Top 5 Insider’s Tips for the Maroon Bells
The Maroon Bells, bell-shaped, wine-colored peaks towering 14,000 ft. above the serene Maroon Creek Valley, offer some of the most spectacular views in the world.
Fields of vibrant wildflowers and dense green forests sit below the iconic peaks, while the pristine Maroon Lake reflects their beauty, creating a striking contrast. Here are our top 5 tips to make the most out of your trip to the Maroon Bells.
*There is no drinking water available and restrooms are limited; please bring your own water and try to use the restrooms before leaving the Aspen Highlands area. Reservations are required to access the Maroon Bells Scenic Area by vehicle or shuttle. Make your reservation here.
1. Capture the moment!
As the most photographed peaks in North America, the Maroon Bells promise jaw-dropping views and easy access to Aspen’s wilderness. Have your camera ready as you wander the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail- wildlife encounters are common! Take photos to remember the experience while keeping your distance from animals and leaving the area as you found it.
2. Plan ahead
For the most serene (least crowded) experience, visit on a weekday. With limited facilities and maintenance, be sure to pack water and try to use the restrooms at the shuttle departure area in Aspen Highlands before setting off on your adventure.
3. Choose convenience and sustainability
Skip the hassle of driving by hopping on the bus, which runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. from May 23 through October 19. Make your reservation here. If you’re up for an outdoor adventure, bike to the Maroon Bells! Biking is a great way to take in the scenery and spend time some extra time enjoying nature.
4. Explore the area beyond the scenic loop
The Crater Lake Hike is a favorite, taking hikers closer to the base of the Maroon Bells with a moderate level of difficulty. ACES, the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies, offers daily, one-way guided tours along the Crater Lake trail. A naturalist will share stories and knowledge about local ecology as you make your way to the lake. Pack a picnic or tasty snack to refuel along the way, but make sure to dispose of your trash properly and leave the trail as you found it!
5. Bring your four-legged friend along!
Dogs are allowed on the shuttle from Aspen Highlands to the Maroon Bells. Other than the Scenic Loop Trail, the hiking trails surrounding the Maroon Bells are pet-friendly, and pets must be on a leash.
For more information on the Maroon Bells, click here.
For parking and shuttle reservations click here.
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