Aspen Highlands Ski Area | Colorado Ski Snowboard Resort | Aspen Snowmass Aspens 14ers represent some of the best mountaineering in Colorado. 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. Capitol Lake Zone Designated Campsites Permits are available atrecreation.gov. Risky and unpredictable, climbing should be left to the fearless and sure-footed. All three require advanced reservations, and none offer direct views of Maroon Bells from the campground. For up-to-the-minute shuttle and parking information, visit RFTA Maroon Bells. (970)945-2521, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recarea/?recid=81118. A heavy fall of snow, heaviest during Tue afternoon. This popular campground offers a few first-come sites, but they book up early. Hiring a professional guide service for extended and more involved hikes is a smart choice when visiting the Elk Mountains near Aspens Maroon Bells. Plan ahead to start and finish your hike early, always check the weather report before heading out and come prepared with a rain jacket. . Or, park your car at the Aspen Highlands parking garage for $6 per hour. Guide To Backpacking The Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop Maroon Lake: Winter Route. A: The drive from Denver to the shuttle pick up for Maroon Bells (Maroon Bells Basecamp) is 3.5 hours. Fishing is allowed at Maroon Lake and along Maroon Creek, but as with all public water in Colorado, a state-issued fishing license is required. Maroon Lake Scenic Trail To see the weather forecasts for the other elevations, use the tab navigation above the During the summer season, access to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area is restricted to the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Avalanche hazards exist in the mountains. Visited in late October. on official, secure websites. Because the natural landmark is so popular, there is limited access to the area during the summer and fall, and reservations are required to visit the Maroon Bells Scenic Area by car or shuttle. 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. Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. website belongs to an official government organization in the 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. Only chance to visit Maroon Bells today / tomorrow. A: Maroon Creek Road is open to vehicular traffic late spring until late fall, but reservations are required for parking and to access to Scenic Area. I was taking a photo yesterday and All the people present began to applaud and it turned out that there was a young man asking his beloved to marry him and since I had my back turned I asked him to please do it again and he gave me the pleasure of going back to his knee and asking for marriage again God bless their union and thanks for doing it again for my to witness everything was perfect. LockA locked padlock Where is the best place to hike in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness? Learn more about Maroon Bells reservations >>. Dogs are permitted in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, but must be on a leash at all times. The sites are open May to October, and reservations are required. Make sure to plan ahead and know before you go! Map Information. A: Maroon Creek Road typically opens in mid-May, but this opening date is contingent on weather. Adventure isn't hard to find at Lost Forest with ziplines, ropes courses, an alpine coaster, miles of hiking trails, fishing, disc golf, a climbing wall, and more. No matter the season, beauty abounds at the Maroon Bells, which is why its become a bucket list destination for so many. 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. The Four Pass Loop is a difficult, 28-mile loop trail located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area in Central Colorado. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. 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. Maroon Lake, where Maroon Creek Road ends, is situated at an elevation of 9,580 feet. Directions: Located 10 miles southwest of Aspen, Colorado, on Maroon Creek Road. Map showing recreational areas. A: The Maroon Bells is located in the Elk Mountains south of Aspen. United States. Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail. The best time to hike in the Maroon Bells area is late July through September when the snow has melted and the temperatures are still optimal. The Maroon Bells Scenic Area is a recreation fee area; there is a mandatory fee. 82 to the roundabout on the west edge of town, choose the exit for Maroon Creek Road and keep going about 4.7 miles until you reach a welcome station. The trail climbs steadily but not steeply. Please contact the United States Forest Service to confirm whether the road is open before your trip. It is strongly advisable to set out early in the morning, as thunderstorms are prevalent in the afternoon and you want to be off the peak at that time. For the best experience possible, be sure to bring proper shoes, sunscreen and drinking water. From Aspen, take Hwy. Maroon Lake: Winter Route: 392 Reviews, 340 Photos, Map - Colorado For additional information, please contact the Aspen-Sopris Ranger District Monday-Friday 8am-4:30 pmat (970) 963-2266. Conditions: Muddy, Great! My only chance to be at maroon bells this year With 25 miles of downhill trails, join us for a free flowing adventure through our high elevation evergreen forests and moderately pitched Aspen tree groves. Check out our first timer's guide here. Trails 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. In the spirit of healing and education, we acknowledge the 48 contemporary tribes with historic ties to the state of Colorado. Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. Whether she is leaving on a jet plane or exploring the open road, Sandi loves to visit destinations that offer cool and interesting activities, fabulous culinary creations, and fun libations. From Highway 82 take the Maroon Creek Road exit at the roundabout on the West edge of town. Hiking to the Maroon Bells provides immersive access to breathtaking scenes in one of Colorados natural wonders. Is anyone selling a parking day pass for 10/19? White River National Forest - Maroon Bells Scenic Area According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness is. Thank you!! Altitude sickness is something you need to consider whenever you are hiking in the mountains. This includes overnight parking for those backpacking into the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness. This trail is extremely rocky and dry. connected to the .gov website. A: Yes, but it takes more effort than in fall and summer. 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. This trail is often used as a starting point for extended backpacking trips into the wilderness. Advance reservation overnight permits are required for the busiest areas of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness including Conundrum Hot Springs, Capitol Lake, Crater Lake, and the Four Pass Loop (including Snowmass Lake and Geneva Lake). Fishing is permitted in all streams and lakes within the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness subject to the regulations of Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The stunning Elk Range towers with dramatic peaks. Snow makes route finding difficult. Maroon Bells Welcome Station is at 8,458 feet, giving you a good starting elevation for your hikes. Add To Your Experience. Silver Bell Campground(reserve now) - 14 sites available on the banks of Maroon Creek. Day 2 Cross the creek early before climbing to the top of W. Maroon Pass (12,500 ft.). 516 710 8781 The Welcome Station is located 4.7 miles up Maroon Creek Road. Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock The connection of trails that forms the loop typically starts from Maroon Lake in the Maroon Bells. We also use analytics & advertising services. Wind will be generally light. 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. This 27.1-mile, difficult-rated backpacking trail is best saved for very experienced hikers. (970)945-2521, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recarea/?recid=40555. If the views of this pristine valley look familiar, its likely because the Maroon Bells are the most photographed mountains in America and for good reason. Absolutely gorgeous hike, as of 10/9 aspens still looked amazing. Contact 719-368-4365. According to WebMD, the altitude sickness phenomenon is caused by the drop in air pressure resulting in less oxygen as you gain altitude. Shortly after this crossing take a right up the cutoff trail towards Trail Rider Pass (12,420 ft.). Stay in the know, sign up for ourMonthly Newsletter& keep up-to-date on Aspen events, activities, lodging deals and more. Supervisor's Office Please seal and store food in a container inside a vehicle or in bear boxes provided at the campsite. 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. Let our lifts whisk you away 11,000 feet into the sky, where you can enjoy incredible views, delicious outdoor dining, and activities for the whole family. Lots of bees, but they mostly stayed away. Looking for a more strenuous hike? 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. Note: You must arrive before 8am to park from late May to late October. 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. The Maroon/Snowmass - Crater Lake trail is a short and very popular day hike over rocky trails, through aspen groves and around rock formations to a high mountain lake. The best way to see the Maroon Bells is to take the public bus operated by the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA). According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness is. You can see our previous June update for more detailed information, West Maroon Pass and Schofield Pass Update June 16, 2021, July 20, 2019 Conditions Update For West Maroon Pass, Quick West Maroon Pass Update July 13, 2019. Looking for an evening parking permit for 10/15 that anyone is selling. Crater Lake Zone Designated Campsites (This geological information was sourced from the United States Department of Agriculture. The wilderness is named after two of the most popular peaks Maroon Bells and Snowmass Peak. Maroon Bells, Colorado - Camping, Hiking & Biking | Aspen Snowmass There are seven 14ers in this range, and hiking them unprepared can be dangerous. Maroon Bells Four Pass Loop Campsites There are a few regulations about backcountry camping and campfires that you have to follow: Camping is not allowed within one hundred (100) feet of any lake, stream, or trail Camping is not allowed within 1/4 mile of Crater Lake or Snowmass Lake except for designated campsites. All bike riders are expected to adhere to proper bicycling etiquette, including riding single file on the right side of the road (in the direction of traffic) and wearing helmets. ( West Maroon Bells Pass is a popular 7.8-mile, difficult-rated trail that offers hikers and backpackers stunning views. From here, drop down into the forest of Fravert Basin to find a camp above or south of the trail before Kings waterfall. Trails. ) or https:// means you've safely White River National Forest - Four Pass Loop - West Maroon to Buckskin They are necessary emergency equipment if you run into trouble and need to contact Mountain Rescue. 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. Park in the Aspen Highlands and purchase your bus ticket at the Four Mountains Sports Shop. Maroon Creek Road (CR 13) is an intermediate/moderate road you can road bike that leads to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. Find more information on Maroon Bells reservations, permits and fees. Please call (970) 945-3319 or visit the Forest Service link below for more information: No conditions reported in the past 7 days. Spring Enjoy open meadows, abundant wildlife, and lakeside sunrises, in spring when it can feel like you have the peaks all to yourself. Willing to pay! This table gives the weather forecast for Maroon Bells at the specific elevation of 4315 m. For more information, see here. The Maroon Bells Scenic Area is an open area with trails at the portal to the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness surrounding Maroon Lake. Super easy trail. Thank you ! We even saw trout in the lake! Crater Lake Trail 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. This hike requires planning and a solid knowledge of the areas terrain. Please please please reach out at 9198862341 if you can help, Looks for a permit anytime this weekend. The higher you go elevation-wise, the more naked aspen trees you encounter. Bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Special regulations apply, and overnight permits are required in some areas. The West Maroon Trail follows the West Maroon Creek, which flows from West Maroon Pass to Crater Lake. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. Maroon Creek Road in Aspen, CO - Aspen Trail Finder The Maroon Bells scenic area comes under the supervision of the United States Forest Service and is located in the White River National Forest. It offers 14 sites on the banks of beautiful Maroon Creek. Car camping and van camping are not permitted at the Day Use lot or the Overnight Parking lots at Maroon Bells, nor the Aspen Highlands Parking Garage. Please note that Bear Canisters are required while backpacking in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Our advanced weather models allow us to provide distinct weather forecasts for several elevations of Day 4: Unnamed Lake - Trail Rider Pass - Snowmass Lake - Maroon Snowmass Trail (following Snowmass Creek) - Trailhead. ( Maroon Bells Reservations | Aspen Satellite phones are recommended if you are planning long and overnight hikes. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 55 min to complete. Crater Lake Trail Best Trails in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) offers guided bus tours to the Maroon Bells. See Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness for detailed information. This Wilderness is located inColorado within the Elk Mountains and spans the White River and Gunnison National Forests. Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. The left trail or the scenic trail follows a river and crosses two bridges, then climbs steeply to meet with the Maroon-Snowmass Trail. The trail traverses four mountain passes over 12,000 feet and can be hiked in 3-5 days. All rights reserved. The weather forecast for Maroon Bells is: A heavy fall of snow, heaviest during Tue afternoon. Loved this hike in early summer. White River National Forest - Maroon-Snowmass Trailhead, #1975 Maroon Bells Shuttle Reservations & Parking Permits Reservations are required to access the Maroon Bells Scenic Area and related amenities. connected to the .gov website. We have one extra shuttle pass for today 10/15 at 2:40pm. From early October to late June, campsites, trails, and mountain passes are snow covered and the trailheads may be inaccessible. Trail Option #2 - The Scenic Loop Trail at Maroon Bells. North Star Nature Preserve. Enjoy your hike on a well-traveled and marked trail for the safest visit to these iconic mountains. Four Pass Loop - Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness, CO (28 mile loop) Maroon Creek Trail: 171 Reviews, Map - Colorado | AllTrails 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. Permits and overnight fees are required for several areas of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Maroon Bells Access: Reservations are requiredto visit Maroon Bells and associatedtrailheads by personal vehicle or shuttle. This 1.9-mile, easy loop trail takes you out past Maroon Lake and back. The short (1.75 mi one way) hike to Crater Lake offers a preview of the Four Pass Loop and a great spot for a day hike. United States government. For a wider overview of the weather, consult the Weather Map of Colorado. Maroon Creek Trail T-Lazy-7 Ranch offers a snowmobile tour of the snow-dusted Maroon Bells, which includes the opportunity to cruise miles of groomed trails amid wintery meadows and dense aspen groves. Check the Maroon Bells Hotline for up-to-date road conditions. Please text 608-577-9810. Frequently asked trail questions about Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness. Bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Official websites use .gov A .gov 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. 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. 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. I have an over night parking pass for 10/10 for sale 518-813-6483, Looking for parking pass for maroon bells on 10/8 please call or text 585-820-8885. There is a cross-country ski track along the road as well as a groomed snowmobile track. Trail was closed when I went this weekend Jan 28 2023. Summer season camping at Maroon Bells is a wonderful, nature-immersive experience. Now, hiking trails provide access to plenty of these photo-worthy scenes in the White River National Forest, including hypnotizing fields of wildflowers and anglers seeking catches in tranquil Maroon Lake. This National Park To Honor Four-Legged Furry Residents On One Special Day What Visitors Need To Know, My 7 Favorite U.S. Mountain Towns To Visit In The Summer, 5 Unique Stays In Rhodes, Greece With A View, 13 Best Experiences At Colorados Luxurious Pagosa Springs Resort, 10 Delicious Restaurants To Experience In Glenwood Springs, Colorado, 10 Copper Mountain Vacation Rentals Steps From The Slopes, 13 Best Things To See And Do In Glenwood Springs, Colorado, For details on Quillt's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our, 12 gorgeous luxury vacation rentals in or near Aspen, The Top 15 Colorado Vacation Rentals In The Mountains. Hiking with a trained and experienced guide is an investment in your skill development. Descend to Crater and then Maroon Lake to finish your loop. Maroon Bells shuttle and parking reservations. Reservations are required, and there is a five-day stay limit. Bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Followed this same trail back to the trailhead the next day. Located just 10 miles west of Aspen or 16 from Snowmass in a glacial valley, the 14,000-foot bell-shaped peaks (fourteeners) truly capture the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. (I wouldve been nervous if I had a bee allergy though.) It features the Elk Mountains, Conundrum Hot Springs, Maroon Lake, and many other popular outdoor destinations. Open May through October, there is a five-day limit, and reservations are required. United States government. The famous Four Pass Loop backpacking route within Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness is an international treasure. Want to report conditions for this trail? How many trails are in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness? Between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., visitors are required to take the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) bus. #5 - Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass, #9 - Crater Lake and Maroon Creek to East Fork, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness Length: 20.6 mi Est. Official websites use .gov A .gov Hiking Maroon Bells: Everything You Need To Know Region: Mountain West (Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, Central Colorado) Distance: 28 miles (3-4 days) Physical Difficulty . This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. 970-925-3445. With hikes for every skill level, anyone can experience the splendor of the area, but no matter the ease of the hike that you have planned, you should always come prepared. From here it is a steep descent to Snowmass Lake where you make camp 100 ft. from the lake, stream and trails. This is a popular trail for hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. This 26 mile (42 km) circuit climbs over four mountain passes higher than 12,000ft, past alpine lakes and among high Elk Range peaks. Crater Lake, Maroon Snowmass Trailhead, Aspen - ProTrails National Forest Grooming Report; Aspen; Aspen Cross Country Center; Trail 10 - Aspen Golf Course; Trail 20 - Moore Trail; Trail 30 - Aspen High School Trails; Trail 40 - Marolt Open Space Trail; . Follow Maroon Creek Road to all designated parking lots. Those with campground reservations do not need a reservation for parking at Maroon Lake. 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. Be aware of avalanche risks. Take note that during the summer months, parking is only allowed before 8 a.m. or after 5 p.m. at Maroon Lake. Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) leads daily FREE guided tours around Maroon Lake and to Crater Lake. United States government. 281-683-6447, Looking for a day pass for any day honestly 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. 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. Explore the Maroon Bells: What You Need to Know Visit the Aspen Resort Chamber Association website for reservations and updated dates on each summer. Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass We've got you covered, with trails ranging from 49 to 5,547 meters in elevation gain. White River National Forest - Maroon/Snowmass - Crater Lake TH #1975 Aspen Highlands avoids the spotlight and feels like the locals' secret. 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, Restrooms available at day use areas at Maroon Lake. Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail: 1,375 Reviews, 2,080 Photos, Map 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. Temperatures will be below freezing (max 0C on Mon afternoon, min -7C on Tue night). 2023 Colorado Tourism Office. Advance reservation permits are required for overnight stays in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. As of this writing, Four Pass Loop is the number-one-rated trail in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness by AllTrails hiker reviews. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 42 min to complete. 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. Its short and other than elevation, not strenuous. (970)945-2521, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recreation/recarea/?recid=82346. Around the 3.5 mile mark you must cross the creek (credit: mrubenstein01) The trail steadily climbs up in elevation as you get closer to West Maroon Pass. Four Pass Loop: 1562 Reviews, Map - Colorado | AllTrails These trails have an average 4.5-star rating from 16,835 AllTrails community reviews. Generally considered a challenging route. Early in your outing, you'll get a great view of the Maroon Bells to the west. Renowned for its acclaimed skiing and celebrity sightings, Aspen is home to the most iconic 14,000 footers (14ers) in Colorado, the Maroon Bells. Maroon Lake's water levels are pretty low but you can still get nice reflective photos if your arrive before 9am (and assuming no wind). Access to the Maroon Creek Trail is available nearby as well as excellent trout fishing in Maroon Creek. Risky and unpredictable, climbing should be left to the fearless and sure-footed. A heavy fall of snow, heaviest during Sat afternoon.

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