Maroon Bells, Aspen: Address, Phone Number, Maroon Bells Reviews: 5/5
Maroon Bells
Maroon Bells
5
Full view
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
2,587 reviews
Excellent
2,335
Very good
193
Average
39
Poor
6
Terrible
14
Rich J
Naples, FL372 contributions
Oct 2021
We were on a 16 day trip comprising 13 states and this was one of the highlights. The whole trip revolved around being here on October 6 and 7 for the sunset and sunrise. Back in July we got an online vehicle pass, $10, for the sunset on the 6th and one for the sunrise on the 7th. We needed them to enter and to park, however, when we got there in the morning no one was in the entry booth at 6:15 am. We were very fortunate that we had excellent weather for both. Our principal goal was photography. We saw a very nice fox right where you enter the viewing area. See the image. We also two moose on the way out in the evening. Much to our surprise the water level was quite low but we enjoyed our images non the less.
This scene reminded us of Moraine Lake in Banf National Park Canada. Both beautiful areas.
This scene reminded us of Moraine Lake in Banf National Park Canada. Both beautiful areas.
Written October 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Erica H
Mesa, AZ15 contributions
Jul 2020
We visited Maroon Bells in July 2020, and had a great experience. Due to Covid-19, the shuttle buses were running with only 15 people in each. This not only kept us feeling safe while riding up to Maroon Bells, but it also meant that the crowds were much smaller once we got there. The guide gave us clear instructions before we boarded the bus to ensure we were safe and had the information we needed to have a good experience. We did the hike to Crater Lake with kids aged 4, 11, 12, and 14 and it was very reasonable. The view from where the shuttle drops you off is breathtaking, but I'd also recommend the hike to Crater Lake if you have the time. It's not a difficult hike, and the views at the end are worth it! This is a must see stop to anyone visiting the Aspen/Snowmass area.
Written July 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Gabrielle W
Mobile, AL393 contributions
Jun 2021
We came to Aspen really to see Maroon Bells and we were not disappointed. We decided we really didn't want to take the shuttle so we opted for an after 5 visit so we could bring our car. I highly recommend this because we had plenty of daylight still and it was not very crowded. The lake is absolutely gorgeous around sunset, I think it's honestly some of the prettiest scenery around. We saw a lot of wildlife. We spotted a bear on the road on the way up, and while at the lake, saw a fox and a herd of deer. We watched the deer chase the fox around for a while, definitely never seen that before! We also saw 3 other foxes on the road on the way back to town. It had been warm that day but was pretty chilly when we went up, I was cold even with a jacket. There are some picnic tables right near the parking lot, around the river, and several benches around the lake. Seeing this was definitely worth the side trip to Aspen, it is heart achingly beautiful.
Written June 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
karnlowe
Douglass Hills, KY235 contributions
Jun 2021 • Solo
The hike to just beyond Crater Lake was challenging with a steady flow of people, but not overly congested. I arrived for a 9:45 shuttle (cost is currently $16). You must make reservations in advance online or by phone to catch the shuttle to take you to the base of the Maroon Bells. Dogs are allowed on leash and if you are a bit unsteady (I.e. don’t have excellent balance) on your feet, I highly recommend poles. Wear your hiking boots, put on your SPF and wear a hat! Lots of large rocks in an open area with no shade that was very warm today (high of 87 degrees F). However, there are some cool streams that feed the lakes you must traverse as well as a grove of pine trees that seemed almost like a sanctuary with their coolness and quietness after being in the warmth of the day. The lakes are very pretty and the hike was worth the several waterfalls, the Bells, the Aspen groves, and the red cliffs of this terrain. We were warned lots about bear and moose, but I didn’t see any. However, I was very busy watching the trail for rocks, roots and keeping stable footing that I didn’t have much time to look around while actively hiking.
Written June 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
siglerk76
Warren, OH251 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
This place is beautiful, but not easy to get to in the summer time. So instead of giving a regular review I'll give some helpful advices:
1. If you are planning on going in summer, NO CAR can go up to the reservation between 8 a.m and 5 p.m unless you have handicapped placket. EVEN THEN, you need to reserve a place in advance or you won't go up.
2. If you want to go between those hours in the summer, you will need to take a shuttle. The suttle goes half full due to COVID-19, so it is better to reserve a place for that as well or wait in stand by and hope that there will be space for you at the shuttle. The shuttle leaves every 15 minutes and it takes about 30 minutes to get up.
3. There is no food and drinks at this point up in the reservoir, so bring your own.
4. The first lake is right next to the parking lot, but if you want to see more, there is a small 1.4 mile hike to the next lake.
5. You can camp there, I didn't so look for more on that from other contributors.
6. The shuttle is 16$ a person (back and forth) and young kids can sit on their parents lap so they won't pay.
7. If you can park the car up in the reservoir, it will cost you only 10$.
8. I believe you can go before 8 and after 5 with the car but you'll have to check in advance.
Have fun!
1. If you are planning on going in summer, NO CAR can go up to the reservation between 8 a.m and 5 p.m unless you have handicapped placket. EVEN THEN, you need to reserve a place in advance or you won't go up.
2. If you want to go between those hours in the summer, you will need to take a shuttle. The suttle goes half full due to COVID-19, so it is better to reserve a place for that as well or wait in stand by and hope that there will be space for you at the shuttle. The shuttle leaves every 15 minutes and it takes about 30 minutes to get up.
3. There is no food and drinks at this point up in the reservoir, so bring your own.
4. The first lake is right next to the parking lot, but if you want to see more, there is a small 1.4 mile hike to the next lake.
5. You can camp there, I didn't so look for more on that from other contributors.
6. The shuttle is 16$ a person (back and forth) and young kids can sit on their parents lap so they won't pay.
7. If you can park the car up in the reservoir, it will cost you only 10$.
8. I believe you can go before 8 and after 5 with the car but you'll have to check in advance.
Have fun!
Written July 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
garbagecollector
Land O Lakes, FL1,136 contributions
Aug 2021
We had a parking spot reserved for after 5pm. We were at the entrance to the drive up from the ski area around 4:30pm, so we waited a little while before going up the road. There is a check-point for your reservation when you get close to the parking area, so make sure you have a reservation if driving a car up. You can only drive up before and after the shuttles run (before 8am and after 5pm, I think). If you have a America the Beautiful Pass the reservation is free. It was well worth getting, as the drive was easy and saved us the cost of parking at the ski area and taking the shuttle round trip.
The lake and mountains were spectacular. Many prefer the early morning reflections and sun, but really there was a very nice reflection after 5pm of the mountains in the lake.
The lake and mountains were spectacular. Many prefer the early morning reflections and sun, but really there was a very nice reflection after 5pm of the mountains in the lake.
Written August 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Erin Hatcher
35 contributions
Oct 2021 • Family
Absolutely gorgeous scenery! We made reservations online for full day parking and arrived to the trailhead around 7:30am. If you are able to do this and have a national parks annual pass, it is completely free! I would definitely recommend this route over having to take the shuttles. We hiked to crater lake- trail was icy! It was a beautiful hike
Written October 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Jeanyork
Seaford, NY10 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
Peter doing the headcount and organizing the tickets screaming at a woman because she said very softly to her husband we can’t sit together He yelled I heard your comment and I’ll escort you off the bus right now! He was a bully and made this woman cry on the way and ruined the day before it started. This is supposed to be a nice pleasant experience and shouldn’t have that job to bully . Maroon Bells is beautiful and need to take the shuttle from Highlands
Written September 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
AshBernadette88
Colorado Springs, CO1,390 contributions
Apr 2022
Despite being a Colorado native, I had never seen the Maroon Bells...I'm so glad I finally did!
As of April 26, 2022, the road to Maroon Lake is still closed, so anyone who wants to see the Bells has to hike the 13 miles (round-trip). The road starts half a mile past T Lazy 7 Ranch. There is a metal gate blocking the road - this is the starting point. The road maintains a steady 6% (ish) grade the entire route, which makes the hike itself fairly easy. At this point, the road is partially melted; the snow on the roads is crusty and hard in the morning and slushy in the afternoon. Neither snowshoes nor crampons are required at this time. We saw bear tracks in the snow, so it's a good idea to bring bear spray. The road is also entirely exposed, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
This road is very serene and peaceful right now. Over the 13 miles, we only saw four other people, and we had Maroon Lake all to ourselves! I highly recommend going off-season and doing the hike. During summer and fall, this place is clogged with thousands of rude tourists clamoring for space to get the perfect picture... not my idea of a peaceful day. Right now is the perfect time!
As of April 26, 2022, the road to Maroon Lake is still closed, so anyone who wants to see the Bells has to hike the 13 miles (round-trip). The road starts half a mile past T Lazy 7 Ranch. There is a metal gate blocking the road - this is the starting point. The road maintains a steady 6% (ish) grade the entire route, which makes the hike itself fairly easy. At this point, the road is partially melted; the snow on the roads is crusty and hard in the morning and slushy in the afternoon. Neither snowshoes nor crampons are required at this time. We saw bear tracks in the snow, so it's a good idea to bring bear spray. The road is also entirely exposed, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
This road is very serene and peaceful right now. Over the 13 miles, we only saw four other people, and we had Maroon Lake all to ourselves! I highly recommend going off-season and doing the hike. During summer and fall, this place is clogged with thousands of rude tourists clamoring for space to get the perfect picture... not my idea of a peaceful day. Right now is the perfect time!
Written May 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
LauVa03
Chicago, IL33 contributions
Aug 2020
Little known fact- taxis are allowed to drop people off before 7am and after 7pm. This is a great option if you can’t get a reservation for your car at the Maroon Bells parking lot.
You can park your car at the highlands parking lot and have a taxi pick you up at the highlands bus stop. It took about 15 min from the parking lot and the taxi cost about $25.
Totally worth it to go before sunrise. There were barely any people there. We saw the mountains light up slowly and an otter swimming on the lake. Just perfect. (Sunset is not as nice because of the direction of the sun)
You can park your car at the highlands parking lot and have a taxi pick you up at the highlands bus stop. It took about 15 min from the parking lot and the taxi cost about $25.
Totally worth it to go before sunrise. There were barely any people there. We saw the mountains light up slowly and an otter swimming on the lake. Just perfect. (Sunset is not as nice because of the direction of the sun)
Written August 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
hayziedaejon
Miami Springs, FL6 contributions
Has anyone hiked to maroon bells in the winter?
Hank956
Brownsville, TX1,058 contributions
Depends, when, snow closes off access..
For this upcoming Fall season, is the end of September the best bet to see the Fall colors?
What other advice would you have for coming into Maroon Bells? I read before 8 am as they close it to cars after that.
Best place to stay is also needed.
Thank you for your suggestions.
nimrod_ha
Rehovot, Israel34 contributions
We plan on going to Maroon Bells in October (probably mid of October). Will it still have "fall colors"?
Thank you.
Janelle S
St. Petersburg, FL26 contributions
Any tips on how to get to the hike if the reservation system is full for the day?
What is the best time to see the aspens in full color 2020
Bob B
Denver, CO380 contributions
now till October 10th or so depending on the elevation
ferry_gal
Seattle, Wa37 contributions
Are there any options to get to Maroon Bells once all the parking and shuttles are fully reserved?
Steve L
Austin, TX89 contributions
Due to COVID-19 you need to make reservations for the shuttle. The seats on the shuttle are reduced, so you should not have any issues with parking. If this does not answer your question, I suggest you call their quest services.
Myri A
Merida, Mexico78 contributions
ok I know that i need to make a reservation to park my car and enter to the marron bell but if i cant get it the parking lot spot, can i just park in whatever place and pay the shuttle bus and enter to the marron bells
Karen J
Colorado Springs, CO306 contributions
The information has changed a bit since I went a couple of months ago, thanks to COVID. We were able to reserve a 2-hour parking spot, drive up, park, do a 1-ish hour hike, then head back into town for lunch. It's about 30-minutes from the check-in to the parking area, so we went early.
It's a gorgeous place to visit and you can fall out of your car into a postcard of Colorado. It's awesome! I am so glad that I went!
The Aspen Chamber of Commerce has a nice website with the (probably ever changing) information, but I can't post the website. I searched "Visit Maroon Bells" and it was the top site.
Footprints781826
Louisville, KY16 contributions
Someone mentioned a gondola ride, but where do you pick this up and or get tickets ?
L&G
Warilla, Australia194 contributions
No gondola ride at the Maroon Bells but one in the centre of Aspen
You catch a bus up to the Bells and it drops you at a cement path where you walk approximately 300 metres to access a viewing area for great photo opportunities.
There are numerous walking trails for the more adventurous.
The view and picture opportunities are well worth the effort
So, Will you please stay out east, instead of wanting to come to the MOST PHOTOGRAPHED SITE IN THE WORLD and expect to have free reign of the place?
What did you learn?
Clark
Samantha C
Greenwich, CT28 contributions
Nice comment. Maybe some of us just want to show our young children how beautiful America is. I learned that Trip Advisor has very rude and ignorant people commenting, but luckily most of are not like you and actually use this forum as a place to post real advice and questions.
Frequently Asked Questions about Maroon Bells
- Hotels near Maroon Bells:
- (0.12 mi) Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection
- (0.09 mi) Hotel Aspen
- (0.04 mi) Sardy House Residence and Carriage House Inn
- (0.20 mi) Bluegreen The Innsbruck Aspen
- (0.21 mi) Limelight Hotel
- Restaurants near Maroon Bells:
- (0.08 mi) Pyramid Bistro
- (0.10 mi) Matsuhisa-Aspen
- (0.13 mi) The White House Tavern
- (0.12 mi) J Bar at the Hotel Jerome
- (0.09 mi) Grateful Deli
- Attractions near Maroon Bells:
- (0.02 mi) Aspen Community Church
- (0.08 mi) Explore Booksellers
- (0.07 mi) Aspen Adventure Rentals
- (0.09 mi) Red Brick Center for the Arts
- (0.11 mi) The Emporium And Flying Circus