Maroon Bells & Maroon Lake
Reservations are required to visit the Maroon Bells Recreational Area, whether by personal vehicle or by shuttle. When buses are not in operation, vehicle parking reservations are still required to access the Maroon Bells Scenic Area.
The Maroon Bells are stunningly beautiful, well worth experiencing. Vehicle access typically begins late May and the shuttle system from Aspen Highlands begins shortly thereafter, at which point vehicle traffic is limited to those with private vehicle trailhead parking permits. The road is closed for cars in the winter months, but walking and cross country skiing can be excellent alternatives. Snowmobile tours from T Lazy Seven Ranch are also available. There are no vending machines or restaurants at the Bells so be sure to bring what you need. Many Aspen restaurants offer a box lunch with advance notice.
Maroon Bells reservations are released on a rolling basis
March 1, 2023 – Reservation for May and June available
April 1, 2023 – Reservation for July and August available
May 1, 2023 – Reservation for September and October available
RESERVATIONS
More information about reservation and permit requirements for the Maroon Lake Scenic area can also be found on the White River National Forest website, and Maroon Bells & Snowmass Wilderness page.
ALERT: February 3, 2023: Advance reservation permits are required for overnight stays in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Permits are available at recreation.gov.
Maroon Bells Bus Tour Typically the last week in May, bus shuttles depart from Aspen Highlands Ski Area. The reservations includes park entry, bus ride, and depending on the driver, some interesting narrative on the eight mile ride up to the Bells. The buses run about every 15 minutes and the last bus down is 5:00 p.m., so don’t miss it! One-way advance reservations will be required for hikers coming down.
Driving Directions to the Bells Take 82 west about one mile to the roundabout, then take the second exit onto Maroon Creek Road. Follow Maroon Creek Road about 1 mile to Aspen Highlands Ski Area or continue on past the T-7-Lazy Ranch until you reach the parking lot, 8.7 miles up. The road is open, but vehicle traffic is limited to those with private vehicle trailhead parking permits, and the season runs through September as weather permits. During the off season, cars are permitted as weather allows until the winter closure.
Bike the Bells Biking to the Bells is a rewarding alternative but there are a few considerations. The ride is 8.7 miles from Aspen Highlands and it is all up hill, gaining 800 feet in elevation. Make sure you are well hydrated and well acclimated to the high altitude. Between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm you’ll find the only traffic on the road is bus traffic. If your renting bikes/e-bikes, please make sure you have a conversation about bike etiquette and take appropriate safety precautions.
INSIDER TIP: Be prepared! Bring a raincoat, be still and watch for wildlife. Moose and beavers are known to frequent Maroon Lake and Maroon Creek while Red Fox are also seen sleeking around the area. For the keen observer, sometimes the snow white mountain goats can be spotted on the rocky slopes.