Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Snowmass is a hidden gem that beckons adventurers and dreamers alike. This quaint mountain town offers crisp air, spectacular scenery, and plenty of adventure no matter what the season.
Summer in Snowmass means warm alpine breezes, bright bluebird skies, and slopes that turn from snowy white to lush blankets of green. The mountain calls to hikers and mountain bikers seeking to explore the miles of trails and vistas. In winter, Snowmass transforms into a winter wonderland with pristine slopes and an abundance of mountainside activities.
One of the most enchanting adventures from Snowmass is the journey to the Maroon Bells, often described as the most photographed mountains in North America. The Maroon Bells are two majestic peaks that mirror themselves in the crystal-clear waters of Maroon Lake, creating a scene of such beauty that it almost feels surreal.
Traveling to the Maroon Bells from Summer to Fall
The warmer months bring a burst of life and color to the mountaintop with beautiful wildflowers dotting the landscape, making it a favorite destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and photographers. Because the area is so popular, there is limited access in the summer and fall. Riding via public shuttle is the best and most dependable way to travel to the area.
BY PUBLIC SHUTTLE
The RFTA Shuttle Service runs from late May through late October between the hours of 8 am and 5 pm from Aspen Highlands. Aspen Highlands is 1.5 miles from the Aspen roundabout on Maroon Creek Road. You must either bus or drive to Aspen Highlands to board the shuttle. The fare for the shuttle is $16 per adult and $10 for seniors and children 12 and under. Reservations are required and can be purchased here.
Parking at Aspen Highlands parking garage is available for day-use parking for a fee. If the Highlands lot is full, you can park in the City of Aspen’s parking garage (427 Rio Grande Place) and take a free RFTA bus to Highlands. During September, you can also find overflow parking at Buttermilk Ski Area, where you can catch the free RFTA shuttle to take you to Highlands.
If you’re headed to Highlands from Snowmass, the free Village Shuttle will drop you off at the RFTA Intercept Lot on Highway 82, where you can transfer to a free RFTA bus. Just make mention of your destination to the shuttle driver.
BY PRIVATE SHUTTLE
Roaring Fork Express now offers private shuttles to the Maroon Bells during the summer months. This service is perfect for those looking to have their own private ride to the area without needing to depend on the schedule of the public shuttle or the potential hassle of driving themselves.
Check their website for more information and to make reservations.
BY CAR
If you prefer to drive versus taking a shuttle, you will need to plan accordingly as the road is restricted to shuttle buses only between 8 am and 5 pm, and personal vehicles are not allowed. Maroon Creek Road typically opens in mid-May and remains open through mid-November, depending on weather and road conditions. Due to limited parking availability at Maroon Lake, a $10 reservation fee is required.
For the latest information, visit the Aspen Chamber website.
BY BIKE
Cyclists headed to the Maroon Bells from Snowmass can ride to Aspen Highlands or transport their bikes to Aspen Highlands using the bus system. Village Shuttle and RFTA buses are equipped with bike racks, and RFTA buses charge a small fare for bikes.
Biking to the Maroon Bells has its advantages. You can enjoy the wildlife and surroundings at a slower pace on this scenic 8-mile ride, and because the road is closed to personal vehicles, there is limited traffic. Traveling by bike also means there is no pass or fee.
If you plan to travel by bike, be aware that you will climb 1,600 feet over the 8-mile trip to the parking lot if you start at Aspen Highlands. The trip averages roughly 90 minutes, while the ride back down takes around half the time.
Rent a road bike, cruiser, or e-bike from Four Mountain Sports at Aspen Highlands. Reservations for road use on a bike are not required..
BY HIKE
If you are an ambitious hiker, the well-traveled road to the Maroon Bells is a beautiful and rewarding hike. Drive or take the shuttle to Aspen Highlands, and you can start your trek.
Traveling to the Maroon Bells from Winter to Spring
Maroon Creek closes in late November, depending on the weather and snowfall. Bus service stops at this time, and you cannot drive or shuttle once the gate closes. In the meantime, there are a variety of adventurous ways to see the snow-capped Bells before the gate is re-opened in early summer.
BY SNOWMOBILE
Take a custom tour of the Maroon Bells area via the T-Lazy 7 Ranch located at 3129 Maroon Creek Rd. You will learn about the history of the Maroon Creek Valley while exploring miles of groomed trails through thick aspen groves and wide meadows. Reserve your spot early as these tours are popular, so space is limited.
BY CROSS-COUNTRY SKI
Cross-country skiing along Maroon Creek Road is another popular way to access the Bells during the winter months. Follow the well-groomed snow road from where the road closure begins, until you reach the frozen Maroon Lake six miles later, sitting at the base of the Maroon Bells. Enjoy a winter picnic in the beauty of the Bells, or spend the day gliding to frozen Maroon Lake and enjoying miles of downhill on the way back. This snow road can also be hiked, fat-biked, or skinned.
WHAT TO PACK
Deciding what to bring to the Maroon Bells depends on the season. It’s always recommended to dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly throughout the day. Sunscreen and water are musts, as the high elevation affects sun exposure, and staying hydrated is also key. Comfortable walking shoes or boots and waterproof layers are two other essentials.
The best way to make your visit enjoyable is to plan ahead so you can take your time in this magnificent area. Enjoy the view of the majestic peaks, hike around the Maroon Bells Wilderness Area, and take in the scenery from Maroon Lake.
For more information about the Maroon Bells Scenic Area, please click here.
Plan a Visit to Snowmass
As a guest of Alpine Property, you are invited to use our knowledgeable concierge for local recommendations on planning your visit to the Maroon Bells or any other amazing places in the area. Our Snowmass rentals come with hot tubs, daily housekeeping, media rooms, cozy wood-burning fireplaces, fully-equipped kitchens for family meals, incredible mountain views, spacious interiors, and elegant mountain décor.
Browse our Snowmass vacation rentals, and when you’re ready to book, call 1-866-209-1540, or send us an email.