Mirror Peaks: A Practical Pilgrimage to Colorado’s Maroon Bells
A practical, on-the-ground guide to hiking, photographing, and respecting Colorado’s most iconic peaks.
Dawn arrives at Maroon Lake like a carefully timed curtain call. The first light pries apart the high valley and slides down the maroon-streaked faces of two fourteeners—Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak—until the water answers with a flawless reflection. You stand on a rocky spit that feels engineered for photographs, but the scene resists mere decoration: wind, cloud, hikers, and a handful of long-lensed photographers all rearrange themselves into a living landscape. The bells don’t ring. They bruise the sky with color and demand attention.
Trail Wisdom
Reserve your shuttle early
From mid-June to early October shuttle seats and timed-entry permits fill fast; book in advance to avoid long waits or denied access.
Acclimate to the altitude
Spend a day in Aspen or hydrate well before attempting hikes—the valley sits near 9,500–10,000 ft and short walks can feel strenuous.
Layer and be weather-ready
Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer and temperatures drop quickly above treeline; pack a windproof layer and rain shell.
Keep wildlife wild
Observe elk, marmots, and pikas from a distance and never feed animals; store food securely to avoid habituation.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Crater Lake viewpoint—steeper, quieter outlook with sweeping valley views
- •Aspen groves along West Maroon Creek—great for fall color away from the crowds
Wildlife
elk, marmot
Conservation Note
A seasonal shuttle, limited vehicle access, and strict trail management help protect fragile soils and fragile riparian habitats in the Maroon Lake valley.
The Maroon Bells area was shaped by glaciation and later preserved as part of the Maroon Bells–Snowmass Wilderness to protect its alpine ecosystems and scenic values.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: early wildflowers, less crowded visits
Challenges: late snow on higher trails, limited shuttle service
Spring is quieter and raw—lower trails awake with flowers but higher routes may still be snowbound; check trail conditions.
summer
Best for: full trail access, accessible shuttles
Challenges: crowds and limited parking, afternoon thunderstorms
Summer opens most routes and shuttle service runs regularly, but expect crowds and plan hikes for mornings to avoid storms.
fall
Best for: aspens turning gold, clear air for photography
Challenges: shorter daylight, cold nights and early snow possible
Mid-September is peak for aspens; crisp days and reflective lakes make for outstanding photography, with cooler temps and fewer visitors.
winter
Best for: snowshoeing, serene snowscapes
Challenges: road closures, limited access, avalanche risk off-trail
Winter turns the valley quiet and atmospheric but access is restricted—check Forest Service notices and prepare for deep snow.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Firm, grippy soles protect ankles on rocky switchbacks and talus slopes common beyond the lakeside trail.
Hydration system (2–3 L)Essential
Altitude increases dehydration risk; bring enough water for the day or a filter for extended backcountry trips.
Windproof rain shellEssential
Afternoon storms roll in fast; a lightweight shell keeps you and camera gear dry above treeline.
Tripod and polarizing filter
A small tripod and polarizer will help capture glassy reflections and manage mid-day glare for sharper images.
Common Questions
Do I need a permit to visit Maroon Bells?
There is no permit for general access, but seasonal shuttle tickets and timed-entry reservations are required during peak months and many people must use the shuttle system rather than drive private vehicles.
How long is the walk to the classic Maroon Lake viewpoint?
The lakeside Scenic Trail is roughly 1.9 miles round trip on mostly level trail, suitable for most visitors and ideal for sunrise or sunset.
Are dogs allowed on the trails?
Dogs are typically allowed on leash in the Maroon Bells area but rules can change with shuttle policies—confirm current regulations before you go.
Can I camp near Maroon Bells?
Backcountry camping is allowed in designated areas within the Maroon Bells–Snowmass Wilderness with proper knowledge of Leave No Trace practices; there are no front-country developed campgrounds at the lake itself.
What's the best time of day for photos?
Early morning delivers the calmest water and softest light for reflections; late afternoon into evening also offers warm light and, in fall, gilded aspens.
Is it safe to hike above treeline?
Hiking above treeline requires attention to weather, route conditions, and your experience—afternoons bring storms and rockfall risk increases on loose, steep slopes.
What to Pack
water (2–3L), windproof rain jacket, sturdy boots, sun protection—hydrate, stay dry, avoid ankle injuries, and protect skin at altitude.
Did You Know
Maroon Peak (14,163 ft) and North Maroon Peak (14,019 ft) form the Maroon Bells; the peaks get their color from iron-rich mudstone called the Maroon Formation.
Quick Travel Tips
book shuttle slots early; spend a day in Aspen to acclimate; plan morning hikes to avoid storms; pack layers and a headlamp for short winter dark.
Local Flavor
Aspen’s mountain-town culture blends historic mining roots with upscale outdoor recreation—local farm-to-table restaurants highlight trout and game; après-hike, try a hearty Colorado stew and a craft beer while swapping route notes with locals.
Logistics Snapshot
Shuttle recommended mid-June–Oct; elevation ~9,500–10,000 ft; lakeside loop ~1.9 miles RT; book transport early; pack for sudden weather; no services at the lake.
Sustainability Note
Use the shuttle, stay on designated trails, avoid trampling fragile alpine vegetation, and pack out all waste—these small choices reduce erosion and protect the watershed.