Hiking is one of the best ways to experience the Maroon Bells. The area is full of wildflowers, aspen trees, and wildlife. The best time to hike is in the summer when the weather is cooler and the flowers are in bloom. There are numerous trails to choose from, so you can find one that suits your ability level. The Maroon Bells are a popular destination, so be sure to start your hike early in the day to avoid crowds. No matter when you visit, the Maroon Bells are sure to provide a memorable hiking experience.
The Name Maroon Bells Comes from Maroon being in the color when the lighting is right and Bells due to its shape.
Maroon Bells does require a reservation to visit the area in and around it. You must reserve both bus seats and a parking spot to make things easier.
You can also just book your entire trip including camping in the Conundrum hot springs Through Recreation.gov
Most of the campsites max group is 4.
For just booking a day trip Reservations are booked through the Aspen chamber.
The cost for parking is $10 per vehicle.
Your Cost For the shuttle is $16 per adult if you do the round trip or $10 if you do the downhill shuttle. We found it best to book about a week in advance.
Located 12 miles southwest of Aspen, Colorado, and 14,000 feet above sea level, the twin peaks of Maroon Bells are one of the most picturesque areas of America, and the best way to see them is on foot.
For a $10 fee, you can drive to the Maroon Bells, and parking is available but limited. Alternatively, you can also take the free Castle/Maroon bus and then take a shuttle from the Aspen Highlands.
Before you leave for your hiking adventure, make sure you have proper hiking shoes, sunscreen, plenty of drinking water, and you may as well pack some snacks or a lunch. Bathrooms will be available. Dogs are also welcome, but they must be kept on a leash.
This is one of the most popular hikes and runs along the northern shore of Maroon Lake.
It is 1.9 miles with an elevation gain of 160 feet and is a good choice if you are looking for an easy hike. Here, you will get the iconic view of the Maroon Bells reflection in the picture-perfect Maroon Lake.
Once you get there, you can choose from the hikes listed below:
Trail #1: Maroon Bells Scenic Loop
This is one of the most popular hikes and runs along the northern shore of Maroon Lake.
It is 1.9 miles with an elevation gain of 160 feet and is a good choice if you are looking for an easy hike. Here, you will get the iconic view of the Maroon Bells reflection in the picture-perfect Maroon Lake.
Trail #2: Crater Lake
With an elevation gain of 692 feet, this 3.8-mile hike will give you a more intimate view of the Maroon Bells.
With the difficulty level being moderate, this is an out-and-back trail that leads you through meadows and forests to Crater lake.
Crater lake is not stocked or fishable as it is a dead lake, but it will give you panoramic views of the eastern end of Maroon Bells.
Trail #3: Maroon Creek Trail
This one-way trail winds downhill along Maroon Creek for 3.5 miles with an elevation gain of -870 feet. This route is an excellent choice if you wish to spot wildlife such as mule deer, red fox, and also great for birdwatching.
It is a less crowded option compared to other trails, and the difficulty level is easy. Hikers are also given the opportunity to hike for 2.5 miles and then catch the bus back to Aspen Highlands or back to the trailhead.
Trail #4: Buckskin Pass
Also known as the Willow Lake Trail, this is a 13-mile hike and is considered the most difficult of all the trails. With an elevation gain of 3020 feet, this hike is only recommended for physically fit hikers who have adjusted to high altitudes.
At Crater lake, the trail forks to the right and goes up to the Minnehaha Gulch, through the forest, and over the alpine tundra, eventually leading to the Buckskin Pass. This is a long hike, and you may have to camp overnight.
Hiking is a popular activity in Colorado, and for good reason. The state is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, and there are trails to suit all levels of ability. One of the most popular hiking destinations is the Maroon Bells. The Maroon Bells are particularly striking in fall when their leaves turn a deep shade of maroon. However, the area is also popular in summer, when wildflowers blanket the hillsides. Regardless of when you visit, the Maroon Bells are sure to take your breath away.
You can purchase a year or day pass and visit the whole park by visiting Colorado Parks and wildlife
You Can also see what others are saying by visiting AllTrails.
You will see other reviews and photos and able to print out a map before heading there.
Dudes Fishing Hole is a great spot for hiking in Golden Canyon State Park, Colorado. The trail is short and easy to follow, making it a great choice for families or those looking for a leisurely hike.
Want to catch stunning views of the Maroon Bells? Dig into this blog for four fun hikes leading to great vantage points!
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