Aspen Lakes

Alpine jewels in the Elk Mountains

The Elk Mountains surrounding Aspen contain some of Colorado's most stunning alpine lakes, including the famous Maroon Lake with its iconic Bells reflection. From easy access lakes to challenging alpine adventures, here are Aspen's best lake destinations.

Maroon Lake

The Iconic View

The most photographed scene in Colorado—Maroon Bells reflected in Maroon Lake. Shuttle access in summer.

Iconic Easy Access

Crater Lake

Beyond Maroon Lake

Hike past Maroon Lake to this stunning alpine lake beneath the Bells. 3.6-mile roundtrip from Maroon Lake.

3.6 mi RT Moderate

Cathedral Lake

Alpine Cathedral

Stunning alpine lake beneath Cathedral Peak. 6-mile roundtrip through meadows and forest.

6 mi RT Moderate

Snowmass Lake

Backcountry Beauty

Remote alpine lake in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. 18-mile roundtrip or backpacking trip.

18 mi RT Hard

Linkins Lake

Independence Pass Area

High-altitude lake near Independence Pass. Short but steep hike to above-treeline scenery.

2 mi RT Moderate

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