Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: Colorado's Rocky Mountain Splendor
Discover Colorado's majestic Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: hike, backpack, and explore stunning alpine scenery in the heart of the Elk Mountains.
The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, nestled in the Elk Mountains of central Colorado, is a stunning expanse of pristine wilderness. It features jagged peaks, alpine lakes, and over 100 miles of trails, offering a variety of outdoor activities from hiking and backpacking to mountaineering and fishing. The area is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including the iconic Maroon Bells, and its diverse wildlife.
A brief summary to Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness - White River
- Snowmass, Colorado, 81654, US
- +1970-945-2521
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Reservations are required to visit Maroon Bells by car or shuttle between mid-May and late October. Book in advance at www.visitmaroonbells.com.
- Consider visiting mid-week to avoid crowds. The area is most crowded on weekends and holidays.
- Bear-resistant canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Rent or purchase one at local sporting goods stores.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changing conditions. Mountain weather can change rapidly.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking. There are limited services available at Maroon Lake.
Getting There
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Shuttle
The most common way to access Maroon Bells is via the RFTA shuttle from Aspen Highlands. From Aspen, take the free RFTA bus to Aspen Highlands. At Aspen Highlands, purchase a shuttle ticket ($16 for adults, $10 for seniors and children 12 and under) and board the bus to Maroon Lake. Shuttle reservations are required and can be made at www.visitmaroonbells.com. Parking at Aspen Highlands is available in the parking garage.
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Driving
From Aspen, drive west on Highway 82 to the roundabout. Take the first exit onto Maroon Creek Road and follow it to the Maroon Bells Welcome Center. Reservations are required to drive a personal vehicle to Maroon Lake between mid-May and late October. A parking reservation costs $10 per vehicle. Overnight parking is available for those with overnight permits. During the day, commercial vehicles, taxis, and ride-shares are not allowed to buy parking reservations.
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Biking
Cyclists can bike up Maroon Creek Road to Maroon Lake. Reservations are not required to bike, but cyclists are expected to adhere to proper bicycling etiquette, including riding single file on the right side of the road and wearing helmets. Bikes are available to rent in downtown Aspen or at the Aspen Highlands Base Camp.
Discover more about Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness - White River
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Crystal Mill
9.4 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Crystal Mill, a must-see gem in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
T-Lazy-7 Ranch and Snowmobiles
13.5 km
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Annabelle Inn
18.9 km
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The St. Regis Aspen Resort
19.0 km
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Forum Phi | Architecture and Interior Design
19.1 km
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Michael Klein Music Tent and Harris Concert Hall
19.1 km
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Explore Booksellers
19.2 km
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Belly Up Aspen
19.2 km
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Blazing Adventures Aspen
19.2 km
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Independence Square Hotel
19.2 km
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Gondola Plaza
19.2 km
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Royal Street Fine Art
19.2 km
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Oliver Smith Jeweler
19.2 km
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Betula Aspen
19.2 km
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Upstairs Aspen
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Unmissable attractions to see
Maroon-Bells-Snowmass Wildnerness
0.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: iconic peaks, pristine lakes, and unforgettable hiking adventures.
West Maroon Creek
6.1 km
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Maroon Bells Amphitheatre
6.6 km
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Maroon Bells Scenic Area
6.7 km
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Maroon Lake Trailhead
6.8 km
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Maroon Snowmass Trailhead
10.1 km
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401 Trail
10.9 km
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Breathtaker Alpine Coaster
11.1 km
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Gothic Natural Area
13.0 km
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Rustler Gulch
13.3 km
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Cinnamon Mountain
13.7 km
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Aspen Highlands Ski Resort
16.0 km
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Judd Falls/Copper Creek Trailhead
16.3 km
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Aspen Recreation Center
16.9 km
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Aspen Music Festival and School
17.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Up 4 Pizza
7.8 km
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Sam's
9.4 km
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Alpin Room
9.6 km
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High Alpine Restaurant
9.6 km
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Ullrhof
9.9 km
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Lynn Britt Cabin
11.0 km
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Elk Camp
11.1 km
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The Edge Restaurant and Bar - Snowmass
11.8 km
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Last Chair
12.0 km
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New Belgium Ranger Station
12.0 km
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Il Poggio
12.0 km
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The Stew Pot
12.0 km
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Venga Venga
12.0 km
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The Artisan
12.2 km
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Base Camp Bar & Grill
12.4 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Snowmass Sports
12.0 km
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Local Color of Snowmass
12.0 km
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Strafe Outerwear (Snowmass)
12.0 km
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Four Mountain Sports - Snowmass Mall
12.0 km
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Snowmass Mall
12.0 km
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Snowmass T-Shirt Co
12.0 km
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Four Mountain Sports - Two Creeks
14.1 km
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Maroon Bells Basecamp
16.0 km
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Four Mountain Sports - Buttermilk
17.2 km
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Aspen Outfitting Company
19.0 km
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AETHER Apparel
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ASPENX
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Art Tee Gallery
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Gorsuch
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Aspen T-Shirt Co
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Stark's Alpine Grill
12.0 km
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The Tavern Kitchen and Bar
12.0 km
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Zane's Tavern Snowmass
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NEST Bar & Grill
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Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Aspen Highlands
13.5 km
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Three Peaks Bar & Grille
14.6 km
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Black Saddle Bar & Grille
14.8 km
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Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
19.0 km
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Hefner Lounge
19.0 km
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Shadow Mountain Lounge
19.0 km
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The Sterling Aspen
19.2 km
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Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar
19.2 km
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The Wine Bar
19.2 km
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Caribou Club
19.3 km
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39 Degrees Lounge
19.3 km
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