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
- This pin marks Maroon Lake within the Scenic Area; the two peaks, trailheads and viewpoints cover a wider area. For the 2026 shuttle season (May 22–October 18), reserve a shuttle or trailhead parking in advance. Inbound private vehicles are restricted on Maroon Creek Road from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the shuttle period; parking reservations are for arrival before 8 a.m. or after 5 p.m. The last downhill shuttle is 5 p.m. RFTA reported the road/shuttle had reopened after a September 14 mudslide, but check live weather and road alerts before departure.
- Admission
- 2026 published RFTA shuttle fares: $16 adult, $10 child age 12 and under, and $10 senior age 65+. Trailhead vehicle parking is listed at $10 plus a $2.40 booking service fee on the reservation site. Prices and availability may change; reserve through the official operator.
- Time needed
- The operator does not publish one visit duration for the whole scenic area; trail lengths vary. Allow time for shuttle transfers and check the selected reservation slot.
- Best season
- The 2026 shuttle and main visitor season runs May 22–October 18; late-season road and weather conditions can change access.
- Opening hours
- Shuttle operates May 22–October 18, 2026; check the booking calendar for departure times. Inbound private vehicles are restricted 8 a.m.–5 p.m. during that period. The last return shuttle is listed at 5 p.m.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-28
- Facts checked
- 2026-09-28
Map marks the area, not a visitor entrance.
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