Best time to visit Colorado

Maroon Bells in Colorado

The iconic landscape is the most photographed site in Colorado

Best time: mid-June–early October

Maroon Bells
Maroon Bells
Maroon Bells

The Maroon Bells consists of Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, located in the Elk Mountains, in about 10 mi (16 km) west of Aspen. It can also be reached from Snowmass by Maroon Creek Road and Highway 82. Both mountains located in a glacial valley are fourteeners. Maroon Peak is taller rising on the elevation of 14,163 ft (4,317 m). North Maroon Peak is shorter at 14,012 ft (4,271 m).

Two beautiful peaks reflecting in the mirror of the Maroon Lake is a quintessential Rocky Mountains landscape that inspires many photographers and nature enthusiasts. The Maroon Bells located at the White River National Forest are beautiful at any season. In the summer, they stun with wildflowers. In the fall, when aspen trees are changing colors, they amaze with all shades of red and gold. No wonder that Maroon Bells Scenic Area is so popular with visitors that car access is limited there. When the parking lot gets full, the road might be closed to private vehicles as early as 8 a.m. However, bus tours are running from mid-June through early October. The crowds are much thinner during weekdays than at the weekends. September and early October are the peak times due to fall foliage viewing. The road leading to Maroon Bells is closed for the winter season due to snow.

Maroon Lake Campground is the best place to see the sunrise in a stunning place after watching the clear and starry Colorado sky. The campground is accessed from the Maroon Creek Road. You can start your morning making stunning pictures during the "magic hour" or getting ready to hike the Maroon Bells summit.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Maroon Bells, Colorado?

Maroon Bells is best enjoyed from mid-June to early October when visitors can take in the picturesque views of mountains reflected in the Maroon Lake framed by wildflowers and Aspen trees. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful colors of red and gold during the fall season. Please note that the road leading to Maroon Bells is closed during the winter period due to heavy snowfall. Show more

Where can I find the best place to view the sunrise in Maroon Bells?

For the best sunrise views, visit the Maroon Lake Campground accessed by the Maroon Creek Road. From here, visitors can capture stunning photographs of the Maroon Peaks reflecting in the clear and pristine Maroon Lake, as well as admire the beautiful starry sky of Colorado. Show more

How can I visit Maroon Bells during winter?

During the winter season, the snowfall in the area closes off the road leading to the Maroon Bells. To enjoy the Aspen mountains during this offseason, skiing and snowmobiling at Aspen Snowmass are popular activities among visitors. For frequent visitors, a season pass is a viable cost-saving option. Show more

Why is the car access to Maroon Bells Limited?

The Maroon Bells scenic area is a popular tourist destination. To ensure minimal disruption to visitors, the environment and wild animals, the access of private vehicles is restricted to the overnight parking lot. In addition, the road leading to Maroon Bells may close for the day if the parking lot reaches its maximum capacity. Visitors are highly recommended to use buses as a convenient mode of transportation. Show more

What is the difference between Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak?

Both Maroon Peak (14,163 feet) and North Maroon Peak (14,012 feet) are fourteeners that are popular hiking choices among visitors of the Elk Mountains area. North Maroon peak, however, is more rigorous due to its steep and rugged terrain and consequently has a higher fatality rate. It is important to do proper research on your chosen summit and ensure that you are adequately prepared for the challenging conditions. Show more

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Last updated: by Dari Vasiljeva