This guest blog comes from Colorado Wedding and Elopement Photographer Aubrey Beth. If you are planning a Maroon Bells elopement at Crater Lake continue reading to learn more tips and tricks from Aubrey.
Great job in choosing an epic location to get married! Crater Lake is such a beautiful spot and the perfect place to commit your lives to each other! Here is what you need to know:
THE HIKE
The hike itself is not difficult and is rated moderate. The hike is 3.5 miles out and back and should take about an 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. Of course, you will want to enjoy the lake and share your vows so be sure to plan some time for portraits and exploring. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. I recommend beginning early to beat the larger crowds. The best times to hike to Crater Lake are June through October. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
THE SHUTTLE
Reservations are required to access the Maroon Bells Scenic Area and related amenities. Choose between trailhead parking or shuttle reservations from May to October. Reservations are required for both personal vehicles and shuttles, to make your reservations, click here. If you choose to take the shuttle, it leaves from Aspen Highlands.
LEAVE NO TRACE
We all want to get outside and enjoy nature. That's why it's so important to leave nature better than you found it. Let’s protect and enjoy our natural world together. Here are the 7 Leave No Trace Principles:
- Plan ahead & prepare
- Travel & camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of others.
ABOUT CRATER LAKE
Offering some of the most picturesque views in the Rocky Mountains, Crater Lake is a clear, natural body of water located in the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness outside of Aspen, Colorado. With a surface elevation of 10,076 feet, hikers must climb approximately 500 feet along rocky terrain to reach the shores of Crater Lake. The lake fluctuates in size before ultimately drying up in October each year. The trail is extremely popular, with gushing spring waterfalls, cool summer nights, and vibrant autumnal colors.
WHAT TO BRING
You will need to bring plenty of water, good hiking shoes, your reservation tickets, wedding attire, vow books, rings, florals, and snacks, or possibly a picnic lunch!
BONUS
If you’re feeling extra energetic or adventurous, you can continue past Crater Lake following the trail towards West Maroon Pass, this would be approximately 8 miles past Crater Lake.
Interested in learning more about planning your Maroon Bells wedding or elopement? Click here to learn more or follow us on social @WeddingsAspen for more inspiration!
