To access the shuttle, catch the free RFTA shuttle from Rubey Park in downtown Aspen to Aspen Highlands for your ticketed connection to the scenic area. All visitors are required to take the shuttle bus from Aspen Highlands between early June and late October between the hours of 8am and 5pm. The Silver Bar is an excellent place to stay; you dont have to carry your equipment very far from the parking lot, and you still have access to everything the Maroon Bells has to offer. Sign up for exclusive offers, new and updates, events, and more in your inbox. Note: You must arrive before 8am to park from late May to late October. Try this 3.1-km loop trail near Snowmass Village, Colorado. Hiking the iconic Maroon Bells area, whether you are a beginner or expert trailblazer, is an experience that will stay in your memory banks forever. Drop down into the expansive alpine basin of the East Fork staying right at the signed junction, before climbing again to the top of Frigid Air Pass (12,400 ft.). Wander down to the lake, take some photos, and enjoy the gorgeous views. Followed this same trail back to the trailhead the next day. Six summits rise over 14,000 feet . Of the 729 found, just 51% were outside the 100-foot buffer from streams, lakes and trails, according to the plan. Located just outside of Aspen, Colorado's fourth-largest wilderness stretches over 181,000 acres and provides numerous life-list backpacking opportunities on its 100 miles of trails. The well below average snowpack for our area is melting quick this year, and now the, Its only been a few days since our last trip over West Maroon Pass, and the, Just like that, the switch got flipped. Those with campground reservations do not need a reservation for parking at Maroon Lake. Reservations for shuttles and trailhead parking open months ahead of time, so book early to make sure you don't miss out. Plenty of benches and the vistas are unbeatable. In the spirit of healing and education, we acknowledge the 48 contemporary tribes with historic ties to the state of Colorado. Particularly when you are in Colorado. Please call/ text me 6825598329. Follow Maroon Creek Road to all designated parking lots. When you have finished hiking the Maroons Bells, check out these other amazing Colorado hikes: the nine most stunning hikes in Colorado. Thank you ! Make sure to plan ahead and know before you go! Combat altitude sickness by avoiding alcohol, drinking plenty of water, including complex carbs in your diet, and add hiking altitude slowly each day. Silver Bell Campground(reserve now) - 14 sites available on the banks of Maroon Creek. The scenic area is accessed at the end of Maroon Creek Road (CR 13). They offer group and private tours where you ride on groomed trails through the brilliantly white, snow-covered landscape punctuated by sentry-like, dormant white aspen tree trunks. Heres more information [PDF], if youre interested.). Climbing the Maroon Bells is an entirely different adventure than hiking a trail. Even if you dont want to hike the area, take the bus up and stroll around the lake or find the perfect spot and have a picnic. Summer season camping at Maroon Bells is a wonderful, nature-immersive experience. Supervisor's Office Campsites have a five-day stay limit. The famous Four Pass Loop backpacking route withinMaroon Bells Snowmass Wildernessis an international treasure. When you are over 8,000 feet, you can experience symptoms such as mild dizziness, headache, and shortness of breath. Hiking to the Maroon Bells provides immersive access to breathtaking scenes in one of Colorados natural wonders. These permits must be purchased in advance at recreation.gov. Thank you! If you feel a bout of dizziness coming on, take a break and enjoy the scenery while your body has a chance to regroup. We use cookies on our website to support technical features that enhance your user experience. Looking for day pass for parking on 10/13 if anyone has one please message me please 303-550-2681 thank you so much, Looking to buy day pass for 10/15. United States. Snow makes route finding difficult. 970-925-3445. Share sensitive information only Directions: Popular Trails Four Pass Loop: The famous Four Pass Loop backpacking route in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness is an international treasure. Those camping in developed sites in the Maroon Valley must purchase a 5 day vehicle pass ($5 for camping) to drive to their designated campground at the Welcome Station across from the Silver Bar Campground. This trail is often used as a starting point for extended backpacking trips into the wilderness. White River A place to do what you love and not care who's watchingHighlands invites you to carve your own path. Maroon Creek Trail Personal vehicles are allowed from that date until the Maroon Bells Shuttle begins operating on early June, however, reservations are now required due to minimal parking at the lake. The twin peaks are approximately 10 miles from downtown Aspen, 8 miles from the Maroon Bells Basecamp and Aspen Highlands Parking Garage, 6.2 miles from the winter road closure at T-Lazy-7 Ranch, and 5 miles from the Forest Service gate on Maroon Creek Road. In this scenic area you will find extensive hiking trails, the aspen highlands, and opportunities to ski. TheAspen Chamber Resort AssociationandSnowmass Tourismalso have great info on getting there and back. Winds increasing (light winds from the S on Thu morning, strong winds from the WSW by Fri afternoon). This 3.2-mile one-way trail is an excellent place to spot wildlife such as mule deer, red fox, bighorn sheep, porcupines and a variety of birds. There is a cross-country ski track along the road as well as a groomed snowmobile track. If you want to learn more about Colorados 14ers, particularly the seven in the Elk Mountains, visit 14ers.com. When you stand alongside Maroon Creek and gaze across the landscape, the towering Maroon Bells are a breathtaking vision of crimson and pink against a beautiful blue sky. From mid-June through September, Maroon Creek Road is restricted to vehicles from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m beyond the T-Lazy 7 Ranch. Be aware of avalanche risks. Information regarding visiting Maroon Bells by shuttle. Between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., visitors are required to take the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) bus. The Maroon Bells Scenic Area features several hiking trails ranging from short hikes near Maroon Lake to longer overnight backpacking tripsinto the Maroon-Snowmass Wilderness. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. The trailhead is accessible by high-clearance 44 vehicles only. Map Information. Share sensitive information only This 26 mile (42 km) circuit climbs over four mountain passes higher than 12,000ft, past alpine lakes and among high Elk Range peaks. Maroon Creek Road is closed from mid-November to Memorial Day weekend. News about Maroon Creek Road can be found at: Aspen Daily News (October 9, 2015) - RFTA mulls rise in fare to the . Anchored by a stunning reflective lake, Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak tower over the area, creating an oasis of natural wonder that captivates visitors of this unique destination year-round. If you are interested in a more luxurious stay, visit any one of these 12 gorgeous luxury vacation rentals in or near Aspen. The weather forecast for Maroon Bells is: A heavy fall of snow, heaviest during Tue afternoon. Nestled on the banks of Maroon Creek at 8,460 feet, Silver Bell Campground has 14 tent sites and boasts gorgeous panoramas of aspen groves, wildflower meadows and towering spruce and fir forests in the White River National Forest. Hiking to Hanging Lake ColoradoColorado Mountains: 6 Famous Peaks, Photo credits: Heather Rousseau/Aspen Chamber Resort Association, Matt Inden/Miles, Matt Inden/Miles, Jeremy Swanson/Aspen Chamber Resort Association. 4/8 . A very popular campsite, Silver Queen Campground has five sites located near Maroon Creek. Below the shale rock are large pink crystals called phenocrysts. Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness Length: 20.6 mi Est. There is still some, This update really only pertains to West Maroon Pass as I didnt really have much for, Quick update here. This is a 9.25 mile paved road in Aspen, CO. Distances: Aspen Highlands Village to Maroon Lake - 8 Miles. They are your go-to website for all information you need to visit safely. Is anyone selling a parking day pass for 10/19? These trails have an average 4.5-star rating from 16,835 AllTrails community reviews. Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness Photos (6,832) Directions Print/PDF map Length 25.7 miElevation gain 7,752 ftRoute type Loop Enjoy this 25.7-mile loop trail near Aspen, Colorado. This trail is 5.6 km long with an elevation gain of 210 m. According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness is Maroon Bells Lost Creek, Capitol Peak, Snowmass Mountain Loop. More than 300 million years of geologic activity, including sedimentation, uplift and erosion by wind, water and ice, are credited to the creation of Maroon Valley. This 3.6-mile round-trip trail adds a bit more challenge, but rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas of bushy Aspen woodlands and Crater Lake. Check out our first timer's guide, TheElk Range Mountain Safety Coalition is- A coalition of partners - including Aspen Alpine Guides, Aspen Expeditions Worldwide, Mountain Rescue Aspen, USFS - Sopris, and the Pitkin County Sheriff - whose primary goal is to provide mountain safety education to outdoor enthusiasts, climbers, mountaineers, and the general climbing community through a cohesive educational outreach program that has a common curriculum by way of presentations and clinics featuring best practices for what it takes to have a safe and successful climb in the Elk Range and beyond. To learnmore, follow their. From early October to late June, campsites, trails, and mountain passes are snow covered and the trailheads may be inaccessible. website belongs to an official government organization in the ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Our advanced weather models allow us to provide distinct weather forecasts for several elevations of The loop takes you up four mountain passes; West Maroon at 12,500 feet, Frigid Air at 12,415 feet, Trail Rider at 12,420 feet, and Buckskin at 12,500 feet. ***Need Help! Explore the Maroon Bells: What You Need to Know, Learn more about Maroon Bells reservations >>. Crater Lake Trail Fishing is permitted in all streams and lakes within the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness subject to the regulations of Colorado Parks and Wildlife. This is a very popular area for backpacking, camping, and hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. This is a popular trail for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. ( Please seal and store food in a container inside a vehicle or in bear boxes provided at the campsite. Reservations are available from www.aspenchamber.org. While Maroon Creek Road is closed to vehicles from late fall until late spring, you can still crosscountry ski, snow bike, snowshoe, hike, or take a snowmobile the 12.4 miles round-trip to access the bells. Altitude sickness is something you need to consider whenever you are hiking in the mountains. During summer, snowy slopes are replaced with meadows of wildflowers, and activities shift to mountain biking, hiking, ziplines, ropes courses, family-friendly Sightseeing, and the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, all concentrated on Snowmass and Aspen Mountain. Late June and early July will offer beautiful wildflowers in the high country, while September boasts some of the best fall foliage in the country. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock 330 333 0533, Looking for a day pass on 10/22. Text 703-992-3882, You do sort of have to use both AllTrails and the signs at the shuttle stop to figure out where the trail starts & numerous people on the trail were unclear which trail they were on but it was very beautiful. Enjoy your hike on a well-traveled and marked trail for the safest visit to these iconic mountains. Maroon Bells Shuttle Bus Dates May 26 to October 22, 2023 8am-5pm Maroon Bells Basecamp Open Daily: May 26 to October 22, 2023 Aspen Highlands Plaza Maroon Bells Hotline 970-945-3319 The Maroon Bells are two of the most photographed mountains in all of North America and for good reason. Please text 985 788 9941. Located 10 miles from Aspen up Maroon Creek Road, the Maroon Bellsare not to be missed during a visit to Aspen andare sure to be a highlight of your trip. From Aspen, take Hwy. Please contact 6692940313, if you are willing sell. The Welcome Station is located 4.7 miles up Maroon Creek Road. 281-683-6447, Looking for a day pass for any day honestly Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. Temperatures will be below freezing (max -3C on Thu morning, min -11C on Thu night). ) or https:// means you've safely Looking for round trip shuttle reservations, for 2 people, on Sunday Oct 9, for any time of the day. Wondering if anybody knows if the road is open currently? Find more information on Maroon Bells reservations, permits and fees. The stunning Elk Range towers with dramatic peaks. This 1.9-mile, easy loop trail takes you out past Maroon Lake and back. The sites are open May to October, and reservations are required. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones, Williams Peak and Ginright (Fourmile)Timber Sale Project Area Restrictions, CPW: hunting and fishing, OHV and boat permits, No restrooms in Wilderness; see Restrictions. connected to the .gov website. Beautiful views! If you're looking for elevation gain, Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness has you covered. Take note that during the summer months, parking is only allowed before 8 a.m. or after 5 p.m. at Maroon Lake. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) offers guided bus tours to the Maroon Bells. Day 4 From Snowmass Lake take the Maroon Snowmass Trail towards Buckskin Pass (12,500 ft.). Where is the best place to hike in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness? Trail Report. Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 Spectacular mountain vistas that seem to change color as the sun angle shifts, vast fields of wildflowers dancing in the gentle breeze, aspen trees standing straight and tall, and crystal clear mountain lakes that mirror their surroundings; Colorados Maroon Bells are a must-visit if you are in Aspen. Geneva Lake Zone Recommended Campsites, Map showing recreational areas. Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail. Early in your outing, you'll get a great view of the Maroon Bells to the west. This includes overnight parking for those backpacking into the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness. Oxidized iron particles in the rock give the bells their unique maroon color. on official, secure websites. Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 Maroon Lake: Winter Route. Campers also need parking reservations if they plan to visit Maroon Lake. The Interagency, Senior & Golden Access Passes are honored. Conundrum Creek Trail to Conundrum Hot Springs, Crater Lake and Maroon Creek to East Fork, Maroon Lake Trailhead to Maroon Snowmass Trailhead, Little Annie and Richmond Hill OHV Road Loop. Featuring two of the most photographed peaks in the Elk Mountains, Maroon Bells in Colorado is an iconic hiking area near Aspen. According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness is Crater Lake, which has a 4.8 star rating from 3,676 reviews. This is a pack-in, tent-only campground that is close to the action at the Maroon Bells Welcome Station. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 16 min to complete. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. The 3.8-mile trail will challenge you with distance, but the hike is pleasant and scenic with only a slight elevation change of under 700 feet. Maroon Bells Shuttle Reservations & Parking Permits Reservations are required to access the Maroon Bells Scenic Area and related amenities. The higher you go elevation-wise, the more naked aspen trees you encounter. Silver Bell Campground is the largest campground and is located at 8,460 feet. ( Easy trails include the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail. Coming to Aspen via Independence Pass: Take Highway 82 West from downtown Aspen 1 mile to the roundabout (rotary). The famous Four Pass Loop backpacking route within Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness is an international treasure. This 26 mile (42 km) circuit climbs over four mountain passes higher than 12,000 ft, past clear alpine lakes and among the rugged Elk Range peaks. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness was one of five areas in Colorado designated as wilderness in the original Wilderness Act of 1964. Supervisor's Office Loved this hike in early summer. connected to the .gov website. Day 2 Cross the creek early before climbing to the top of W. Maroon Pass (12,500 ft.). From mid-June to early October, Maroon Creek Road, which takes you to the Maroon Bells Welcome Center and Maroon Bells Trailhead, is drivable. Perfect for stretching your legs, this easy 1-mile round-trip trek starts at the parking area and follows the circumference of the lake, providing access to the area's most recognizable views as well as an active beaver pond. Lots of bees, but they mostly stayed away. Please call (970) 945-3319 or visit the Forest Service link below for more information: No conditions reported in the past 7 days. (231)414-7597. Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. When you arrive at the welcome station parking lot, take some time to acclimate to the altitude. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Please text 608-577-9810. Advance reservation permits are required for overnight stays in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. Maroon Creek Road is open to bicycles and e-bikes. The White River National Forest covers over 2.3 million acres, including eleven ski resorts, eight wilderness areas, ten 14ers, and 2,500 miles of hiking trails. While the Maroon Bells are touted as the most photographed place in Colorado, pictures simply dont do the peaks justice. The rock breaks and fractures easily making footing unstable and rockslides commonplace. T-Lazy-7 Ranch offers snowmobile tours to the lake, weather permitting. An official website of the Looking for any kind of reservations, morning or evening. Call Toll Free 1 (877) 444-6777 (International (518) 885-3639 or TDD (877) 833-6777) or reserve on-line at www.recreation.gov. She said it probably wont open again till April. These symptoms will dissipate as you acclimate to the altitude. Learn more about Maroon Bells reservations >>. Maroon Bells. Maroon Creek Road is closed to cars and shuttles in cold-weather months, but you can cross-country ski, snowshoe or snowmobile to the area. Pro tip: Visit mid-week when there's a higher chance you could have the place all to yourself. And also Ill send you some Epic shots of the bells! This trail is extremely rocky and dry. Make sure to plan ahead and know before you go! The wisdom of these seasoned trekkers impart will carry over to all your other hiking adventures. Start at the outlet of Maroon Lake and travel north along Maroon Creek to encounter alpine meadows, aspen forests and rocky slopes. From early October to late June in the Rocky Mountains, campsites, trails and mountan passes are snow covered and trailheads may be inaccessible. The campground is accessible to trailers and RVs and makes a great base camp for day hikes. And according to the U.S. Forest Service, the mountains received their distinctive maroon coloring from the weathering of hematite, an iron-bearing mineral, while Maroon Lake occupies a basin that was sculpted by Ice Age glaciers. For more information, see here. ) or https:// means you've safely Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. LockA locked padlock For up-to-the-minute shuttle and parking information, visit RFTA Maroon Bells. There is a cross-country ski track along the road as well as a groomed snowmobile track. Those whod rather take their own ride can make reservations to arrive and park at the trailhead outside of these hours at a rate of $10 per vehicle. In the Conundrum Hot Springs, Crater Lake, and Capitol Lake Zones, the permit holder and group are required to camp in their reserved campsite. Maroon Bells. For additional information, please contact the Aspen-Sopris Ranger District Monday-Friday 8am-4:30 pmat (970) 963-2266. Find more information on Maroon Bells reservations, permits and fees. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 55 min to complete. If you come outside of these times, you will need to park at Aspen Highlands and take the bus ($8) to and from the trailhead. +120 Dogs are prohibited because of Moose inhabiting this area. Head out on this 13.2-mile out-and-back trail near Aspen, Colorado. Silver Bar Campground(reserve now) - 4 sites available at this small primitive campground. United States. Our little group set out just after 5 p.m. on a Thursday from the overnight parking lot. 650.465.7696, Looking for a day pass 10/10 also have one I cant use 10/12. AllTrails has 73 great trails for hiking, birding, and backpacking and more. Maroon Bells Weddings Directions: Located 10 miles southwest of Aspen, Colorado, on Maroon Creek Road. The Four Pass Loop is a difficult, 28-mile loop trail located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area in Central Colorado. Map showing recreational areas. Wind will be generally light. ; The Scenic Loop Trail is probably the most popular trail at Maroon Bells, and for good reason: the views are incredible, the loop takes you along the cascades of Maroon creek for much . Thank you!! All three require advanced reservations, and none offer direct views of Maroon Bells from the campground. Maroon Creek Trail Start at the outlet of Maroon Lake and travel north along Maroon Creek to encounter alpine meadows, aspen forests and rocky slopes. The trail climbs steadily but not steeply. This is a popular trail for hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Depending on the party's ability, trail and weather conditions, this loop can take between 3 and 5 days to complete. Trail is well maintained, well trafficked, but there are some rocky segments that might not be well suited to those with poor balance or eyesight. It is impossible to take a bad picture surrounded by such gloriousness. Absolutely gorgeous hike, as of 10/9 aspens still looked amazing. Maroon Bells Information Line: (970) 945-3319. Professional guiding companies Aspen Alpine Guides and Aspen Expeditions offer a full roster of year-round mountain guiding adventures as well as technical mountaineering instruction. Crowds were significantly heavier once you reach crater lake, as expected. Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. Hiring a professional guide service for extended and more involved hikes is a smart choice when visiting the Elk Mountains near Aspens Maroon Bells. The red shale and siltstone form the fragile rock face and present their red hues. Crater Lake Trail Learn how to visit this iconic landmark and see what makes it a fixture of the states breathtaking scenery. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told. Please email fitzisme@gmail.com! The best time to visit the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is July through September. Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) leads daily FREE guided tours around Maroon Lake and to Crater Lake. The best way to plan for your trip and to be ready to reserve a permit is to understand where you plan to camp each night of your trip. Advance reservation permits are required for overnight stays in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. Map Information, White River We have shuttle passes for 11:45 - but worried that we might not get back to DEN on time for a late night flight. Even amateur photographers will have magazine-ready photos. Easy trail with beautiful views and lots of waterfalls. Region: Mountain West (Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, Central Colorado) Distance: 28 miles (3-4 days) Physical Difficulty . A moderately rated, out-and-back hike that is also accessible from the welcome station is Crater Lake Trail. The trail traverses four mountain passes over 12,000 feet and can be hiked in 3-5 days. Fall colors make it an especially dreamy time to visit, when the Maroon Bells are cradled by cloud-speckled blue skies and golden aspen groves. Also referred to as the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness, this 181,973 acre wilderness was established in 1964. LockA locked padlock Descend to Crater and then Maroon Lake to finish your loop. Miles one way: 1.3. Looking for a more strenuous hike? We also use analytics & advertising services. Many enjoyable side hikes, detours or alternate access points can be added to make the Loop longer. Maroon Bells Access: Reservations are required to visit Maroon Bells and associated trailheads by personal vehicle or shuttle. What a wonderful hike! connected to the .gov website. The best times to visit this trail are May through October. Looking for 2 morning passes for Saturday 10/15 if anyone is selling! Willing to pay! Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock Reservations forSilver Bar, Silver Bell and Silver Queen campgroundscan be made at www.recreation.gov. Supervisor's Office Our goal, to share the worlds unique, hidden and once in a lifetime locations with you to create unforgettable memories. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zone Map, Conundrum Hot Springs Designated Campsites, Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones, Williams Peak and Ginright (Fourmile)Timber Sale Project Area Restrictions, CPW: hunting and fishing, OHV and boat permits, No restrooms in Wilderness; see Restrictions. The park's runner-up is Capital Creek Circuit, which will get you 5,255 m of elevation gain. There are 73 trails in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness. Official websites use .gov A .gov The Maroon Bells Scenic Area is an open area with trails at the portal to the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness surrounding Maroon Lake. Use thisMaroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zone Mapto understand which areas require overnight permits. Permits are available atrecreation.gov. According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness is. Park in the Aspen Highlands and purchase your bus ticket at the Four Mountains Sports Shop. karen draker September 26, 2022 Highlights: Climbing thru high mountain passes and hiking thru lush basins fragrant forests Meadows come alive with seasonal wildflowers Most of the trail is above tree line Spectacular views of the Maroon Bells and other high peaks of the Elk Mountain 60 miles of free cross country ski and snowshoe trails between Aspen, Snowmass, and Basalt Colorado.
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