Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop is located in the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness just outside of Aspen, Colorado. The beautiful area features fragrant alpine meadows, melting snowfields, turquoise lakes, and emerald forests. The trail is quite popular and can be crowded during peak summer months of July and August, but it gets better in September and October. The area is known for summer afternoon downpours so it is better to get to the trail as early as you can.
The hike starts at the West Maroon Portal (Maroon Lake) entrance to the White River National Forest at the end of Maroon Creek Road. You start the trail marveling at the twin Maroon peaks, towering over blue waters of Maroon Lake. Wildflowers meadows complete a picture-perfect alpine scenery.
Four Pass Loop crosses four mountain passes—West Maroon Pass, Frigid Air Pass, Trail Rider Pass, and Buckskin Pass, each granting a new view. Also, beautiful Elk Range peaks stretch as far as the eye can see. The loop trail runs for 27 mi (43 km) with more than 8,000 ft (2,438 m) of elevation gain, so it is rated difficult. Also, if you decide to stay overnight, beware of black bears that roam in the area.
Practical info
When is the best time to hike the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop?
It is recommended to hike the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop between July and October as the weather is cooler and more stable, making it easier to hike. July and August are the peak season and can be crowded, while September and October see fewer visitors. Hikers are advised to start early regardless of the month due to the possibility of afternoon downpours. Show more
Where does the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop trail begin?
The West Maroon Portal (Maroon Lake) entrance to the White River National Forest at the end of Maroon Creek Road marks the beginning of the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop trail. Hikers soak in stunning views of the Maroon peaks towering over Maroon Lake and pass through delightful alpine meadows before crossing four mountain passes. Each of these passes offers a breathtaking view of the Elk Range peaks. Show more
How long is the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop?
Spanning over 27 miles (43 km) with an elevation gain of over 8,000 ft (2,438 m), the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop is rated difficult. Hikers face challenging terrain and have to cross four mountain passes to complete the trail: West Maroon Pass, Frigid Air Pass, Trail Rider Pass, and Buckskin Pass. The trail offers spectacular views of the region's forests, meadows, lakes, and peaks in the Elk Range. Show more
What mountain passes does the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop cross?
Hikers that complete the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop cross four mountain passes, each delivering an exclusive view. The four passes are West Maroon Pass, Frigid Air Pass, Trail Rider Pass, and Buckskin Pass, with the latter being the highest at an elevation of 12,462 feet (3,799 m) above sea level. Crossing these mountain passes is a challenging yet rewarding aspect of the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop trail. Show more
Are there any safety precautions hikers should take due to the wildlife in the area?
While on the Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop, hikers must take certain safety measures due to the wildlife in the region. The area is home to black bears, and hikers must store food in bear-proof containers and away from their tents. Hikers should make noise while trekking to avoid surprising bears, hold bear spray, and hike in groups to deter any wildlife encounters. It is crucial to give wildlife space, avoid approaching or feeding them, and appreciate them from afar. Show more
