maroon bells trail conditions maroon bells trail conditions

Try this 3.1-km loop trail near Snowmass Village, Colorado. Make sure to plan ahead and know before you go! Around the 3.5 mile mark you must cross the creek (credit: mrubenstein01) The trail steadily climbs up in elevation as you get closer to West Maroon Pass. on official, secure websites. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zone Map ) or https:// means you've safely A: Maroon Creek Road typically opens in mid-May, but this opening date is contingent on weather. Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told. We have one extra shuttle pass for today 10/15 at 2:40pm. Please please please reach out at 9198862341 if you can help, Looks for a permit anytime this weekend. When you stand alongside Maroon Creek and gaze across the landscape, the towering Maroon Bells are a breathtaking vision of crimson and pink against a beautiful blue sky. Hiking to the Maroon Bells provides immersive access to breathtaking scenes in one of Colorados natural wonders. Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. This trail is often used as a starting point for extended backpacking trips into the wilderness. ( The Maroon Bells Scenic Area is a recreation fee area; there is a mandatory fee. Hiking to Hanging Lake ColoradoColorado Mountains: 6 Famous Peaks, Photo credits: Heather Rousseau/Aspen Chamber Resort Association, Matt Inden/Miles, Matt Inden/Miles, Jeremy Swanson/Aspen Chamber Resort Association. White River The Maroon Bells are made from hardened shale, which is fragile in nature. Storing food properly is requiredwhen camping in the developed campgrounds in the Maroon Bells area. No matter the season, beauty abounds at the Maroon Bells, which is why its become a bucket list destination for so many. If the views of this pristine valley look familiar, its likely because the Maroon Bells are the most photographed mountains in America and for good reason. Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness Length: 20.6 mi Est. Winds increasing (light winds from the S on Thu morning, strong winds from the WSW by Fri afternoon). Maroon Bells Shuttle Bus Dates May 26 to October 22, 2023 8am-5pm Maroon Bells Basecamp Open Daily: May 26 to October 22, 2023 Aspen Highlands Plaza Maroon Bells Hotline 970-945-3319 The Maroon Bells are two of the most photographed mountains in all of North America and for good reason. Supervisor's Office Incredibly beautiful. The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) offers guided bus tours to the Maroon Bells. #5 - Crested Butte to Aspen via West Maroon Pass, #9 - Crater Lake and Maroon Creek to East Fork, Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Please contact 6692940313, if you are willing sell. Call 970.925.3445 with specific questions about seasonal road access and shuttle schedules: There's a $10 fee to access the Maroon Lake - Maroon Snowmass Trailhead by car. Enjoy your hike on a well-traveled and marked trail for the safest visit to these iconic mountains. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. Want to report conditions for this trail? Aspen Highlands avoids the spotlight and feels like the locals' secret. Altitude sickness is something you need to consider whenever you are hiking in the mountains. Cross the creek and hike a little further to find nice secluded campsites off both sides of the trail. Spectacular mountain vistas that seem to change color as the sun angle shifts, vast fields of wildflowers dancing in the gentle breeze, aspen trees standing straight and tall, and crystal clear mountain lakes that mirror their surroundings; Colorados Maroon Bells are a must-visit if you are in Aspen. 900 Grand Ave. If you need a private vehicle pass for tomorrow 10/26 8am-5pm, I have a cold and wont be using mine. They offer group and private tours where you ride on groomed trails through the brilliantly white, snow-covered landscape punctuated by sentry-like, dormant white aspen tree trunks. The Maroon Bells are made from hardened shale, which is fragile in nature. In the Conundrum Hot Springs, Crater Lake, and Capitol Lake Zones, the permit holder and group are required to camp in their reserved campsite. Oxidized iron particles in the rock give the bells their unique maroon color. With hikes for every skill level, anyone can experience the splendor of the area, but no matter the ease of the hike that you have planned, you should always come prepared. The wind was blowing the aspen trees off the trees so there may be another 4-5 days of reasonable fall color to enjoy in this very special place. Advance reservation permits are required for overnight stays in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. Bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. Campsites have a five-day stay limit. These symptoms will dissipate as you acclimate to the altitude. Find more information on Maroon Bells reservations, permits and fees. You can view beautiful fall colors, and swim in numerous alpine lakes, or backpack through aspen groves in the rocky mountains. Grooming Report; Aspen; Aspen Cross Country Center; Trail 10 - Aspen Golf Course; Trail 20 - Moore Trail; Trail 30 - Aspen High School Trails; Trail 40 - Marolt Open Space Trail; . Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 Highland Bowl in the clouds. The best way to see the Maroon Bells is to take the public bus operated by the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA). According to my personal calculations: Total elevation gain over 4 days was 9,850 vertical feet . I was taking a photo yesterday and All the people present began to applaud and it turned out that there was a young man asking his beloved to marry him and since I had my back turned I asked him to please do it again and he gave me the pleasure of going back to his knee and asking for marriage again God bless their union and thanks for doing it again for my to witness everything was perfect. Be aware of avalanche risks. There is a cross-country ski track along the road as well as a groomed snowmobile track. 3 Forecast Elevations: Peak: 14158 ft Mid: 11484 ft Base: 8203 ft This table gives the weather forecast for Maroon Bells at the specific elevation of 4315 m. Our advanced weather models allow us to provide distinct weather forecasts for several elevations of Maroon Bells. A: The drive from Denver to the shuttle pick up for Maroon Bells (Maroon Bells Basecamp) is 3.5 hours. United States government. West Maroon Bells Pass is a popular 7.8-mile, difficult-rated trail that offers hikers and backpackers stunning views. For more information, see here. United States government. Advance reservation overnight permits are required for the busiest areas of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness including Conundrum Hot Springs, Capitol Lake, Crater Lake, and the Four Pass Loop (including Snowmass Lake and Geneva Lake). Please call/ text me 6825598329. Pro tip: As you gain altitude, spontaneous thunderstorms and hail are common for mountain regions, especially in the afternoons. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 5 h 16 min to complete. The red shale and siltstone form the fragile rock face and present their red hues. More severe responses like nausea, vomiting, and trouble walking require medical consultation. LockA locked padlock Particularly when you are in Colorado. Featuring two of the most photographed peaks in the Elk Mountains, Maroon Bells in Colorado is an iconic hiking area near Aspen. website belongs to an official government organization in the Heres more information [PDF], if youre interested.). Reservations for shuttles and trailhead parking open months ahead of time, so book early to make sure you don't miss out. Only chance to visit Maroon Bells today / tomorrow. This is a pack-in, tent-only campground that is close to the action at the Maroon Bells Welcome Station. It is strongly advisable to set out early in the morning, as thunderstorms are prevalent in the afternoon and you want to be off the peak at that time. From Highway 82 take the Maroon Creek Road exit at the roundabout on the West edge of town. ; The Scenic Loop Trail is probably the most popular trail at Maroon Bells, and for good reason: the views are incredible, the loop takes you along the cascades of Maroon creek for much . In all other zones, the permit holder and group should select a campsite within the zone that is already established, and is 70 big steps away from trails and water. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones, Williams Peak and Ginright (Fourmile)Timber Sale Project Area Restrictions, CPW: hunting and fishing, OHV and boat permits, Restrooms available at day use areas at Maroon Lake. Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 If you're looking for elevation gain, Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness has you covered. Satellite phones are recommended if you are planning long and overnight hikes. Spring Enjoy open meadows, abundant wildlife, and lakeside sunrises, in spring when it can feel like you have the peaks all to yourself. 650.465.7696, Looking for a day pass 10/10 also have one I cant use 10/12. Make sure to plan ahead and know before you go! Follow Maroon Creek Road to the Maroon Bells Welcome Station. Sign up for exclusive offers, new and updates, events, and more in your inbox. Hiring a professional guide service for extended and more involved hikes is a smart choice when visiting the Elk Mountains near Aspens Maroon Bells. Thank you ! Because the natural landmark is so popular, there is limited access to the area during the summer and fall, and reservations are required to visit the Maroon Bells Scenic Area by car or shuttle. Day 3: East Fork Avalanche Creek - Silver Creek Pass - Lead King Basin - Geneva Lake - Unnamed Lake South-West of Trail Rider Pass. We recognize these Indigenous peoples as the original inhabitants of this land. A heavy fall of snow, heaviest during Sat afternoon. Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness in Colorado spans 181,535-acres (734.65 km2) within the White River National Forest and Gunnison National Forest. Conditions: Muddy, Great! Trail Option #2 - The Scenic Loop Trail at Maroon Bells. 60 miles of free cross country ski and snowshoe trails between Aspen, Snowmass, and Basalt Colorado. Wind will be generally light. Tag us in your hiking adventureson social@AspenCofor a chance to be reposted on our page and website! Trail was closed when I went this weekend Jan 28 2023. Sudden thunderstorms can catch travelers exposed far from the cover of tree-line in mid-summer and snow fall returns to the high country early. The White River National Forest covers over 2.3 million acres, including eleven ski resorts, eight wilderness areas, ten 14ers, and 2,500 miles of hiking trails. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 42 min to complete. Even saw a family of deer grazing. Looking for day pass for parking on 10/13 if anyone has one please message me please 303-550-2681 thank you so much, Looking to buy day pass for 10/15. Region: Mountain West (Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, Central Colorado) Distance: 28 miles (3-4 days) Physical Difficulty . Loved this hike in early summer. If you're looking for elevation gain, Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness has you covered. 82 to the roundabout on the west edge of town, choose the exit for Maroon Creek Road and keep going about 4.7 miles until you reach a welcome station. We've got you covered, with trails ranging from 49 to 5,547 meters in elevation gain. Easy trails include the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail. Anyone have an adult pass for 12 pm tomorrow 10/9? Map Information, White River The Silver Bar is an excellent place to stay; you dont have to carry your equipment very far from the parking lot, and you still have access to everything the Maroon Bells has to offer. You can see our previous June update for more detailed information, West Maroon Pass and Schofield Pass Update June 16, 2021, July 20, 2019 Conditions Update For West Maroon Pass, Quick West Maroon Pass Update July 13, 2019. Supervisor's Office on official, secure websites. Ranging from highly technical, knife-edge summits to tame, switch-back ascents, seven of the states 14ers are located in the Elk Mountain Range bordering Aspen, Hiring a professional guide is a great way to quickly and safely gain new skills for outdoor adventures and explore the Aspen area from a new perspective. Drop down into the expansive alpine basin of the East Fork staying right at the signed junction, before climbing again to the top of Frigid Air Pass (12,400 ft.). We want to inspire you to explore new destinations, discover new experiences and savor the journey. According to WebMD, the altitude sickness phenomenon is caused by the drop in air pressure resulting in less oxygen as you gain altitude. The loop takes you up four mountain passes; West Maroon at 12,500 feet, Frigid Air at 12,415 feet, Trail Rider at 12,420 feet, and Buckskin at 12,500 feet. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 55 min to complete. Is anyone selling a parking day pass for 10/19? Early in your outing, you'll get a great view of the Maroon Bells to the west. News about Maroon Creek Road can be found at: Aspen Daily News (October 9, 2015) - RFTA mulls rise in fare to the . Map Information. According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness is. Please note that Bear Canisters are required while backpacking in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. (970)945-2521, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/whiteriver/recarea/?recid=81118. The sites are open May to October, and reservations are required. This trail is 5.6 km long with an elevation gain of 210 m. According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness is Maroon Bells Lost Creek, Capitol Peak, Snowmass Mountain Loop. Temperatures will be below freezing (max 0C on Mon afternoon, min -7C on Tue night). The wilderness is named after two of the most popular peaks Maroon Bells and Snowmass Peak. Take note that during the summer months, parking is only allowed before 8 a.m. or after 5 p.m. at Maroon Lake. The famous Four Pass Loop backpacking route withinMaroon Bells Snowmass Wildernessis an international treasure. Special regulations apply, and overnight permits are required in some areas. When the sun moves across the Colorado sky, the Maroon Bells go from soft gray to shades of red, pink, and purple. Stay in the know, sign up for ourMonthly Newsletter& keep up-to-date on Aspen events, activities, lodging deals and more. Find more information on Maroon Bells reservations, permits and fees. The famous Four Pass Loop backpacking route within Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness is an international treasure. Please text 985 788 9941. Even if you dont want to hike the area, take the bus up and stroll around the lake or find the perfect spot and have a picnic. Map showing recreational areas. What is the longest trail in Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness? Please seal and store food in a container inside a vehicle or in bear boxes provided at the campsite. And according to the U.S. Forest Service, the mountains received their distinctive maroon coloring from the weathering of hematite, an iron-bearing mineral, while Maroon Lake occupies a basin that was sculpted by Ice Age glaciers. We even saw trout in the lake! Call Toll Free 1 (877) 444-6777 (International (518) 885-3639 or TDD (877) 833-6777) or reserve on-line at www.recreation.gov. Maroon Bells Access: Reservations are requiredto visit Maroon Bells and associatedtrailheads by personal vehicle or shuttle. An official website of the 590 N. Mill Street connected to the .gov website. We also use analytics & advertising services. Looking for any kind of reservations, morning or evening. Hiking the iconic Maroon Bells area, whether you are a beginner or expert trailblazer, is an experience that will stay in your memory banks forever. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Open May through October, there is a five-day limit, and reservations are required. Enjoy your hike on a well-traveled and marked trail for the safest visit to these iconic mountains. The trailhead is accessible by high-clearance 44 vehicles only. It is impossible to take a bad picture surrounded by such gloriousness. Access to the Maroon Creek Trail is available nearby as well as excellent trout fishing in Maroon Creek. T-Lazy-7 Ranch offers snowmobile tours to the lake, weather permitting. Follow Maroon Creek Road to all designated parking lots. There are seven 14ers in this range, and hiking them unprepared can be dangerous. Reservations are required, and there is a five-day stay limit. There are several ways to enjoy beyond this scenic area. Please text 608-577-9810. Let our lifts whisk you away 11,000 feet into the sky, where you can enjoy incredible views, delicious outdoor dining, and activities for the whole family. Maroon Bells Information Line: (970) 945-3319. Share sensitive information only * NOTE: not all weather observatories update at the same frequency which is the reason why some locations may show data from stations that are further away than known closer ones. This includes overnight parking for those backpacking into the Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness. connected to the .gov website. This 26 mile (42 km) circuit climbs over four mountain passes higher than 12,000ft, past alpine lakes and among high Elk Range peaks. My girlfriend and I have a shuttle pass for tomorow October 13th! Maroon Bells Snowmass Wilderness Photos (2,500) Directions Print/PDF map Length 8.0 miElevation gain 4,560 ftRoute type Out & back Try this 8.0-mile out-and-back trail near Aspen, Colorado. ***Need Help! This is a popular trail for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Distance: 3 Miles Difficulty: Easy Trail Type: Lollipop Loop Elevation Gain: Approx. The Four Pass Loop is a difficult, 28-mile loop trail located in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness area in Central Colorado. Taking time to literally catch your breath will help get your hike off to a great start. (I wouldve been nervous if I had a bee allergy though.) (231)414-7597. The rock breaks and fractures easily making footing unstable and rockslides commonplace. The Interagency, Senior & Golden Access Passes are honored. An official website of the She said it probably wont open again till April. Trail Report. All rights reserved. Looking for round trip shuttle reservations, for 2 people, on Sunday Oct 9, for any time of the day. Crater Lake Zone Designated Campsites Check the Maroon Bells Hotline for up-to-date road conditions. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. What a wonderful hike! 330 333 0533, Looking for a day pass on 10/22. T-Lazy-7 Ranch offers a snowmobile tour of the snow-dusted Maroon Bells, which includes the opportunity to cruise miles of groomed trails amid wintery meadows and dense aspen groves. All visitors are required to take the shuttle bus from Aspen Highlands between early June and late October between the hours of 8am and 5pm. Pro tip: Visit mid-week when there's a higher chance you could have the place all to yourself. Advance reservation permits are required for overnight stays in the Maroon Bells - Snowmass Wilderness Overnight Permit Zones. Natural beauty 10/10, beautiful place, and you have to be prepared to pay the truck 40 dollars for two people, plus 6 per hour for the parking lot, bring your backpack ready if you are going to do the trail with water snacks. Bear canisters are required for all backpackers in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. With 25 miles of downhill trails, join us for a free flowing adventure through our high elevation evergreen forests and moderately pitched Aspen tree groves. Or, park your car at the Aspen Highlands parking garage for $6 per hour. Looking for 2 morning passes for Saturday 10/15 if anyone is selling! 4/8. Temperatures will be below freezing (max -3C on Thu morning, min -11C on Thu night). Maroon Creek Road is closed to cars and shuttles in cold-weather months, but you can cross-country ski, snowshoe or snowmobile to the area. If you (and your group) plan to camp in a permitted zone, you will need to reserve a spot in each zone that you plan to camp. A: Yes, but it takes more effort than in fall and summer. Park in the Aspen Highlands and purchase your bus ticket at the Four Mountains Sports Shop. 11h 31m This is a popular stretch of trail for hikers and backpackers alike, which takes visitors past some incredible scenery and some picturesque lakes. Silver Bar Campground is a primitive campground with four sites available on the banks of Maroon Creek. A heavy fall of snow, heaviest during Sat afternoon. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. And also Ill send you some Epic shots of the bells! TheElk Range Mountain Safety Coalition is- A coalition of partners - including Aspen Alpine Guides, Aspen Expeditions Worldwide, Mountain Rescue Aspen, USFS - Sopris, and the Pitkin County Sheriff - whose primary goal is to provide mountain safety education to outdoor enthusiasts, climbers, mountaineers, and the general climbing community through a cohesive educational outreach program that has a common curriculum by way of presentations and clinics featuring best practices for what it takes to have a safe and successful climb in the Elk Range and beyond. To learnmore, follow their Facebook page for updates on upcoming events in and around Aspen. Maroon Bells Access: Reservations are required to visit Maroon Bells and associated trailheads by personal vehicle or shuttle. Below the shale rock are large pink crystals called phenocrysts. LockA locked padlock Maroon Bells. While the Maroon Bells are touted as the most photographed place in Colorado, pictures simply dont do the peaks justice. They also have RV and trailer sites along with the classic tent site. There is still pretty descent fall color on this portion of the trail. Nestled on the banks of Maroon Creek at 8,460 feet, Silver Bell Campground has 14 tent sites and boasts gorgeous panoramas of aspen groves, wildflower meadows and towering spruce and fir forests in the White River National Forest.