Maroon Bells Guide | Colorado's Most Photographed Peaks

Twin Peaks of Perfection

The Maroon Bells are arguably the most photographed mountains in North America, and one look explains why. Two 14,000-foot peaks—Maroon Peak (14,163') and North Maroon Peak (14,019')—rise in perfect symmetry above Maroon Lake, their distinctive burgundy sedimentary rock glowing in morning light.

Located just 10 miles from Aspen in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, this view has graced countless calendars, screensavers, and Instagram feeds. Yet photos can't capture the experience of standing at Maroon Lake as the bells reflect in still water at sunrise, or watching aspen groves turn gold in September.

The peaks are dangerous to climb—their crumbly rock has earned them the nickname "Deadly Bells"—but the surrounding trails offer world-class hiking for all abilities. Whether you walk the flat lakeside path, climb to Crater Lake, or trek the challenging Four Pass Loop, the scenery is unforgettable.

Hiking Trails

Routes for every ability level

Maroon Lake Scenic Trail

Accessible Walk

Paved, wheelchair-accessible path around the lake with classic Maroon Bells views. Perfect for photographers, families, and anyone wanting the view without exertion. Allow 30 minutes.

0.5 mi Easy

Crater Lake Trail

Classic Day Hike

3.6-mile roundtrip climbing 600 feet to an alpine lake beneath the peaks. The most popular trail beyond the lake loop. Wildflowers in summer, fall colors in September.

3.6 mi RT Moderate

Four Pass Loop

Epic Backpacking

26-mile loop crossing four 12,000+ foot passes. One of Colorado's finest multi-day hikes. Most do it in 3-4 days. Permits required for camping. Experienced backpackers only.

26 mi Loop Strenuous

West Maroon Trail

To Crested Butte

10.5-mile one-way trail to Crested Butte crossing West Maroon Pass (12,500'). Often done as shuttle hike. Spectacular wildflower meadows in July. All-day adventure.

10.5 mi Difficult

Getting There

Shuttle Required: From late May through mid-October, private vehicles are banned from the Maroon Creek Road between 8am and 5pm. You must take the RFTA shuttle bus from Aspen Highlands (Reserve through recreation.gov). Shuttles run every 20 minutes.

Early Morning Access: Arrive before 8am to drive your own vehicle (limited parking, fills by 7am on summer weekends). This is the best time for photography with calm water and soft light.

Evening Access: After 5pm, drive in without reservation. Great for sunset photography but many services close. Plan to depart before dark.

Off-Season: The road closes for winter usually by November. Ambitious visitors ski or snowshoe in during winter months—the 10-mile approach is challenging but the solitude is rewarding.

Photography Tips

Best Time: Arrive at the lake for sunrise—typically the calmest water for reflections. The peaks catch golden light before the sun rises too high. Fall colors peak mid-late September.

Classic Shot: The iconic view is from the log at the lake's edge, looking southwest at both peaks reflected in Maroon Lake. You'll share this spot with many photographers.

Weather: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer. The most stable conditions are early morning. Dramatic clouds can add interest but watch for lightning above treeline.

Gear: Tripod essential for sunrise reflections. Wide-angle for classic views, telephoto for peak details. Polarizing filter helps cut glare on the water.

Visitor Information

Season: Road typically opens late May through mid-October, weather dependent. Peak visitation July-September. Fall colors draw crowds in late September.

Fees: $10 per vehicle day use fee (or valid national forest pass). Shuttle tickets approximately $8 round trip (reserve ahead).

Facilities: Restrooms and ranger station at Maroon Lake. No food services—bring water and snacks. The nearest services are in Aspen.

Camping: Maroon Bells campground (limited sites) and Silver Bar/Silver Bell campgrounds nearby. Reserve through recreation.gov—sites fill months ahead.

Altitude: Maroon Lake sits at 9,580 feet. Take it easy if you're not acclimated. Crater Lake reaches 10,076 feet.

More Colorado Iconic Landscapes

Love alpine scenery? Explore these breathtaking Colorado destinations

Independence Pass: Colorado's highest paved through road. Drive from Aspen to Leadville through dramatic alpine terrain—pair with Maroon Bells for the ultimate Aspen day.

Trail Ridge Road: America's highest continuous paved road through Rocky Mountain National Park. 11 miles above treeline with pikas, marmots, and endless views.

Garden of the Gods: Red rock formations meeting mountain views. Different landscape, equally iconic Colorado scenery.

Maroon Bells