How to Visit Maroon Bells & Hike the Crater Lake Trail (Colorado, USA)
Thinking of visiting Maroon Bells and hiking the Crater Lake Trail? This guide covers everything you need to know – from the best time to go and how to get there, to what to expect on the trail.
Maroon Bells, located near Aspen, Colorado, are often called the most photographed mountains in North America, and for good reason. The scenery is stunning, especially with Maroon Lake in the foreground. But the beauty doesn’t stop there. If you’re up for a short hike, Crater Lake is another scenic spot well worth your time.
We visited Maroon Bells and hiked the Crater Lake Trail with our kids. In this post, I’m sharing practical tips based on our experience to help you plan an epic visit to this stunning area.
TIP: To catch Maroon Bells at their best, go early in the morning. Staying nearby helps – Aspen is just 20 minutes away and has great lodging (we stayed at the Tyrolean Lodge). If Aspen is too pricey, check Snowmass Village instead. It’s about 35 minutes from the trailhead and usually has more budget-friendly options (for example, Pokolodi Lodge).
READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Aspen
How to Get to Maroon Bells
Location
Maroon Bells can be found in the Elk Mountains in Colorado. Maroon Bells’ car parking (see location on the map) is just 10 miles/20 minutes’ drive from Aspen town. Maroon Bells can be reached by car, bike, or shuttle bus via Maroon Creek Road (#13).
However, visiting by car is no longer as straightforward as it used to be – see more info below.
Some people say that you can visit Maroon Bells from Denver. But with over 200 miles and more than 4 hours driving distance one way, I really don’t think it’s the best idea to drive up and down on the same day. If you are looking for a nice day trip, consider visiting Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver instead.
Good to know: You don’t have to walk far to see Maroon Lake and the beautiful reflections. It’s literally just a few steps from the car park/ shuttle stop, and the path is wheelchair/ stroller accessible. So anyone can easily visit Maroon Bells, also older people and families with very young children.
TIP: If you have some time to spare and are reasonably fit, don’t stop here! There are several beautiful hikes in the Maroon Bells area. More information below.
Maroon Creek Road
Maroon Creek Road is a mountain road that is only open when snow conditions allow it. Weather permitting, it opens around mid-May and closes end-October – early November.
Maroon Bells is a popular destination; the road is rather narrow, and parking at the trailhead is limited. You cannot just show up and expect to visit – it’s essential to make reservations well in advance.
You can choose between a parking permit for a private vehicle (limited availability) or a shuttle bus reservation. For more up-to-date information and reservations, please see this website.
Good to know: Please note that the high season here stretches pretty much during the entire summer season (the second half of May to the end of October). The months of September and October are extremely popular because the Maroon Bells area is famous for its fall foliage. This attracts many visitors in the early fall as well. And – as said before – in winter, the road is closed completely… So when the road is open, it’s always busy here.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Maroon Bells is from late May to early October. That’s when the roads are open and there is no snow on the hiking trails.
The best time to see fall foliage at Maroon Bells is typically in the second half of September. Just try to avoid the weekends in the 3rd and the 4th week of September as it gets really busy.
TIP: The best time of day to visit Maroon Bells is early morning. This will give you direct access (no shuttle required), fewer crowds, better weather, and more chance for beautiful reflections with the most iconic views of Maroon Lake. More info below.
READ ALSO: Best National Parks to Visit in September
Why Visit Maroon Bells in the Morning
There are many reasons to arrive at Maroon Bells as early in the morning as possible. First, you can expect to see the most beautiful reflections. Furthermore, there are fewer people around, and the chances of seeing wildlife are higher. And finally, the Colorado mountains are known for unpredictable afternoon storms, so it’s always best to go hiking in the morning.
We visited Maroon Bells in the busiest summer season, the second half of July. We left Aspen at around 7 AM, and it was perfect! The reflections on the lake were simply mesmerizing! By the time we were back from our hike a couple of hours later, reflections were completely gone, and the lake looked like any other mountain lake.
We started our day at Maroon Bells with a picnic breakfast by the lake. It has to be the best breakfast location ever! It’s just more reason to take an early start when visiting Maroon Bells.
The chances of seeing wildlife are also much bigger in the morning or early evening when there are not too many people around. We saw a moose from afar, but it was already late by the time we started our hike. So you might get luckier if you arrive even earlier and start hiking right away.
Maroon Bells Scenic Trail
The shortest and easiest hike at the Maroon Bells is the Maroon Bells Lake Trail. It’s an easy walk of about 1 mile that starts at the Maroon Bells trailhead by the car parking at the end of Maroon Creek Rd.
First, you reach the lake, and if you walk further, you continue on the Maroon Bells Lake Scenic Trail. It follows the northern side of the lake, goes a bit past it, and makes a short loop before bringing you back to the same path along the lake. This hike is about 3 miles in total.
Anyone in reasonable physical condition should be able to do this walk next to the lake. Part of the trail is a dirt path, so it’s not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs. But I wouldn’t hesitate to take a 2-3-year-old child hiking on this trail.
Halfway on the scenic loop trail, the road splits. You can either stay left and continue your hike following the lakeshore or go right in the direction of Crater Lake (which is what we did). And, of course, you can do both – the scenic trail first and then the Crater Lake hike or you can do the rest of the loop after you come back from Crater Lake.
Hiking to Crater Lake
Crater Lake Trail is a moderate 3.8 miles (6.1km) hike that brings you to the base of the Bells. Count about 1 hour each way, so 2 hours for the entire hike. It took us about 2.5 hours, but we made lots of photo stops and we also spent quite some time at Crater Lake.
Crater Lake Trail is a popular hike, but don’t get discouraged by the crowds at the beginning of the trail. Soon, people spread out and it doesn’t feel too busy. Remember that only a fraction of people visiting Maroon Bells actually go hiking beyond the scenic loop trail.
The first part of the trail, the scenic loop, took us forever. I kept on taking too many pictures and the kids were in exploring mode and didn’t feel like hiking yet. But the moment the path started to climb, they switched to a higher gear and we had difficulties keeping up with them. That’s how our children always are – the more challenging the hike, the more fun for them (here you can read about our hike to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park at 100°F in summer).
The first part of the Crater Lake hike goes through a beautiful aspen forest. There are no grand views here, but the forest is really pretty. Just imagine how beautiful it is in September when all the trees turn yellow…
As you climb higher, you will leave the forest and cross a steeper rocky area. It’s quite flat here and this section of the hike is not difficult at all. However, there is no shade anymore and it can get really warm in summer.
At the end of the hike, you will see the Bells again. Once you reach Crater Lake, you will be rewarded with stunning scenery. It’s well worth the hike that took us about 1.5 hrs one way.
We were planning to have a picnic lunch by the lake, but it was still much too early. The Crater Lake hike took us much less time than we had anticipated, even with three young children. So we spent some time by the lake, let the kids play while I took a hundred pictures of the beautiful reflections…
Hiking Back to Maroon Bells
Since it was too early for lunch and the weather was starting to change, we decided to walk back to Maroon Bells instead of staying at Crater Lake longer. We were planning to have lunch at the same scenic spot where we had breakfast.
The walk back down to Maroon Bells was much more relaxed and it took us about an hour. The views are stunning and walking back the same way gives you a different perspective.
Just watch the knees as it’s rather steep in some places! If you have weaker knees, you might want to take trekking poles with you. (We love the Black Diamond foldable hiking poles).
The moment we reached Maroon Bells, it started to rain. By the time we were back in our car, it was pouring. Farewell lunch with a view… We ran back to the car and headed back to Aspen.
By noon we were back in town, nicely in time for lunch. We carried all that food for nothing… Oh well, at least we used those rain jackets for once. As already said, the Colorado mountains are known for heavy afternoon storms. So this is just another good reason to visit Maroon Bells early in the morning!
Bear Safety
In a way, we were happy that there were many other people on this trail. Because this is a bear country and there were signs warning that you should carry bear spray when hiking to Crater Lake and beyond.
With so many people hiking on this trail and making noise, I think your chances of running into a bear are pretty slim. But you should always be alert! Especially if you hike early in the morning or late in the evening when wildlife is more active and there are fewer people around.
Crater Lake Hike with Kids
Yes, you can hike to Crater Lake with kids. But I will not tell you that the trail is easy because it’s not. There are some steeper sections and it requires some effort. However, it’s not a long hike and if you take your time, it’s really doable with kids.
Our boys hiked so well that we kept on passing other people all the time. At one moment, they even stopped to encourage a teenage boy who was about to give up the rather steep ascent.
If our 5-year olds could do it, then you and your kids can probably do it too. Just make sure that you wear good walking shoes, carry enough drinking water, have sun protection, and make regular stops along the way.
TIP: I would not take children younger than 4-5 years on the Crater Lake Trail unless you are prepared to carry them for a while. Maroon Lake Scenic Loop is a better alternative for families with very young kids.
Maroon Bells and Crater Lake – Worth It?
Yes, Maroon Bells is absolutely worth a visit. We included Aspen into our itinerary purely for Maroon Bells and would do it again without any hesitation.
I highly recommend the Maroon Bells and the Crater Lake hike when visiting or passing this area. It’s such an iconic place in Colorado; absolutely worth a trip.
If I had to pick my favorite places from our American road trip that included the Rocky Mountains, Arches, and Yellowstone as the main highlights, Maroon Bells would definitely be in my top 3.
What to Pack
There isn’t much special that you need to pack for Maroon Bells, especially if you drive all the way up to the lake and have your car next to you. I would advise wearing sensible shoes and carrying a rain jacket.
If you are planning to go hiking to Crater Lake, make sure to wear good hiking shoes though. A rain jacket is also a must as you never know when the weather will change. It’s also wise to wear a sun hat and use sunscreen lotion, as some areas have no or little shade.
In principle, it’s obligatory to carry bear spray when hiking beyond Maroon Bells. We didn’t know this in advance and therefore didn’t have one. I honestly don’t think that most of the day hikers had it with them either. But if you are reading this, then you are warned, so take one. It’s not like it costs a fortune, especially if you buy it online in advance.
If you are hiking without kids, a bear bell might be useful too. Hiking with kids, we never have to worry about being too silent and surprising bears by coincidence. 😉
Where to Stay
Aspen is the best base for visiting the Maroon Bells. It’s just 20 minutes drive and has all the facilities you may need. However, Aspen is a very popular – and pricey – mountain resort, so for the best availability, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance! We stayed at the Tyrolean Lodge in Aspen. It’s one of the few mid-budget hotels in the town center and has excellent reviews.
Snowmass Village is another good option, about 35-40 minute drive from the Maroon Bells. Accommodation here tends to be a lot more affordable than in Aspen, and you get more value for your money. Pokolodi Lodge and Stonebridge Inn are great mid-budget options here.
TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Aspen. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s available in the area for your stay. Check it out!
Maroon Bells FAQ
The road to Maroon Bells is open between mid-late May and late October – early November. Keep in mind that you need to reserve a parking space or a shuttle bus.
In summer, when the roads are open, the best way to get to Maroon Bells is by car or by shuttle bus. In winter, you can only get there on foot or snowshoeing.
The best view of Maroon Bells doesn’t require much hiking. It’s right at the car parking. Depending on how far you choose to walk, the Maroon Bells Lake trail is an easy walk of about 1 mile in total. Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail, following the circumference of the lake, is another easy hike of about 3 miles.
The best time to visit Maroon Bells is between June and the beginning of October. For the best experience, visit as early in the morning as possible. It’s less busy, the wildlife is more active, and the reflections on the lake are most beautiful.
Maroon Bells is a nature destination. You can admire the beautiful mountain scenery, take pictures of the reflections, go for a walk next to the lake, try to spot wildlife, and take a longer hike to explore the area deeper. We recommend hiking to Crater Lake as well.
READ ALSO:
Itinerary Suggestions for Rocky Mountain NP, Colorado
How to Visit Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver
More travel inspiration for some of our favorite places in the USA:
- Yellowstone National Park
- Mount Rushmore
- One Day in Grand Canyon
- Grand Canyon – Antelope Canyon Itinerary
- Sedona Day Trip
- Best Things to Do in Las Vegas
- LA Itinerary
- San Diego Itinerary
- Things to Do in Moab
- Death Valley National Park
- Glacier National Park Itinerary
- Maui Itinerary
- Two Days in Chicago
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Just a note: this information is no longer accurate. Specifically, one is *not* able to drive to Maroon Bells before 8am *and park* without a parking reservation. And these are few and far between and gone in spring when they release them. You can be dropped off between 6am and 8am without a reservation, but you cannot park.
So the strategy mentioned here for families no longer is viable without a reservation.
Thanks for the update, Josh, but we already updated this guide a while ago to say that reservations are now required and that the situation for families might change indeed. It seems that it did. I’ll update the post (once again). It’s hard to keep up with all the changes these days, isn’t it… The spontaneity in traveling to popular destinations seems to be going away completely. 🙁
Hi
Thanks for the detailed blog, very useful. We are planning to visit in 1st week of May and the road is not going to be open. Which is the nearest point we can start hiking and how long of a hike to see the bells? Is it possible to do it with two 5 yr olds?
Thanks
Raj
Hi Raj, I don’t know for sure, but I think that the Maroon Creek Road is closed behind the point where T-Lazy-7-Ranch is. So if you can drive that far, even from there, you would have to hike 6.2 miles (possibly in the snow) one way. It’s about 2-2,5 hours walking at a steady pace, in each direction. You can see the walking distance and the height difference on this map.
I wouldn’t recommend a hike like this with 5-year old kids.
The above-mentioned ranch seems to have snowmobile tours available, but I don’t know when they operate, if they go to Maroon Bells, and if they allow kids. If they do, this would be a much easier way to visit than trying to hike there.
And otherwise, there are many other nice things to do in Aspen, so maybe try to find a better alternative for this time of the year.
Jurga, we used your recommendations on the trip to Yellowstone, Tetons, Black Hills that we just did – fantastic! Headed to Colorado end of next month, and this is one of our stops. Thanks!
Glad to hear you found our blog useful and had a nice trip, Bodie. I’m sure you’ll enjoy Colorado as well. I hear that Maroon Bells are incredibly beautiful in September when all the aspen trees color yellow. So you should see it in the most magical season.
Have a great trip!
Maroon Bells are really stunning and one of the best sights where people and especially natural beauty lovers love to go. I am just planning to go there for the autumn colors.
Oh, lucky you! I’ve seen pictures of Maroon Bells in the fall and it looks amazing with all the aspen trees that turn yellow. Enjoy your trip!
I can see why they’d say that! And the water is so clear….must be cold though..brrr
Now that you say it.. I didn’t even feel the water as it looked cold indeed. 🙂
Those reflections are beautiful. I was surprised you said there were bears around though – I would be totally freaking out with kids but I’m guessing it’s just normal in Colorado and people don’t think twice. Your boys are so good with all the walking they do – they put my kids to shame!
There are bears in Colorado, in Yellowstone, and even in Moab which we didn’t know before the trip, Alex. That being said, we spent more than 2 weeks looking for bears, and then we finally saw two of them on the very last day of our trip, when we least expected it. As for hiking in a bear country with kids, they usually make so much noise that we have nothing to worry about. All wildlife is long gone before we get a chance to see it… 🙂