Maroon Bells Scenic Area

Often called the most photographed mountains in North America, the striking 14,000-foot peaks of the Maroon Bells are a must-see for anyone exploring the Rockies.

My first visit to Maroon Bells was longer than a few years ago. To say it was a mixed bag experience, would be putting it lightly.

So – years later – I decided to revisit Aspen and fall in love with the area on my terms.

The Maroon Bells are more than just mountains; they’re practically legends in Colorado’s high country. If you’ve ever laid eyes on these two towering peaks, Maroon Peak and North Maroon Peak, you’ll understand why they’re often called the most photographed mountains in North America. There’s something magical about the way they rise above the surrounding wilderness, with their deep maroon color standing out against the brilliant blue sky or the golden aspens in the fall.

But let’s back up a bit. The history of the Maroon Bells is as layered as the mountains themselves. The peaks get their rich maroon hue from the mudstone that forms them—a rock that’s both beautiful and a bit treacherous.

Long before the Maroon Bells became a bucket-list destination, the area was a sacred place for the Ute people, who lived in harmony with the land, hunting and gathering in the valleys below. Fast forward to the 19th century, and prospectors looking for silver ventured into the region, though they didn’t find much of value in these peaks. Thankfully, the Maroon Bells were left largely untouched by the mining boom, which is probably why they’ve retained such an untouched, pristine quality.

It wasn’t until the 20th century that the Maroon Bells really started gaining attention. As more people discovered the joys of hiking and camping, the area became a popular spot for those looking to escape into nature. The creation of the White River National Forest in 1891 helped protect the land, and by the 1960s, the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area was established, ensuring these stunning peaks would remain unspoiled.

Now, a few things were different in regards to my visit this time:

1. You must make reservations to visit the Maroon Bells Scenic Area in advance, between the dates of May 24 through October 20, 2024.
2. The price of a parking reservation is $10 per vehicle.
3. While the price per vehicle is low, I paid $40 to park for 5 hours.

But, even with all of that – it was absolutely beautiful to be in the presence of such an incredible landscape.

Next time, I would definitely consider using Maroon Bells Guide and Outfitter for a horseback riding experience in the wilderness.

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