Questions About The Maroon Bells
Located just 10 miles west of Aspen is a glacier valley, the 14,000′ bell shaped peaks are the Maroon Bells. This iconic area of Colorado, is the most photographed mountain area in the United States.
The Maroon Bells Scenic Area, located at the base of “The Maroon Bells” features several hiking trails ranging from short hikes near Maroon Lake to longer overnight backpacking trips.
The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area is 181,535 acres and was established in the Gunnison and White River National Forests in 1980. Anchored by a stunning reflective lake, Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak tower over the area, creating an oasis of natural wonder that captivates visitors of this unique destination year-round.
No, this is a scenic area not a National Park, but part of the National Forest. National Parks are operated by the U.S. Department of Interior with a primary focus on preservation. National Forests have a primary focus on conservation and multiple uses for the greater good of the people, insure resources are sustained for the future, and are operated by the United States Forest Service.
The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area (and the ecosystems that surround it) are home to a variety of large animals including red fox, coyotes, raccoons, porcupines, bobcats, mountain lions, black bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, moose, and wolves. The wildlife generally stays away from the trails, but can be hostile when encountered off trail to protect their territory. This is a very good reason to stay on the trail, and leave the wildlife alone.
The Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area (and the ecosystems that surround it) are home to a variety of large animals including red fox, coyotes, raccoons, porcupines, bobcat, mountain lion, black bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, moose, and wolves. If you encounter any of these animals, view them from a safe distance. Moose can be especially aggressive if approached, particularly mothers with newborn calves. Bull moose and bull elk can be aggressive during the fall “rut” season. For hooved animals, it is advised that you maintain a safe distance of 50 yards minimum at all times and all seasons. For black bears and wild cats, a greater distance is required.
And one more thing: We get it. The little chipmunk on the rock next to you at lunch is cute, but she needs to find her own food. Animals that rely on handouts from humans often die from poor diet, and/or an inability to find their own food in colder seasons when people are less common. Keep the PBJ for yourself, and pick up any food that falls on the ground.
When heading to the Maroon Bells, it is recommended to bring sunscreen, a warm layer and rain jacket, comfortable walking/hiking shoes, snacks, and of course a camera! These are the most photographed peaks in North America, after all. There is no access to food at the Bells. Water! Bring water. You can fill up at the Visitors Center once you reach the Maroon Bells, but keep in mind that you are in Colorado at a high elevation and you need lots of water.
Be prepared, the weather can change quickly in the high alpine!
“Take only pictures and leave only footprints” may sound cliché at this point, but there is really no better way to put it. If we are to preserve the Maroon Bells and its delicate natural surroundings, we need to leave no trace of our presence when we leave. In fact, the ecosystems of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area are so fragile, even our footprints can leave a lasting impact.
This guidance pertains to every part of the area, but especially in the tundra ecosystem above the tree line. “Social trails” (i.e. informal paths caused by careless hikers) can leave scars on the tundra for decades. That’s because the organisms that thrive in the tundra operate on a different growth cycle. They are slow to take root, slow to regenerate, and particularly prone to disturbances. At lower altitudes, social trails can cause additional problems, such as leading hikers astray. The solution? Follow marked paths and above the tree line, look for rock cairns (i.e. human-made rock pyramids) to stay on course.
No, the lake and stream water is not potable and must be filtered, boiled, or treated with iodine before drinking. There is potable water located at the Maroon Lake Trailhead, where the shuttle bus drops off. However, this water can get shut off during colder weather.We advise all visitors to come prepared with enough water (or a way to treat it) for the time they will spend at The Bells.
There is water all season long at the Maroon Bells Welcome Center, at Aspen Highlands, where the shuttle departs from Aspen. Be sure to fill up before you head up to The Bells.
Horses are allowed to be on East Maroon and West Maroon Trails, not in the Maroon Bells Scenic Area.
No, you cannot swim, kayak, or SUP at Maroon Lake.
The bathrooms are located next to the Maroon Lake Visitors Center and at the far end of the day-use parking lot near the picnic tables. There is no running water in the restrooms. The bathrooms are a fully supported waste management system that turns waste into biodegradable compost.
Maroon Bells is dog friendly. You can take dogs up the paved trail, around the viewpoints, then to Crater Lake if you want to see more. Dogs are not allowed on the Scenic Loop Trail past the bridge. Dogs must be leashed at all times due to the potential for wildlife encounters.
Protecting The Bells is a team effort. Aspen Snowmass is proud to be a partner with the following organizations who have worked tirelessly to preserve, protect and maintain the fragile ecosystems of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area. Volunteer with them this year — the rewards are immense!
Colorado Fourteeners Initiative
Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers
Aspen Center for Environmental Studies