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Last Updated on December 18, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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Summit the Maroon Bells-Colorados Iconic Twin Peaks
Join us as we embark on an unforgettable journey to Summit the Maroon Bells, Colorado’s Iconic Twin Peaks. Renowned for their awe-inspiring beauty, the Maroon Bells are among the most photographed peaks in North America.
- The peaks are named Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak.
- Distinctive maroon color due to geological features.
- The most popular activity is summiting the peaks for panoramic views.
- Several routes are available for summiting the Maroon Bells.
- Maroon Bells is considered among the most difficult Fourteeners.
- Conditions can be unpredictable; climbers must be prepared.
- Various outdoor activities: hiking, camping, and photography.
The Maroon Bells are perhaps the most iconic peaks in Colorado. Located in the Elk Mountains near Aspen, these twin summits are beloved by hikers and photographers alike.
The Maroon Bells offer a challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. If you’re up for a challenge, summiting the Maroon Bells is a must-do Colorado adventure.
The Maroon Valley mountains and lakes were created by over 300 million years of geological activity, including sedimentation, uplift, and erosion by wind, water, and ice.
The U.S. Forest Service believes the mountains got their maroon color from the weathering of hematite- an iron mineral. Similarly, Maroon Lake was formed in a basin created by Ice Age glaciers.
I am getting back to conquering the Maroon Bells. Here’s everything you need to know about trekking to the top of the Maroon Bells.
When To Go
The best time to hike the Maroon Bells is in the summer or fall when the weather is mild, and there is less snow. However, the Maroon Bells can be hiked year-round, conditions permitting.
If you plan a winter hike, check the weather forecast and avalanche conditions before heading out.
How to get there.
The Maroon Bells are located in the White River National Forest, about 10 miles from Aspen. The easiest way to get there is by car, although you can also take a bus from Aspen or Snowmass Village.
There is a large parking area at the Maroon Bells trailhead, but it often fills up early in the day during peak season. If you can’t find a spot, you may park further down the road and walk to the trailhead.
The area around the natural landmark is restricted during summer and fall because so many people visit during those times.
Autumn, in particular, is beautiful, with the Maroon Bells surrounded by clouds and blue skies dotted with Aspen groves that have turned golden.
You might also want to consider booking your Aspen airport transportation in advance so you don’t have to worry about parking at the trailhead.
The Hike
The Maroon Bells hike is about 7 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 3,000 feet. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow.
However, it is steep in places and challenging for inexperienced hikers. Some of the most appreciated hikes are:
1. Maroon Lake Scenic Trail
This short and scenic 1-mile hike starts at the parking area and loops around the lake; it’s also worth watching for the beaver pond on your walk.
2. Maroon Creek Trail
Beginning at Maroon Lake, this 3.2-mile one-way trail is excellent for wildlife spotting animals such as mule deer, red fox, bighorn sheep, porcupines, and various birds while traveling through alpine meadows, aspen forests, and rocky slopes.
3. Crater Lake Trail
With a challenging and rewarding 3.6-mile round-trip, this hike is perfect for hikers looking to view beautiful Aspen woodlands and Crater Lake.
Be sure to start at the Deadly Bells Kiosk from Maroon Lake Trail, and come prepared for a rocky ascent with cooler temperatures, including thunderstorms.
Allow yourself plenty of time to complete the hike, and take breaks as needed. The views from the top are well worth the effort!
4. Maroon Bells Camping
If you’re looking for breathtaking views of aspen groves, wildflower meadows, spruce, and fir forests, look no further than Silver Bell Campground.
Situated on the banks of Maroon Creek at 8,460 feet in the White River National Forest, this campground offers 14 tent sites and easy access to excellent trout fishing in Maroon Creek.
Visiting in the Winter
You can’t drive to Maroon Creek Road in the cold months but can cross-country ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile there.
T-Lazy-7 Ranch takes visitors on a beautiful snowmobiling tour of the area that includes sights like the stunning Maroon Bells amid wintery meadows and aspen groves.
Anchored by a reflective lake and two giant snow-striped mountaintops, Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, is a blissful panorama that changes colors with the seasons.
What To Bring
Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Hiking boots or shoes with good traction and layers of clothing that can be added or removed as needed are also essential.
In summer, sunscreen and insect repellent are a must. Bring warm clothing, gloves, a hat, and traction devices for your shoes or boots in winter.
A camera is also a good idea to capture the incredible views from the top of the Maroon Bells.
Tips for a successful hike
Start early; this will help you avoid the crowds and the day’s heat.
Grab the Right Gear
While having a lot of gear for hiking is unnecessary, some equipment can make your hikes more enjoyable.
If you plan on making hiking a regular activity, here are some items that may improve your experience.
CamelBak is lighter than most other hydration brands, and its design motivates users to drink more water throughout the day.
Hiking Shirt and Pants
When you’re at an REI or Columbia, the salespeople will attempt to sell you hiking clothes. The practical side of your brain is probably telling you not to listen.
But don’t worry–hiking gear is designed to be breathable and withstand different weather conditions (to some degree).
This clothing insulates against cold temperatures and allows sweat and rain to dry quickly. Buy your hiking shoes after getting fitted at a store like REI.
You’ll want to feel comfortable in these shoes since you’ll wear them for hours, so try them before purchasing.
Hiking socks are vital to a comfortable hike. Wear one pair while the other dries out.
The night and morning before your hike, be sure to eat well. Dinner with lots of protein and carbohydrates will give you the energy you need for the next day. Make sure to have something filling to band on an empty stomach for breakfast.
You’ll be using a lot more energy than usual walking uphill, so it’s essential to fuel up beforehand!
Because Colorado’s weather is so unpredictable, wearing layers when hiking is essential. The temperature can drop significantly as you climb higher into the mountains, so even on a warm day, pack a fleece or light jacket.
It’s never a bad idea to carry a waterproof jacket that doubles as a windbreaker, pants, beanie, and gloves — especially when hiking at higher altitudes.
Check the Weather
Colorado weather is notoriously changeable, so it’s always best to be prepared for anything. Even if the forecast doesn’t show rain, afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so throwing a rain jacket in your backpack is never bad.
Keep an eye out for storm clouds while you’re hiking, and double-check the weather right before you head out.
That way, if conditions look like they might take a turn for the worse, you can turn around early rather than being caught off guard miles from home.
Appropriate Daypack is Imperative
Hiking backpacks come in all shapes and sizes, but daypacks are the smallest and most versatile. Perfect for short or long hikes, choose a daypack that speaks to your style and preference.
An essential for any nature-goer, be sure to bring a First Aid Kit on your hike in case of injury. Before you go on your next hike, buy or create a small first-aid kit to take with you.
Your daypack should have a designated pouch for this, which includes supplies such as moleskin (to prevent blisters), bandages and band-aids of various sizes, tweezers, gauze roll, antiseptic towelettes, antibiotic cream, multi-use tool, ibuprofen.
Never underestimate the sun’s power in Colorado – always bring a hat and sunglasses! Also, don’t forget to pack a daypack with everything else you’ll need.
Be Aware of the Symptoms of Altitude Sickness
Signs of altitude sickness are but are not limited to headache, feeling and being sick, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite, and shortness of breath. It’s nothing to be ashamed of if you need to lower your sights or ask for help.
If you’re flying in from a place with a significantly higher altitude, bring some canned oxygen along — it might just put your mind at ease.
If you’re feeling ill, drink more water before taking ibuprofen. Ibuprofen will only hide the problem; consuming H2O might fix it.
Bring a flashlight, snacks, a compass, a first-aid kit, and a detailed map on every hike—you never know when you might get lost.
Take your time: The Maroon Bells are a challenging hike, so don’t try to rush it. Enjoy the views and take plenty of breaks.
Be prepared. Pack everything you need, and check the weather forecast before you go. And to make your trip even more pleasurable, don’t forget to book a trustworthy service from a luxury transportation company in advance.
Why are Maroon Bells so Famous?
The Maroon Bells are special in natural attractions due to their unique beauty and accessibility. It is famous for its stunning visual appeal and prominence in the Rocky Mountains.
These majestic peaks, nestled just south of Aspen, rise more than 14,000 feet above sea level, cloaked in snow throughout summer.
Their distinctive maroon-colored bell shape, mirrored in the pristine Maroon Lake below, is a sight that draws in thousands of visitors each year.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to ViewCation
Wrapping Up
Summit the Maroon Bells, Colorado’s iconic twin peaks, for a challenging and rewarding experience. Named Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, these distinctive mountains get their maroon color from the unique geological features they possess.
The most popular activity here is undoubtedly summiting the peaks, which offer breathtaking panoramic views that captivate locals and tourists alike. Several routes are available for those who wish to summit the Maroon Bells, catering to various levels of hiking proficiency.
However, it’s important to remember that the Maroon Bells are among the most difficult Fourteeners to climb. The conditions can be unpredictable, thus climbers must be prepared physically and mentally for any eventuality.
Besides summiting, the Maroon Bells offer many outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and photography. These activities further enhance the allure of these peaks, making visiting the Maroon Bells a must for any outdoor enthusiast.
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