West Maroon Creek: A Pristine Alpine Paradise
Discover the pristine beauty of West Maroon Creek, where crystal-clear waters meet iconic mountain views in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
West Maroon Creek, nestled near Aspen, Colorado, is a stunning alpine waterway renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant wildflower meadows, and panoramic views of the iconic Maroon Bells. It's a haven for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts seeking serenity in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.
A brief summary to West Maroon Creek
- Maroon-Snowmass Trail, Aspen, Colorado, 81611, US
Local tips
- Visit during late summer (July-August) for peak wildflower season and pleasant hiking conditions.
- Reservations are required to access the Maroon Bells Scenic Area by vehicle or shuttle.
- Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen, as the altitude can be challenging.
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the afternoon, and check the forecast before you go.
- Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light for photography.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
To reach West Maroon Creek via public transport, start at the Rubey Park Bus Station in downtown Aspen. Take the free Castle/Maroon bus to Aspen Highlands. From Aspen Highlands, transfer to the Maroon Bells shuttle. Reservations are required for the shuttle and cost $16 for adults and $10 for seniors (65+) and children under 12. The shuttle drops you off at Maroon Lake, where the West Maroon Creek Trail begins. Parking at Aspen Highlands is available for a fee of $8/hour, with a daily maximum of $42 on weekdays and $48 on weekends.
-
Driving
To drive to West Maroon Creek, follow Highway 82 to the roundabout on the west edge of Aspen. Take the Maroon Creek Road exit and follow it to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station. A parking reservation is required from May 15 to October 31 and costs $10 per vehicle. Private vehicles are restricted from 8 AM to 5 PM, during which time you must take the shuttle from Aspen Highlands. If arriving before 8 AM or after 5 PM, you can drive to Maroon Lake, where the West Maroon Creek Trail begins, with a parking reservation.
-
Biking
For a scenic and active approach, consider biking to West Maroon Creek. Rent a bike in Aspen or at Aspen Highlands. Cycle along Maroon Creek Road, a steady 8-mile climb to Maroon Lake. No reservations are required for biking. Be aware of vehicle traffic and maintain proper biking etiquette. Once at Maroon Lake, the West Maroon Creek Trail begins.
Discover more about West Maroon Creek
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
T-Lazy-7 Ranch and Snowmobiles
10.1 km
Explore the breathtaking winter landscapes of Aspen with thrilling snowmobile adventures at T-Lazy-7 Ranch, perfect for all skill levels and families.
Crystal Mill
13.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Crystal Mill, a must-see gem in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
The St. Regis Aspen Resort
15.1 km
Experience unparalleled luxury and stunning mountain views at The St. Regis Aspen Resort, the ultimate retreat for discerning travelers.
Annabelle Inn
15.3 km
Experience the charm of Annabelle Inn in Aspen, Colorado—your cozy retreat for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration.
Ute Cemetery
15.3 km
Explore the serene beauty and historic significance of Ute Cemetery in Aspen, a tranquil resting place amidst stunning Colorado landscapes.
Forum Phi | Architecture and Interior Design
15.3 km
Discover the architectural artistry of Forum Phi in Aspen, where innovative design meets the breathtaking natural landscape of Colorado.
Belly Up Aspen
15.3 km
Experience the electrifying energy of live music at Belly Up Aspen, the premier venue in Colorado's Aspen, blending top-tier performances with a vibrant nightlife scene.
Blazing Adventures Aspen
15.3 km
Embark on an exhilarating rafting adventure with Blazing Adventures Aspen, where stunning scenery meets thrilling white-water rapids.
Gondola Plaza
15.3 km
Discover the vibrant Gondola Plaza in Aspen, where stunning mountain views meet a lively pedestrian experience filled with art, dining, and culture.
The Little Nell
15.3 km
Discover the ultimate blend of luxury and adventure at The Little Nell in Aspen, Colorado, where breathtaking views and extraordinary experiences await.
The Little Nell Boutique
15.3 km
Discover unique gifts and luxurious souvenirs at The Little Nell Boutique in Aspen, a haven for tourists seeking a piece of mountain magic.
Independence Square Hotel
15.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and style at Independence Square Hotel, your ideal retreat in the heart of Aspen, Colorado.
Betula Aspen
15.4 km
Experience the pinnacle of fine dining at Betula Aspen, where seasonal flavors meet innovative culinary artistry in the heart of Colorado's majestic mountains.
Upstairs Aspen
15.4 km
Discover Upstairs Aspen, where fashion meets elegance in a unique shopping experience in the heart of Aspen, Colorado.
Aspen Art Gallery
15.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of contemporary art at Aspen Art Gallery, where creativity meets the breathtaking beauty of Aspen, Colorado.
Unmissable attractions to see
Maroon Bells Amphitheatre
0.8 km
Host your event surrounded by the iconic Maroon Bells, a stunning natural amphitheater perfect for weddings and gatherings.
Maroon Bells Scenic Area
0.9 km
Experience the majestic Maroon Bells: iconic peaks, stunning reflections, and unforgettable alpine scenery in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Maroon Lake Trailhead
0.9 km
Access breathtaking views and hiking trails at the Maroon Lake Trailhead, the gateway to Colorado's iconic Maroon Bells.
Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness - White River
6.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: hiking, pristine lakes, and iconic mountain views await.
Maroon-Bells-Snowmass Wildnerness
6.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Colorado's Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: iconic peaks, pristine lakes, and unforgettable hiking adventures.
Breathtaker Alpine Coaster
10.3 km
Experience a thrilling alpine adventure on the Breathtaker Coaster in Snowmass, winding through forests at speeds up to 28 mph!
401 Trail
12.2 km
Experience world-class mountain biking on the 401 Trail, with breathtaking alpine views and vibrant wildflower meadows near Snowmass.
Maroon Snowmass Trailhead
12.3 km
Explore the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness: Hike scenic trails, discover alpine lakes, and witness stunning mountain vistas near Snowmass, Colorado.
Rustler Gulch
12.5 km
Discover Rustler Gulch: Hike through wildflower-filled meadows, past cascading waterfalls, and beneath towering peaks in the heart of the Colorado Rockies.
Aspen Highlands Ski Resort
12.6 km
Experience Aspen's maverick mountain: challenging slopes, stunning views, and a local-favorite atmosphere at Aspen Highlands.
Gothic Natural Area
13.2 km
Discover Gothic Natural Area: a blend of history, science, and stunning Rocky Mountain scenery near Crested Butte, Colorado.
Aspen Music Festival and School
13.3 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
13.6 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.
Ashcroft Ghost Town
13.7 km
Explore a well-preserved silver mining ghost town near Aspen, Colorado, and step back into the Wild West history.
Aspen Paragliding
14.6 km
Experience Aspen from above with tandem paragliding flights, professional instruction, and stunning views of the Roaring Fork Valley.
Essential places to dine
Up 4 Pizza
8.5 km
Experience mouth-watering pizza atop Snowmass Village's Big Burn Lift with stunning mountain views and cozy atmosphere at Up 4 Pizza.
Alpin Room
9.6 km
Discover authentic French cuisine at Alpin Room in Snowmass Village—where alpine charm meets culinary excellence.
High Alpine Restaurant
9.6 km
Discover breathtaking views and exquisite local cuisine at High Alpine Restaurant in Snowmass Village - where mountain dining meets culinary excellence.
Elk Camp
10.4 km
Experience organic dining at Elk Camp in Snowmass Village - where fresh flavors meet breathtaking mountain views.
Sam's
10.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Sam's in Snowmass Village - where delicious food meets breathtaking mountain views.
Ullrhof
10.5 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Ullrhof in Snowmass Village, where hearty meals meet stunning mountain views.
Lynn Britt Cabin
11.6 km
Experience fine dining at Lynn Britt Cabin in Snowmass Village, where gourmet American cuisine meets breathtaking mountain scenery.
The Edge Restaurant and Bar - Snowmass
12.3 km
Discover authentic German flavors and fondue delights at The Edge Restaurant and Bar in Snowmass Village amidst stunning mountain views.
New Belgium Ranger Station
12.4 km
Discover delicious local cuisine at New Belgium Ranger Station in Snowmass Village - where culinary excellence meets breathtaking mountain views.
Venga Venga
12.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Venga Venga in Snowmass Village—where every meal is a celebration of taste and community.
Last Chair
12.4 km
Discover Last Chair in Snowmass Village—a cozy bar & grill offering delicious food and drinks with stunning mountain views.
The Stew Pot
12.4 km
Discover delightful American cuisine at The Stew Pot in Snowmass Village - where comfort meets culinary excellence amidst stunning mountain views.
Il Poggio
12.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Il Poggio in Snowmass Village - where delicious food meets breathtaking mountain views.
Base Camp Bar & Grill
12.6 km
Discover flavorful grilled dishes and stunning mountain views at Base Camp Bar & Grill in Snowmass Village.
The Artisan
12.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of local flavors and mountain charm at The Artisan in Snowmass Village - where every meal is a celebration.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Snowmass Sports
12.4 km
Discover outdoor adventures at Snowmass Sports with top-notch bicycle rentals, ski gear, and expert repairs in Snowmass Village, Colorado.
Local Color of Snowmass
12.4 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Local Color of Snowmass, where style meets the stunning scenery of Aspen.
Strafe Outerwear (Snowmass)
12.5 km
Discover stylish, high-performance snow sports apparel at Strafe Outerwear in Snowmass Village, where adventure meets fashion.
Four Mountain Sports - Snowmass Mall
12.5 km
Discover exhilarating biking adventures at Four Mountain Sports - Snowmass Mall, your gateway to Colorado's stunning outdoor trails.
Snowmass T-Shirt Co
12.5 km
Explore Snowmass T-Shirt Co for unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of Colorado's mountain lifestyle, perfect for every tourist.
Snowmass Mall
12.5 km
Experience the best of shopping and dining at Snowmass Mall, where boutique charm meets breathtaking mountain views.
Maroon Bells Basecamp
12.6 km
Explore the Maroon Bells Basecamp: Your essential resource for outdoor adventures in Aspen, Colorado, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.
Four Mountain Sports - Two Creeks
13.4 km
Explore the slopes of Snowmass Village with Four Mountain Sports - Two Creeks, your trusted partner for ski and snowboard rentals and expert advice.
Four Mountain Sports - Buttermilk
14.6 km
Discover premier ski rentals and expert gear services at Four Mountain Sports, your gateway to the slopes in Aspen's breathtaking Buttermilk Mountain.
Aspen Outfitting Company
15.1 km
Discover adventure at Aspen Outfitting Company, your go-to spot for fishing charters, outdoor gear, and unforgettable experiences in Aspen, Colorado.
ASPENX
15.3 km
Discover ASPENX: Your gateway to unforgettable adventures in Aspen, featuring bicycle rentals, ski gear, and a cozy café experience.
Gorsuch
15.3 km
Discover luxury shopping at Gorsuch in Aspen, where high-end gifts, clothing, and ski gear meet stunning mountain views.
AETHER Apparel
15.3 km
Discover the perfect blend of style and functionality at AETHER Apparel, Aspen's go-to destination for premium sportswear for men and women.
Ralph Lauren
15.3 km
Discover luxury shopping at Ralph Lauren in Aspen, offering exquisite apparel for men, women, and children in a stunning mountain setting.
The Little Bird
15.3 km
Discover sustainable fashion at The Little Bird in Aspen, where chic women's clothing and unique accessories await every stylish shopper.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Aspen Highlands
9.3 km
Discover exquisite Swiss cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro in Aspen Highlands, a top dining destination for tourists.
Stark's Alpine Grill
12.4 km
Experience culinary excellence at Stark's Alpine Grill in Snowmass Village, where every dish offers a taste of Colorado's rich flavors amid stunning mountain views.
The Tavern Kitchen and Bar
12.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious comfort food at The Tavern Kitchen and Bar in scenic Snowmass Village, Colorado.
Zane's Tavern Snowmass
12.5 km
Discover Zane's Tavern in Snowmass Village, where hearty grill favorites meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of Colorado's stunning mountains.
NEST Bar & Grill
12.7 km
Discover the culinary delights of NEST Bar & Grill in Snowmass Village, where outdoor dining meets exquisite flavors in a stunning mountain backdrop.
Three Peaks Bar & Grille
14.1 km
Experience the flavors of Colorado at Three Peaks Bar & Grille, where mountain views meet delicious local cuisine in the heart of Snowmass Village.
Black Saddle Bar & Grille
14.4 km
Discover a delightful culinary experience at Black Saddle Bar & Grille in Snowmass Village, where mountain views meet mouthwatering flavors.
Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
15.1 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delights at Mountain Social Bar & Lounge in Aspen, Colorado's alpine paradise.
Shadow Mountain Lounge
15.1 km
Discover the upscale ambiance and exquisite drinks at Shadow Mountain Lounge, a must-visit bar in the heart of Aspen, Colorado.
The Wine Bar
15.3 km
Experience the best of wine and culinary delights at The Wine Bar, a cozy gem in Aspen, Colorado, perfect for your next dining adventure.
39 Degrees Lounge
15.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at 39 Degrees Lounge in Aspen, where expertly crafted cocktails meet delicious bites in a cozy setting.
Ponyboy Aspen
15.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Ponyboy, a cocktail bar with a creative drink selection and a lively atmosphere.
The Sterling Aspen
15.4 km
Discover nightlife at The Sterling Aspen, where exquisite cocktails and vibrant events create unforgettable evenings in the heart of Colorado.
Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar
15.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar, where handcrafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
Silver City Aspen
15.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aspen at Silver City Aspen, a lively bar with live music and sports for unforgettable evenings.
