Majestic Maroon Bells: Nature's Masterpiece
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Maroon Bells Scenic Area, a true Colorado gem perfect for hiking, photography, and nature appreciation.
Nestled in the heart of Colorado, the Maroon Bells Scenic Area offers breathtaking views of twin peaks surrounded by stunning wildflower meadows and serene alpine lakes. A hiker's paradise, this iconic destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike.
A brief summary to Maroon Bells Scenic Area
- Maroon-Snowmass Trail, Aspen, Colorado, 81611, US
- +1970-925-3445
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Dress in layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike.
- Consider visiting during the fall when the aspens turn golden for a unique experience.
- Check road conditions and accessibility, as the area may be closed in winter months.
Getting There
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Car
From Aspen, head south on Castle Creek Road (CR 15). Follow the signs for Maroon Bells Scenic Area. The road is about 10 miles long and will lead you directly to the Maroon Bells Parking Area. Note that the parking area fills up quickly, especially during peak season, so aim to arrive early in the morning. Keep in mind that there is a parking fee of $10 per vehicle.
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Public Transportation
During the summer months, the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) operates a shuttle service from Aspen to Maroon Bells. Take the shuttle from the Aspen bus station, which will take you directly to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. The shuttle typically runs every 20-30 minutes, and a round-trip fare is approximately $8 for adults.
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Hiking
If you are already in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness and wish to hike to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area, start from the Maroon-Snowmass Trailhead. Follow the Maroon-Snowmass Trail for about 3.5 miles until you reach the scenic area. The trail is well-marked, but be prepared for a moderate hike with some elevation gain. Bring plenty of water and snacks for the journey.
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
14.2 km
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Annabelle Inn
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Ute Cemetery
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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
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The Little Nell
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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
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Aspen Art Gallery
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Silverpeak Dispensary
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Unmissable attractions to see
Maroon Bells Amphitheatre
0.1 km
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Maroon Lake Trailhead
0.2 km
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West Maroon Creek
0.9 km
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Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness - White River
6.7 km
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Maroon-Bells-Snowmass Wildnerness
7.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, a nature preserve in Colorado known for stunning mountain views and outdoor adventures.
Breathtaker Alpine Coaster
9.7 km
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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
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Aspen Recreation Center
12.7 km
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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
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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
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The Little Bird
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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
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Black Saddle Bar & Grille
13.8 km
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Mountain Social Bar & Lounge
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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
14.6 km
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