Snowmass Lake Trail
Iconic Maroon Bells views and the challenging, rewarding Snowmass Lake Trail in the heart of Colorado's Elk Mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Snowmass Lake Trail
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Maroon Bells views and the challenging, rewarding Snowmass Lake Trail in the heart of Colorado's Elk Mountains.
"One of the most beautiful mountain areas I have ever hiked on Earth…"
🎯 Book Shuttle/Parking Ahead
Reservations for Maroon Bells are essential. Book online at visitmaroonbells.com to secure your spot.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The trails can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Snowmass Lake
Maroon-Snowmass Trail
A breathtaking alpine gem surrounded by towering peaks and crystal-clear waters. A true Colorado treasure.
Maroon Bells Views
Maroon Bells Scenic Area
Iconic, postcard-perfect views of the twin peaks reflected in Maroon Lake. A must-see for any visitor.
Crater Lake Trail
Near Maroon Lake
A more challenging but rewarding hike offering stunning vistas and a closer perspective of the Maroon Bells.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Maroon Bells Access Early
Prepare for a Challenging Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Shuttle/Parking Ahead
Reservations for Maroon Bells are essential. Book online at visitmaroonbells.com to secure your spot.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The trails can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
High altitude and strenuous hikes require ample hydration. Bring more than you think you'll need.
🗺️ Bring a Paper Map
Don't rely solely on technology; cell service can be spotty. A physical map is a wise backup.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Shuttle/Parking Ahead
Reservations for Maroon Bells are essential. Book online at visitmaroonbells.com to secure your spot.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed
The trails can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is crucial for comfort and safety.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
High altitude and strenuous hikes require ample hydration. Bring more than you think you'll need.
🗺️ Bring a Paper Map
Don't rely solely on technology; cell service can be spotty. A physical map is a wise backup.
🐻 Bear Safety Awareness
Be aware of wildlife. Store food properly and know what to do if you encounter a bear.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the unparalleled beauty of the Maroon Bells and Snowmass Lake, calling it a 'Colorado MUST-SEE' with 'stunning scenery.' The accessibility of the Maroon Lake loop is appreciated, though the mandatory shuttle and parking reservations, along with crowds, are noted drawbacks for some.
"Amazing. Incredible. Beautiful. A Colorado MUST-SEE. You must either reserve a parking pass well in advance or purchase shuttle tickets. We parked in the parking garage and rode the shuttle to the park area. In order to see the lake and the mountains it requires very little effort, the path is paved and handicap accessible. Once down to the main area with water you can branch off to several trails if you so choose. We loved our experience here - I hope we can bring our parents back to see it."
Hannah Cardwell
"One of the most beautiful mountain areas I have ever hiked on Earth… Maroon Bells is beautiful, has many trails for different levels of experience, and is as pristine as could be, please keep it that way and remember to hike your trash out! 🙏"
Tiago Niles
"We had a fun semi-challenging hike up to Crater Lake at Maroon Bells. Takes about an hour to get there from where the bus drops you at the ranger station. Awesome views and a lot of photographic vistas. Saw a fox. Rangers mentioned a black bear is seen up there often but we missed it. A lot of people on this hike and you do have to navigate rocks and boulders. Not for anyone with mobility issues. Ranger station offers walking poles to borrow. There’s a bus that takes you there from Aspen highlands and that is the only way to get there due to the popularity of this site. You can make your visit as challenging or chill as you want. The hike up to crater lake is an option but you see the Maroon Bells perfectly fine from the first lake you come upon less than a quarter mile from drop off point."
Whitney Williams
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The primary access point for Snowmass Lake Trail is via the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. You'll need to book a parking pass or shuttle ticket in advance through visitmaroonbells.com. The shuttle will drop you off near Maroon Lake, from where you can begin your hike.
Yes, but parking is extremely limited and requires a reservation made well in advance. Many visitors opt for the shuttle service from Aspen Highlands.
During peak season (typically mid-May to mid-October), private vehicle access is restricted. You must reserve a parking pass or take the shuttle.
The most common method is to drive to Aspen Highlands and catch the official Maroon Bells shuttle. This is often the easiest and most reliable option.
Yes, there are fees for parking and shuttle tickets. These must be booked in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Absolutely. Reservations for parking or shuttle tickets are mandatory and should be made well in advance on the official visitmaroonbells.com website.
It's highly recommended to book as soon as reservations become available, especially for peak season dates, as they sell out quickly.
Shuttle hours vary by season, but they typically run from early morning until early evening. Check the visitmaroonbells.com website for the most current schedule.
It is very unlikely you will be able to secure tickets or parking on the day of your visit due to high demand. Advance booking is crucial.
You will likely be denied entry to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area. It's essential to plan ahead and secure your reservation.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Snowmass Lake Trail is considered a hard hike, involving significant elevation gain (around 3,400 ft) over 16.6 miles round trip.
Yes, the paved path around Maroon Lake is short, flat, and accessible, offering stunning views without strenuous effort. The Crater Lake Trail is a moderate option.
While some trails in the general area might be, the Maroon Bells Scenic Area has specific regulations regarding pets. It's best to check the official guidelines before bringing a dog.
Pack essentials like plenty of water, high-energy snacks, sunscreen, a hat, rain gear, a first-aid kit, and a map. Sturdy hiking boots are a must.
Yes, overnight backpacking is possible, but permits and reservations are often required for backcountry camping. Check with the Forest Service for details.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers the best light for capturing the iconic reflections of the Maroon Bells in Maroon Lake, with fewer crowds.
Absolutely! The entire trail offers stunning mountain vistas, wildflower meadows, and the final reward of Snowmass Lake itself.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the grand landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards.
Drone usage is generally prohibited in National Parks and Wilderness Areas to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check specific regulations.
The classic reflection shot at Maroon Lake is a must. For more dramatic shots, consider hiking to Crater Lake or higher viewpoints along the Snowmass Lake Trail.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Snowmass Lake Trail is too strenuous for most young children, families can enjoy the shuttle ride and the short, easy walk around Maroon Lake. Rangers are often present and can provide engaging information for kids about the local flora and fauna.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and drinks to avoid expensive concessions. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late September) when crowds are thinner, though be prepared for potentially cooler weather.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
However, always prioritize safety: inform someone of your itinerary, carry a map and navigation tools, and be prepared for changing conditions. Consider joining a guided hike or a group if you prefer company, or stick to the more populated trails like the Maroon Lake loop if you're concerned about being alone. Be aware of wildlife and carry bear spray.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Maroon Bells Reservation System
Failure to secure a reservation will likely result in being turned away. The shuttle system, departing from Aspen Highlands, is designed to manage visitor numbers and reduce environmental impact. Understanding the reservation window and booking process is the first critical step for any visitor planning to experience this iconic Colorado landscape.
Key takeaway: Plan and book your Maroon Bells access months in advance. Don't wait until the last minute, as availability is scarce.
Hiking the Snowmass Lake Trail: What to Expect
+1Hikers can expect stunning scenery throughout the journey, including babbling streams, panoramic mountain views, and eventually, the pristine Snowmass Lake nestled beneath towering peaks. Many choose to backpack this trail, requiring permits and overnight camping arrangements. Even as a day hike, it demands an early start and a full day's commitment.
Essential Gear: Sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water (at least 3-4 liters per person), high-energy snacks, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), rain gear, and a map are non-negotiable. Given the altitude, be aware of potential altitude sickness symptoms.
Photography Tips for the Maroon Bells & Snowmass Lake
For the Snowmass Lake Trail, bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vast mountain vistas and the expansive lake. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or spotting wildlife. Consider bringing a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the sky and water, and a neutral density filter if you plan to capture smooth water effects.
+1Remember to pack extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely be taking a lot of photos. Always be mindful of your surroundings and the environment; practice Leave No Trace principles.
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