* NOTE: not all weather observatories update at the same frequency which is the reason why some locations may show data from stations that are further away than known closer ones. The red shale and siltstone form the fragile rock face and present their red hues. Share sensitive information only Featuring two of the most photographed peaks in the Elk Mountains, Maroon Bells in Colorado is an iconic hiking area near Aspen. Risky and unpredictable, climbing should be left to the fearless and sure-footed. 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. Super easy trail. They are your go-to website for all information you need to visit safely. Having 33 states and territories, 23 countries, and a grand collection of national and state parks in her travel log; her current goal is to visit all 50 states in the next 5 years. Enjoy your hike on a well-traveled and marked trail for the safest visit to these iconic mountains. Between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., visitors are required to take the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) bus. Its short and other than elevation, not strenuous. If you're looking for elevation gain, Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness has you covered. We here at MBS have been out having fun, June 10, 2020 Update: Here we go folks, we are fast approaching our 2020 summer season, West Maroon Pass is busy hikers again, snow continues to melt, flowers continue to grow, and, Conditions on West Maroon Pass have greatly improved since our last post. Maroon Bells Welcome Station is at 8,458 feet, giving you a good starting elevation for your hikes. Maroon Bells Information Line: (970) 945-3319. website belongs to an official government organization in the We use cookies on our website to support technical features that enhance your user experience. Easy trails include the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail. According to my personal calculations: Total elevation gain over 4 days was 9,850 vertical feet . The best time to visit the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is July through September. This popular campground offers a few first-come sites, but they book up early. website belongs to an official government organization in the Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass, Crater Lake and Maroon Creek to East Fork, Maroon Bells Lost Creek, Capitol Peak, Snowmass Mountain Loop. Follow Maroon Creek Road to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station. From here it is a steep descent to Snowmass Lake where you make camp 100 ft. from the lake, stream and trails. The Welcome Station is located 4.7 miles up Maroon Creek Road. Conditions: Muddy, Great! 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. (I wouldve been nervous if I had a bee allergy though.) 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. 82 south toward Aspen until you reach the roundabout (about 40 miles). Please email fitzisme@gmail.com! 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. 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. Silver Queen Campground(reserve now) - 5 campsites available, near Maroon Creek. Summer season camping at Maroon Bells is a wonderful, nature-immersive experience. Looking for 2 morning passes for Saturday 10/15 if anyone is selling! The campground is accessible to trailers and RVs and makes a great base camp for day hikes. Trail Option #2 - The Scenic Loop Trail at Maroon Bells. If you need a private vehicle pass for tomorrow 10/26 8am-5pm, I have a cold and wont be using mine. Thank you ! The Scenic Loop trail is an easy 1.9-mile round-trip hike that starts at the parking area and follows Maroon Lake to a bridge with incredible panoramic views of the Maroon Bells. Day 2 Cross the creek early before climbing to the top of W. Maroon Pass (12,500 ft.). Fishing is permitted in all streams and lakes within the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness subject to the regulations of Colorado Parks and Wildlife. ( The access road is closed during the winter, but you can still experience the Maroon Bells in all their snowy winter glory with a snowmobile tour: T-Lazy-7 Ranchs Snowmobile Tour. The Maroon Bells are made from hardened shale, which is fragile in nature. Ill post more details and things tomorrow, but lots of folks are eager, Over the past few days I was up on Mt Baldy and Avery with some views, Just a quick update here. Descend to Crater and then Maroon Lake to finish your loop. Satellite phones are recommended if you are planning long and overnight hikes. To experience this adventure with the peaks blanketed in snow and Maroon Creek crystal-like in the winter weather is an adventure you wont soon forget. The Four Pass Loop is considered a difficult and challenging route due to the elevation and terrain. Looking to buy parking for today 10/06 Aspen Highlands avoids the spotlight and feels like the locals' secret. United States. The trailhead is accessible by high-clearance 44 vehicles only. How many trails are in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness? 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. Crater Lake Trail Avalanche hazards exist in the mountains. Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness Photos (2,500) Directions Print/PDF map Length 8.0 miElevation gain 4,560 ftRoute type Out & back Try this 8.0-mile out-and-back trail near Aspen, Colorado. National Forest 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. They are necessary emergency equipment if you run into trouble and need to contact Mountain Rescue. Aspens 14ers represent some of the best mountaineering in Colorado. Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) leads daily FREE guided tours around Maroon Lake and to Crater Lake. It is a popular hike, and you can expect to find most of the tourist traffic on this trail. This trail is extremely rocky and dry. Winds increasing (light winds from the S on Thu morning, strong winds from the WSW by Fri afternoon). Day 4: Unnamed Lake - Trail Rider Pass - Snowmass Lake - Maroon Snowmass Trail (following Snowmass Creek) - Trailhead. 312.498.5984. To see the weather forecasts for the other elevations, use the tab navigation above the Hi all, looking for a midnight to midnight or day pass for a car or shuttle, for 10/7 - 10/8 or 10/8 - 10/9 A popular way to hike this trail is from Aspen to Crested Butte (this can also be done on the Eastern Maroon trail). Make sure to plan ahead and know before you go! Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock +120 Dogs are prohibited because of Moose inhabiting this area. 11h 31m This is a popular stretch of trail for hikers and backpackers alike, which takes visitors past some incredible scenery and some picturesque lakes. Park in the Aspen Highlands and purchase your bus ticket at the Four Mountains Sports Shop. 900 Grand Ave. Altitude sickness is something you need to consider whenever you are hiking in the mountains. Incredibly beautiful. There are three small campgrounds along Maroon Creek Road: Silver Bell Campground, Silver Queen Campground and Silver Bar Campground (primitive). 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. Dogs are welcome on the trails (and are allowed on the RFTA bus), but they must be kept on a leash. Summiting your first 14er? In the winter, the road is closed and converted into a cross country ski trail about 6 miles from the trailhead, making it around 12 miles round trip. For 2021, A permit is required to access this area by vehicle. From Highway 82 take the Maroon Creek Road exit at the roundabout on the West edge of town. 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. 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. Please note that Bear Canisters are required while backpacking in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. Add To Your Experience. It offers breathtaking scenery on this approachable short hike that has minimal elevation gain. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told. There is a cross-country ski track along the road as well as a groomed snowmobile track. Maroon Creek Road (CR 13) is an intermediate/moderate road you can road bike that leads to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. The best time to visit the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness is July through September. What a wonderful hike! Maroon Lake, where Maroon Creek Road ends, is situated at an elevation of 9,580 feet. website belongs to an official government organization in the Climbing the Maroon Bells is an entirely different adventure than hiking a 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. This hike requires planning and a solid knowledge of the areas terrain. Day 1 Maroon-Snowmass TH at Maroon Lake Hike to Crater Lake and turn south along the West Maroon Trail. Directions: Located 10 miles southwest of Aspen, Colorado, on Maroon Creek Road. Maroon Creek Road is closed from mid-November to Memorial Day weekend. 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. The Wilderness area surroundsthe extremely popularMaroon Bells Scenic Areawhich is a major access point for Wilderness travel. We have shuttle passes for 11:45 - but worried that we might not get back to DEN on time for a late night flight. Maroon Bells. The Maroon Bells Scenic Area is a recreation fee area; there is a mandatory fee. Learn more about Maroon Bells reservations >>. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zone Map Please contact the United States Forest Service to confirm whether the road is open before your trip. Please contact 6692940313, if you are willing sell. Make sure to plan ahead and know before you go! 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. 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. Even saw a family of deer grazing. Beautiful views! Loved this hike in early summer. Whatever you have planned for the day, you can find the perfect trail for your next trip to Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness. 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. 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. 900 Grand Ave. ; 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 . on official, secure websites. It is the fourth largest established wilderness area in the state of Colorado. Combat altitude sickness by avoiding alcohol, drinking plenty of water, including complex carbs in your diet, and add hiking altitude slowly each day. Want to report conditions for this trail? The famous Four Pass Loop backpacking route withinMaroon Bells Snowmass Wildernessis an international treasure. 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. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 7 h 8 min to complete. Map showing recreational areas. A: The drive from Denver to the shuttle pick up for Maroon Bells (Maroon Bells Basecamp) is 3.5 hours. The best way to see the Maroon Bells is to take the public bus operated by the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA). A moderately rated, out-and-back hike that is also accessible from the welcome station is Crater Lake Trail. Taking time to literally catch your breath will help get your hike off to a great start. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. The Maroon Bells are made from hardened shale, which is fragile in nature. Maroon Bells Access: Reservations are requiredto visit Maroon Bells and associatedtrailheads by personal vehicle or shuttle. 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. Unfortunately the shuttle leaves before golden hour, when the bells are most red and we really wanted to catch and photograph it! The scenic area is accessed at the end of Maroon Creek Road (CR 13). If you (and your group) plan to camp in a permitted zone, you will need to reserve a spot in each zone that you plan to camp. There are several ways to enjoy beyond this scenic area. The combination of these rocks comes together for a changeable, highly photographed maroon mountain. This is a popular trail for hiking, horse riding, and mountain biking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Silver Bell Campground is the largest campground and is located at 8,460 feet. This includes overnight parking for those backpacking into the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness. Temperatures will be below freezing (max 0C on Mon afternoon, min -7C on Tue night). Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail. Reservations are required, and there is a five-day stay limit. 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. AllTrails has 73 great trails for hiking, birding, and backpacking and more. Maroon Bells Shuttle Reservations & Parking Permits Reservations are required to access the Maroon Bells Scenic Area and related amenities. LockA locked padlock The Interagency, Senior & Golden Access Passes are honored. United States government. https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recarea/?recid=82346. Easy trail with beautiful views and lots of waterfalls. Sign up for exclusive offers, new and updates, events, and more in your inbox. We were hoping someone could give us a ride back to the welcome station, 9 minuets from the lake after golden hour! 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 Facebook page for updates on upcoming events in and around Aspen. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) offers guided bus tours to the Maroon Bells. What is the longest trail in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness? In a state known for mountains, the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness stands out among Colorado's mountainous locales. (970)945-2521, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recarea/?recid=40555. Hiking to the Maroon Bells provides immersive access to breathtaking scenes in one of Colorados natural wonders. We have one extra shuttle pass for today 10/15 at 2:40pm. #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. They also have RV and trailer sites along with the classic tent site. Pro tip: Visit mid-week when there's a higher chance you could have the place all to yourself. Tag us in your hiking adventureson social@AspenCofor a chance to be reposted on our page and website! Campsites have a five-day stay limit. Find more information on Maroon Bells reservations, permits and fees. West Maroon Bells Pass is a popular 7.8-mile, difficult-rated trail that offers hikers and backpackers stunning views. Temperatures will be below freezing (max 0C on Mon afternoon, min -7C on Tue night). 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. Silver Bar Campground is a primitive campground with four sites available on the banks of Maroon Creek. Aspen Chamber Resort Association 650.465.7696, Looking for a day pass 10/10 also have one I cant use 10/12. The left trail or the scenic trail follows a river and crosses two bridges, then climbs steeply to meet with the Maroon-Snowmass Trail. (231)414-7597. Bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Map Information, White River FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Particularly when you are in Colorado. 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. Absolutely gorgeous hike, as of 10/9 aspens still looked amazing. 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. The sites are open May to October, and reservations are required. Temperatures will be below freezing (max -3C on Thu morning, min -11C on Thu night). Reservations are available from www.aspenchamber.org. 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. When you have finished hiking the Maroons Bells, check out these other amazing Colorado hikes: the nine most stunning hikes in Colorado. All rights reserved. We also use analytics & advertising services. 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; . Of the 729 found, just 51% were outside the 100-foot buffer from streams, lakes and trails, according to the plan. It features the Elk Mountains, Conundrum Hot Springs, Maroon Lake, and many other popular outdoor destinations. 60 miles of free cross country ski and snowshoe trails between Aspen, Snowmass, and Basalt Colorado. Day 3: East Fork Avalanche Creek - Silver Creek Pass - Lead King Basin - Geneva Lake - Unnamed Lake South-West of Trail Rider Pass. This trail is estimated to be 97.7 km long. Want to find the best trails in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness for an adventurous hike or a family trip? A heavy fall of snow, heaviest during Sat afternoon. Spring Enjoy open meadows, abundant wildlife, and lakeside sunrises, in spring when it can feel like you have the peaks all to yourself. Contact for current Maroon Bells information. Only chance to visit Maroon Bells today / tomorrow. Maroon Lake: Winter Route. Reviews (1,375) Photos (2,080) Activities (903) Completed (3,993) 5 4 3 2 1 4.8 United States. Those with campground reservations do not need a reservation for parking at Maroon Lake. 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 Access: Reservations are required to visit Maroon Bells and associated trailheads by personal vehicle or shuttle. 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. 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. Trail Report. In this scenic area you will find extensive hiking trails, the aspen highlands, and opportunities to ski. 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. An official website of the White River No matter the season, beauty abounds at the Maroon Bells, which is why its become a bucket list destination for so many. And also Ill send you some Epic shots of the bells! If you're looking for elevation gain, Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness has you covered. 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 Semi-retired from a long career in marketing, Sandi is making the most of her boomer traveling, go-go years, with a goal to visit as many places as possible. The Best Views The beauty of the Maroon Bells. Touted by many as the most photographed peaks in North America, once you experience their beauty, you will certainly agree. Use thisMaroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zone Mapto understand which areas require overnight permits.
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