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.
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.
Raccoon Loop Trail Located In Golden State Canyon State Park an easy 2.5-mile loop trail from Panarorama Point trailhead to reverend ridge campground trailhead. From
Looking for a fun hike to Sprague Lake? Here’s an adventurous option to choose, plus details on the Sprague Lake loop-hike!
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