2026-11-02
Map marks the area, not a visitor entrance.
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