Experience Maroon Bells, Aspen, Colorado: hiking, photography, and travel tips
Maroon Bells, near Aspen, Colorado, is one of the most photographed spots in the United States. Hugging the skyline, majestic twin peaks invite us to bask in the solitude of a remote campsite, tackle challenging ascents, and savor raw, unbridled adventure that reaches new heights. From the base of these massive mountains, a tranquil lake stretches out, its glassy surface mirroring the majestic forms that loom above, amplifying the scenic drama. Whether at sunrise or sunset, the natural beauty of Maroon Bells is simply unmatched.
No significant historical events are tied to Maroon Bells, but it is renowned for its natural beauty and has become a beloved location in the White River National Forest for outdoor activities and photography.
- Top Places: Maroon Lake, Maroon Peak, North Maroon Peak, Crater Lake, Scenic Loop Trail, Pyramid Peak.
- Features: Twin-peaked mountains, crystal-clear Maroon Lake, breathtaking sunsets, reflection photography, abundant wildflowers, wildlife sightings.
- Activities: Hiking, photography, camping, picnicking, wildlife watching, canoeing, fishing.
Hotels | Tours & Activities | Restaurants | Reservations | Events | Weather
Best Time To Visit
For those looking to experience Maroon Bells with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, late September to early October is ideal. During this time, fall foliage peaks, painting the landscape in vibrant hues. Daytime temperatures are around 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15°C), while nights can get quite chilly, ranging from 20°F to 30°F (-6°C to -1°C). This is the perfect time for photographers and nature lovers to capture the beauty of autumn. Summer months see more tourists, but the stunning views make it worth the crowd. During this period, the weather is typically pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C) and nighttime temperatures dropping to around 30°F to 40°F (-1°C to 4°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time to visit Maroon Bells Aspen Colorado?
A: The best time to visit Maroon Bells is from mid-June to early October for pleasant weather and optimal hiking conditions.
Q: Are there any entry fees for visiting Maroon Bells?
A: Yes, Maroon Bells charges a fee for parking and utilizing the shuttle service if visiting during peak season.
Q: Can you camp at Maroon Bells Aspen Colorado?
A: Yes, there are designated camping areas around Maroon Bells, but reservations are recommended due to high demand.
Q: How do I get to Maroon Bells from Aspen?
A: You can drive to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area or take a shuttle from Aspen Highlands during the summer season when private vehicle access is limited.
Q: Are there guided tours available at Maroon Bells?
A: Yes, several companies offer guided hiking and photography tours at Maroon Bells, catering to varying levels of experience.
When visiting Maroon Bells, remember that private vehicle access is often restricted to protect the natural environment during peak seasons. Due to this, a shuttle service from Aspen Highlands is available and recommended. Weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, so it’s crucial to dress in layers and be prepared for sudden changes. Additionally, due to the high elevation, altitude sickness can affect visitors; staying hydrated and acclimatizing appropriately is essential.
Geovea has partnered with Booking.com the largest hotel supplier in the world. If you book a hotel by clicking our special hyperlinks, you’ll pay the exact same price as if you went directly to them and you can still use your account with them as you normally do. The only difference is we make a small commission that helps us employ people and add more features to Geovea for our users. So we greatly appreciate it if you book through us!
More Travel Inspiration
- Travel Inspiration
- Discover Top White Mountains, New Hampshire Attractions in Autumn
- Best Montpelier, Vermont Things To See and Do in The Fall
- Explore Top Things and Stuff to Do in Santa Monica, California
- Uncover the Best Things to Do in San Diego, California!
- 13 Best Breckenridge Hotels – Downtown, The Peaks & Four O’Clock
- 12 Best Lincoln & Conway, New Hampshire Hotels, Motels & Resorts
- 11 Best Franconia, Littleton, Bretton Woods, NH Inns & Hotels
- Experience Fall Colors on Kancamagus Scenic Highway – New Hampshire
- Stunning Autumn Views at Franconia Notch State Park – New Hampshire
- 12 Best Vail Hotels in Vail Village, Cascade Village & Lionshead
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: A Nature Lover’s Dream
- Explore Nashville Tennessee: Best Things To Do in Music City
- Camden, Maine: Must-Visit Harbor and Attractions
- Explore Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor, Maine’s Natural Beauty
- Top Things & Attractions In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
- Best Charleston, South Carolina Activities and Things to Do
- Discover Autumn Color Magic in Woodstock, Vermont
- Stunning Fall Autumn Colors in Stowe, Vermont
- Best Sedona, Arizona Attractions for Your Next Adventure
- Discover the Best of Finger Lakes, New York
- Explore Adirondack Mountains, New York: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
- Discover Pensacola Beach, Florida’s Hidden Gem
- Explore Siesta Key, Florida: Beachfront Fun Awaits!
- La Jolla California: Beach Adventures, Dining, and More
- Experience Laguna Beach, California: Best Beaches and More
- Discover Maroon Bells, Aspen, Colorado: A Must-Visit Destination
- Discover Lake Tahoe: Scenic Beauty in California & Nevada
- Explore, Visit, and See Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
- Discover Napa Valley Attractions, Wineries & Restaurants
- Discover Breathtaking Beaches in the Tropical Atolls – Maldives
- Uncover the Beauty of Oia on Santorini, Greece – Cyclades Islands
- Explore the Majestic South Rim, Grand Canyon – Arizona
- Explore Machu Picchu: The Lost Inca City – Cusco Region
- Explore the Incredible Antelope Canyon – Arizona
- Experience the beauty of Moraine Lake in Alberta’s Banff National Park
- Yellowstone’s Vibrant Heart: Grand Prismatic Spring – Wyoming
- Thea Foss Waterway – Tacoma, Washington
- Kennebunk River – Kennebunkport, Maine
- Long Key Viaduct – Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail – Florida
- Hall of Mosses – Olympic National Park – Forks, Washington
- Reflection Lakes – Mount Rainier National Park – Washington
- Jacob Hamblin Arch – Glen Canyon National Recreation Area – Utah
- Camden Harbor – Maine
- Delicate Arch, Arches National Park – Utah
- Ruby Beach, Olympic Peninsula – Washington
- Spa Creek, Annapolis – Maryland
- Picture Lake, Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest – Washington
Common Links
Pre-built Road Trips
- Add Destinations (up to 25) and unlimited Places
- Add optional Trip Plan Title (one will automatically be created)
- Select the “Create My Trip” button
- Then view and modify the trip for your travel needs
