Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: A Rocky Mountain Masterpiece
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: iconic peaks, pristine lakes, and unforgettable hiking adventures.
The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, nestled in the Elk Mountains of central Colorado, is a stunning expanse of pristine wilderness. It features iconic peaks, alpine lakes, and over 100 miles of trails, offering unparalleled opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and immersing oneself in nature's grandeur.
A brief summary to Maroon-Bells-Snowmass Wildnerness
- Snowmass, Colorado, 81654, US
Local tips
- Reservations are required to access the Maroon Bells Scenic Area by vehicle or shuttle.
- Overnight permits are required for certain areas within the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness and must be acquired in advance.
- Bear canisters are mandatory for all overnight visitors to protect food from wildlife.
- The best time to visit is July through September, as campsites, trails, and mountain passes may be snow-covered and inaccessible at other times.
- Stay on designated trails, pack out all trash, and avoid approaching or engaging with wildlife to help preserve this pristine wilderness.
Getting There
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Shuttle
The most common way to access the Maroon Bells is via the RFTA shuttle bus 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 under 12) and board the bus to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. Parking is available at the Aspen Highlands garage. No reservation is needed for the garage, and you pay upon arrival.
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Car
From Aspen, take Maroon Creek Road west towards the Maroon Bells. Reservations are required to drive and park at the Maroon Bells Scenic Area between May 15 and October 31. Parking reservations cost $10 per vehicle and can be made online. Limited parking is available, especially during peak season. During shuttle operating hours (typically late May to mid-October), private vehicles are only allowed before 8:00 AM and after 5:00 PM.
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Bike
Cyclists can ride Maroon Creek Road, an 8-mile route with a 1,600-foot elevation gain, to access the Maroon Bells. The ride takes approximately 1-1.5 hours uphill and 35-45 minutes downhill. Bicycles can access the Maroon Bells at any time for no fee. Cyclists coming from Snowmass can take a bus to Aspen Highlands and then cycle to Maroon Bells.
Discover more about Maroon-Bells-Snowmass Wildnerness
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Crystal Mill
9.2 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
13.9 km
Explore the breathtaking winter landscapes of Aspen with thrilling snowmobile adventures at T-Lazy-7 Ranch, perfect for all skill levels and families.
Annabelle Inn
19.3 km
Experience the charm of Annabelle Inn in Aspen, Colorado—your cozy retreat for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration.
The St. Regis Aspen Resort
19.3 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and stunning mountain views at The St. Regis Aspen Resort, the ultimate retreat for discerning travelers.
Michael Klein Music Tent and Harris Concert Hall
19.4 km
Experience the magic of live music at the Michael Klein Music Tent and Harris Concert Hall in Aspen, a premier destination for unforgettable performances.
Forum Phi | Architecture and Interior Design
19.4 km
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Explore Booksellers
19.5 km
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Belly Up Aspen
19.5 km
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Independence Square Hotel
19.5 km
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Blazing Adventures Aspen
19.5 km
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Royal Street Fine Art
19.6 km
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Gondola Plaza
19.6 km
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Oliver Smith Jeweler
19.6 km
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Aspen Art Gallery
19.6 km
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Betula Aspen
19.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness - White River
0.7 km
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West Maroon Creek
6.8 km
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Maroon Bells Amphitheatre
7.2 km
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Maroon Bells Scenic Area
7.3 km
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Maroon Lake Trailhead
7.5 km
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Maroon Snowmass Trailhead
9.9 km
Explore the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: Hike scenic trails, discover alpine lakes, and witness stunning mountain vistas near Snowmass, Colorado.
401 Trail
11.2 km
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Breathtaker Alpine Coaster
11.2 km
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Gothic Natural Area
13.4 km
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Rustler Gulch
13.7 km
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Cinnamon Mountain
13.9 km
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Aspen Highlands Ski Resort
16.3 km
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Judd Falls/Copper Creek Trailhead
16.7 km
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Aspen Recreation Center
17.2 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.
Aspen Music Festival and School
17.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Up 4 Pizza
7.8 km
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Sam's
9.3 km
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Alpin Room
9.7 km
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High Alpine Restaurant
9.7 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
11.2 km
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The Edge Restaurant and Bar - Snowmass
11.7 km
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Last Chair
11.9 km
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New Belgium Ranger Station
11.9 km
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Il Poggio
11.9 km
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The Stew Pot
11.9 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
12.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Snowmass Sports
11.9 km
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Strafe Outerwear (Snowmass)
11.9 km
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Local Color of 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
14.2 km
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Maroon Bells Basecamp
16.3 km
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Four Mountain Sports - Buttermilk
17.4 km
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Aspen Outfitting Company
19.3 km
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AETHER Apparel
19.5 km
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ASPENX
19.5 km
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Art Tee Gallery
19.5 km
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Aspen T-Shirt Co
19.5 km
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Gorsuch
19.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Stark's Alpine Grill
11.9 km
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The Tavern Kitchen and Bar
11.9 km
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Zane's Tavern Snowmass
12.0 km
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NEST Bar & Grill
12.6 km
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Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Aspen Highlands
13.9 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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Hefner Lounge
19.3 km
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Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
19.3 km
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Shadow Mountain Lounge
19.3 km
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The Sterling Aspen
19.5 km
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Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar
19.5 km
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The Wine Bar
19.6 km
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Caribou Club
19.6 km
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J-Bar
19.6 km
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