This iconic photo of the Maroon Bells showcases the majestic peaks framed by a surrounding forest and a delicate dusting of snow.

Maroon Bells Shuttle Bus Reservations

Captured in this image are the Maroon Bells in Aspen, Colorado, showcasing the distant, majestic peaks mirrored in the pristine waters of Maroon Lake.

Maroon Bells Shuttle Bus Reservations

MOST POPULAR SHUTTLE & HIKE ACTIVITY

PRICE: SHUTTLE RESERVATIONS
ADULTS - $16.00
YOUTH (under 12) - $12.00
SENIORS (over 65) - $12.00

ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, miles from Aspen and Snowmass, Colorado, the Maroon Bells offer a breathtaking natural attraction. With two towering peaks and a tranquil lake, these 14,000-foot peaks provide a variety of trails that lead to wildflower fields, Maroon Lake, and the vibrant fall colors of aspen trees. Formed over 300 million years ago through a process of sedimentation, uplift, and erosion, the Maroon Bells boast a range of diverse and stunning natural habitats, including fields of colorful wildflowers, groves of Aspen trees, and alpine tundra at the top of the mountains. To access Maroon Bells, a shuttle service is provided from the Maroon Bells Basecamp (Aspen Highlands Plaza).

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RESERVATIONS & HELPFUL ASSISTANCE

ONLINE

Re-direct to Aspen Chamber by clicking the BOOK NOW ON ASPEN CHAMBER button.

PHONE

A helpful HLA Co-op guide is ready to help facilitate a reservation by calling 970-945-6605

SHOP

Visit the HLA Co-Op Basecamp at:
 152 W. 6th STREET, GLENWOOD SPRINGS, CO 81601

BOOK ONLINE NOW

Maroon Bells is a truly special place, and Hanging Lake Adventure Co-op has the knowledge and insight to help make your visit unforgettable.  As lifetime locals, we have visited this iconic landscape many times, as it is one of the first places that we personally share with close family and visitors. In addition to visiting Maroon Bells, make a point to visit Aspen and take in the local shops, restaurants and attractions to complete the day. 

 EASY / MODERATE – The Maroon Bells Loop is considered moderate.  A quick walk to Maroon Lake is considered easy.

1.84 miles / 2.96 km roundtrip

 321 feet / 97.8 m

Roaring Fork Transportation Authority / Pitkin County / the Aspen Chamber Resort Association / City of Aspen / Aspen Skiing Company

Aspen Highlands Visitor Center (Aspen Highlands Ski Area), 199 Prospector Rd, Aspen, CO 81611

MAROON BELLS TRAIL trail info & specifics LEARN MORE This image is of the topography map of the Maroon Bells in Aspen, Colorado.

Maroon Bells - Important Information

The Maroon Bells are a popular destination for hikers, particularly in July when the alpine meadows are in full bloom or in late September when the aspen trees turn amber yellow. Road cycling enthusiasts can enjoy riding their bikes up Maroon Creek Road, and campers can find peaceful solitude in the small National Forest Service campgrounds located along the hiking trails beyond the lake. As the most photographed mountains in North America, the Maroon Bells draw travelers from around the world to experience their beauty and breathtaking natural surroundings.

The Maroon Bells wilderness area is located approximately 10 miles from downtown Aspen, 8 miles from the Aspen Highlands Visitor Center, and 5 miles from the Forest Service gate on Maroon Creek Road. The Maroon Bells bus departs from the Aspen Highlands Visitor Center, where parking is available for a fee on weekdays ($10 for 0-3 hours, $15 for 3-8 hours, $25 for 8+ hours). A free Castle/Maroon bus also runs from Aspen to Aspen Highlands every 20 minutes on the hour. If you need transportation to the Maroon Bells outside of the regular shuttle hours, consider contacting Blazing Adventures for alternative transportation options. They can provide transportation to the Maroon Bells when the RFTA shuttle is not running.

  • THE ECOLOGY IS EXTREMELY FRAGILE, SO THE FOLLOWING ARE NOT ALLOWED:
    • Dogs or other pets are not allowed on the Scenic Loop Trail
    • Wading, swimming, or any boating activity 
    • Drones
    • Harassing wildlife
    • Cutting switchbacks or walking off the trail
    • Littering…pack all items out with you
  • RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOUR HIKE:
    • Be sure all hikers in your group are prepared for variable weather.
    • Wear appropriate hiking footwear. 
    • Fishing is allowed with a valid Colorado Fishing License
    • Bring water. Snacks are always great, too. Be sure to pack out your trash.
    • No restrooms along the Scenic Loop, but excellent ones are provided at the trailhead.
    • Cell service is not available

How To Manage An Existing Maroon Bells Permit

PLEASE NOTE: Hanging Lake Adventure Co-op is happy to help with any new reservations. However, all existing reservation inquiries, changes, or cancellations need to be directed to the official permit provider at the links provided within your Maroon Bells Permit  & Shuttle Confirmation Email or the information below:

HELLO VACATION SELF,

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Maroon Bells - Frequently Asked Questions

To cancel or reschedule a reservation for the Maroon Bells, a notice of at least 48 hours is required. If you cancel within 48 hours or do not show up, you will not be eligible for a refund. If you wish to reschedule within 48 hours, you will need to rebook at the full price. To cancel or reschedule online, you can use the link provided in your confirmation email. You can also reply to the confirmation email or call 970-930-6442 to make changes to your reservation.

The hike from the trailhead along the Maroon Lake Scenic Trail is 1.84 miles / 2.96 km and gains over 321 ft. / 97.8 m in elevation.

There are restrooms located at the Maroon Bells. However, there are no restroom facilities or drinking water available along the trail or at the lake. It is important to remember to bring enough water and snacks for the hike, and to pack out all waste and follow Leave No Trace principles.

Bicycles do not need a reservation to access the road to the Maroon Bells. However, it is important to be cautious of cars and buses while riding. All bikes should follow proper cycling etiquette, including riding single file on the right side of the road (in the direction of traffic) and wearing a helmet. Bikes can be rented in downtown Aspen or at the Aspen Highlands Base Camp.

To visit the Maroon Bells, a vehicle reservation costs $10. The round-trip RFTA shuttle fare is $16, and one-way downhill shuttle tickets from the Maroon Bells Scenic Area to Aspen Highlands are $10. Beginning May 27, visitors must use the RFTA shuttle service between 8am and 5pm. When the shuttle is not in operation, visitors may access the parking areas with a reservation. Paid parking is available at the Aspen Highlands Ski Area.

Dogs are permitted on the RFTA shuttle bus from Aspen Highlands to the Maroon Bells. However, due to the potential for surprise wildlife encounters in the dense vegetation, dogs are not allowed on the Scenic Loop trail. When bringing your dog to the Maroon Bells, it is important to keep them on a leash at all times.

There is no cellular coverage at Maroon Bells. During peak season, the area is staffed with Forest Service personel in case of emergencies.

Pass holders are able to use their passes at the Maroon Bells. When making a reservation, pass holders should select the “Pass Holders” option at check-out. When entering the Maroon Bells Scenic Area, pass holders must have a valid pass ready to present and keep their pass displayed in their car.

Accepted passes include: America the Beautiful- AnnualAmerica the Beautiful- SeniorAmerica the Beautiful- 4th GradeAmerica the Beautiful- MilitaryAmerica the Beautiful- AccessMaroon Bells Annual Pass

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