Maroon Bells Scenic Area: Colorado's Crown Jewels
Experience the majestic Maroon Bells: iconic peaks, stunning reflections, and unforgettable alpine scenery in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
The Maroon Bells are iconic bell-shaped peaks mirrored in Maroon Lake, within the White River National Forest near Aspen, Colorado. This stunning landscape offers hiking, photography, and a serene alpine escape, drawing visitors from around the globe.
A brief summary to Maroon Bells Scenic Area
- Maroon-Snowmass Trail, Aspen, Colorado, 81611, US
- +1970-925-3445
- Visit website
Local tips
- Reservations are required to visit the Maroon Bells by vehicle or shuttle during peak season. Book in advance!
- Arrive early or late in the day to avoid crowds and for the best light for photography.
- Bring layers of clothing, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.
- Stay on marked trails to protect the delicate alpine environment.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike.
Getting There
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Shuttle
The most common way to reach Maroon Bells is via the RFTA shuttle from Aspen Highlands. From Aspen, take the free Castle/Maroon bus from Rubey Park Bus Station to Aspen Highlands. At Aspen Highlands, board the Maroon Bells shuttle. Shuttle tickets cost $16 for adults, $10 for seniors (65+) and children (12 and under). Purchase shuttle tickets in advance online. Parking at Aspen Highlands is available for a fee of $8/hour, with a daily maximum of $42 on weekdays and $48 on weekends. The shuttle ride is approximately 15 minutes.
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Car
Visitors can drive to Maroon Lake before 8:00 AM or after 5:00 PM with a reservation. Reservations cost $10 per vehicle. From Aspen, follow Maroon Creek Road for approximately 10 miles to reach the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. Parking at the trailhead is limited. Commercial transportation, including taxis and ride-shares, are not permitted to drop off passengers at any time.
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Bike
Biking to Maroon Bells is a popular option. Rent a bike in Aspen or at Aspen Highlands. From Aspen Highlands, it is an 8-mile ride to Maroon Lake. The ride involves a steady climb. Reservations are not required for biking.
Discover more about Maroon Bells Scenic Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
T-Lazy-7 Ranch and Snowmobiles
9.2 km
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The St. Regis Aspen Resort
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Annabelle Inn
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Ute Cemetery
14.4 km
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Forum Phi | Architecture and Interior Design
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Belly Up Aspen
14.4 km
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Blazing Adventures Aspen
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Gondola Plaza
14.4 km
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The Little Nell
14.4 km
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The Little Nell Boutique
14.4 km
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Independence Square Hotel
14.5 km
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Betula Aspen
14.5 km
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Upstairs Aspen
14.5 km
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Aspen Art Gallery
14.5 km
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Silverpeak Dispensary
14.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Maroon Bells Amphitheatre
0.1 km
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Maroon Lake Trailhead
0.2 km
Access breathtaking views and hiking trails at the Maroon Lake Trailhead, the gateway to Colorado's iconic Maroon Bells.
West Maroon Creek
0.9 km
Discover the pristine beauty of West Maroon Creek, where crystal-clear waters meet iconic mountain views in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness - White River
6.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: hiking, pristine lakes, and iconic mountain views await.
Maroon-Bells-Snowmass Wildnerness
7.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: iconic peaks, pristine lakes, and unforgettable hiking adventures.
Breathtaker Alpine Coaster
9.7 km
Experience a thrilling alpine adventure on the Breathtaker Coaster in Snowmass, winding through forests at speeds up to 28 mph!
Aspen Highlands Ski Resort
11.8 km
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Maroon Snowmass Trailhead
12.0 km
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Aspen Music Festival and School
12.4 km
A premier classical music festival and school in Aspen, Colorado, offering world-class performances and training in a stunning mountain setting.
Aspen Recreation Center
12.7 km
Aspen's premier recreation destination: swim, skate, climb, and play! A family-friendly hub for fitness and fun in the heart of the Rockies.
401 Trail
13.0 km
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Ashcroft Ghost Town
13.3 km
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Rustler Gulch
13.3 km
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Aspen Paragliding
13.7 km
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Holden Marolt Mining & Ranching Museum
13.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Up 4 Pizza
8.2 km
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Alpin Room
9.1 km
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High Alpine Restaurant
9.1 km
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Elk Camp
9.8 km
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Ullrhof
10.1 km
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Sam's
10.1 km
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Lynn Britt Cabin
11.1 km
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The Edge Restaurant and Bar - Snowmass
11.8 km
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New Belgium Ranger Station
11.9 km
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Venga Venga
11.9 km
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Last Chair
11.9 km
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The Stew Pot
11.9 km
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Il Poggio
11.9 km
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Base Camp Bar & Grill
12.1 km
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The Artisan
12.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Maroon Bells Basecamp
11.7 km
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Snowmass Sports
11.9 km
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Local Color of Snowmass
11.9 km
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Strafe Outerwear (Snowmass)
11.9 km
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Four Mountain Sports - Snowmass Mall
12.0 km
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Snowmass T-Shirt Co
12.0 km
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Snowmass Mall
12.0 km
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Four Mountain Sports - Two Creeks
12.7 km
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Four Mountain Sports - Buttermilk
13.7 km
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Aspen Outfitting Company
14.3 km
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ASPENX
14.4 km
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Gorsuch
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AETHER Apparel
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Ralph Lauren
14.5 km
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The Little Bird
14.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Aspen Highlands
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Stark's Alpine Grill
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The Tavern Kitchen and Bar
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Zane's Tavern Snowmass
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NEST Bar & Grill
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Three Peaks Bar & Grille
13.4 km
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Black Saddle Bar & Grille
13.8 km
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Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
14.2 km
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Shadow Mountain Lounge
14.2 km
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The Wine Bar
14.4 km
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39 Degrees Lounge
14.5 km
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Ponyboy Aspen
14.5 km
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The Sterling Aspen
14.5 km
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Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar
14.5 km
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Silver City Aspen
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