How to get to the Maroon Bells Wilderness

and what to do once you are there

One of the most iconic mountain destinations in all of North America, the Maroon Bells Wilderness is an easy day trip for those staying in the Aspen Snowmass area. Families with small children will love how easy it is to access some of the best views, while serious backcountry enthusiasts will appreciate the trailhead access as a jumping off point for some epic adventures. 

But first. How do you get there? The best piece of advice is . . . plan in advance and leave your car behind.

Reservations are required to access the Maroon Bells for the duration of the season from May 15 through October 31, 2022.

The RFTA shuttle service runs from May 27 through October 16, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Both round trip and one-way downhill tickets are available. Shuttles run to and from Ruby Park at Aspen Highlands.
Make reservations here >

Blazing Adventures will offer one-way transportation into Maroon Bells beginning May 27 from Aspen Highlands at 7 a.m. $40/person advanced reservations required. *NOTE Guests must book a separate downhill shuttle reservation via RFTA for the return trip.
Make reservations here >

Between May 15 and May 26, Blazing Adventures will offer round trip transportation into Maroon Bells every hour from 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. from Aspen Highlands. $50 per person advanced reservations required.
Make reservation here >

Private transportation is also available through Blazing Adventures. Call 970.923.4544 for more info and to book. 

If you choose to drive, you will need parking reservations. For more information and reservations >

Note to cyclists! Because there is no vehicle traffic except the buses between 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., the Maroon Bells Wilderness road makes for a great road ride! It's a 9 mile route with 1,600 ft. of elevation gain. You can even get to the bottom of the road on the RFTA bus and ride from there. 

So what do you do once you arrive? 

• Hike the 1.7 mile nature loop around the lake - great for kids!
• Hike the 3.6 mile RT to Crater Lake
• Have a picnic and enjoy the views (pack out your trash!)
• Head out into the Wilderness for a longer hike if you are prepared and know your route. Destinations include Crested Butte, the Four-Pass Loop, three fourteeners, and more. If you haven't appropriately researched and come prepared for these hikes, do not attempt them.