Maroon Bells Scenic Area

Scenic spot · Pitkin County ·

Maroon Bells Scenic Area

Scenic spot · Pitkin County ·

Stunning mountain & lake views, accessible by bike, bus, or shuttle

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Maroon-Snowmass Trail, Aspen, CO 81611 Get directions

@vogue

3,763 Postcards · 1,060 Cities

Aspen, Colorado Summer Travel Guide: What to Do and Where to Stay in the Rocky Mountain Town | Vogue

"Probably the most famous hike in Aspen, this trail delivers a breathtaking view of an alpine lake ringed with wildflowers and framed by the dual peaks of Maroon and North Maroon; at peak times, it can get quite crowded." - Elise Taylor

https://www.vogue.com/article/aspen-colorado-summer-travel-guide

Maroon Bells Scenic Area

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

"Biking to Maroon Bells Aspen is a playground for the active traveler. No matter how many times I visit, I always set aside time to bike to Maroon Bells. Rent a bike from the Hub, a cycling store in town, and be sure to bring a water bottle and even some snacks for energy. The 11-mile ride from downtown will have your quads (and lungs) burning as you slowly make your way uphill. The steady climb makes about a 1,630-foot elevation gain. The views at the top are worth your efforts. The Maroon Bells and Maroon Lake are one of the most photographed areas in North America. On a sunny day the lake takes on magical turquoise and green hues. Relief comes on the ride back to town, which is all an easy coast downhill. Couch potatoes can opt to take a bus to the top."

3 Unforgettable Summer Days in Aspen

Maroon Bells

Ryan S.

Google

Seeing Maroon Bells was on the top of my family’s list for a while. The scenery was spectacular even though it was thunder storming. There was wildlife everywhere from bears to fish. The trails were beautiful and one could spend all day there. My complaint was that actually visiting the location was challenging. There were parking passes and bus schedules that just made visiting difficult. We ultimately got the parking pass and had to adhere to other rules for that. I just think visiting could be made easier, yet also preserving the land for all to enjoy. I would highly recommend visiting as the view we had could not really be replicated elsewhere. The way the trail rides along the lake with Mountain View was unique. I truly wish I could’ve seen the maroon haze that washes over the mountains in the morning or evening. If in Aspen, you need to see Maroon Bells!

Douglas H.

Google

We went up there but needed to take the shuttle because we had not planned this trip far enough in advance. The shuttle option went smoothly. We were picked up on time and the got a ride back down to the off-site parking lot. The shuttle tickets were about $16.00, you have to pay to get a parking permit near the trail head as well. That is understandable but the shuttle parking lot was $45.00 for up to 4hrs and $50.00 for any time after 4hrs... that just seemed really high. Once there, the views were incredible! Any direction you looked was amazing. We took the lower and upper loop trails and pictures, although breathtaking, can't replace being there in person. I highly recommend it.

aL D.

Google

It was snowing when we came so it was very cold, but it’s still very beautiful. We use the Château going maroon bells and it’s $16 each for adults back-and-forth. If you want to drive your private vehicle into the maroon Bell, it’s gonna be $10 for vehicle but it’s only before 8 AM or after 5 PM during the restricted driving period.

Lomrympai K.

Google

Beautiful trails I suggest to take the hiking sticks if you’re going to take the trails loop it’s gets very rocky, but well worth it with fields of raspberries bushes and the river along the trail. It’s amazing how the beavers can cut Aspen trees and drag it around the river I thought it was man made lol good place to visit.

Carl W.

Google

Very nice bike ride from Aspen/Snowmass, uphill but the scenery along the way and at the top make the climb worth it. The downhill on the way back is awesome

Dinesh C.

Google

Absolutely stunning! Easy access via shuttle, quick walk from the trailhead, well preserved trail. Peak season does get busy so it's hard to get the reservations at preferred Shuttle time and/or parking pass.

Jis D.

Google

Maroon Lake near Aspen is truly a gem, and I had a wonderful time there. It's clear that this natural wonder is clean and well-maintained, which makes a huge difference in appreciating its beauty. The pristine condition of the area allows you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings without any distractions. It was a really enjoyable and refreshing visit.

Idania M.

Google

The place is beautiful, if you like to walk and be in harmony with nature, bring water is important, comfortable clothes, shoes with which you feel comfortable to walk for 3 to 5 hours and if you have the opportunity, take your bike to arrive on it even though you have to have your entrance pass, if you plan to drive, take your pass weeks in advance, you can also arrive by bus, only if you leave your car there it is 30 dollars of parking and apart from the tickets 16 dollars per person.

@vogue

3,763 Postcards · 1,060 Cities

Aspen, Colorado Summer Travel Guide: What to Do and Where to Stay in the Rocky Mountain Town | Vogue

https://www.vogue.com/article/aspen-colorado-summer-travel-guide

Maroon Bells Scenic Area

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

3 Unforgettable Summer Days in Aspen

Maroon Bells

Ryan S.

Google

Douglas H.

Google

aL D.

Google

Lomrympai K.

Google

Carl W.

Google

Very nice bike ride from Aspen/Snowmass, uphill but the scenery along the way and at the top make the climb worth it. The downhill on the way back is awesome

Dinesh C.

Google

Jis D.

Google

Idania M.

Google

Maroon Bells Scenic Area

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Aspen, Colorado Summer Travel Guide: What to Do and Where to Stay in the Rocky Mountain Town | Vogue

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Aspen, Colorado Summer Travel Guide: What to Do and Where to Stay in the Rocky Mountain Town | Vogue