Ultimate Guide to Maroon Bells in Aspen

If you haven’t visited Aspen yet, or specifically the Maroon Bells, I highly recommend taking a trip here to enjoy some of the most breathtaking views in the Rockies.

After living in Colorado for three years, I’m still in awe with how beautiful this state is. Every season truly is stunning! There’s so many beautiful spots to visit, Maroon Bells being one of the top destinations.

Best Time to Visit Maroon Bells

Timing is everything at Maroon Bells, where weather, crowds, and scenery shift dramatically. The scenic area is open mid-May to early November via Maroon Creek Road, with reservations required for peak season, which is July–October. If you plan to visit the Aspen area, you NEED to stop here. The Maroon Bells are two 14ers, located in the Elk Mountains, providing jaw-dropping views that will captivate every adventurer.

July-August

This tends to be the busiest time, as the wildflowers begin to bloom in the alpine meadows. I highly recommend arriving early, to enjoy the views with minimal crowds.

September-Mid-October

During the third week of September, Aspen’s Maroon Bells hit peak fall foliage, with vibrant yellow aspens contrasting against the rugged mountain backdrop. We went in early September, with minimal colors beginning to pop. But the best part, crowds were limited.

How to Get There: Shuttle, Parking, and Reservations

Accessing Maroon Bells does require some planning beforehand. If you decide to drive in with your own vehicle, you’re to do so with a parking reservation before 8 AM or after 5 PM during peak season. Or, take the shuttle bus that departs from Aspen Highlands. Be sure to book your shuttle bus reservation online well in advance. The quick 15-minute shuttle ride to Maroon Bells offers engaging commentary on the area’s rich history and evolving environment—it was interesting to learn!

Top Hiking Trails at Maroon Bells

Maroon Lake Scenic Loop – 1–1.9-mile easy trail, delivers stunning views of the Maroon Bells reflecting in Maroon Lake. We hiked this short-and-sweet path and were blown away by the breathtaking scenery—vibrant aspens, serene waters, and towering peaks.

Crater Lake – 3.7-mile out-and-back hike, winds through vibrant aspen groves to a pristine mountain lake nestled beneath the Maroon Bells.

West Maroon Pass and East Maroon Pass are challenging day hikes that showcase the Rocky Mountains’ most spectacular landscapes. Traversing alpine meadows and aspen groves, these trails reward hikers with sweeping vistas of the Maroon Bells and rugged peaks.

The Maroon Bells in Aspen are a top recommendation if you’re visiting the Rocky Mountains. Their iconic twin peaks, shimmering Maroon Lake, and vibrant aspen groves create a postcard-perfect escape that’s equal parts serene and exhilarating. This destination delivers unforgettable moments for every adventurer – just be sure to book your reservations well in advance. If you’re looking for other stunning activities to do near Aspen, be sure to checkout my Aspen Travel Guide. In this guide, I’ll be reviewing top destinations, things to do, and favorite restaurants.